💡 Introduction: Why Energy Efficiency Should Be Top of Mind
If you’re like me — always looking for the smartest way to shop — energy efficiency is probably high on your list. Especially when it comes to big-ticket home appliances like air conditioners.
Modern through-the-wall AC units can cool your home beautifully, but if they’re not efficient, they can also drive up your utility bills and leave you feeling frustrated. That’s why the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) and EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings matter so much.
By learning what these terms mean and choosing a unit with a strong energy-efficiency profile, you’ll enjoy steady comfort, smaller bills, and a smaller environmental footprint. Ready to dive into the nitty-gritty? Let’s go!
📊 What Do SEER and EER Actually Mean?
Before we look at specific ratings or numbers, let’s clear up what these terms mean:
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SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio):
SEER measures your unit’s cooling output (in BTUs) across an entire cooling season divided by the total electricity consumed. It’s an average efficiency level that factors in variable temperatures, cycling patterns, and more. A higher SEER number means the unit is more efficient under typical seasonal usage. -
EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio):
EER looks at the unit’s efficiency under a specific set of test conditions — usually 95°F outside temperature. It’s calculated by taking the BTUs of cooling per hour divided by watts of electricity consumed at a fixed temperature. A higher EER indicates a better energy-efficient unit at peak load.
Both ratings help you understand long-term operating costs, and they’re especially important if you live in a hot climate where your AC will run most of the year.
⚖️ Why Should You Care About SEER and EER?
When you pick an energy-efficient unit:
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✅ You’ll use less energy — helping the environment.
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✅ You’ll lower your electricity bills.
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✅ The unit often runs smoother and with better comfort control.
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✅ It can even improve home resale value — especially with new efficiency regulations in place.
In short: Efficiency is an investment that pays off every single summer.
And this isn’t just my opinion — the U.S. Department of Energy agrees that upgrading to a high-SEER unit can slash energy use by 20–50%.
🔄 Current Standards and Regulations
Air conditioning standards and ratings are set by organizations like the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). In the U.S. as of 2023, most new ACs must have a SEER2 of at least 14–15 (depending on region), and EERs that meet updated federal guidelines.
And these standards will continue to tighten — so choosing a high-efficiency unit today is a smart way to future-proof your investment.
🏆 How to Interpret Efficiency Ratings When Shopping
When you’re browsing units, you’ll see SEER and EER numbers listed in product descriptions or on EnergyGuide labels.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
| Rating | Efficiency Level | Typical Unit Age/Type |
|---|---|---|
| SEER 13-14 | Entry level efficiency | Older units or economy models |
| SEER 15-18 | Good efficiency | Modern baseline standard |
| SEER 19-22 | High efficiency | Premium and inverter-equipped ACs |
And for EER:
| Rating | Efficiency Level |
|---|---|
| EER 8-9 | Lower efficiency |
| EER 10-11 | Good efficiency |
| EER 12+ | Excellent efficiency |
A higher number = better efficiency.
🏡 Factors That Impact SEER and EER in the Real World
Your unit’s rated SEER and EER might be tested in a lab, but your home’s insulation, windows, thermostat settings, and local climate also matter.
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Poor insulation? Even the most efficient unit will work overtime.
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Oversized unit? Frequent short cycling wastes energy.
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Extreme heatwaves? Energy use can spike regardless of SEER.
That’s why it’s smart to combine a high-efficiency AC with good home sealing, window shades, and even ceiling fans to improve circulation.
For more detailed energy-saving home strategies, check out the EPA’s Energy Star tips on efficient cooling.
🌍 Going Green With R-32 and Beyond
One of the most exciting developments in cooling efficiency is the refrigerants inside your AC unit.
Modern refrigerants like R-32 have a lower global warming potential than older refrigerants like R-410A — making them better for the environment without sacrificing performance. Many high-SEER units use these newer refrigerants to achieve both lower emissions and higher energy efficiency.
That’s why when you shop our through-the-wall air conditioners collection, you’ll see R-32 refrigerant prominently noted in our top-rated models.
To read more about refrigerants and their impact on the environment, visit the EPA’s refrigerant transition page.
💸 Cost vs. Efficiency: Finding the Balance
Premium, ultra-efficient units can cost more up front — and that can leave some shoppers wondering if they’re worth it. Let’s look at the math.
Imagine a 12,000 BTU through-the-wall AC with a SEER of 13 vs. one with a SEER of 20. The higher-SEER model might cost $200-$400 more initially, but if you use your AC daily all summer long, it could easily save you $100 or more every season.
That means it pays for itself in just a few years — and then keeps saving you money for the life of the unit. That’s why it’s always smart to look at both sticker price and long-term cost of ownership.
🧠 Samantha’s Pro Tips for Energy-Smart Shopping
Here are my top tips to make sure you choose the most efficient unit for your home:
✅ Pick the Right Size First — Even the most efficient AC can’t help if it’s the wrong BTU capacity for your room.
✅ Read the EnergyGuide Label — This yellow sticker breaks down SEER and estimated yearly operating costs.
✅ Look for Energy Star Certification — Energy Star units meet strict EPA guidelines and often qualify for utility rebates.
✅ Upgrade Controls and Thermostats — A programmable or smart thermostat helps fine-tune your settings and avoid wasting energy.
✅ Maintain Yearly — A clean filter and coil help keep efficiency at its peak.
🧭 Where to Find High-SEER and EER Models
You can browse our entire through-the-wall air conditioners collection for models that fit every home and budget. We make it easy to sort by efficiency and feature sets, so you can shop with confidence knowing you’re choosing a unit that’s better for your pocket — and for the planet.
🎯 Conclusion: Efficiency is the Smart Shopper’s Choice
At the end of the day, the numbers tell a clear story: investing in a through-the-wall air conditioner with high SEER and EER ratings will help you stay cool and save money for years to come.
By making energy efficiency part of your buying criteria — along with BTU capacity, refrigerant type, and other features — you’ll enjoy lower utility bills and a more comfortable home. And remember, every dollar saved on energy is one you can put toward the things that matter most!
If you’d like help choosing the perfect unit for your home, feel free to browse our through-the-wall air conditioners collection — we’re here to help you make a smart, sustainable decision.
