It’s important to find the most effective air conditioner for your house. You don’t want or need something too powerful, as this will waste energy you don’t need to use.
The same goes for not being powerful enough, as it’ll take forever to cool your home and take a toll on your electric bill.
You want something that is just right and in the following article, we will describe what a 5000 BTU air conditioner is best used for and the many benefits of the various models on the market.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for 5000 BTU AC
- OUR TOP PICK: Frigidaire FFRA0511R1
- RUNNER-UP: Midea MAW05M1YWT
- BEST BUDGET: Danby DAC050MB1WDB
Comparison of the Best 5,000 BTU Air Conditioners
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How to Choose a 5,000 BTU Air Conditioner
When choosing your next air conditioner, you need to know if it’s right for you and your home. Before buying a new unit, you’ll need to ask yourself a few questions and understand the various features on offer.
Is it Efficient?
The efficiency is a huge deal when it comes to these products, you’ll want every watt of energy used to be utilized in the best way possible. You’ll want your A/C unit to have an EER rating of 9.4 or more. The higher the rating, the more efficient the unit is at handling the energy.
Portable or Window Unit
There are a few differences between the window and portable units. To start with, the window units are usually the more efficient types as they’re connected to the outside and can maximize the amount of cool air they can use, without the need for hoses for intake or exhaust. The portable unit will require either a single or dual hose system. The main attraction for people is that it can easily be moved around to different rooms. These models are usually less effective at cooling your home than the window based units.
Area Coverage
Depending on the BTUs of your A/C, your unit will be able to cool a certain area of your house. In this case, the 5000 BTU rating will be able to cover a 150-200 sq ft area within your home. This area coverage is one of the least coverage you could get from any A/C on the market. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, you might only need to cool a smaller portion of your house. However, there are units on the market that can cool an area up to 700 sq ft or more.
Additional Features
You’ll find on many of the units we mention that there will be plenty of additional features included to make their product more attractive to customers. A few added benefits include things like a built-in dehumidifier; timer, and fan speed settings. You should always get a remote control, and it would be a surprise if this wasn’t included. You will also find the higher quality products can also heat and circulate air with a fan inside your house.
Review of the Best 5,000 BTU Air Conditioners
The most important section of our review is the part we discuss in detail the products we think are worthy to be regarded as some of the best on the market. The following products are well-researched and deserve to be on this list because of their features and qualities.
Best Overall Window A/C
Frigidaire FFRA0511R1
Specifications
BTU (DOE): 5,000
Coverage Area: 150 sq.ft.
Airflow (CFM): N/A
Dimensions (in): 15x16x12
Weight: 41 lbs.
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Review
This product was voted as the best window unit currently on the market. It has the ability to cool down an area up to 150 sq. ft. and you’ll be sure to get the most powerful cooled air as window units are always more powerful.
Along with the powerful compressor, the device also has the ability to dehumidify the air around you. Up to 1.1 pints of water can be extracted every hour to help dehumidify the air.
All that power coming from one device will make you think you’re using up a lot of energy. Well, this device is rated with an 11.1 EER rating which is an incredible level of energy efficiency. There are multiple controls that you can customize such as the multiple cooling and fan speeds. Typically, these settings are known to be loud on other devices. However, they’re more or less silent with this window A/C.
Bottom Line
Without a doubt, this is the best on this list and we feel like it’s the best currently on the market. Being able to cool up to 150 sq. ft. within a short period of time is a great achievement. It might not seem like a lot, but for a 5000 BTU A/C, it’s more than decent. The reason this unit can provide such powerful cooling is that it’s a window unit that can draw in more cool air from the outside rather than using a portable hose.
The dehumidifier can also help with clearing out any stale and damp air from the environment. This air usually makes it hard for people to breathe or even get comfortable at night, so this is a huge benefit. The EER of 11.1 is also an amazing feature that will use all of your energy in the most efficient way possible. The only downside of this product is that it can’t be moved around as a portable unit can without some heavy lifting. The other downside is that the dehumidifier has to be manually emptied.
Pros
EER of 11.1
Multiple features
Cools up to 150 sq ft
Window units are powerful
Dehumidifies 1.1 pints per hour
Cons
No Hose for the Dehumidifier
Can’t Be Moved Around From Room to Room
Runner-up Window A/C
Midea MAW05M1YWT
Specifications
BTU (DOE): 5,000
Coverage Area: 150 sq.ft.
Airflow (CFM): N/A
Dimensions (in): 16x13x12
Weight: 35.27 lbs.
