This study utilizes two factors, EEF (exergy efficiency factor) or exergetic COP (coefficient of performance) and MTEWI (modified total equivalent warming impact), which was proposed to evaluate exergetic and environmental performance of RAC (room air conditioners) sold in the Turkish market. In the study, vapour compression cooling cycle used whole RAC units is taken as model for the analyses. The results are shown that average EEF value of units using R-22 and R-410A gas are 74.53% and 74.64% respectively. Besides, R-410A gas, which is used in many split systems and marketed as an environmental friendly gas, has an effect that is approximately 23.18% higher than the R-22 gas which is no more in use. The study finally emphasizes the reasons why EEF and MTEWI factors should be given priority in terms of efficiency and environmental effects in the RAC units. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.