Whether it’s a portable or window model, 8000 BTU air conditioners provide one of the best solutions to deal with cooling and heating issues in small to medium-sized rooms.
Considering that there is a wide variety of these units on the market, it can be really hard to know which unit is ideal for your particular room and needs. To make things easier for you, we have assembled a list of the best 8000 BTU air conditioners you can find on the market.
This list is comprised of both portable and window models to give you several options to choose from. Read through and we are certain that you will find a unit that will address all of your particular needs.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for 8000 BTU AC
- OUR TOP PICK: Koldfront WTC8001W
- BEST OVERALL WINDOW AC: LG LW8016ER
- BEST OVERALL PORTABLE AC: BLACK + DECKER BPACT08WT
Comparison of the Best 8,000 BTU Air Conditioners
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
Our Top Pick  |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
How to Choose an 8000 BTU Air Conditioner
Be sure to review the qualities below if you are unsure about how to pick one of these top models.Â
Portability
When it comes to purchasing an air conditioner, you should be sure to check how much it weighs, just in case you need to move it around from time to time.
Preferably, look for a model that weighs between 40 to 60 pounds.
Space
We know you would not want to purchase an air conditioner that occupies too much space in your room or office. Hence, it always advisable to check a unit’s dimensions; for instance, one with 14.4 x 17.3 x 11.1 inches would be a good fit for a small room.
Room Temperature
This an important aspect too; you obviously want a model that serves two masters at once. Buying an air conditioner that can be used in both cold and humid areas is the best idea since it is economical.
Energy Efficiency
It is advisable to look for a model that saves energy while running in order to avoid huge electricity bills. You could choose the one that meets the Energy Star requirement, as this will help you save 25-20 percent of energy monthly.
Ease of Use
When looking for an air conditioner, ensure you purchase one that has a remote control so that you can operate it easily.
Key Terms to Know
To help compare products in this review, we have included a few key specifications for each. Here is a quick summary of what they mean.
- Type:Â Whether the AC is portable, window mounted, mini-split, central, evaporative, etc.
- Dimensions:Â The actual dimensions in l x w x h.
- Weight:Â The physical weight of the air conditioner.
- Voltage:Â The amount of electricity the unit uses. This determines the type of outlet it must plug into.
 - Coverage Area: The amount of square footage the unit can adequately cool, determined by the manufacturer.
- Energy Efficiency Features:Â Whether the unit has any features or ratings relating to energy usage.
- dB (decibel) Level:Â The amount of noise the AC produces when in operation.
- Modes:Â The modes of operation the unit features. This includes dehumidification, fan only, cooling, etc.
Review of the Best 8000 BTU Air Conditioners
Now that you know how to choose one of these, let's dive into the review.Â
Best Overall:
Koldfront WTC8001W
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers love the cooling capacity of this unit and the fact that it produces much less noise compared to other air conditioners. It is also easy to install, and Koldfront makes it more convenient to use with a remote control, which is uncommon for window air conditioners. Many users also appreciate the heating unit.Â
Why it Stands Out to Us
What other BTU can cover a large area, without producing noise pollution, all so efficiently? This is an excellent unit with four-way air directional louvers, three fan speeds, and four operation modes. Moreover, it also comes with an energy saver mode and a sleep function to improve efficiency.Â
Who Will Use This Most
If you’re looking for an air conditioner that can cool or heat your room, this unit is a great choice. For the price it comes at, it is a good option that fits all budgets. The unit can cool a room of about 300 to 350 square feet, so that is a factor to keep in mind when making your purchase.Â
Bottom Line
Koldfront has done it again with another brilliant air conditioner. It has pleased its users with all the features it offers. Providing both a cooling and heating system, this unit is ideal for areas where summers and winters are both on the extreme sides. Not to forget how convenient it is to use with a remote control and other additional features.Â
Product Specs
Type:
Through-The-Wall
Dimensions:
20.38 x 24.25 x 14.5"
Weight:
66.6 lbs
Voltage:
115
Coverage Area:
350 sq. ft
Energy Efficiency Features:
EER: 9.6
dB (decibel) Level:
56.8 dB
Modes:
Energy Saver, Fan, Cool, Dry
Best Overall Window AC:
LG LW8016ER
PROS
CONS
The LG LW8016ER is one of the most efficient window AC units available on the market, as it is well built and has some amazing features. It’s the best overall window AC on our list, striking a perfect balance between performance and price. Rest assured, this unit will give you the best value for your money.