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Review
This 5,000 BTU AC is easy to install, so you won’t need to hire professional services. You’ll have access to seven temperature settings for variety and flexibility.
Despite the easy installation, there are no printed instructions to guide you on your way. Your best bet is to watch online tutorials. You’ll also need to stick to wooden window frames, as it may damage aluminum frames.
On the plus side, you’ll save electrical costs with its high energy-efficiency rating. There’s also an internal filter if you want your air free from dust, allergens, and other pollutants. You’ll also enjoy the two-way airflow for optimal circulation.
Bottom Line
The Midea MAW05M1YWT might be small, but it packs a powerful punch with its efficient cooling. Out of all the features, we were surprised by the seven temperature settings the most.
Pros
Easy to install
2-way airflow circulation
Energy Efficiency Rating of 11
Seven different temperature settings
Washable filter for dust and allergens
Cons
Doesn’t included printed instructions
Ideal for standard timber window frames only
Best Budget Window A/C
Danby DAC050MB1WDB
Specifications
BTU (DOE): 5,000
Coverage Area: 150 sq.ft.
Airflow (CFM): N/A
Dimensions (in): 13.19×15.98×12.05
Weight: 36.3 lbs.
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Review
Thanks to the lightweight design, you won’t struggle to move the air conditioner around if you need to uninstall and reinstall it in a different location. There are two variable speeds of low and high, depending on how much cooling you need.
Unfortunately, you’ll need to deal with a loud noise at the highest setting, which can become unsettling for such a small unit. It’s also surprisingly difficult to install.
Despite these shortcomings, you’ll enjoy the classic rotary controls and two-way airflow. It also has an internal filter for dust and air particles that’s easy to clean.
Bottom Line
This lightweight 5,000 BTU AC is ideal for small bedrooms, delivering optimal cooling in high temperatures. You’ll have to deal with some humming to enjoying the breeze, but you’ll love the two-way airflow that helps with circulation and ventilation.
Pros
Lightweight design
Two variable speeds
Two-way air direction
Mechanical rotary controls
Washable filter for cleaning the air
Cons
Challenging to install
Loud noise while running
Quietest Window A/C
Amana 5,000 BTU 115V
Specifications
BTU (DOE): 5,000
Coverage Area: 150 sq.ft.
Airflow (CFM): N/A
Dimensions (in): 15.30×16.0x12.50
Weight: 39.70 lbs.
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Review
For nighttime and family time use, the Amana 5,000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Air Conditioner has much to recommend. This model gets high marks for smooth, quiet operation, and as good, or better, marks for everything else.
This Amana appliance carries the ENERGY STAR seal of approval, with an 11.9 EER rating. It has all the programming features you could ever want and then some, with the ability to cool a space of up to 700 square feet without stress or strain.
Bottom Line
Looking for a window air conditioner that will cool a bedroom at night without keeping everyone awake? If so, you’ll love the Amana 5,000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Air Conditioner. Once you learn how to operate the electronic controls, you’ll appreciate its flexibility and the ease with which its output can be personalized. It’s an easy appliance to maintain and will deliver hour after hour of cool refreshment all summer long.
Pros
Air Louvers Allow for Quick and Easy Directional Airflow Changes
24-Hour On/Off Timer With Comprehensive Programming Features
Electronic Controls Are Programmable by Touch or Remote Control
Includes Removable and Washable Air Filter With a “Clean Filter” Warning
Comes With Eco Mode Setting for Dramatically Reduced Power Consumption
Comes With Standard 115-volt Plug-In That Can Be Used With Any Home Outlet
Good Dehumidification Capacities (Can Remove 3.52 Pints of Moisture in an Hour)
Three Fan Speeds for Customized Comfort Plus Auto Setting for Effortless Adjustments
Cons
Electronic Programming System May Present Initial Challenges for Newcomers to the Technology
700 Square Feet of Cooling Capacity Might Be Inadequate for Cooling Larger Apartments or Spaces
hOmeLabs Window Mounted Air Conditioner
Specifications
BTU (DOE): 5,000
Coverage Area: 150 sq.ft.
Airflow (CFM): N/A
Dimensions (in): 16×15.4×12
Weight: 36.5 lbs.
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Review
This window A/C is a strong competitor. Providing cool air coverage of up to 150 sq. ft., this product will cool the temperature of any room within a small period thanks to the powerful benefits of using a window unit.
You’ll not only receive the air conditioner, but you’ll get a full mounting kit that includes support brackets, leaf guards, and a window seal foam to ensure a drip-free experience.
