Opening a window or running a fan on a hot summer day is simply not enough to keep you cool, dry, and comfortable. Not to mention the agony of trying to get a good night’s sleep in a stuffy and uncomfortable room. The window air conditioner, a small box of an appliance that helps you keep cool-night and day-even when summer throws its worst weather at you, is the cure for these summer doldrums.
However, finding one that meets your cooling needs, fits your window, and won’t raise your electric bill requires some investigation. To assist you in selecting the right appliance, we tested a variety (including promising models that we had not previously tested). Read for quick facts about the best window air conditioners, then scroll down for buying tips and in-depth reviews.
How Does a Window Air Conditioner Work
A window air conditioner pulls hot and humid indoor air over a metal tube coil containing cold refrigerant gas using a motor-driven fan. The room air’s heat energy is transferred through the metal coil to the cold refrigerant. The appliance’s compressor converts the heated gas into a liquid by drawing the gas to a coil on the appliance’s back. A second motor-driven fan blows outdoor air over this hot liquid-filled coil to expel the heat energy. You receive cool, dry air in exchange for the energy required to run the compressor and fans.
Dehumidification is as essential to the cooling process as cooling itself. There is a great deal of moisture vapor in the air during the summer, and for you to feel more comfortable, the air conditioner must remove it. The indoor air’s moisture vapor condenses and becomes liquid on the coil’s cold surface. The water drips down the appliance’s rear and exits through a drain. Or the back fan picks it up and throws it against the hot coil, which is converted back into moisture vapor and expelled with the hot air back into the environment.
The cooling procedure is the same for all air conditioners. However, each appliance’s cooling capacity, features, and controls are distinct. You must consider the factors above to choose the best window air conditioner for your needs.
10 Best Window Air Conditioners Reviews
We researched the highest-rated and best-selling window air conditioners, considering their BTU rating, durability, value, and unique features to determine our top picks for this summer’s cooling needs. Everyone can find what they need here, whether they want a compact model with a low BTU output or a larger, more powerful one.
1. Best Overall: LG LW6019ER Window Air Conditioner
Key Features
- 6, 000 BTU window air conditioner; 6,000 BTU window air conditioner; Energy Star rating; Cools a room up to 260 sq. ft.; Dehumidification up to 1.8 pints per hour; Full-function remote controls unit from across the room; Thermistor thermostat maintains the selected temperature; 3 cooling speeds / 3 fan speeds; 24-hour on/off timer cools on your schedule; Energy saver function conserves energy and saves you money; Height 12.38; Width 19.38; Depth 19.56; Weight 56.00; Color; Operating System
- Energy star rating; Batteries Included; Batteries Required; Number of Batteries 2; Battery Type AAA Alkaline Battery; Language English; Assembly Required
- Uses standard 115-volt/15-amp electrical outlet
- Cools a room up to 260.00 sq. ft
- Dehumidification up to 1.80 pints per hour.
- Available in multiple sizes
- Well-priced
- Digital controls with remote
- Energy Star certified
- Quiet during operation
- Poor installation instructions
- Larger models require 230-volt outlets
2. Best for Quiet Operation: Midea U-Shaped Smart Inverter Window Air Conditioner
Key Features
- 8,000 BTU
- Works with Alexa/Google Assistant
- Ultra-Quiet – The U-shaped design blocks the noise coming from the compressor outside.
- Quick & Easy Installation – Includes a quick-snap bracket.
- Long-distance Airflow up to 20 feet – The strong airflow allows you to feel the cold air up to 20 feet away.
