Best Window Air Conditioners – 2022 Buyer’s Guide Review

| Last Updated: December 21, 2021

Air conditioning units can be a tricky product to conduct research on.

There are hundreds of different models and brands on offer. Along with that, you have a couple of different types to choose from, the most effective being window units.

This article will give you a guide to the best products, features and hot tips regarding window air conditioners.

Comparison of the Best Window Air Conditioners

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • One-year parts and labor warranty offered worldwide
  • 3-in-1 technology – air conditioning, dehumidification, and fan-only mode
  • Offers different modes, including sleep mode, timer mode, and energy saver mode
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  • Plenty of various features and modes
  • Is double accredited for its energy efficiency
  • This product can cover an area of around 250 sq ft
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  • Has a great energy efficiency rating
  • Is one of the smallest air conditioners on the market
  • This AC will be able to dehumidify the air as well as cool
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  • Will be able to dehumidify the air around you
  • This device can be controlled with your smartphone
  • An outstanding EER that overtakes many other models
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  • Numerous features and modes
  • Was specifically made for both sliding or casement windows
  • This air conditioner offers a dehumidifier that extracts over three pints per hour
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  • Offers the services of a built-in dehumidifier
  • Includes a full kit that makes the setup process fast
  • You have full control over fan speeds, cooling speeds and temperature control
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  • Can cool any room up to 260 sq ft
  • A few features that help save energy and money
  • Has a built-in dehumidifier that extracts 1.8 pints per hour
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What Size of Window Air Conditioner Do I Need?

Size is important when purchasing an AC. If an AC is small as compared to the room, then it will not be able to cool the room. Meanwhile, if it is large as compared to the room, it would cool the room too quickly without taking out enough humidity from the air.

As a rule of thumb, with every additional sq. ft., in your space, you need an additional 20 BTUs for your air conditioner. For reference, you can consult the table as follows.

Area (sq. ft.)

Capacity (BTU)

150 - 250

6,000

300 - 350

8,000

400 - 450

10,000

450 - 550

12,000

Benefits of Investing in a Great Window Air Conditioner

There are plenty of benefits to buying a quality window air conditioner. You should always go for the best quality models even if they’re more expensive. Most budget-friendly products are never worth the hassle.

More Power

Window air conditioners are always the more powerful out of the other two options; the reason for this is that the device doesn’t require any hoses to bring cool air in and vent warm air out like portable units.

Faster Cooling

Not only are window air conditioners usually more powerful than any other type, this power translates into a faster cooling time as well. Due to the larger bodies, manufacturers are always filling this space with the best compressors and motors on the market, stuff that just couldn’t fit into a portable unit.

Offers Plenty

Most high-quality window air conditioners not only offer a cooling device, but also a heater and other services like a dehumidifier. If you have a product like this, it would save you a lot more time, money and space having a product that offers a three-in-one service.

How to Choose a Window Air Conditioner

There are various features that will make up a great air conditioning unit, most AC’s have the same sort of features but with a varying degree of effectiveness. The following features are things that you should be looking out for.

Efficiency

Most high-quality air conditioners have an EER; this is the rating given to any AC unit regarding their energy efficiency. The standard rating is anything around 9.0, meaning that any rating above ten is better than average with many highly efficient models ranging into 12 to 14 EER. The higher the rating, the better.

BTU Rating

The BTU rating is an important point to consider. The size of the area you need covered also depends on the BTU rating. For example, a 5000 BTU rated window air conditioner will be able to cover around 150-200 sq ft, which would be enough for a small bedroom. A 14,000 BTU rated AC should cover around 600-750 sq ft. Understanding the difference is very important.

Added Features

Choosing your window AC also comes down to what additional features it can offer. Smaller features such as the three-in-one which can offer a dehumidifier, fan or heater, as well as your cooling system. Other features include an easy clean filter, remote control that can customize different variables such as the temperature, timer and various modes; all important features to have, no matter how small they might seem.

Review of the Best Window Air Conditioners

In this section of our article, we’ll give you an in-depth review of some of the best window AC units that are currently on the market.

