SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, and it’s a rating used to determine the efficiency of your air conditioner. Indeed, it’s one of the most important barometers for gauging your system’s performance and can save you a great deal of money over the years if you pay attention to it during installation. Summers in Austin, TX is too hot and muggy for an air conditioner that can’t give you the most bang for your buck. The SEER rating is a fast way of determining which system you should choose for your home. Here are a few more details.
Input vs. Output
The SEER rating itself is derived by comparing the BTUs (British Thermal Units) it generates in cooling power against the watt-hours it consumes in the process. For example, if the SEER rating is 12, it means the system generates 12 BTUs of cooling power for every watt-hour it uses. Keep in mind that this isn’t the same thing as power. Smaller air conditioners can have a much higher SEER rating than larger ones. It simply measures how much cooling power it generates considering the power it uses.
The ENERGY STAR Sticker
Since 2006, air conditioners sold in the United States require a SEER rating of at least 13 to meet federal standards. But you can look for units that are more efficient than that by checking for the ENERGY STAR sticker, which denotes units that have a SEER rating of 14 or higher (14.5 or higher if the unit is a split air conditioner). It’s a good short-hand means to ensure you’re getting an efficient system, translating to lower bills from month to month and considerable savings over the course of the unit’s life.
If you’re in the market for a new air conditioner and need some expert advice, as well as installation service that’s second to none, call Intelligent Air Services today!