In HVAC terminology, what does "EER" stand for?

EER stands for Energy Efficiency Ratio, which is a crucial metric in the HVAC industry used to measure the efficiency of cooling equipment. Specifically, it calculates the ratio of the cooling output (measured in British Thermal Units, BTUs) to the electrical energy input (measured in watt-hours) over a specified season, typically under specific conditions. The higher the EER value, the more efficient the air conditioning system is, as it indicates that the system delivers more cooling for each watt of electricity consumed. This metric is vital for consumers and professionals to evaluate and compare the energy efficiency of different HVAC systems, ensuring energy conservation and cost savings in long-term operation.