Best Overall:
MIDEA MAW12R1BWT

Midea 12,000 BTU EasyCool Window Air Conditioner, Dehumidifier and Fan - Cool, Circulate and Dehumidify up to 550 Sq. Ft., Reusable Filter, Remote Control

PROS

  • Features a LED display on its front panel
  • Offers efficient and fast cooling in rooms of up to 550 sq. ft.
  • Dehumidification helps maintain a comfortable environment inside
  • Easy to install with all mounting accessories included in the packaging
  • EcoSave Function assists the unit in shutting off at a certain temperature to save money and energy

CONS

  • Offers only a one-year warranty
  • Uses a flammable refrigerant which might cause a fire or an explosion

What Recent Buyers Report

Users report that it has an elegant design and works efficiently. On top of that, it produces minimum noise during operation and is extremely quiet. These features make it everyone’s favorite. Furthermore, buyers find it very easy to use. They love its cooling speed and its strong wind that cover the whole room quickly.

Why it Stands Out to Us

It comes with three different modes. These modes help you get control of your AC’s operations. You can set it according to your sleep cycle with the sleep mode, you can set it to save you money with the Energy Saver Mode, or you can set a timer to turn it on or off automatically using the Timer Mode.

Who Will Use This Most

According to us, it will be ideal for people who are looking for a reliable and durable AC. It will also be suitable for people who are generally concerned about the environment and saving energy. Furthermore, people who travel internationally with their unit can also benefit from it thanks to its worldwide warranty.

Bottom Line

Buy this Midea unit if you want a powerful window air conditioner from one of the world's most respected AC brands. It's available in multiple sizes for all rooms that require an AC window. Additionally, it provides 3-in-1 technology with various modes.

Runner-up:
LG Energy Star Window Air Conditioner

PROS

  • EER 12.1
  • Four-way airflow
  • Can be controlled from your smartphone

CONS

  • Can be noisy
  • No dehumidifier

This 8000 BTU rated air conditioner will be able to provide an area of up to 340 sq ft with cool air that would be evenly spread. This is thanks to its four-way airflow design, which will spread the cool air so that the room cools faster and all at the same rate.

You’ll be happy to know that the energy efficiency of this product is rated at an outstanding 12.1 EER, which is far better than most on the market. This AC unit offers multiple fan speeds and cooling speeds, which provides that added flexibility. These features can be controlled via the app on your smartphone, providing you with that extra convenience.

Bottom Line

We’ve voted this as the best overall window AC on the market. We think that sometimes less is more and if you can do the basic tasks perfectly, you’re a better product than the majority of the market. That’s our thoughts on this AC, it will provide you with the best energy efficiency at 12.1, will evenly spread the cool air throughout a decent area size and can all be controlled from your phone.

These features are all done perfectly without any problems, most brands over-complicate their product which makes it break easily. The only downsides to this are that it doesn’t offer a dehumidifier and if it’s not placed on a solid and stable window, it can become noisy from the rattling.

Most Efficient Window Air Conditioner:
Friedrich Chill CP06G10B 6000 BTU Window Air Conditioner

PROS

  • Energy efficient
  • Creates minimal noise
  • Plenty of modes and features
  • Cools 200 cubic ft every minute

CONS

  • No filter
  • No remote
  • No dehumidifier

The best quality about this product is that it is the most energy efficient window air conditioner currently on the market. It has received a double accreditation for its energy efficiency, with both accreditors stating that the EER sits at 11.2.

There are a few settings and modes to play around with; for example, the timer that can be used for a full 24 hours, as well as the auto air sweep feature that will evenly spread the cool air throughout the room.

An interesting setting is the money saver mode, which operates the fan only when it needs to cool the room. By covering an area of 250 sq ft, this device can cool 200 cubic ft every minute.

Bottom Line

You’ll be happy to know that this product has been accredited twice with an outstanding EER of 11.2, far better than the vast majority of AC units out there. The quiet nature of this device also works well with the many modes that are provided, such as the money saver or auto sweep mode, two of the more defining functions of this product.

Capable of cooling 200 cubic ft every minute, this is a decent quality unit to have, most likely due to the auto sweep mode. The only problems with this air conditioner are that it lacks a remote to make things more convenient and also lacks a dehumidifier.

Best Casement Window Air Conditioner:
hOmeLabs 5000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner

PROS

  • Cools fairly fast
  • Energy efficient
  • Eco-friendly reusable filter
  • Comes with full installation kit

CONS

  • Doesn’t dehumidify
  • Can’t be plugged into extension cables

This 5000 BTU air conditioner will provide cool air for an area up to 150 sq ft, which is enough for any bedroom or dorm room. It boasts the ability to cool down your area within only 15 minutes, which is impressive for any AC unit. With such a powerful unit, boasting a rating of 11.1, it’s great to know that the energy efficiency of this product will always benefit you in saving money and using energy to its best ability.

