What does SEER stand for in HVAC terminology?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, which is a crucial metric used to evaluate the efficiency of air conditioning systems and heat pumps over an entire cooling season. This ratio is calculated by taking the total cooling output (measured in BTUs) provided during a normal cooling season and dividing it by the total electric energy consumed (measured in watt-hours) during that same period.

A higher SEER rating indicates a more efficient system, which translates to lower energy consumption and operating costs for homeowners. This makes understanding SEER important for those looking to select energy-efficient HVAC systems or improve their existing systems' efficiency. The seasonal aspect emphasizes that this rating considers performance variations throughout the cooling season, rather than just under specific conditions, which is critical for assessing real-world energy use.