1. What is EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio)?

EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a measure of HVAC system efficiency, calculated as the ratio of cooling capacity (in BTU/h) to power input (in watts). It indicates how efficiently an air conditioning system operates under specific conditions.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the EER equation:

Where:

• \( Cooling\ Capacity \) — The amount of heat the system can remove (BTU/h)
• \( Power\ Input \) — The electrical power consumed by the system (W)

Explanation: Higher EER values indicate more efficient systems that provide more cooling per unit of electricity consumed.

3. Importance of EER Calculation

Details: EER is crucial for evaluating HVAC system performance, comparing energy efficiency between different models, estimating operating costs, and making informed purchasing decisions for cooling systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter cooling capacity in BTU/h and power input in watts. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good EER rating?
A: Generally, EER values above 10 are considered good, with higher values indicating better efficiency. Modern high-efficiency systems can reach EER values of 12-14 or higher.

Q2: How does EER differ from SEER?
A: EER measures efficiency at a specific outdoor temperature (95°F), while SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures efficiency over an entire cooling season with varying temperatures.

Q3: When should EER be used instead of SEER?
A: EER is particularly useful for evaluating performance in consistently hot climates or for commercial applications where systems operate primarily at peak conditions.

Q4: Are there limitations to EER calculation?
A: EER provides a snapshot of efficiency at specific conditions and may not reflect seasonal performance. It also doesn't account for part-load operation efficiency.

Q5: How can I improve my system's EER?
A: Regular maintenance, proper sizing, clean filters, adequate refrigerant levels, and upgrading to more efficient components can help improve EER.