The product also comes with everything you’ll need to set up. The kit includes things like leaf guards, support brackets and a window seal foam. The device offers you multiple cooling options and temperature settings as well as an eco-friendly, reusable filter.

Bottom Line

There are plenty of benefits that come with this product, and probably one of the best is that it comes with the full installation kit. This kit will save you a lot of time trying to find the right parts to make sure the AC unit is secure. The area it can cover will be cooled in a matter of only 15 minutes, which is essential for those scorching hot summer months.

One might worry about the energy that such a powerful device could be wasting, but thankfully with an EER of 11.1 you don’t need to worry. The eco-friendly, reusable filter is another huge benefit that helps the environment and saves you from buying disposable filters every few months. The downsides to this product are that it can dehumidify the air and also that, due to safety risks, it shouldn’t be plugged into extension cables.

Smallest Window Air Conditioner:
Frigidaire FFRA0511R1

PROS

  • Dehumidifier
  • Energy efficient
  • Full mounting kit
  • Cools 150 sq ft within 15 minutes

CONS

  • Very small

This 5000 BTU air conditioner can cover 150 sq ft with cool air in just 15 minutes. Along with the air conditioner, you’ll receive a full window mounting kit to make the installation process as fast as possible. Along with providing cool air, the product also offers a built-in dehumidifier that can extract up to 1.1 pints of liquid every hour.

Along with that, it has various cooling speeds and a two-way airflow that will evenly spread the cool air around the room, which cools the room down faster. Another key feature is that this product’s EER is rated at 11.1, making it one of the more energy efficient models on the market.

Bottom Line

Rated as the smallest product on the market, this device would cover 150 sq ft which is average for any AC with a 5000 BTU. It doesn’t scream amazing, but it does the job. This 150 sq ft can be cooled in just 15 minutes with help from the different cooling speeds and the two-way airflow, which evenly spreads the cool air around the room.

However, the main benefit of having this device is the dehumidifier that comes built-in; this product can extract 1.1 pints of liquid per hour, which is something the past few products couldn’t do. The only downside to this product is that it is exceptionally small, meaning that you might struggle to find the best spot to place this AC.

Most Efficient Window Air Conditioner:
Friedrich Chill CP06G10B 6000 BTU Window Air Conditioner

PROS

  • Energy efficient
  • Creates minimal noise
  • Plenty of modes and features
  • Cools 200 cubic ft every minute

CONS

  • No filter
  • No remote
  • No dehumidifier

The best quality about this product is that it is the most energy efficient window air conditioner currently on the market. It has received a double accreditation for its energy efficiency, with both accreditors stating that the EER sits at 11.2.

There are a few settings and modes to play around with; for example, the timer that can be used for a full 24 hours, as well as the auto air sweep feature that will evenly spread the cool air throughout the room.

An interesting setting is the money saver mode, which operates the fan only when it needs to cool the room. By covering an area of 250 sq ft, this device can cool 200 cubic ft every minute.

Bottom Line

You’ll be happy to know that this product has been accredited twice with an outstanding EER of 11.2, far better than the vast majority of AC units out there. The quiet nature of this device also works well with the many modes that are provided, such as the money saver or auto sweep mode, two of the more defining functions of this product.

Capable of cooling 200 cubic ft every minute, this is a decent quality unit to have, most likely due to the auto sweep mode. The only problems with this air conditioner are that it lacks a remote to make things more convenient and also lacks a dehumidifier.

Quietest Window Air Conditioner:
Frigidaire Cool Connect

PROS

  • Quiet
  • Convenient
  • Includes ionizer
  • Energy Efficient
  • Includes dehumidifier

CONS

  • Drips water
  • Connection issues

Best known for how quiet it is, this product has plenty of other features to offer. One of the greatest aspects of this air conditioner is the convenience. You’ll have control over everything simply by using your smartphone, including the on/off, temperature, cooling and fan speeds; everything is there at your fingertips.

Other impressive features include the unit’s EER of 12.0 and ability to dehumidify 3 pints every hour. With a 10,000 BTU, you’ll have coverage of around 450 sq ft. The AC also boasts a clean air ionizer, which removes impurities and pollen from the air for anyone that suffers from allergies.

Bottom Line

This is one of the quietest air conditioners you’ll ever own, as well as one of the most convenient. This convenience comes in the form of the smartphone app, which gives you control over all of the unit’s functions, including temperature controls and cooling speeds. The dehumidifier also helps get rid of any moisture in the air by extracting around three pints every hour.

