Which of the following best describes the Energy Efficiency Ratio?

The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) is defined as the ratio of useful cooling or heating output provided by an HVAC system to the energy consumed in the process, typically expressed in BTUs per watt-hour. This measure allows for the assessment of how effectively an energy-consuming appliance, such as an air conditioner or heat pump, operates in terms of energy usage relative to its performance. A higher EER indicates a more efficient system, meaning it can provide more cooling or heating with less energy input, which is a key consideration when evaluating the performance of heating and cooling systems in terms of energy efficiency.

Understanding the EER is pivotal for consumers and professionals in the energy efficiency field because it directly correlates to cost savings and reduced energy consumption. By focusing on the amount of effective energy output in relation to energy input, the EER provides a clear metric for comparing the efficiency of different HVAC systems, contributing to informed decisions regarding energy efficiency improvements in buildings.