What are SEER ratings of air conditioning systems?

SEER is the acronym for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The SEER rating is shown as a number, example 13. The higher the number is, the more efficient the air conditioner. For many homeowners a 13 SEER (as of January 23, 2006, the minimum standard allowed by U.S. Department of Energy) air conditioner or heat pump will represent money saved on each month’s electric bill. Exactly how much you can save will depend on the efficiency of your current system. Here is a comparison: 13 SEER efficiency:

• Delivers about 23% energy savings compared to 10 SEER models.
• Delivers about 8% energy savings compared to 12 SEER models. Actual savings will depend on the age, efficiency, and condition of the unit being replaced.