One major reason why this unit is the best overall window AC is that it helps you save up to 15 percent of energy in one year. Additionally, it has an EER of 12.1, which helps you save some power. It has a cooling capacity of 8000 BTU and conveniently cools a room of up to 340 square feet.
Moreover, it has 3 cooling and fan speeds which gives you the privilege of adjusting the temperature range to your desire. It has a dehumidifier that can extract 2.2 pints per hour.
It also has air filters for removing dirt from the air. Furthermore, this model is easy to use since it comes with a remote. While running, it produces 50 decibels, making it a bit noisy; however, you can install it in your bedroom and still have a good night sleep.
This unit comes with a manual, making it easy to install. Furthermore, most window ACs are very easy to install. It is one of the most portable models since it only weighs 28 pounds.
When it comes to size, this unit is 19.6 inches wide, 12.4 inches tall, and 19.4 inches long, a small size for a unit with such performance. It features an energy saver function, sleep mode, and 24-hour on/off button. This model moves 200 cubic feet of air each minute, which cools a place fast.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a model that is economical in terms of energy preservation, small and really portable then this is the best choice you can get from the 8000 BTU air conditioners.
Product Specs
Type:
Window
Dimensions:
19.6 x 19.4 x 12.4"
Weight:
58 lbs
Voltage:
115
Coverage Area:
350 sq. ft
Energy Efficiency Features:
SEER: 13
dB (decibel) Level:
52 dB
Modes:
Energy Saver, Fan, Cool, Dry
Best Overall Portable AC:
BLACK +DECKER BPACT08WT
PROS
CONS
When it comes to portability, this is the best model you can choose. It only weighs 52.9 pounds, meaning you can easily carry it from one place to another.
Having a cooling capacity of 8000 BTU, the BLACK+DECKER BPACT08WT can efficiently work in a room of up to 150 square feet. Additionally, it has 3 cooling and fan speeds for you to adjust the temperature.
It also has a dehumidifying mode and it is designed to produce fresh air for your entire house in vertical motions. Additionally, it is remotely controlled, hence you can regulate the speeds of temperature from the comfort of your coach.
This AC unit features filters that clean under exposure of fresh air. When running, it produces 75 decibels of sound and comes with a manual for you to easily install. This unit also saves a lot of energy since it meets the 2016 Energy Star requirement, which saves 15 percent of energy use. It is also very compact, 16.5 x 11.5 x 26 inches to be precise.
Bottom Line
If you have been looking for an 8000 BTU air conditioning model that can conveniently work in all rooms in one house, then this is the best option. It will save some amount of money due to its energy efficiency. It also does not occupy much space.
Product Specs
Type:
Portable
Dimensions:
16.5 x 11.5 x 26"
Weight:
52.9 lbs
Voltage:
115
Coverage Area:
150 sq. ft
Energy Efficiency Features:
EER: 8.73
dB (decibel) Level:
High: 53 dB; Low: 51 dB
Modes:
Cool, Fan, Dehumidifier
Best Portable Budget AC:
 SereneLife SLPAC8
PROS
CONS
This 8,000 BTU portable electric air conditioner has a sleek, lightweight design that makes it easier to move around your house or office. While there is a noise level you’ll hear in the highest setting, it’s low enough not to be a nuisance.
You’ll receive an installation manual and window kit, but it remains challenging to install by yourself. If you live in an extremely hot climate, you won’t really feel the cooling effects of this device.
On the plus side, there are two other modes you can enjoy. The dehumidification function reduces air moisture to help with cooling. There’s also a ventilation feature, delivering an airflow of 170 CFM.
Bottom Line
Portable air conditioners are extremely useful when you need to cool your favorite room or take it with you on a trip. This 8,000 BTU AC has effective cooling, dehumidification, and ventilation that’ll help reduce the summer heat.
You’ll love the elegant, sleek design that fits in most spaces. Of course, one of the top benefits is that there’s low noise so that you can sleep in peace.
