Mastering your air conditioner's efficiency for an eco-friendly and high-performance choice
As the effects of climate change become increasingly apparent, adopting eco-responsible behaviors in all aspects of our daily lives is crucial. This includes selecting efficient and energy-saving appliances, such as air conditioners and heat pumps.
These appliances, often used during heatwaves, can have significant energy consumption if their efficiency is not optimal. Therefore, it is essential to understand and consider the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio), or TRÉS in French (Taux de Rendement Énergétique Saisonnier), when purchasing such a system.

What is SEER?
SEER is an indicator that measures the energy efficiency of an air conditioning system or the air conditioning function of a heat pump. The higher the SEER, the more efficient the appliance is and the less energy it consumes to produce the same amount of cooling.
Specifically, SEER is calculated by dividing the cooling capacity of the air conditioner (expressed in BTU/h) by its energy consumption (in Wh). For example, an air conditioner with a SEER of 16 will produce 16,000 BTUs of cooling for 1,000 Wh of energy consumed.

Two main organizations play a crucial role in defining and regulating SEER:

• The Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI): This American nonprofit organization developed the AHRI 210/24 standard, which defines the method of calculating SEER. This standard is widely recognized and used worldwide.
• National regulatory bodies: Each country or region may have its own energy efficiency requirements for air conditioners and heat pumps. These requirements may rely on the AHRI 210/24 standard or set specific minimum SEER thresholds.

Why is SEER important?
Choosing an air conditioner or heat pump with a high SEER offers numerous benefits for both your budget and the environment:

• Energy savings and lower bills: A more efficient appliance means lower electricity bills. Over the appliance's lifetime, the savings can be substantial.
• Reduced environmental footprint: By consuming less energy, you contribute to reducing your greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change.
• Increased comfort and healthier indoor air: High-efficiency air conditioners and heat pumps maintain a more stable and constant indoor temperature for optimal daily comfort. Additionally, they improve indoor air quality by reducing humidity and eliminating pollutants.

SEER vs. SEER2: Understanding the New Standards
Since 2014, a new energy standard called SEER2 has been in effect in the United States and Canada. This standard aims to improve the minimum energy efficiency of air conditioners and heat pumps on the market.
SEER2-compliant appliances are more efficient than older SEER models. The SEER2 standard imposes higher minimum SEER requirements for different categories of cooling capacity.

SEER vs. EER: Understanding the Differences
SEER and EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio), also known as TRÉ, are two measures of the energy efficiency of air conditioners and heat pumps. Although often used interchangeably, they have a fundamental difference.
SEER evaluates efficiency over an entire cooling season, taking into account temperature and humidity variations. This more accurate measure provides a better indication of the appliance's actual performance under real climatic conditions. In contrast, EER measures efficiency at a specific temperature (35°C), without accounting for seasonal changes. Less precise, it can be misleading in climates where temperatures vary significantly.

Choosing an Air Conditioner or Heat Pump: Beyond SEER
While SEER is an important factor when choosing your air conditioning system, it is not the only one to consider. Other data can help you select the most suitable appliance for your needs and budget:

• COP (Coefficient of Performance): This is the ratio between the heating output produced by the appliance and the energy consumed in heating mode. The higher the COP, the more efficient the appliance is in heating mode. This criterion is particularly important if you plan to use your heat pump for heating in winter.
• Cooling area: Ensure that the appliance's capacity (expressed in BTU/h) is suitable for the area you want to cool. An overly powerful appliance will be energy-intensive and unnecessary, while an underpowered appliance will not ensure your comfort.
• Energy certifications and labels: Look for appliances certified by independent organizations, such as Energy Star, which guarantee their energy performance and environmental respect.

For a Sustainable Future and Optimal Comfort
By choosing an air conditioner or heat pump with a high SEER, compliant with SEER2 standards, and considering the other indicators mentioned above, you contribute to:

• Reducing your environmental impact: By consuming less energy, you help fight climate change and preserve natural resources.
• Saving money: Over the appliance's lifetime, the savings on your electricity bills can be substantial.
• Enjoying increased comfort: High-efficiency air conditioners and heat pumps ensure a more stable and constant indoor temperature for optimal comfort in both summer and winter.
• Improving indoor air quality: These appliances improve indoor air quality by reducing humidity and eliminating pollutants, creating a healthier indoor environment.

Choosing an efficient air conditioning or heat pump system is a wise investment that will allow you to combine comfort, savings, and environmental respect. By making informed choices and adopting eco-responsible behaviors, we can all contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.

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