Seer Rating Calculator

SEER Rating Savings Calculator

Use this calculator to estimate the potential energy and cost savings when upgrading to a higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) air conditioning unit.

function calculateSeerSavings() { var existingSeer = parseFloat(document.getElementById('existingSeer').value); var newSeer = parseFloat(document.getElementById('newSeer').value); var acCapacityTons = parseFloat(document.getElementById('acCapacityTons').value); var annualOperatingHours = parseFloat(document.getElementById('annualOperatingHours').value); var electricityCost = parseFloat(document.getElementById('electricityCost').value); var resultDiv = document.getElementById('seerResult'); resultDiv.innerHTML = "; // Clear previous results if (isNaN(existingSeer) || isNaN(newSeer) || isNaN(acCapacityTons) || isNaN(annualOperatingHours) || isNaN(electricityCost) || existingSeer <= 0 || newSeer <= 0 || acCapacityTons <= 0 || annualOperatingHours <= 0 || electricityCost <= 0) { resultDiv.innerHTML = 'Please enter valid positive numbers for all fields.'; return; } if (newSeer <= existingSeer) { resultDiv.innerHTML = 'The new AC unit SEER rating must be higher than the existing unit\'s SEER rating to show savings.'; return; } // Constants var BTU_PER_TON = 12000; // 1 ton of cooling capacity = 12,000 BTU/hr var WH_PER_KWH = 1000; // 1 kWh = 1000 Wh // Total Cooling Output (BTU/year) var totalCoolingOutputBTU = acCapacityTons * BTU_PER_TON * annualOperatingHours; // Calculate for Existing Unit var existingEnergyInputWh = totalCoolingOutputBTU / existingSeer; var existingEnergyInputKwh = existingEnergyInputWh / WH_PER_KWH; var existingAnnualCost = existingEnergyInputKwh * electricityCost; // Calculate for New Unit var newEnergyInputWh = totalCoolingOutputBTU / newSeer; var newEnergyInputKwh = newEnergyInputWh / WH_PER_KWH; var newAnnualCost = newEnergyInputKwh * electricityCost; // Calculate Savings var annualEnergySavingsKwh = existingEnergyInputKwh – newEnergyInputKwh; var annualCostSavings = existingAnnualCost – newAnnualCost; resultDiv.innerHTML = '

Calculation Results:

' + 'Existing Unit:' + 'Annual Energy Consumption: ' + existingEnergyInputKwh.toFixed(2) + ' kWh' + 'Estimated Annual Cost: $' + existingAnnualCost.toFixed(2) + '' + 'New Unit:' + 'Annual Energy Consumption: ' + newEnergyInputKwh.toFixed(2) + ' kWh' + 'Estimated Annual Cost: $' + newAnnualCost.toFixed(2) + '' + 'Potential Annual Savings:' + 'Energy Savings: ' + annualEnergySavingsKwh.toFixed(2) + ' kWh' + 'Cost Savings: $' + annualCostSavings.toFixed(2) + ''; }

Understanding SEER and How to Save Energy with Your AC

What is SEER?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It's a rating system used to measure the efficiency of air conditioning and heat pump systems. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy-efficient the unit is. A higher SEER means the unit can provide the same amount of cooling using less electricity over a typical cooling season.

The SEER value is calculated by dividing the total cooling output of an air conditioner (in BTUs) over a typical cooling season by the total electric energy input (in Watt-hours) during the same period. This ratio helps consumers compare the energy performance of different models.

Why is SEER Important?

For homeowners, the SEER rating directly impacts two major factors: comfort and cost. A higher SEER unit not only cools your home more efficiently, potentially leading to more consistent temperatures, but it also significantly reduces your electricity bills. As energy costs continue to rise, investing in a higher SEER system can lead to substantial long-term savings.

• Energy Savings: A higher SEER unit consumes less electricity to achieve the same cooling effect, leading to lower utility bills.
• Environmental Impact: Reduced energy consumption means a smaller carbon footprint.
• Comfort: More efficient units often provide better humidity control and more consistent cooling.
• Resale Value: An energy-efficient home with a modern HVAC system can be more attractive to potential buyers.

How to Use the SEER Rating Savings Calculator

Our SEER Rating Savings Calculator helps you estimate the financial benefits of upgrading your air conditioning unit. Here's how to use it:

1. Existing AC Unit SEER Rating: Enter the SEER rating of your current air conditioner. This can usually be found on a yellow EnergyGuide label on the unit or in its documentation. Common older SEER ratings range from 8 to 13.
2. New AC Unit SEER Rating: Input the SEER rating of the new unit you are considering. Modern units typically range from 14 to 26 or higher.
3. AC Unit Capacity (Tons): Enter the cooling capacity of your AC unit in tons. One ton equals 12,000 BTUs per hour. This information is also usually on the unit's label or in its specifications (e.g., 2-ton, 3-ton, 4-ton).
4. Estimated Annual Operating Hours: Provide an estimate of how many hours per year you typically run your air conditioner. This will vary based on your climate and personal preferences (e.g., 1500-2500 hours).
5. Average Electricity Cost ($/kWh): Enter your average electricity rate per kilowatt-hour (kWh). You can find this on your monthly utility bill.

After entering these details, click "Calculate Savings" to see an estimate of your annual energy consumption, costs, and the potential savings you could achieve by upgrading.

Factors Affecting AC Energy Consumption

While SEER is a crucial factor, several other elements influence your AC's energy usage:

• Climate Zone: Homes in hotter, more humid climates will naturally use their AC more frequently and for longer durations.
• Insulation and Air Sealing: A well-insulated and properly sealed home retains cool air better, reducing the workload on your AC.
• Window Efficiency: Energy-efficient windows with low-e coatings can significantly reduce heat gain.
• Thermostat Settings: Setting your thermostat higher in the summer (e.g., 78°F or 26°C) can lead to substantial savings.
• Ductwork: Leaky or uninsulated ductwork can lose a significant amount of cooled air before it reaches your living spaces.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as cleaning coils and changing filters, ensures your unit operates at peak efficiency.

Tips for Improving AC Efficiency and Saving Money

Beyond upgrading to a higher SEER unit, here are practical tips to maximize your AC's efficiency:

• Regular Maintenance: Schedule annual professional tune-ups. Clean or replace air filters monthly during cooling season.
• Seal Air Leaks: Caulk and weatherstrip around windows and doors to prevent cool air from escaping.
• Improve Insulation: Ensure your attic and walls have adequate insulation to keep heat out.
• Use a Smart Thermostat: Program your thermostat to adjust temperatures when you're away or asleep.
• Shade Your Home: Use blinds, curtains, or awnings to block direct sunlight, especially on south and west-facing windows. Plant trees strategically to provide natural shade.
• Utilize Fans: Ceiling fans can make a room feel cooler, allowing you to set your thermostat a few degrees higher.
• Avoid Heat-Generating Appliances: Run dishwashers, washing machines, and ovens during cooler parts of the day or evening.
• Ensure Proper Sizing: An AC unit that is too large will cycle on and off frequently, leading to inefficiency and poor dehumidification. One that is too small will struggle to cool your home adequately.

By understanding SEER and implementing these energy-saving strategies, you can enjoy a more comfortable home while significantly reducing your energy bills.