In addition, it also has an Ionizer that will remove impurities or particles that trigger allergies. Its EER is one of the very best, at 12.0. The only real problems you might have are the connection issues every now and then as well as some dripping water. Other than that, this product works great.

Best Sliding Window Air Conditioner:
Frigidaire FFRS1022R1

PROS

  • Filter cleans the air
  • Controlled via remote
  • Plenty of additional features
  • Dehumidifies 3.4 pints per hour
  • Works well with sliding and casement windows

CONS

  • EER could be better
  • No continuous drain feature

Arriving with a full installation kit that was designed specifically for either sliding or casement windows, the 10,000 BTU can cover an area of 450 sq ft and will be able to dehumidify around 3.4 pints of fluid every hour.

You’ll have the convenience of controlling the AC unit with a remote control, which you can use to customize the various modes and settings, including the 24-hour timer, energy-saving mode, sleep mode and the auto cool.

Along with this, you’ll also have the benefit of a reusable filter that will clean out particles and limit foul odors. The four-way direction will also evenly spread the cool air throughout the area, allowing it to cool all at the same time. The EER for this AC sits at 10.4, which is still above the average rating.

Bottom Line


There are plenty of benefits that come with this AC unit. Due to this product’s numerous features and functions, being able to control everything remotely makes life far easier. The extra features we’re talking about include the dehumidifier that extracts 3.4 pints per hour (the most we’ve seen yet on this list) and the reusable filter that catches any particles and foul odors within the area.

This product was also specifically designed for both casement and sliding windows, a huge benefit for the vast majority of homeowners. The primary downside is that this unit lacks a continuous drain option, which is certainly desirable when your dehumidifier is extracting so much per hour. The next downside is the unit’s EER, which could certainly be better. Although the EER is above the average, it’s still the lowest rating we’ve seen so far.

Best Friedrich Window Air Conditioner:
Friedrich Chill CP06G10B 6000 BTU Window Air Conditioner

PROS

  • 11.2 EER
  • Cool design
  • Impressive features
  • Cools 200 cubic ft every minute
  • Auto sweep mode cools the room evenly

CONS

  • No filter
  • No dehumidifier
  • Not the best customer service

Undoubtedly the best air conditioner of its brand, this AC unit can offer a great array of helpful features and modes, the most impressive feature being the auto air sweep that gives you an even cool flow of air throughout the room. The money saver mode is also useful as the fan only turns out when the temperature has changed and needs to be readjusted.

This model can provide cool air to an area of around 250 sq ft, which is the average range of a 6000 BTU AC. With a double EER accreditation that sits at 11.2, you’ll never need to worry about wasting energy. The 250 sq ft cover seems like nothing, but becomes a lot more impressive when you understand that in just one minute this AC unit can cool 200 cubic ft.

Bottom Line

The best of its range, with a cool design and even cooler fan system, this product covers an area of 250 sq ft. This becomes even more impressive when you realize that in just under a minute, you can cool 200 cubic ft. If you feel like it’s not evenly spread out the auto sweep mode will do the job just fine. Another impressive feature is the unit’s money saver mode, which only turns the fan on when the temperature has increased.

All of these features and qualities put together make this AC the best of its range. There are only a few downsides, including the fact that it doesn’t have a dehumidifier or a filter that can be reused. Another problem that isn’t really the AC unit’s fault is poor customer service.

Best 5000 BTU Window Air Conditioner:
Frigidaire FFRA0511R1 5,000 BTU

PROS

  • Dehumidifier
  • Energy efficient
  • Full control over fan and cooling speeds

CONS

  • Noisy

The best 5000 BTU window air conditioner on this list and currently on the market. You have full and accurate controls over the various fan and cooling speeds, as well as temperature controls. With these controls, you can fully personalize your experience and have it best suited to you.

This unit offers you a cool area of around 150 sq ft, which can also be dehumidified by extracting around 1.1 pints of liquid each hour. The device currently offers an energy efficiency of 11.1 which is far more than the recommended average.

Bottom Line

This 5000 BTU has a few advantages over others of the same rating. The dehumidifier will be able to extract a decent 1.1 pints per hour, which isn’t the most we’ve seen, but still offers service unlike any other AC unit on the list. Its energy efficiency rating is also decent and above average. There are others that are better, but this is the best for any 5000 BTU AC.

Additional features, such as the cooling speeds and temperature control, also make this device stand out. The only downside to this product is the noise that comes from it when you have it on high settings like cooling speeds.

