To obtain significant goals in energy savings, many countries have introduced mandatory policies for energy certification in the air conditioning sector. Some variable type or inverter-driven technologies driven have been developed based on proven seasonal performance metrics such as the cooling seasonal performance factor - CSPF and the seasonal energy efficiency ratio - SEER. The air conditioners are typically programmed to be tested in accordance with only the standard defined by each region. However, for this study, the equipment under test was programmed to be tested according to both performance metrics mentioned above. Thus, this paper presents an experimental assessment of an air conditioner variable type based on seasonal cooling metrics and performance ratings using different energy labeling programs from several regions. This paper demonstrates that the energy efficiency rating of an air conditioner is strongly influenced by the reference outdoor temperature bin distribution in the labeling program issued by each region, but not only by adopting a technical standard. These results are highly relevant for developing public policies aimed at designing better energy efficiency and labeling programs. The conclusions are especially suitable for the government’s decision-making in the adoption of a technical standard can be simpler, and the understanding of the main performance metrics; harmonization that is globally used can be deeper, leading to higher energy savings and mitigating the effects of global warming.