How Do We Evaluate Energy Efficiency in an AC? - Scroll to the end for our estimated energy consumption calculator​

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When choosing an air conditioning system, energy efficiency is a key factor to consider. The efficiency of an AC system is measured by SEER2, which stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2. SEER2 helps you understand how much cooling a system provides for each unit of electricity it consumes, making it easier to compare the performance of different systems.

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What Is SEER?

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SEER2 calculates the cooling efficiency of air conditioning and heat pump systems. It represents the amount of cooling (in BTUs) a system delivers per watt-hour of electricity consumed over a typical cooling season. The formula is:

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SEER2 = Total Cooling Output (BTUs) ÷ Total Energy Input (Watt-Hours)

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1 SEER = 1 BTU of cooling per watt-hour of electricity used.

 

This means:

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• If an AC system has a SEER of 1, it produces 1 BTU of cooling for every 1 watt-hour of energy it consumes.

• Higher SEER ratings indicate the system can deliver more cooling per watt-hour, making it more energy-efficient.

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SEER2 16 (Central AC) vs. SEER2 19 (Mini-Split Inverter): Which is Better?​

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When comparing a Central AC system with SEER2 16 and a Mini-Split Inverter with SEER2 19, the mini-split offers superior energy efficiency and cost savings. Here’s how they compare:

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Efficiency: 

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• Central AC (SEER2 16): Provides 16 BTUs of cooling per watt-hour.

• Mini-Split (SEER2 19): Provides 19 BTUs of cooling per watt-hour, making it about 16% more efficient.

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Energy Consumption Example:

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For a 1-ton system (12,000 BTUs/hour) operating for 1,000 hours in a cooling season:

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• Central AC (SEER2 16):
  Energy Consumption = 12,000 × 1,000 ÷ 16 = 750,000 watt-hours (750 kWh).

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• Mini-Split (SEER2 19):
  Energy Consumption = 12,000 × 1,000 ÷ 19 = 631,579 watt-hours (632 kWh).

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Cost Savings:​

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Let's assume your cos of  electricity is $0.15 per kWh:

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• Central AC: 750×0.15=$112.50750 × 0.15 = \$112.50750×0.15=$112.50

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• Mini-Split: 632×0.15=$94.80632 × 0.15 = \$94.80632×0.15=$94.80

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• Savings: $17.70 per season, or about 15% lower energy costs with the mini-split.

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Why Choose a Mini-Split Inverter?​

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Mini-splits not only offer better energy efficiency but also come with additional benefits:

• Zoned Cooling: Cool only the rooms you use, reducing energy waste.

• Flexibility: Perfect for homes without ductwork or for adding cooling to specific areas.

• Quieter Operation: Mini-splits run more quietly than most central AC systems.

By opting for a mini-split inverter with a higher SEER2 rating, you can enjoy precise temperature control, lower energy costs, and a more sustainable cooling solution.