Product Specs
Type:
Portable
Dimensions:
14.6 x 13.8 x 27.2"
Weight:
46.3 lbs
Voltage:
120
Coverage Area:
215 sq. ft
dB (decibel) Level:
55-57 dBa
Modes:
Cool, Fan, Dehumidifier, Sleep
Runner-up Portable AC:
 Midea MAP08R1CWT
PROS
CONS
This Midea portable air conditioner is excellent for cooling small rooms so effectively that they’ll feel like iceboxes. There are several other modes also available, such as dehumidification, purification, and ventilation.
While there’s a setting for lowering moisture in the air, it’s so low that you won’t feel the effects in areas with high humidity. Furthermore, the instruction manual is slightly complicated, so you may need some help setting it up.
If you’d like to set a time for the device to start or stop, there’s a handy function that works for up to 24 hours. You can also choose to operate the air conditioner with a remote or via voice control.
Bottom Line
More and more air conditioners include other modes that help improve the air quality. You can reduce humidity for more effective cooling or eliminate those terrible dust particles or allergens.
If you don’t feel like standing up to get the remote, there’s a voice control app you can install to use on your phone. The installation kit and hose are other elements that also make your life easier.
Product Specs
Type:
Portable
Dimensions:
13 x 17.1 x 28.3"
Weight:
53.57 lbs
Voltage:
115
Coverage Area:
150 sq. ft
Energy Efficiency Features:
CEER: 6.5
dB (decibel) Level:
51.5 dB
Modes:
Fan, Cool, Dry
Runner-up Window AC:
Frigidaire FFRE0833S1
PROS
CONS
This model is meant to be horizontally mounted on windows in case you are looking for a window AC.
The Frigidaire FFRE0833S1 can cool a room of up to 350 square feet. It has 3 different cooling fans, so you can regulate the temperature; it also has a dehumidifier that can extract 1.7 pints each hour.
This unit features antibacterial filters that remove dust, bacteria, and bad odors so your room will not be stuffy. Two louvers direct airflow in circular upward motions. You can control the unit using a remote and easily install it on your own since it comes with an installation kit. It also features a timer that helps you program the AC on and off automatically.
Unfortunately, this unit does not meet the Energy Star requirement and does not help you save much energy, even though it has an energy saving mode. It only occupies a small space of 16 x 18.5 x 13.4 inches.
Bottom Line
In short, if you want a window AC that you can easily install on your own, then this is the best option we have. You will also be able to program the AC to automatically switch itself on and off.
Product Specs
Type:
Window
Dimensions:
18.5 x 17.5 x 13.4"
Weight:
52 lbs
Voltage:
115
Coverage Area:
350 sq. ft
Energy Efficiency Features:
Energy Star, SEER: 13, EER: 12.0
dB (decibel) Level:
52-58 dB
Modes:
Cool, Fan, Sleep, Energy Saver
7. Whynter ARC-08WB
PROS
CONS
Our Review
Looking for an air conditioner that is lightweight to carry around? This air conditioner is very portable since it only weighs 64 pounds.
The Whynter ARC-08WB has a cooling capacity of 8000 and works well in a room of up to 250 sq. ft. Furthermore, it has a dehumidifier which helps cool off your room at 45 pints every 24 hours.
This unit’s air filters, which you can wash and put back, help to eradicate any pet hair in your room, as well as smoke and dust. It also has a two-way directional louvre and air in your room will flow at 270m 3/h/159 CFM.
Additionally, it is easy to operate since it has a remote. This model produces 53 decibels when running, which is relatively low.
The ARC-08WB comes with an installation kit and a very clear user manual, so installation won’t be that much of a challenge. It does not occupy much space since it is only 17 x 28 x 13.6 inches.
With 1.8 EER, it will not consume much of the energy, meaning that your electricity bills will not be as high.
Bottom Line
You should look no further if you want an eco-friendly lightweight air conditioner to use in your sitting room. It also comes with an installation kit and filters that remove smoke and dust particles from your home.
Product Specs
Type:
Portable
Dimensions:
17 x 28 x 13.6"
Weight:
47.5 lbs
Voltage:
115
Coverage Area:
250 sq. ft
dB (decibel) Level:
<53.6 dBA
Modes:
Fan, Cool, Dry, Auto
How Do 8,000 BTU ACs Compare to Other Sizes?
You may be pricing around for the best air conditioners on the market and noticing a slight difference in cost between various sizes. While it may appear promising, there are some differences you should be aware of. Let’s compare the closest air conditioners to the 8,000 BTU.