The seven different temperature settings would usually make a great deal of noise with any other product. However, this unit is more or less noise-free. The speeds of the fan can also be adjusted. These settings allow the room that it is in to have a rapid temperature decline within 15 minutes or less. Not only does it cool the area around you but will clean out the air with its easy to clean, eco-friendly filter.
Bottom Line
There are a few benefits with this unit, the most useful being it can cool an area within 15 minutes, which is an outstanding achievement. Something that’s not usually included with the product is the full window support kit that contains products like a leaf guard and window seal foam, as well as the bracket itself. Most of the time you’d have to buy these separately.
There are also multiple different temperatures and fan settings that will allow you to control how cool your room gets and how fast it works. With all this air being circulated, it would be helpful to ensure it’s clean. Thankfully, the eco-friendly filter will do exactly that, along with the reusable filter can easily be cleaned with just hot soapy water. The only downside with this unit is that there’s no dehumidifier that can absorb all of that hot, damp air that keeps you up at night.
Pros
Full Window Support Kit
Cools Your Room Within 15 Minutes
Eco-Friendly and Easy to Clean Filter
Several Temperature and Fan Settings
Cons
No Dehumidifier
Frigidaire FFRE0533S1
Specifications
BTU (DOE): 5,000
Coverage Area: 250 sq.ft.
Airflow (CFM): N/A
Dimensions (in): 18.5×15.5×13.4
Weight: 44 lbs.
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Review
Without a doubt, one of the most efficient air conditioners currently out on the market, with an EER of 12.2. This product will save you an incredible amount of power and money. Covering up to 150 sq. ft., this device will cool any air within this area in 15 minutes or less. The power and efficiency are thanks to the window unit getting most of its cool air by pulling it in from the outside.
A handy feature for anyone with an A/C is that you can set a timer for how long you want the product to operate, such as throughout the night to keep you cool and comfortable. Your comfort is important and will be ensured with help from the dehumidifier that can extract up to 1.1 pints of liquid per hour, meaning no more restless warm nights. The four-way airflow will ensure that your room is cooled evenly.
Bottom Line
This is, without a doubt, one of the most efficient units we’ve mentioned up to this point, with a rating of 12.2 EER, and is one of the most impressive features of this device. The usual features like the dehumidifier are the next talking points, as they can dehumidify the warm, damp air and extract up to 1.1 pints of fluid per hour.
An area of 150 sq. ft. can be cooled within a 15-minute timeframe, which is impressive and probably the fastest a 5000 BTU A/C will be able to work, mainly because it is a window unit. The timer is another helpful function that allows for extra convenience as you choose how long the A/C operates for.
The only downsides are that the unit overheats easily when you select a faster fan mode. Another burden is that the dehumidifier has to be emptied manually every day so that it continues to operate properly.
Pros
12.2 EER
Timer for Operating Hours
Dehumidifies 1.1 Pints Per Hour
Will Cool 150 Sq Ft. Within 15 Minutes
Cons
Overheats Easily When on Faster Modes
Dehumidifier Needs to Be Emptied Manually Every Day
Keystone 115V Window-Mounted AC
Specifications
BTU (DOE): 5,000
Coverage Area: 150 sq.ft.
Airflow (CFM): N/A
Dimensions (in): 15.4x16x12
Weight: 39.6 lbs.
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Review
Cooling an area up to 150 sq. ft., this device will have all you need to rapidly cool your room within 15 minutes of it turning on. Not only does it bring cool air from the outside into your room but it cleans out the air it uses by sifting it through the easy-clean filter. Along with clean and powerful cool air, you’ll have the chance to dehumidify any warm and damp environments as the built-in dehumidifier can extract 1.3 pints of liquid every hour.
There are plenty of added extras like the timer feature and the auto-restart that will continue each customized setting from where it left off. Other features include sleeper mode and an energy saving mode that boasts an EER of 11.2. All of these settings can be controlled via remote control. One of the most impressive settings is the temperature control, which can be adjusted to your preferred temperature.
Bottom Line
There are plenty of features on this unit. Considering it was voted our most budget-friendly, that usually means the quality decreases, when, in fact, this product maintains that quality at most points.
This device is reliable when you want something that’s energy efficient, as it has a rating of 11.2, meaning you’ll save money and energy in the long run. The plethora of features like the timer, sleep mode, and temperature control can all be customized and operated via the remote control. This combination just spells convenience.