- Several sizes available
- Unique U-shaped design limits noise
- Energy Star certified
- Wi-Fi enabled
- Tricky to install
3. Best for Sliding Window: FRIGIDAIRE FFRS0822S1 Window Air Conditioner
Key Features
- Beat the heat while remaining cool and happy on hot summer days
- With 2344.57 W cooling power, enjoy a blast of cool air throughout your room
- Effectively cools area of up to 350 Sq. ft., this air conditioner is perfect for bedrooms
- Provides enough cooling in your room with 3 fan speeds
- Full-function remote control allows you to precisely control the temperature and fan speed from across the room
- Power source type: Corded Electric
- Mounting type: Casement/Slider
- Compatible with sliding and casement windows
- Low-power startup
- Full-function remote
- Complex installation process
4. Best Smart Window Air Conditioner: GE AHY08LZ Window Air Conditioner
Key Features
- COOLS MEDIUM ROOMS – 8,000 BTU cooling capacity offers maximum comfort in rooms up to 350 square feet
- BUILT-IN WIFI – Use the SmartHQ app to control and monitor this WiFi enabled smart air conditioner from anywhere, giving you connected peace of mind
- MAXIMUM COMFORT COOL – Three cooling settings and fan speeds provide total flexibility with optimal home comfort and air conditioner efficiency
- ELECTRONIC THERMOSTAT WITH REMOTE – Digital controls with included remote make it easy to adjust and manage your settings from anywhere in your room
- EASY INSTALLATION – This AC has a fixed chassis and installs easily in a double hung window with included EZ Mount installation kit
- Smart home integration
- Big cooling power
- Energy Star-certified
- Performed well in cooling tests
- Easy to install
- Quiet operation
- Unable to access smart features
- Unimpressive CEER rating
- Minimal warranty
5. Best for small room: Haier 6,200 BTU Ultra Quiet Window Air Conditioner
Key Features
- Quietest window AC on the market* – Quiet Operation 43 dBA (*Based on third-party testing of average sound ratings of major brand’s 6,200 BTU Window Air Conditioners. Major brands are defined as brands with the top 5 TraQline market share. TraQline study 2014.)
- 3 Cooling / 3 Fan Speeds plus Auto Cool – Multiple speeds for personalized comfort. Auto Cool adjusts fan speed depending on cooling need
- 24 Hour On/Off Timer plus Sleep Mode – Program the unit to turn on or off at any time between 1 and 24 hours. Sleep mode auto-adjusts temperature for overnight comfort
- Dehumidify Mode – Helps reduce mugginess in room during warmer months
- 4 -Way Air Direction – Direct the air flow to where you want it
- Good cooling for its size
- Quiet operation
- Easy installation
- Seemed to improve air quality during testing
- Energy Star-certified
- Multi-directional vent control
- Requires a window width of at least 26 1/16 inches
- Minimal/standard warranty
6. Best for large room: LG 14,000 BTU Dual Inverter Smart Window Air Conditioner
Key Features
- 14,000 BTU Dual Inverter
- Ultra-Quiet Operation
- Up to 25% Savings, Energy Star
- Works ThinQ, Amazon Alexa and Hey Google
- Good performance in our cooling tests
- Quiet operation
- Certified Energy Star "Most Efficient”
- Wi-Fi connectivity with support for Alexa and Google Home
- Can be controlled remotely with a smartphone app
- Pain to install
- Underwhelming one-year warranty
- Only works in windows at least 27-inches wide
7. TOSOT 10,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner
Key Features
- 10,000 BTU
- Energy Star
- Modern Design
- Temperature-Sensing Remote
- Sleep mode adjusts the temperature throughout the night to an optimal sleeping temperature
- Comes with smart remote that allows for easy control
- Separate horizontal louvers allow to blow cool air in two different directions
- The make loud noise during operation
8. Best Energy Efficient: GE Smart Air Conditioner for Window
Key Features
- COOLS MEDIUM ROOMS – 10,000 BTU cooling capacity offers maximum comfort in rooms up to 450 square feet
- BUILT-IN WIFI – Use the SmartHQ app to control and monitor this WiFi enabled smart air conditioner from anywhere, giving you connected peace of mind
- MAXIMUM COMFORT COOL – Three cooling settings and fan speeds provide total flexibility with optimal home comfort and air conditioner efficiency
- VOICE CONTROL – Use voice commands to control the unit after connecting it to a smart speaker like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant
- ELECTRONIC THERMOSTAT WITH REMOTE – Digital controls with included remote make it easy to adjust and manage your settings from anywhere in your room
- Affordable
- Eco mode helps preserve energy
- Removable water drain plug
- Gap between bottom of AC and window
- Tricky installation
9. Koldfront WAC18001W Window Air Conditioner
- A three-speed fan and dehumidifier.