8,000 vs 10,000 BTU Air Conditioner
The main elemental difference between these two sizes is how much space they can cool. The 8,000 BTU generally covers up to 250 sq. ft. while the 10,000 BTU goes up to 300. They can manage different sizes at the same cooling rate, so it’s best to measure your space first.
The larger air conditioner is also able to handle higher temperatures and humidity levels. The downside is that it’s also usually heavier to install or move around. You’ll find more functions and power at your disposal, but it will consume more power.
6,000 BTU vs 8,000 BTU Air Conditioner
A 6,000 BTU almost has the same performance, covering rooms between 150 and 200 sq. ft. There’s such a minor difference that’s it’s almost negligible. However, if you add factors like humidity, air circulation, and dust, it’s better to opt for the 8,000 BTU.
You’ll also need to assess how much temperature each size can handle. The 8,000 BTU might use a little more electricity, but it may be worth it in warmer climates.
Types of ACs With 8,000 BTUs
There’s isn’t only one type of air conditioner. If you look up 8,000 BTU ACs, you’ll see a variety available on the market. Here are a few examples of what you’ll find, each one catering to a different situation.Â
Window 8,000 BTU AC
These air conditioners are ideal if you’re not worried about blocking natural air and light. You can install them in any windows in your home and are considered one of the most energy-efficient types. They remove hot air from your room and eject them outside with minimal effort.
Portable 8,000 BTU AC
Many people that live in apartments or travel in motorhomes prefer portable air conditioners. They’ll either have a water bucket or drainage pipe for the condensation. You even find ones that have internal evaporators to exhaust the air out the windows.
Mini Split 8,000 BTU AC
Another handy option is the mini-split air conditioner. Instead of taking up window or floor space, you’ll install one component on your inside wall and the other outside. You’ll receive excellent cooling while eliminating condensation and noise levels from the interior.
Smart 8,000 BTU AC
Some manufacturers go the extra mile and install smart components in air conditioners. You can choose different control methods, such as remote, voice, and Wi-Fi. There are unique timers and various modes that you can adjust yourself or let the device decide for you via sensors and thermostats.
Top Brands With 8,000 BTU Air Conditioners
As you’ve seen from our review of the best 8,000 BTU air conditioners, several manufacturers produce various devices to different specifications. While it’s a tough call dividing the top ones from the worst, we’ve selected three that we felt you should have a look at.
LG Electronics
LG started in 1968 as GoldStar, putting its feet in the HVAC industry with the first residential air conditioner in Korea. In 1970, it developed the initial chillers for industrial buildings, expanding its reach in other countries. It also produces several home appliances and electronic devices.
It’s made a name for itself with inverter air conditioners, considered by many to be the most advanced in the world. LG also has a reputation for manufacturing the most energy-efficient devices.
Midea
The Midea Group goes as far back as 1968 with the main headquarters in China. It specializes in home appliances and HVAC systems, with a few 8,000 BTU devices in the mix. Most of them are mini-split or portable air conditioners.
Today, it has over 100,000 workers in over 200 regions. Its air conditioners have an outstanding reputation, while you’ll have better luck with its customer servers as opposed to those of its distributor
Honeywell
If you’re looking for a household name that’s been around for decades, Honeywell has an excellent reputation for its massive catalog of HVAC products. It includes purifiers, dehumidifiers, humidifiers, air conditioners, chillers, and evaporators.
The brand has won several awards and massive contracts since its inception in 1906.
It includes purifiers, dehumidifiers, humidifiers, air conditioners, chillers, and evaporators. One of its first achievements was developing the first coal-furnace thermostat in 1885 when it was called Butz Thermo-Electric Regulator Company.
Who Should Not Buy an 8,000 BTU AC?
Now that we’ve shown you the benefits of buying these devices, there are situations where you might not need an 8,000 BTU. We’re not trying to dissuade you from getting one, but it’s better if you choose the right air conditioner for the occasion. Let’s look at when you should not buy one of these units.
Excessive Heat or Humidity
An 8,000 BTU AC can only handle so much heat and humidity. Each device is manufactured differently, so it’s best that you read the specifications.
If you live in an area with high temperatures, you may want to look at a more powerful unit. If there’s too much humidity, try aiming for a dehumidifier instead of an air conditioner.
Spaces Under 200 or Over 250 Sq. Ft.
