Everything You Need To Know About SEER Energy Ratings
In this article, we’ll take a look at different ways the experts rate heating and cooling equipment for efficiency. One of the most common energy rating systems you will see is SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating.
SEER Basics
SEER is used to rate the cooling efficiency of an air conditioner system or a heat pump. It measures the total cooling output over its total energy input across the unit’s normal annual usage period. Essentially, how much it puts out versus how much it uses up. You can calculate SEER by taking the cooling or heating output for a typical season divided by the total electric energy input during the same time frame.
Total Cooling Outing (BTU) and Total Energy Input (Watt-Hours)
Essentially, SEER measures the benefit you get out versus the energy you put in. The higher the SEER number, the greater the efficiency of the equipment. As AC Doctor pointed out, “the more cooling/heating a system puts out for each unit of energy it consumes, the higher rating it will receive. The higher the efficiency rating of your system, the less energy it will consume. That means lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment.”
Government Regulations
According to Horizon Services, government regulations require new appliances on the market to carry a SEER number of at least 13.0. If you’re using an old air conditioner, it could be operating at a SEER number as low as 8.0. Some older systems even have ratings of 6.0 or less, because the technology wasn’t available when they were created. If you’re using an old, inefficient product, you’re wasting money the more you use the appliance. Over time, the government increases SEER requirements in order to drive manufacturers to constantly push for greater efficiency for public benefit.
What's A Good Rating For You?
The question many people ask about SEER is, “How high is high enough?” The most efficient air conditioner is one that can turn off when it reaches the temperature on your thermostat. The least efficient air conditioner is one that needs to run constantly while still not cooling a home. Between those extremes, there are a number of factors.
You will need to consider a few important factors in order to determine the best fit for you:
- How long do you plan on owning and operating this air equipment?
- What temperature are you most comfortable at inside your home?
- How often do you run your air conditioner or heat pump?
Our team of expert energy consultants can help you use the answers to these questions to choose the best cooling equipment for your home. When you schedule a free in-home energy consultation, our energy consultants will take all of these factors, plus many more factors about your home and usage, into consideration to find the best option that fits your needs.
For more help, contact SMO Energy. Whether it’s heat pump service or a new air conditioner system, SMO Energy can help you save money on your energy bills while maximizing the comfort of your home.