The seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) is a rating used to evaluate air conditioners for efficient use of power. More commonly known as the SEER, all new air conditioners, including yours, will have a SEER rating.
- What is the SEER? For each air conditioner, SEER ratings indicate the unit's efficiency. Specifically, the SEER unit is designed to calculate the unit's cooling output compared with its power usage. Units that have more advanced equipment will earn a higher SEER.
- What's the acceptable range for SEER? Air conditioner SEER ratings can range from 5 for older air conditioning units up to the mid-20s for the newest, more efficient models. Now, U.S. law requires air conditioner ratings of 13 or above, though most are around 16. There are manufacturers who produce air conditioners with a SEER as high as 23.
- How's the SEER calculated? The SEER rating is calculated by evaluating air conditioning units under standard interior and exterior climate settings set by the U.S. Department of Energy and used for each unit. The SEER rating also takes into account seasonal changes.
- Does a high SEER rating guarantee better performance? Despite SEER's standardization, what many consumers don't know is that the HVAC contractor who installs the air conditioning unit also bears a lot of control on the unit's productivity. If your unit's installation doesn't include efficient airflow or has leaks that allow air to seep through the ducts, your air conditioning unit with a SEER rating of 20 can perform more like an air conditioner with a SEER 10 rating.
- Is the SEER rating only important for homeowners in the Sunbelt? The benefits of a higher SEER will vary according to climate. While all owners will experience some savings with a high SEER score, owners living in areas with a lot of sun will see the most financial benefit.
For more advice about air conditioner SEER ratings, contact Rodenhiser. We've proudly served clients in the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts for more than 80 years.
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