Energy class A+++, SEER and SCOP: how to read the label

Why two classes

An air conditioner is a cooler and a heater, so the EU label (Regulation 626/2011) shows a class for each, e.g. A++ / A+. Cooling depends on SEER, heating on SCOP. A model advertised as "A+++" is often A+++ for cooling only.

The scale

Class limits for split units up to 12 kW:

• A+++: SEER ≥ 8.5 · SCOP ≥ 5.1
• A++: SEER 6.1–8.5 · SCOP 4.6–5.1
• A+: SEER 5.6–6.1 · SCOP 4.0–4.6
• A: SEER 5.1–5.6 · SCOP 3.4–4.0

Seasonal, not single-point

The old EER and COP are measured at one point (35°C and 7°C). SEER and SCOP are weighted over four outdoor temperatures and partial loads, the way a unit actually runs, so they predict the bill better and reward inverters.

The three climate zones and the other fields

SCOP is mandatory for the "average" zone (Strasbourg) and optional for "warmer" and "colder". Mountain towns like Gabrovo and Troyan are closer to the colder figure. Use the design capacity (Pdesign) for sizing, and note that the label noise figures are at maximum power.

Is A+++ worth it

About 20–25% lower consumption than A++: 30–50 € a year for a daily-use living room, a 4–7 year payback on a unit that lasts 12–15 years. For a bedroom used two months a year, A++ is enough. Never go below A+ for heating.