Best 6000 BTU Window Air Conditioner:
LG LW6017R 6,000 BTU

PROS

  • Dehumidifier
  • Cools 260 sq ft
  • Controlled remotely
  • Multiple energy and money saving modes

CONS

  • Loud rattle
  • Poor customer service

This product offers you plenty of features and control over your AC. You manage all this using the remote control provided. Features including an energy-saving function, timer, multiple fan speeds and temperature controls are all great additions to any air conditioning unit. The EER of this AC is 11.5, far better than most other 6000 BTU air conditioners out there.

The dehumidifier unit also helps clean out any stagnant air from the environment by extracting up to 1.8 pints of liquid every hour, this helps your room feel more comfortable and less humid. The multiple fan and cooling speeds, as well as the auto sweep function, allow for an even spread of cool air, which ultimately cools the room far faster than an average AC unit.

Bottom Line


This product can be controlled remotely, which is convenient for any homeowner due to all the different features and settings included in the device. The dehumidifier is one of this product’s more impressive functions, as it can remove around 1.8 pints per hour (which is great for a 6000 BTU AC). These various modes are mainly centered around saving money and energy. Cooling up to 260 sq ft, this would be the standard for most AC units of this caliber.

The only real downsides to this device are that it has a loud rattle when you first switch it on (this might fade out as time goes on) and that if you ever contact customer service they tend to take around two weeks to reply (which just isn’t practical at all).

Best 8000 BTU Window Air Conditioner:
LG LW8016ER 8,000 BTU

PROS

  • Remote controlled
  • Very energy efficient
  • Dehumidifier is one of the best
  • Covers an area of 340 sq ft with an even spread of cool air

CONS

  • Noisy
  • No Wifi control
  • No continuous drain

This product can provide you with an almost perfect service. Providing cool air for an area of around 340 sq ft, this air will be evenly spread around by the built-in air flow directors. The dehumidifier is just as effective, extracting 2.2 pints of liquid from the air each hour for a more comfortable experience.

Along with this, you’ll also have full control over the temperature and various fan and cooling speeds which will make for a proper personalized experience. The energy efficiency of this device is outstanding, with a rating of 12.1 that totally knocks out most of the other products on this list.

Bottom Line


The features of this product are some of the best currently on offer. For example, the dehumidifier can extract around 2.2 pints of liquid each hour, which ultimately provides you with a comfortable environment without any hot, humid air. The area the AC covers is 340 sq ft and this cool air is evenly spread around this area by the built-in air flow valves that make the area cool far faster than other AC’s.

With all this energy, you’d think a ton of it would be wasted. However, with an energy rating of 12.1, you’ll never need to worry. This product uses every last piece of energy to its best ability. The only real downside to using this AC unit is that there’s no continuous drain that empties the dehumidifier.

There is a wifi option that you can control the AC via your smartphone. However, this model doesn’t offer it. Another downside is the noise that it makes if it’s not placed on a stable window.

Best 12000 BTU Window Air Conditioner:
LG LW1216ER Window-Mounted AIR Conditioner

PROS

  • Easy clean filter
  • 12.1 energy efficiency rating
  • Multiple cooling and fan speeds
  • Evenly spreads cool air around the room for faster temperature reductions

CONS

  • Noisy
  • No wifi control
  • No dehumidifier
  • Filter needs to be cleaned regularly

The three cooling speeds, which offer auto cool, are what make this product such a personal experience. Once you have these cooling speeds personalized, you’ll never need to worry about losing your personal settings. The auto-restart function will ensure any custom settings or features will be set back to normal once the system reboots.

The four-way airflow function also ensures that the room you’re trying to cool will be done so more evenly and quickly than most other AC brands. The eco-friendly filter helps trap any particles and limit bad smells, and can be slid out and cleaned easily with hot water.

You’d think that all of these features consume tons of energy. However, the energy efficiency rating of 12.1 puts your mind at ease and reassures you that all the energy consumed is used in the best way possible.

Bottom Line

With coverage of around 600 sq ft, you’ll soon realize how much your easy clean filter will need to be washed. The best features about this product are its great efficiency rating and how evenly the cold air spreads around the room, thanks to the four-way airflow. The multiple cooling and fan speeds are controlled from the remote control provided.

However, would be better if the model came with a smartphone app like the other models do. There are a few negatives to this device, including the noise that comes with it and the lack of a dehumidifier to limit any stagnant air coming through.

