54regcab
09-09-2012, 07:20 PM
I'm surprised how everybody is on SEER numbers while basically ignoring EER. Using 95 outside/80 inside (15 degree split) is a much more accurate indicator of energy use than the 80/82 to determine SEER ratings. Anybody who is OK with it being 80 in the house will most likely just turn the A/C off and open the windows when it's 82 outside.
In the real world is EER starts at about 12 for a 13SEER unit, goes to 13 for a 14-15SEER unit and tops out at about 14EER for units rated 16SEER and up. That's right, EER does NOT improve once SEER goes over 16, but cost for the high SEER units skyrockets. To have high EER coil area (inside and out) in relation to tonnage needs to increase, this is why the larger sizes in a particular lineup tend to take a hit on EER. Rarely is installing a unit over 16SEER going to be more cost effective than insulating/fixing leaks/ repairing ductwork unless there are substantial rebates/incentives involved.
In the real world is EER starts at about 12 for a 13SEER unit, goes to 13 for a 14-15SEER unit and tops out at about 14EER for units rated 16SEER and up. That's right, EER does NOT improve once SEER goes over 16, but cost for the high SEER units skyrockets. To have high EER coil area (inside and out) in relation to tonnage needs to increase, this is why the larger sizes in a particular lineup tend to take a hit on EER. Rarely is installing a unit over 16SEER going to be more cost effective than insulating/fixing leaks/ repairing ductwork unless there are substantial rebates/incentives involved.