When you buy an air conditioner, the BTU number is an indication of its cooling capacity. The 8,000 BTU can manage anywhere between 200 and 250 sq. ft.
While you may find devices that can cool larger spaces, it’s better not to push your luck. More extensive rooms need a larger BTU. Don’t overwork your air conditioner and lower its lifespan in the process.
Dusty Regions
One element you don’t want to introduce to an air conditioner is dust and allergens. While some may have washable filters that you can clean, they’re not equipped for excessive amounts of air pollutants. In these situations, you’ll want to aim for a purifier instead.
Pros and Cons of 8000-BTU Air ConditionersÂ
8000-BTU air conditioners have both their benefits and drawbacks. Here are a few listed below.Â
Pros
Let’s first take a look at the positive aspects of investing in such a unit.
Affordable
Window units generally cost lower than portable air conditioners and come in a range of different prices.Â
High BTU
BTU is a way to measure energy, and a high BTU indicates a powerful air conditioning system. It denotes that the air conditioning unit has a better capacity to cool the room, and an 8000-BTU air conditioner can cool a large space.Â
Space
An 8000-BTU air conditioner can easily cool an area of about 300 square feet and more in a short amount of time.
Cons
Meanwhile, the drawbacks include:
Difficult to Setup
Window air conditioners are quite heavy and can be difficult to lift up, especially with no help. They can also block sunlight, which is not a problem with portable air conditioners.
Cycling
A greater BTU means that the air conditioner will cycle off and on frequently. This will result in the compressor overworking itself and can shorten the unit’s lifespan. Â
Conclusion
We would like to advise you to take all these aspects into consideration when purchasing an air conditioner since they are all vital.
The above-mentioned air conditioners may differ in a few aspects; for instance, some may have energy saving modes whereas others do not but they all work efficiently. Therefore, you should choose the one that you find the most convenient.
People Also Ask
We would like to answer some questions that we often get from people in order to help you choose the best air conditioner.
What Does 8,000 BTU Mean?
The British Thermal Unit (BTU) measures the ability of an air conditioner to cool space within a given amount of time. The number is an indication of how much space it can comfortably cover. For instance, an 8,000 BTU can cool a room of between 200 and 250 sq. ft.
Is 8,000 BTU Enough For a Small Apartment?
Yes, it is. It can cool up to 250 sq. ft, which is generally the size of a small apartment. If you’re aiming to cover a bedroom that’s less than 200 sq. ft., you might want to look into 5,000 or 6,000 BTU devices.
What Happens If Your BTUs Are Too High?
If you have an air conditioner that’s too powerful for your room, it’ll feel too cold and you won’t be able to warm it up again unless you switch off the device. You’re also using more electricity than is needed for your small space.
Is It Cheaper To Run a Portable Air Conditioner?
If you’re comparing it to the window and central air conditioners, then it is. You can move it to the room that needs attention instead of cooling the entire house or installing more than one unit.
Are 8000 BTUs Enough For a Bedroom?
This depends on the the size of your bedroom. An 8000-BTU air conditioner works well in about 350 square feet or so; hence if you try to use it for a larger area, it might not cool the room quickly or well. Moreover, a large BTU can have its drawbacks, as elaborated above.Â
How Much Does an 8000-BTU Air Conditioner Cost?Â
An 8000-BTU air conditioner can cost anywhere from as low as about $250 to as high as approximately $1000.
How Much Does it Cost to Run an 8000-BTU Air Conditioner? Â
There is a formula for calculating the cost. The first step is to determine the number of amperes the unit draws in. Multiply this by the voltage of your air conditioner to get the wattage it uses.
You’ll need your previous electricity bill to estimate how much the chargers per hour are depending upon your utility company. Now multiply this amount by the kilowatt-hour sum, and you’ll get an approximate of the window unit cost per hour to run.Â
For example, if your air conditioner runs for eight hours daily, and seven months a year, that means you’d pay about $134.40 annually. You can also use our calculator that helps you determine how much electricity an AC unit uses if you want more data.
How Many Amps Does an 8000 BTU Air Conditioner Draw? Â
An 8000 BTU conditioner draws 10 Amps
What Size Room Will an 8000 BTU Air Conditioner Cool?
It comfortably covers a room of up to 350 square feet.
How Many Watts is an 8000 BTU Air Conditioner?
It has a maximum of 740 watts.
