1. What is SEER?

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a measure of air conditioning and heat pump cooling efficiency. It represents the ratio of total cooling output in BTU to total energy input in watt-hours over a typical cooling season.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the SEER formula:

Where:

• \( \text{Total Cooling} \) — Total cooling output in BTU
• \( \text{Total Energy} \) — Total energy consumption in watt-hours

Explanation: Higher SEER ratings indicate more energy-efficient cooling systems, which can lead to lower energy costs and reduced environmental impact.

3. Importance of SEER Calculation

Details: SEER calculation helps consumers compare the energy efficiency of different air conditioning systems, estimate operating costs, and make informed purchasing decisions for energy-efficient cooling solutions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter total cooling output in BTU and total energy consumption in watt-hours. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good SEER rating?
A: Modern air conditioners typically have SEER ratings between 13 and 21. Higher SEER ratings indicate better energy efficiency.

Q2: How does SEER differ from EER?
A: SEER measures seasonal efficiency over varying temperatures, while EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures efficiency at a specific temperature (usually 95°F).

Q3: Can SEER be used for heating systems?
A: No, SEER is specifically for cooling efficiency. Heating systems use HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) for efficiency measurement.

Q4: What factors affect SEER rating?
A: System design, compressor technology, coil size, refrigerant type, and installation quality all impact SEER ratings.

Q5: Is higher SEER always better?
A: While higher SEER means better efficiency, it also typically means higher upfront costs. The optimal SEER depends on climate, usage patterns, and budget.