1. What is SEER?

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a measure of a heat pump's cooling efficiency. It represents the total cooling output (in BTU) divided by the total electrical energy input (in kWh) during the same period.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the SEER formula:

Where:

• Total Cooling — Total cooling output in British Thermal Units (BTU)
• Total Electricity — Total electrical energy consumed in kilowatt-hours (kWh)

Explanation: Higher SEER values indicate more efficient heat pumps that provide more cooling per unit of electricity consumed.

3. Importance of SEER Calculation

Details: SEER is crucial for comparing heat pump efficiency, estimating energy costs, and meeting energy efficiency standards. Modern heat pumps typically have SEER ratings between 14 and 22.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter total cooling output in BTU and total electricity consumption in kWh. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good SEER rating?
A: SEER ratings of 14-16 are standard, 16-18 are good, and 18+ are excellent. The most efficient models can reach 26+ SEER.

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 (usually 95°F).

Q3: Does higher SEER always mean better?
A: While higher SEER means better efficiency, the cost difference may not justify the energy savings unless you live in a hot climate or use cooling extensively.

Q4: How can I improve my heat pump's SEER?
A: Regular maintenance, proper sizing, clean filters, and shading the outdoor unit can help maintain optimal SEER performance.

Q5: Are there minimum SEER requirements?
A: Yes, in the U.S., the minimum SEER varies by region (typically 13-14 for northern states and 14-15 for southern states).