Updated May 18, 2025
In air conditioners, you may have noticed both EER and SEER ratings. These ratings play a vital role in selecting the right air conditioner for your home or work. EER vs SEER is briefly explained here to help you understand the significance of these ratings for making an informed decision.
What is EER?
Energy Efficiency Rating (EER) is a measurement of the energy efficiency of an air conditioner at a specific outdoor temperature (95 degrees F). The air conditioner is more efficient when its EER rating is higher. EER is calculated by dividing the input electrical power measured in watts by the cooling capacity measured in British Thermal Units(BTU).
How is SEER Different from EER?
A SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating is the proportion of an air conditioner’s cooling efficiency over a regular cooling season to the energy consumed by it in Watt-Hours. EER rating is the calculation of the energy efficiency of an ac unit at one temperature, whereas, SEER is the measurement of the energy efficiency of an air conditioner of an entire season at different outside temperatures.
Which Rating Should I Consider?
You should pay attention to both ratings, as they can be helpful in different circumstances.
- EER is the efficiency of an air conditioner at peak cooling time as it is calculated at one peak temperature.
- SEER is the calculation of the energy efficiency of an air conditioner at a variety of outside temperatures including both high and low of a usual home’s cooling pattern.
If the temperature of your location is 95°F or higher, you should consider EER ratings. For locations with moderate climates, SEER ratings should be considered.
Also, Read – 10 Common Air Conditioning Problems You Should Know About
What is the Highest EER on an Air Conditioner?
The energy efficiency rating of an air conditioner varies depending on its capacity but look for EER ratings in the range of 9.4 to 10.7 to get the best AC.
Is a Higher EER Rating Better?
An air conditioner will be more efficient if its EER rating is higher. An air conditioner with a higher EER rating comes with a high price, but the performance and benefits you enjoy from a good AC can outweigh the price.
What Is a Good Energy Efficiency Rating?
A good EER rating of an air conditioner is at least 6.0. You can save a great deal of money on AC’s running cost with a good EER rating.
Also, Read – Air Conditioning Maintenance: Tips to Make Your AC Ready for Summer
Can I trust BTU Ratings?
BTU rating is high on particular AC models, so BTU ratings cannot always be trusted. Sometimes, manufacturers overstate the BTU ratings on ACs to sell them. Therefore, these ratings can’t be the only factor considered when choosing the right AC.
How SEER Is Tested vs. Real-World Performance
SEER ratings come from laboratory tests under tightly controlled conditions—cycling the unit through a mix of outdoor temperatures and load patterns over a “season.” In your home, factors like duct losses, thermostat setbacks, filter cleanliness, and local humidity will affect actual efficiency. Remember: a 16 SEER unit in the lab may only deliver the equivalent of 13–14 SEER in everyday use.
Estimating Energy Savings & Payback
- Compare annual kWh: Each point of SEER above the federal minimum (14 SEER in most regions) can reduce annual cooling costs by roughly 6–8%. A 16 SEER unit uses about 15% less electricity than a 14 SEER model.
- Calculate payback: If the higher-SEER model costs \$500 more but saves \$100 per year on your utility bill, you’ll recoup the upgrade cost in about five years.
- Factor climate: In hot climates with long cooling seasons, the savings compound; in milder areas, the payback period lengthens accordingly.
Rebates, Tax Credits & Utility Incentives
- Many utility companies offer rebates of \$100–\$500 for units rated 16 SEER or higher—check your local provider’s website for current programs.
- Federal tax credits for qualifying high-efficiency equipment can reduce your net cost by up to 10% of purchase price (subject to legislative changes).
- Ask your contractor to handle rebate paperwork—they’ll often bundle it into your installation estimate.
When You’re Also Considering a Heat Pump: HSPF Matters
If you’re evaluating a heat pump rather than a straight-cool AC, look at the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) too. HSPF measures heating efficiency over a season—higher HSPF (8.0 or above) means lower electric heat pump costs in winter. Pair a high SEER air-conditioning rating with strong HSPF to get year-round efficiency.
Tips to Maintain Peak Efficiency Over Time
- Quarterly filter changes: A clogged filter can drop system efficiency by 5–15%—replace or clean it every 1–3 months, especially in dusty or pet-friendly homes.
- Annual tune-up: Have a certified technician inspect refrigerant charge, clean coils, check fan motors, and calibrate controls before cooling season.
- Duct inspection: Seal and insulate ductwork to prevent the 10–30% energy losses common in leaky systems.
- Thermostat upgrade: A programmable or smart thermostat can optimize runtime, reducing wear and maximizing your unit’s rated SEER over the long haul.
Call us to learn more about EER and SEER or to request an appointment with one of our air conditioning experts today.
White Mechanical, Inc.
Founded in 2002, White Mechanical, Inc. in Laguna Hills, CA, is one of the most trusted and licensed (HVAC) service providers, proudly serving Orange County and the surrounding communities. Our management team has more than 28 years of experience in various aspects of HVAC technology. All our HVAC technicians are professionally skilled and certified to deliver outstanding residential HVAC services as well as commercial HVAC services to our clients. We offer professional HVAC services including installation, maintenance, air conditioning repair, and more at very reasonable prices.
