What Does SEER Stand For?
Answering one of the most frequently asked general HVAC service questions.
HVAC techs get lots of general HVAC service questions every day, and some get asked more than others. Some of the most frequently asked questions tend to be about energy efficiency since we’re all looking to save a buck or two. Many customers are trying to figure out ratings for their HVAC units, including SEER. Here’s the lowdown.
What Does SEER Stand For?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and is a way to rate the performance of residential cooling systems on a national scale. The rating of a cooling system is computed by dividing the amount of cooling output provided by a cooling system during a typical cooling season by the electrical energy use of the unit during that same time period. A higher SEER rating means a more energy efficient system.
What Do the Numbers Mean?
In the United States, all newly installed cooling systems must have a minimum SEER rating of 14 in the Southeastern states and 13 in other parts of the country. High-efficiency units will have scores of 20 or above. Mini-split air conditioners can even have ratings up to 33. The higher the rating, the less energy the system uses and the lower your monthly utility bills will be.
When you’re considering whether or not to upgrade your cooling system and what to look for when it comes to energy efficiency, it’s important to keep the SEER ratings in mind, so you get the biggest bang for your buck. Although these units are somewhat more costly upfront, the energy savings over time more than make up for the price difference.
For more information on SEER ratings and answers to all of your general HVAC service questions, contact your local McCall’s dealer.