What does "SEER" stand for in HVAC?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. This term is crucial in the HVAC industry, as it is a measure used to determine the efficiency of air conditioning systems over an entire cooling season. The SEER rating is calculated by dividing the total cooling output during a typical cooling season (measured in BTUs) by the total electric energy input during that same period (measured in watt-hours). A higher SEER rating indicates a more energy-efficient system, which can lead to reduced energy costs for homeowners and better environmental performance. Understanding SEER is essential for both consumers looking to purchase air conditioning units and for professionals who are involved in sales, service, and installation of HVAC systems.