Best 15000 BTU Window Air Conditioner:
LG LW1516ER 15,000 BTU

PROS

  • Energy efficient
  • Covers a huge area
  • Extracts 3.3 pints every hour
  • Cooling and fan speeds can be controlled via remote

CONS

  • Noisy
  • No filter
  • Doesn’t have wifi
  • No continuous drain

The main attraction of this AC for most people is the huge area that it can cover; roughly 800 sq ft will be cooled by using this effective window air conditioner. With a huge BTU rating of 15,000, most people think that both this and the area it covers means you waste a ton of energy, when in fact you save plenty by using the various energy-saving features as well as the outstanding EER of 11.9.

The product also offers a dehumidifier to help with cleaning up any stagnant air from the environment, extracting 3.3 pints every hour. You’ll be happy with how easy it is to breathe and relax when this mode is operating.

The speed at which your room is cooled can also be controlled using the remote provided and the multiple cooling and fan speeds on offer. The automatic restart after power outages is also a great convenience as you don’t want to lose these settings that you’ve spent time making perfect.

Bottom Line


This product is reliable to cover a huge area of around 800 sq ft, which is usually what attracts most people to this AC. However, there are plenty of other benefits on offer, like the dehumidifier that extracts around 3.3 pints every hour. This could be improved with a continuous drain feature which could save you from having to constantly manually empty it.

For such a huge area that’s covered, the 11.9 EER has you covered and will use all the energy it receives in the best way possible. Like many other AC’s you can control the various fan speeds and how fast your room cools from just the remote.

The only downsides to this product are that it can be noisy when sitting on an unstable platform and that it does not have any filters to catch particles or bad odors. Other models of the range have wifi which you can use to control the AC from your smartphone, this model doesn’t have that.

Best 18000 BTU Window Air Conditioner:
Kenmore Smart 04277187 Room Air Conditioner

PROS

  • Highly efficient
  • Can be controlled via Alexa
  • Can be cooled at different speeds
  • You can monitor the 1000 sq ft from your smartphone

CONS

  • No dehumidifier
  • Can suffer from connection issues
  • Wifi or wireless data plan is required

This product is one of the most modern and up-to-date air conditioners currently on the market. You’ll be able to control and monitor different pieces of information just from your phone. The AC can cover an area of up to 1,000 sq ft, which is the most any unit we’ve mentioned can cover. The huge area that it covers is monitored via smartphone to tell you the temperature and other details. The energy efficiency of this product is also one of the best, sitting at 11.9.

The speed at which you cool this area can also be controlled with the three fan speeds on offer. Other features include the easy-clean filter that will limit any impurities and bad odors from entering your home. The AC can also be connected to Alexa, which makes this product even more convenient and easily accessible.

Bottom Line

With a huge focus on technology and accessibility, this product is truly a modern and up-to-date air conditioner. The huge area that it covers is also a great attraction for most people out there. The efficiency of all the energy used sits at a great 11.9 rating which is far better than the average.

Just like the many other AC’s out there, it can be cooled at three different speeds. The only downsides to this product are that it doesn’t have a dehumidifier, that it can suffer from connection issues and that the smart features require wifi or a wireless data plan (which costs more money than it’s worth). My question to you is, do you really need an Alexa using AC or is that just for bragging rights?

Best 14000 BTU Window Air Conditioner:
Koldfront WTC14012WCO230V 14,000 BTU

PROS

  • Covers a vast area
  • Full installation kit included
  • Various air directional louvers
  • Plenty of energy-saving settings

CONS

  • Heavy
  • No dehumidifier
  • Below standard EER
  • Sleeve isn’t included

This 14,000 BTU air conditioner is an impressive piece of kit, providing you with cool air for an area of up to 700 sq ft. The full installation kit is provided with the air conditioner, making this process easy as shooting fish in a barrel. You should also take interest in the compatible wall sleeve that limits and drafts or air leaks.

There are plenty of settings to play with, including the timer that helps control your energy usage; this can all be customized from the remote control or the control panel on the AC unit itself. The easy clean filter also helps with limiting any particles in your home as well as trapping any bad odors in the filter. In addition to these features, the AC also offers various air directional louvers, which can also be pointed anywhere you like to provide an even spread of cool air.

Bottom Line

This product probably covers the most area out of all the AC units we’ve mentioned on this review, with an area coverage of around 700 sq ft. It’s safe to say that you’ll not have to worry about the main parts of your home being cool. If there are any small areas that aren’t receiving cool air you can simply adjust the airflow louvers. The full installation kit is provided, which isn’t common for many AC units out there, making the process fairly simple.

