SEER Calculator

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is the ratio of total cooling output in BTU to total electrical energy input in watt-hours over a typical cooling season. A higher SEER indicates greater efficiency and lower operating cost. SEER is the primary metric for comparing residential and light commercial air conditioning equipment efficiency in the United States. The U.S. Department of Energy transitioned from SEER to SEER2 testing effective January 1, 2023. SEER2 uses the updated AHRI 210/240 test procedure with higher external static pressure (DOE Appendix M1), producing slightly lower ratings for the same equipment. Federal minimum efficiency standards for residential split-system air conditioners range from SEER2 13.4 to 14.3 depending on geographic region. High-efficiency units achieve SEER2 ratings of 20 or higher. Use SEER or SEER2 to compare annual operating costs between equipment options during selection.