By providing most of the cool air from the outside, the air filter will ensure your family will benefit from clean air, which is easily cleaned with just hot, soapy water. One of the only downsides to this product is that the dehumidifier doesn’t have a continuous drain feature, so will need to be emptied manually. The other downside is that it has a decibel rating of 62 which means it’s noisy.
Pros
EER of 11.2
Dehumidifier
Easy-Clean Filter
Remote Controlled
Cools 150 Sq Ft. Within 15 Minutes
Cons
62 dBA Rating (Noisy)
No Continuous Drain Option
Emerson Quiet Kool EARC5RD1
Specifications
BTU (DOE): 5,000
Coverage Area: 150 sq.ft.
Airflow (CFM): N/A
Dimensions (in): 15.2×15.98×12.52
Weight: 43.8 lbs.
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Review
Like any other 5000 BTU unit, this A/C can offer cooling coverage for up to 150 sq. ft. The best part about this product is that it offers you a noise-free experience thanks to the smart design of the compressor and motor. With the order, you’ll receive a complete kit full of products to help successfully mount your unit in the window, including a foam sealant and window bracket.
The outside air will provide your family with fast, cool air, however, you’ll need something to ensure it’s clean, which is where the air-filter comes in handy. The filter will remove any bad odors and particles from the air. The multiple modes and settings can be controlled via the smart panel or the remote control. These modes include an eco-mode, sleeper mode, and three-in-one function which includes cooling, moisture removal, and a fan mode.
Bottom Line
The many benefits of this product are exceptional. However, the main advantage is that you will experience almost no noise when in use. The three-in-one capability is also something a lot of other units don’t offer. This ability is great for any situation, making this product versatile. Not only do you get the device, but you’ll also receive the full window kit, making it easy to install with all the parts being available right when you receive it.
The many different modes, like the eco-mode and sleeper mode, are great features that should be on every air conditioner. These can be controlled via the remote control, making it even more convenient for everyone. The only downside is that the dehumidifier doesn’t have a continuous drain option, meaning you’ll need to constantly empty it.
Pros
Noise-Free
Full Window Kit
Multiple Modes
Three-in-One Capability
Cons
No Continuous Drain Option
How Do 5,000 BTU Air Conditioners Compare?
It’s time to run some comparisons between different air conditioners. We’ll look at various 5,000 BTU similarities and differences while also investigating how well it performs with other size units.
5,000 BTU Window AC vs Portable Unit
The most significant similarity is that both the window and portable air conditioners have the same cooling capacity. They also have drainage options to removing condensation, generally through the window. They also perform the same functions with slightly different components.
However, the portable air conditioner is easier to install. You only need to fix the hose to the window with a kit, while the window version is more challenging. You also get portable devices with water buckets that you can wheel around the house with ease.
5,000 BTU vs 8,000 BTU AC
Let’s begin with the 5,000 BTU AC. It can cover up to 150 sq. ft while using 10 to 13 amps. Bedrooms and living rooms usually don’t need over 15 amps, which is why this size is ideal. It also has a lightweight design in most cases.
On the other hand, an 8,000 BTU AC can cool any area up to 350 sq. ft, giving it more coverage. It can draw up to 20 amps, so you’ll need a larger circuit breaker. While you can use the device in larger bedrooms and living spaces, it’s also ideal for areas with vault-like ceilings.
5,000 vs 6,000 BTU Air Conditioner
A 6,000 BTU can cover areas up between 150 and 300 sq. ft. Slightly heavier in design, it’s perfectly suited for the kitchen, bedrooms, and living areas with somewhat more extensive space.
The difference in energy consumption is almost negligible, while the noise levels are virtually the same. Although the 6,000 BTU air conditioner might cost you a little bit more, it may be worth it in the long run for that extra cooling capacity.
Who Should Not Buy a 5,000 BTU AC?
While buying a 5,000 BTU AC might sound like a good idea, it doesn’t suit all occasions. Let’s see when you shouldn’t purchase one.
Regions With High Humidity
These small devices can’t cope with high humidity. You see, humidity increases heat levels differently, making you feel warm even if the air is cool. Introducing an air conditioning unit for cooling won’t help in this situation, especially if it only has 5,000 BTUs.
While some air conditioners include a dehumidification function, it probably has limited water vapor removal with low pints per day.
What you’ll want is a dehumidifier in your home, helping cool down the temperature by effectively lowering the humidity. Some dehumidifiers also have a cooling function, which is ideal.
Spaces Over 150 Sq. Ft.
A 5,000 BTU AC only has enough cooling capacity to cover a room of up to 150 sq. ft.