There are a few disadvantages to using this product, including the below standard EER, which is the lowest we’ve featured as of yet. There doesn’t seem to be a dehumidifier and the compatible sleeve that is used to limit any leaking doesn’t come with the AC. Another issue is the weight of the product; you’ll need to ensure your windows are strong and stable before using them.

Best Low Profile Window Air Conditioner:
Koldfront WAC10002WCO 10,000 BTU

PROS

  • EER sits at 12.0
  • Can cover 450 sq ft
  • Controlled remotely
  • Plenty of added features

CONS

  • No filter or ionizer
  • No effective dehumidifier
  • Takes a while to cool down the space

This 10,000 BTU air conditioner has a few features that really make it a strong underdog on this list. The overall cooling coverage for this AC is around 450 sq ft. Offering a few features to help improve your AC experience, these include a 24-hour timer, sleep mode, dry mode and three separate fan speeds, which can all be controlled via remote control.

The EER of this device currently sits at 12.0, which for an underdog is amazing. The impressive energy-saving mode will work on 2 minutes of operations with 10-minute intervals in between and will only come on to work to the customized temperature.

Bottom Line

The underdog of the list really does give a good fight. Covering an overall area of 450 sq ft, it can be cooled at a set speed with the help of its three different cooling speeds. One of its most impressive features is the auto-cool function that works in intervals to keep the temperature steady. With all these extra features, the EER will make sure none of this energy will ever go to waste.

A great benefit of using a remote control is the convenience of not having to constantly go and change the settings manually, which can be confusing. The only downsides we wanted to point out are that there isn’t any effective dehumidifier that’s built into the AC. There’s also no filter or ionizer to help get rid of any impurities or bad smells. What really holds this product back is that it takes quite a while to cool a 450 sq ft area.

How to Install a Window Air Conditioner

Before we get into our step-by-step guide, you’ll need to carry out a few precautions before you install the AC.

Before Installation

  1. Before installation, you should check a few things out. Ensure that there is a socket nearby that you can use. If the socket is already used by another device, you should check the load of the circuit which can save you a lot of time from fixing a blown fuse.

  2. Make sure the model of window air conditioner will be able to fit your the window you plan on using.

  3. If you need any additional protection from the rain like sealant foam you should take that into consideration as well as what elemental problems will that AC face like extra sunshine might make the device overheat.

  4. The window also shouldn’t have curtains or drapes as this could block the path of the air conditioner, making it less effective. If you have these obstructions, it’s best to change them for blinds.

  5. If you’ve found the window you’re going to use, give it a clean and make sure the window doesn’t need any immediate repair as once you’ve installed the product you’ll not be taking it off until months later.

Installation Process

This is the more difficult part, actually installing the product into the window. Follow this step-by-step guide and you’ll have a far smoother installation process.

  1. Balance the unit on the window and make sure you have a secure grip just in case it slips. The last thing you want is your AC plunging 100ft to its death. You’ll want to close your window in order to fully secure the AC unit.

  2. To ensure your window can’t be raised by accident, your best option would be to screw the window shut. You should use an electric drill instead of nailing it in with a hammer. You should also place a piece of wood between the window so that your window can be raised or lowered.

  3. You’ll find that there will be a few gaps that need to be filled, more often than not the AC comes with a foam sealant which you can use to fill these gaps in.

  4. The last step is to test it out. Simply plug it in and play around with your settings to find the best cooling system for you.

How to Clean a Window Air Conditioner

Maintaining your AC is an important task that should be taken seriously, by cleaning your AC regularly you’ll ensure a long lasting life for your air conditioner.

  1. Put on some protective gear like gloves and possibly a mask and then turn your AC off and unplug any plugs.

  2. You’ll want to start taking the AC apart by first removing the front grille. Once removed, you’ll find a filter; this can either be an easy wash or disposable. You should wash this with hot water.

  3. You should then unscrew the metal panel attached to the front grille and continue to vacuum and clean out any dirt and visible mold growth.

  4. To successfully clean these components, you should mix a few ingredients as follows: ½ cup bleach, 1 tablespoon mild dish soap and 3 gallons hot water.

  5. Let the unit dry, reassemble the air conditioner and turn it back on to ensure that it works.

Conclusion

There are plenty of options when choosing your next air conditioner and to find the best one for you, you’ll need to understand the different features functions. We hope that this article can serve you as a guide on choosing your next AC.

