Cooling efficiency
SEER2 is a seasonal cooling-efficiency metric used for central air conditioners and heat pumps under current US testing. A higher value signals better rated efficiency for the tested configuration, while actual energy use depends on climate, controls and installation.
Heating efficiency
HSPF2 describes seasonal heating performance for heat pumps. Check the rating on the actual matched indoor/outdoor combination and ask about output in very cold conditions, where capacity and efficiency may differ from moderate weather.
Do not compare unlike scopes
A window AC, a portable AC and a whole-home heat pump can use different published efficiency metrics. Compare products within the relevant category, then consider operating hours and local electricity prices.
What belongs on a product page
Publish the manufacturer model numbers, rating source, capacity, voltage and any matched-system certificate where available. Do not attach a rating from one component to a different installed combination.
Sources and further reading
- US Department of Energy: Heat Pump Systems
- US Department of Energy: Central Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps
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