If you have a bedroom, living space, kitchen, or any other area more extensive than that amount, you won’t feel the effect. The situation is worse if you’re on a patio with the full force of sunlight on you from the outside.
You’ll want to aim for between 6,000 or 10,000 BTU, depending on the room’s size. If you insist on buying a 5,000 BTU AC, you can assist the circulation with a ceiling fan to move the cold air around.
High Temperatures in Dry Climates
Some regions have high temperatures and dry climates. Even if you have the 5,000 BTU air conditioner in a small space, there’s a maximum level at which the device can perform. You can’t expect it to cool the room in the sweltering heat.
Furthermore, you ideally want a humidifier to deal with the dry climate. It pours water vapor into the air, making it more effective in cooling the room. You’ll also be able to breathe easier, which is beneficial for your health and that of the house in general.
Pros and Cons of 5000 BTU Air Conditioners
5000 BTU air conditioners are some of the lowest BTU options available in the market and are gaining popularity among people with smaller homes. However, they don’t come without their set of limitations. To make sure you make the right purchase, here are the pros and cons of these air conditioners.
Pros
There are various advantages to owning a 5000BTU unit. We have listed some of them below.
Highly Efficient For Small Rooms
If you live in a smaller dorm or apartment and are looking for an effective AC, then you need an AC with fewer BTUs. If you get one with higher BTUs, then you will end up living in a super cool yet humid room. However, thanks to these lower BTU units, you can now be comfortable in your small spaces too.
Saves You Electricity Bills
5000 BTU air conditioners consume less power to operate. Hence, by having them, you can save a lot of energy. Furthermore, this will help you save a fortune on electricity bills in summers.
Eco-Friendly
Air conditioning units with fewer BTUs consume less energy and hence are healthy for the environment. If you get them, you won’t just save money; you will also be saving the environment.
Cons
While there are benefits, there still exist some limitations to 5000 BTU unit, including:
Not Effective in Larger Rooms
If you live in rooms bigger than 150 sq. ft., then these units won’t work for you. They will fail to cool your room.
Conclusion
All the air conditioners currently on the market have a lot of similarities and more or less contain the same special features and modes as each other. We hope this article has been able to help guide you in finding the best 5000 BTU air conditioner on the market, and that it’s been a learning experience for you.
People Also Ask
5000 BTU air conditioners are some of the smallest AC units available in the market that are not just affordable but highly suitable for small spaces. However, it is possible that you might have some questions and queries about them. Hence, we have answered the following questions for you.
This section is for anyone that needs their questions answered on certain aspects in the air conditioning market. All of the most asked questions have been compiled and answered to the best of our ability. We hope this helps.
BTU stands for British Thermal Unit, and it refers to how well an air conditioner can heat or cools a room. The 5,000 indicates the cooling capacity, which we use to measure how much space it can cover. In general, it can cool up to 150 sq. ft.
If you have a small bedroom in an apartment or room, you can certainly buy a 5,000 BTU AC. Any space larger than 150 sq. ft. will need a more powerful device. You also need to analyze the layout of the room and its furniture.
The BTU level will have a say on how much area your unit can cover with cool air. For the usual 5000 BTU air conditioner, it should be able to cover an area of 150-200 sq. ft. with ease.
You’ll soon realize that most A/C units will have something called an EER rating. This rating is a level that describes how energy efficient your unit is. The higher the rating, the more energy friendly it is. This doesn’t necessarily save energy but just maximizes the potential of all the energy used. However, by using a 5000 BTU A/C rather than something more powerful to cool down a small room or home, this, in theory, does save you energy.
Your air conditioner can run on a 150V circuit. In order to get it up and running and keep it running, you’ll need to have a generator that has a startup surge of 3000 watts and a continuous power outage of around 1800 watts.
Most 5000 BTU air conditioners would have at least five amps, and when plugged into their required 110V outlet, it should be able to use up to 550 watts of energy.
Like we mentioned previously, the standard 5000 BTU air conditioner uses at least five amps. Which means that your watt usage will be roughly 550 watts.
These air conditioners normally run on 5-amp, and it approximately costs 1.6 dollars to run a 5000 BTU air conditioner for a full day of 24 hours. You can divide it by 24 to find the per-hour cost and then multiply it by the number of hours you use it for. You will get your daily cost.
Normally, an air conditioner of 5000 BTU can efficiently and effectively cool a room of about 150 sq. ft. It the room is greater than that, then the AC unit will not cool properly, and if the room is smaller, then the AC will cool too soon without properly eliminating humidity.
