SEER, EER and COP: Terms to Know When A/C Shopping

Today we are going to take a look at the language that you need to speak when shopping for a new A/C. Do the terms SEER, EER and COP mean anything to you? If not, read this article and learn more about the important terms to use when shopping for an air conditioner.

What does SEER stand for?

The seasonal energy efficiency ratio, or SEER, is the ratio of output energy to input energy worked-out over a full theoretical cooling season. Output cooling energy is measured in British thermal unit (BTU) and the electrical input energy in watt-hours. The SEER rating is a measurement of the performance of the system during a full season using varying temperatures. The SEER measurement can be used to work out the potential cost in energy if running the system for a full season. The federal minimum for SEER in central split-system A/Cs and heat pumps is currently 13, with Energy Star models starting at 14.

What does EER stand for?

The energy efficiency ratio, or EER, is the ratio of output energy to input energy. The output cooling energy is measured in BTUs and the input electrical energy in watt-hours. The EER is a measurement of the efficiency of an air conditioner in a steady state. In real terms, this means that the EER of an A/C reflects its performance during the hottest expected temperatures rather than over a season, as is the case with SEER.

What does COP stand for?

The coefficient of performance, or COP, measures the amount of energy that’s put into the system compared with the amount of energy that’s delivered by the system. The COP rating is used as a measurement of the efficiency of an air conditioner.

If you are shopping for a new A/C, realize that the higher the SEER, EER and COP rating, the more efficient the system.

For more information and expert advice on SEER, EER and COP or other issues related to home comfort, please contact us at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning. We have been proudly serving the Lorain area for more than 34 years.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Lorain, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about SEER and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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