What does the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) indicate?

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is a metric used to measure the efficiency of cooling systems, specifically air conditioners and heat pumps, during a typical cooling season. It represents the total cooling output (in British Thermal Units or BTUs) provided by an air conditioning system over a typical cooling season divided by the total electric energy input (in watt-hours) consumed during that same period. A higher SEER rating indicates a more efficient cooling system, meaning it uses less energy to provide the same amount of cooling, which can lead to lower energy costs and reduced environmental impact.

In contrast, heating system performance is usually measured by a different metric, such as the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF). Refrigeration management effectiveness would pertain to the efficiency of refrigeration systems but does not directly correspond to the SEER rating used exclusively for cooling systems. Indoor air quality relates to the healthfulness of air inside buildings, which is influenced by various factors but not directly by the SEER rating, as that metric does not measure air quality parameters. Thus, the correct understanding of SEER is tied specifically to evaluating the energy efficiency of cooling systems.