SEER

Ratio of the cooling output divided by the power consumption. It is the Btu of cooling output during its normal annual usage divided by the total electric energy input in watt hours during the same period. This is a measure of the cooling performance for rating central air conditioners and central heat pumps. The appliance standards required a minimum SEER of 10 for split-system central air conditioners and for split-system central heat pumps in 1992. (The average heat pump or central air conditioner sold in 1986 had an SEER of about 9.)

(Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) - The total cooling output of a central air conditioning unit in Btus during its normal usage period for cooling divided by the total electrical energy input in watt-hours during the same period, as determined using specified federal test procedures. [See California Code of Regulations, Title 20, Section 1602(c)(11)]