Explaining SEER: Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio

Does your home use a cooling system, such as an air conditioner or heat pump? Do you ever wonder how efficiently your system operates? Well, look no further than the cooling system’s SEER rating.

What is a SEER rating?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The US Department of Energy regulates the efficiency of cooling systems by assigning a SEER rating to all cooling units. A SEER rating determines how much cooling a system delivers compared to the amount of energy it consumes. A system is striving for a high SEER rating. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient a system operates, which can ultimately result in lower energy costs.

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How is a SEER rating calculated?

A cooling system’s SEER rating is calculated by dividing a system’s total cooling output (measured in British Thermal Units) by its total energy input (measured in watt-hours). This rating is measured over the system’s typical annual usage period.

Is there a SEER standard?

All cooling systems manufactured or installed on or after January 1, 2015 must meet the 14 SEER minimum standard. Previously, the minimum standard was a SEER rating of 13. There will, however, be an 18-month grace period for equipment manufactured before January 1, 2015 falling below the 14 SEER standard to help distributors sell their remaining inventory.

If you are looking to invest in a new cooling system, be sure to look for a system with a SEER rating of 14 or higher to remain compliant with the current minimum SEER standard.

Click Here for several free tools that will estimate the savings you can receive by choosing a higher rated SEER cooling system.

Shipley Energy provides quick, professional services to keep your cooling systems running at peak efficiency. Are you interested in learning more information such as financing details, system installations, system upgrades, or system tune-ups?

Learn More

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