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SEER

By Bob Formisano, About.com

air conditioner

Definition:
SEER is an acronym for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating which is an efficiency rating of an air conditioning system. It is a ratio of the annual BTU's of cooling provided divided by the electric energy input used, and is measured over a range of temperatures.

As of January, 2006 central air conditioner systems must be manufactured to a minimum 13 SEER although you may still buy older units having a lower SEER (lower efficiency) rating. SEER ratings go as high as 21. The higher the SEER rating the larger the physical size of the outside air conditioner condensing unit.

Also Known As: Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating

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