⚡ What Is EER?
EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a measurement of how efficiently an air conditioner operates when the outside temperature is at a constant 95°F. It is calculated using the formula:
For example, if a unit delivers 11,800 BTU of cooling while consuming 1,180 watts of electricity, its EER would be 10.
🔁 How EER Differs From SEER and CEER
| Term | What It Stands For | Used For | What It Measures |
|---|---|---|---|
| EER | Energy Efficiency Ratio | Room ACs and portable units | Efficiency at a fixed temp (95°F) |
| SEER | Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio | Central air conditioners | Efficiency over a range of outdoor temperatures |
| CEER | Combined Energy Efficiency Ratio | Room ACs (especially ENERGY STAR) | Includes standby/off-mode energy consumption too |
📚 Source: Energy Star – What Is CEER?
If you’re buying a through-the-wall or window AC, EER and CEER are the two ratings you want to compare.
🧠 What’s a Good EER Rating?
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8.5 or below – Poor efficiency
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9.0 to 10.9 – Average to good
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11.0 or higher – Excellent energy efficiency
High-efficiency models like the Amana 11,800 BTU tend to fall in the 9.8–10.7 EER range, depending on voltage and installation. Look for ENERGY STAR® certification for added confidence in both EER and CEER values.
💸 Why EER Matters for Your Wallet
Let’s break it down:
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A higher EER = less energy used per BTU of cooling
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Over a 3-month season, a unit with an EER of 10.5 could save $60–$120 vs. one rated at 8.0
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Units with higher EER ratings typically run cooler, quieter, and wear down slower
🧰 Pro Tip for the Savvy Shopper
When comparing units:
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Check both EER and CEER
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Look at the wattage on the EnergyGuide label
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Factor in the room size and how many hours per day you'll run the unit
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Consider investing upfront for a unit with an EER of 10.0+ to save long-term
🏁 Final Takeaway
Savvy buyers don’t guess—they calculate. Whether you're cooling a bedroom, sunroom, or office, energy efficiency ratings like EER and CEER are your roadmap to smart, sustainable comfort.
👉 Learn more or purchase a high-efficiency unit like the Amana 11,800 BTU AC for quieter cooling and lower energy bills.
In the next topc you will read about: Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Through-the-Wall AC Unit
