What is the SEER rating ?

How is the SEER calculated on an air conditioner?

If you’re looking for an air conditioner or wall mounted heat pump, you’ve probably heard of the abbreviation SEER. The term SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. In French, you will find the abbreviation TRÉS which means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rate.

The SEER is actually an energy efficiency ratio that each appliance is rated according to their performance. In other words, the higher the SEER, the less energy the appliance will consume. Now, it is important to understand that SEER is only a measurement for “air conditioning” and is not applicable for heat pump heating data. SEER energy efficiency is the ratio of cooling power (BTU/h) divided by the appliance’s gross energy consumption (Watt/h or kWh). This is the average for one cooling season and is calculated using a constant indoor temperature of approximately 20°C and an outdoor temperature of 28°C. So if the average outdoor temperature in summer in the region you live in is above or below 28°C, the SEER efficiency will not be the same.

All air conditioning units have a seasonal energy efficiency rating and it must be displayed on the unit’s (yellow) Energy Guide sticker. Since 2015, manufacturers are no longer allowed to sell air conditioning units with an energy efficiency rating of less than 14.5 SEER.

Is SEER so important?

At first glance, the term SEER doesn’t mean much, but if you compare the different rates, there can be a huge difference in energy consumption between air conditioning units over a lifetime. 20 years old. However, it is extremely important to weigh the investment costs of purchasing the device against the profitability of the device in the long term. Obviously, there is no point in buying a 25+ SEER unit if you plan to move in 2-3 years, because the next owner of your home will benefit from the move. energy saving of your air conditioner.

If you plan to stay in your home for several years, buying an air conditioning unit with a high energy efficiency rate will have several benefits.

First, your air conditioner will consume practically no energy during the summer season compared to an appliance with a SEER lower than 15.

Second, appliances with a high SEER are usually considered “high end” appliances so your appliance will necessarily have a high HSPF and this will save you a lot of money for the heating season (what is the HSPF). It is important to consider the HSPF of heat pumps if you live in Quebec, because we must not forget that we have about 3-4 months of summer and 8-9 months of cold weather. HSPF will save you more on energy consumption compared to SEER.

Third, high SEER units are usually built by industry-recognized manufacturers who have years of experience designing air conditioning and heating units. To achieve high fuel efficiency, manufacturers must use the best parts and components to achieve high performance efficiencies. So this assures you that your device is built with quality materials.

Finally, the purchase of an air conditioner is not an easy task, in particular because of their acquisition costs. It is therefore important that you are well advised according to your needs, your current situation and your budget.