- 16,000 BTUs of heating power.
- Making it an excellent option for year-round temperature control.
Key Features
- 18500 BTU cooling 7.7A; 16000 BTU heating 20.0A; Input voltage: 208/230 V/60 Hz
- 700- 1,000 sq. ft. coverage area; remote control included; Installation hardware and weather seals included; 4-way air directional louvers
- 2 year warranty; energy saver mode; EER 10.7; 4 operation modes; Window Width: 31″ to 42″; Window Minimum Height: 19.5
- Please note: This model requires a 30 Amp 230 Volt breaker to function properly.
- PLEASE NOTE: Delivery will be curbside, inside delivery is not available. A valid phone number is required for delivery purposes, please ensure the correct phone number is provided in your shipping information when placing this order. ALSO NOTE: This window air conditioner does not require a wall sleeve
- Cheap to run
- Three fan speeds
- Short compressor warranty
- Heating power isn't that impressive
10. Best Small Window Air Conditioner: Soleus Air Exclusive 6,000 BTU Energy Star
Key Features
- Exclusive design combines the benefits of a portable ac, window ac and mini-split ac into a simple format
- Simply slide the saddle air conditioner over the window sill for a safe installation without any tools required or risks of the air conditioner falling out of the window. The maximum window sill clearance this unit will fit in is 11 inches. Fits windows 24″ to 48″ wide. Fits windows with a minimum of 16″ height clearance.
- Activate the MyTemp sensor on the remote control and relax anywhere in the room while the air conditioner cools to your exact location. Save on energy costs with the 24-hour timer, energy saver mode, and sleep mode and rest easy knowing the air conditioner with automatically restart after a power interruption.
- Keep the view outside and full use of your window even after installation without having to remove the air conditioner
- Electronic controls and LCD remote controls keep all of the industry-leading features at your fingertips. Washable and reusable filter for easy maintenance and extended product life.
- Saddle shape is easy to install
- Doesn’t block window
- Extremely quiet
- Available with or without Wi-Fi
- Doesn’t fit all windows
- Pricey for its size
Factors to consider when choosing the best window air conditioners
While shopping for the best window air conditioner, keep the following in mind:
It is essential to purchasing an air conditioner with the correct BTUs and room size for your space. The purchase of an excessively potent unit can result in astronomical electricity costs. In contrast, an undersized unit will be inefficient. The cooling capacity of most models is indicated on the packaging or website. It is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), which correspond to a room’s square footage. Air conditioners for windows typically range between 5,000 and 15,000 BTUs. In general, the larger the room, the greater the required BTUs. A quick guide:
- 5,000 to 7,000 BTUs can cool 100 to 200 square feet
- 7,000 to 9,000 BTUs are suited to 200 to 400 square feet
- 9,000 to 15,000 BTUs can cover 400 to 600 square feet or more.
Keep in mind that factors beyond square footage, such as high ceilings, location (you’ll need a larger unit in the kitchen, which can get warmer), and the amount of sunlight the room receives, may require you to size up slightly.
Window Size
Before purchasing an air conditioner, measure your window opening to ensure a proper fit. The specifications for most window air conditioners include a minimum and maximum window width and a minimum window opening height. If you intend to install your air conditioner in a horizontal sliding or casement window, you will need a specifically designed unit for these window types.