People Also Ask

Buying a window air conditioner can be a tricky business and a risky long-term investment. Hence, you must have a lot of questions regarding it. We have tried our best to answer as many questions as possible. Do take a good read and satisfy your curiosity.

This section is important for all those that might be left with some questions after reading the article. We’ve collected all the most asked questions and answered them to the best of our ability.

How Do Window Air Conditioners Work?

A window air conditioning unit is installed in an open window. The internal air is cooled down as the ventilator blasts it over the evaporator. On the outside, the heat drawn from the inside is dissipated into the atmosphere when a second ventilator blows over the air into the condenser.

How Much is an AC Window Unit?

You can buy a window AC for just a few hundred dollars. The price range varies from $150 to $500, on average. Generally, the unit can be estimated it $150 to $600 for the unit, and $10–$15 for accessories or additional items.

Do Window Air Conditioners Bring in Outside Air?

No, window ACs are not created to bring in outside air. An air conditioner is a sealed device that carries cool, pressurized refrigerant through your room through the evaporator cooling coils, in which the air is cooled via a blower.

Can You Use a Window Air Conditioner Without a Window?

Window ACs are specially designed to function installed in a window; thus, the answer to this question is no. They remove warm air and water as by-products of the cooling process, and if you try to run the machine anywhere besides a window, there's no way to redirect those items.

Do Window Air Conditioners Run Out of Freon?

Many use window air conditioning units to cool apartments, houses, motor homes, and offices. To produce cool air, these systems use Freon. Freon is sent in a secured tube and must not spill out of it. However, if leaks happen, adding Freon will be needed to recharge the unit.

What is Fan Mode on Window Air Conditioner?

In the fan mode, the compressor remains off while the fan of the AC keeps running. This further has a good impact on energy saving, and you also save money since the compressor remains off. The compressor is the part that consumes the most electricity. However, the downside is that when the compressor is off, no cooling occurs.

Can a Window Unit Cool Multiple Rooms?

A window AC unit cannot usually cool multiple rooms. This is because they have a cooling capacity for a certain area, and if the area becomes too big, then the efficiency and effectiveness of the AC reduce. Hence, it is advised not to do so.

How to Quiet a Noisy Window Air Conditioner?

Your unit is not supposed to make any noise, and if it is, then it is probably because it is not properly set. You should make sure the AC is tightly fitted into the window. Then also check the panel screws and fan blades. Furthermore, try lubricating the AC’s motor to reduce noise.

How Many Amps Does a Window Air Conditioner Use?

For AC units, the most popular voltage ratings are 115V, 125V, and 220V, and the amperage ratings can range from 15 to 20 amps. Lower dual voltage ratings are normal in units with lesser BTUs, while units with ratings greater than 15,000 BTUs would need a circuit of 220 volts.

What Causes a Window Air Conditioner to Freeze up?

Lack of proper ventilation is the most common cause of window air conditioners freezing up. The inside air is drawn back into the air around the evaporator coils where it is cooled and then recirculated back in. Insufficient airflow over the evaporator coils can result in them becoming too cold and freezing.

How Long Do Window Air Conditioners Last?

The life expectancy of your air conditioner can be varied depending on how regularly you clean your AC unit. If you take care of it properly, you could be using the same unit for more than three years.

What Size Window Air Conditioner Do I Need?

This all depends on the dimensions of your window. To find a great fit, you’ll want to measure your window frame and understand what type of window you have. The measurements for the air conditioner should also be included in the product description to give you a better idea of how it’ll fit.

Do Window Air Conditioners Use a Lot of Electricity?

A window AC unit will use between 500 to 1440 Watts. This all depends on a list of variables including the BTU size, what features it provides and how energy efficient it is.

Is it Okay to Run a Window Air Conditioner All Day?

If you have a decent air conditioner it shouldn’t have to run all day. Your standard air conditioner should only be running for around six hours each day. If you need it to run 24/7 this might mean your BTU rating isn’t great enough for the area you’re trying to cool down; this could severely decrease the life expectancy of the unit.

Is it Okay to Leave Air Conditioner in Window During Winter?

This isn’t recommended, as snow, wind and rain could severely damage your air conditioner. We would advise you take down your AC unit just before Autumn. 



My name is Bob Wells and I am a retired HVAC tech from Washington state. I am currently retired and no longer do much with HVAC, however, I feel like I have a lot of knowledge in the subject and I wanted to create a website where I could talk about what I've learned and help upcoming HVAC techs. Find more info about me and HVAC Training 101.