1. What is SEER Rating?

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

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the SEER formula:

Where:

• \( BTU \) — British Thermal Units (cooling capacity)
• \( W \) — Watts (power consumption)
• \( h \) — Hours (operating time)

Explanation: The SEER rating calculates how efficiently an air conditioning system operates by comparing its cooling output to the electrical energy consumed over a specific period.

3. Importance of SEER Rating

Details: Higher SEER ratings indicate more energy-efficient systems, which can significantly reduce energy costs and environmental impact. Modern HVAC systems typically have SEER ratings between 13 and 25.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the cooling capacity in BTU, power consumption in watts, and operating time in hours. All values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good SEER rating?
A: A SEER rating of 14-16 is considered good, while 18+ is excellent. The minimum SEER rating allowed in many regions is 13-14.

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

Q3: Can I improve my system's SEER rating?
A: The SEER rating is primarily determined by the equipment itself, but proper installation, regular maintenance, and complementary components can help achieve the rated efficiency.

Q4: Is a higher SEER rating always better?
A: While higher SEER systems are more efficient, they also typically cost more. The optimal SEER rating depends on your climate, usage patterns, and budget.

Q5: How much can I save with a higher SEER system?
A: Each point increase in SEER rating can reduce cooling costs by approximately 5-7%, though actual savings depend on local climate, electricity rates, and usage patterns.