Noise Level
Air conditioners installed in windows can be noisy, especially on the highest settings. The decibel scale measures the noise level of an air conditioner; the quietest units operate at around 40 decibels, while models with an output of 60 decibels or higher are noisier. Before making a purchase, consider a unit’s average noise output, especially if you’re using it to cool a bedroom, nursery, or other space where quiet is essential.
Installation Method
Installing a window air conditioner can be difficult, especially if you’ve never done it before. It is easier to assemble items with a saddle-style design or a pre-assembled frame. Heavy or oversized window air conditioners can be difficult to install and may even necessitate assistance from a professional.
Jonathan Brewer, a member of The Spruce’s Home Improvement Review Board, suggests the following when installing: “Sealing the window air conditioner correctly will increase its efficiency. Also, remember to secure the window for safety.”
Settings
Frequently, air conditioners have a variety of settings that allow you to customize their operation. Digital models can set precise temperatures, whereas mechanical models typically have a dial to adjust the temperature. Many air conditioners have variable fan speeds, and some even offer multiple functions, such as dehumidifying and heating.
Outstanding Qualities
Filters
Most window air conditioners employ a washable or replaceable mesh filter. If you have allergies, you may want to search for a model that provides a higher level of air purification. Some modern air conditioners use activated carbon or other air-purifying filters to remove even more dust particles and other airborne irritants, thereby improving the air quality in the room.
Remote Control
Standard air conditioners are typically controlled by mechanical dials or digital control pads, requiring you to adjust the temperature or fan speed physically. Advanced models include a remote, allowing the unit’s settings to be changed from anywhere in the room; if the product description states that the remote has “full function,” the remote controls all settings.
Smart Design
For a high-tech window air conditioner, you may want to look for a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth-enabled model that can be controlled from your smartphone. Many smart air conditioners allow for the creation of custom schedules, and many can even be controlled by voice using a digital assistant such as Amazon Alexa.
FAQs
A novice can install a window air conditioner with the proper tools and patience. If they are not already attached, attach the top rail and side filler panels to the AC unit.
Place the air conditioner on the window frame with care, then close the window’s bottom sash so that it is behind the top rail. For proper drainage, the AC should slope slightly backward.
Secure the filler panels and sash lock at this point to keep the air conditioner in place. Fill any remaining gaps with foam insulation before plugging in and turning on the unit.
It is necessary to clean your air conditioner at least once a year, typically before the season begins. Remove and clean the face panel with soapy water or hydrogen peroxide, and then clean (or replace) the filter per the manufacturer’s instructions. Clean the appliance’s interior with a vacuum and straighten any bent fins.
In most cases, window air conditioners are the superior option, assuming they can be physically installed in the windows. Unlike portable units, window air conditioners do not require a long hose to be vented outside or floor space. They are typically quieter and less expensive for comparable capacity. Check out our picks for the best portable air conditioners if you cannot install a window unit or would prefer a portable one. Check out our comprehensive guide to buying an air conditioner if you’re still unsure whether a window or portable air conditioner is the best option.
A too-small air conditioner will struggle to maintain a room’s comfortable temperature. A model that is too large will cool a space too quickly without removing sufficient humidity, leaving you cold and damp. Choose well, and you will feel well and save money, too.
Number of Occupants: If more than two people regularly occupy your room or space, you should add 600 BTUs of cooling capacity per person. If installing your window air conditioner in a kitchen, you must increase the BTU output by 4,000.
Conclusion
Since window air conditioners are the cheapest and most affordable option, many people continue to favor them. People who cannot have a split air conditioner installed due to installation obstacles or have a tiled wall that they do not wish to damage prefer window air conditioners.
Whatever the reason, window air conditioners are always in high demand. If you’re looking for the best window air conditioner for your home, you’re in the right place. We have compiled a list of the ten best window air conditioner models, each with its features, energy ratings, tonnage capacity, technology, and pros and cons. We have kept our roster as diverse as possible to accommodate as many people as possible.