1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Housewares / Appliances

Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) - What is it and What does it Mean?

By , About.com Guide

Question: Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) - What is it and What does it Mean?

What is an Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) and what does it mean in relation to air conditioners? Is the EER rating of an air conditioner something worth considering when purchasing a unit?

Answer: An Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) is the ratio of the cooling capacity of an air conditioner in British Thermal Units (BTU) per hour, to the total electrical input (in watts) under certain specified tests. Air conditioner EER ratings higher than 10 are considered most cost effective. The higher the ratio, the less the unit will cost to operate.

Air conditioners that have been tested have Energy Efficiency Ratios and are certified by the Association of Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM). These units will generally list their EER ratios in their product features.

To reduce energy bills associated with cooling your home, look for a high EER rating and EnergyStar compliance when purchasing a new air conditioner.

Read More About Air Quality & Cooling Your Home:

Before You Buy a Room Air Conditioner
Air Quality Appliance Resources
Pros & Cons of Extended Service Agreements
Controlling Moisture
Humidifiers & Dehumidifiers
Portable Multifunction Units

Go to Main Cooling Page
Go to Home Page
More Housewares / Appliances Q&A

Explore Housewares / Appliances

About.com Special Features

Holiday Central

What to eat, where to go, fun things to do and how to save money on the perfect gifts. More >

Make Your Own Scented Pine Cones

Bring a little of the fall season in your home with this easy-to-make craft. More >

  1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Housewares / Appliances
  4. Cooling & Heating
  5. Cooling Products
  6. Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) - What is an Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.