How do you calculate the efficiency of an air conditioning unit?

The method to calculate the efficiency of an air conditioning unit is through the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, or SEER, which is defined as the cooling output of the unit in BTUs divided by the energy input in watt-hours. The formula emphasizes the relationship between the amount of cooling provided and the energy consumed over a season of operation, thereby giving a clear measure of energy efficiency.

Using BTUs for cooling output allows for a standardized measure of thermal energy, while watt-hours for energy input provides a clear metric of electrical consumption. Therefore, the calculation reflects how effectively the air conditioning unit converts electrical energy into cooling, helping consumers and technicians assess the operational efficiency of different units.

Other potential formulas provided do not accurately reflect this relationship, which is why they do not represent the correct method for calculating SEER and overall efficiency effectively.