The Best Window Air Conditioners
If you are renting a space without air condition or some other cooling system, summer can be a tough time for you.
Luckily, there is something you can do to make your life a bit easier.
The window air conditioners are cooling devices, designed to cool one room and can be easily detached from the window.
Therefore, you wouldn’t cause damage to your renting place.
However, there are numerous window air conditioners and they vary in size and capacity.
To determine which one is ideal for you, make sure to know your square footage, and how energy-consuming is the unit you are buying.
So, if the device is suitable for a smaller room and not very energy efficient, you will get yourself a high bill and no difference in the room temperature.
To help you pick the best windows air conditioner, we made a list of top ten units to help you during high temperatures.
Highest Rated Window Air Conditioners (by Customer Reviews)
- 1Friedrich CP05G10B Air Conditioner
- 2Koldfront WAC12001W 12,000 BTU 208/230V Heat/Cool Window Air Conditioner
- 3Koldfront 12,000 BTU 115V Window Air Conditioner
- 4Frigidaire FFRA1011R1 10,000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Mini-Compact Air Conditioner
- 5Keystone 5,000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Air Conditioner
- 6hOmeLabs 5000 BTU Window Mounted Air Conditioner
- 7Frigidaire FFRA1022R1 10000 BTU 115-volt Window-Mounted Compact Air Conditioner
- 8Frigidaire 5,000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Mini-Compact Air Conditioner
- 9LG Energy Star Window Air Conditioner
- 10Frigidaire FFRA0511R1 5, 000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Mini-Compact Air Conditioner
1
Friedrich CP05G10B Air Conditioner
This Friedrich cooling air conditioner is manufactured to work in rooms up to 150 feet.
It comes with a flexible cord, which you can easily hide behind the device if there is no need for using the unit.
The machine is quiet and powerful with 5200 BTU of cooling power.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- You can install it in a window or attach it on the wall
- Good choice for the bedroom because it is quiet
- Oscillation provides smooth airflow
Cons
- Best performance in smaller rooms
- Takes some time to set it up
Jake's TakeIf you want something basic and powerful, check this Friedrich window air conditioner.
Compared to other similar units, this one is quiet, which makes it an ideal choice for the bedroom.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
2
Koldfront WAC12001W 12,000 BTU 208/230V Heat/Cool Window Air Conditioner
This Coldforn air conditioner is a two-in-one device.
You can use it for heating or cooling rooms up to 550 feet.
The unit is suitable for installment in the windows with size from 26 7/8″ to 36″ with a minimum height of 16 1/2″.
The performance is equal in an entire room thanks to louvers on top of the device.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- 4 operation modes and multi-purpose product
- Energy-saving mode
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Pricier than other similar units
- Complex installment
- Heavy appliance
Jake's TakeIf you have issues with heating systems as well, it is worth investing in this two-in-one device.
During summer you can use it a cooling method, and use it in reverse during the winter.
Because of its weight, you might need some help to move it around and install it in the window.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
3
Koldfront 12,000 BTU 115V Window Air Conditioner
This Koldfron air conditioner has a simple design with vents for better and multi-directional air circulation.
It is a powerful device suitable for space sized around 550 sq ft.
The device also comes with remote control and features a digital thermostat.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Easy to install
- Remote control enabled
- Comes with energy-saving mode
Cons
- Heavy unit
- It doesn’t fit all windows
Jake's TakeBefore you buy this unit, make sure that the size of it fits your windows.
It is best for usage in medium size windows.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
4
Frigidaire FFRA1011R1 10,000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Mini-Compact Air Conditioner
This Frigidaire mini air conditioner improves air quality by removing the excessive humidity and lowering the temperature.
It has a strong motor and you can install it in rooms up to 450 sq ft.
The device works quietly so you can place it in the bedroom since the noise won’t disturb you.
The Frigidaire mini air conditioner operates at three fan speeds.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Small and compact
- Multi-directional airflow
- Quiet operation
Cons
- No remote control
- Not suitable for all windows
Jake's TakeIf you have a dry climate this one might not be the best choice for you.
In other cases, the Frigidaire mini dehumidifier is a practical and useful household appliance.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
5
Keystone 5,000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Air Conditioner
This Keystone window air conditioner has a cooling power of 5000 BTU.
You can adjust it from across the room because it has a remote control.
The unit features a LED display and a dehumidifying option.
The Keystone window air conditioner has an extracting capacity of 1.3 pints of moisture from the air per hour.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Compact and easy to place inside the window
- Auto-restart option
- Energy-efficient
Cons
- Noisy
- In the case of excessive humidity, manual drainage will be required
Jake's TakeThis Keystone window air conditioner will cost you no more than 40$ per year to operate.
On the plus side as well, there are no additional costs to it, because it comes with everything you need to install it.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
6
hOmeLabs 5000 BTU Window Mounted Air Conditioner
This hOmeLabs window air conditioner has the best performance in the small rooms up to 150 sq ft.
You can clean it easily because it comes with a washable filter.
Also, the design is convenient so you can vacuum the dirt and dust from it.
It is suitable for installment in a window with a minimum height of 13 inches and a width from 23 to 36 inches.
The temperature settings have seven modes.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Easily washable eco-friendly filter
- It has the necessary mounting hardware
- Suitable for smaller bedrooms or dorms
Cons
- No shut-off feature or auto restart
Jake's TakeThis hOmeLabs unit has straightforward maintenance and powerful performance.
The filter is reusable, so it is a money-saving option.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
7
Frigidaire FFRA1022R1 10000 BTU 115-volt Window-Mounted Compact Air Conditioner
This Frigidaire window air conditioner you can install in minutes.
The device is capable of removing 2.7 pints of moisture per hour, which makes it a useful appliance to have around.
The cooling power is 10 000 BTU and it is suitable for usage in rooms up to 450 sq ft with standard windows.
The Frigidaire window air conditioner is also Energy-star certified, which means that won’t cost you a lot to operate.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Great cooling power and extracting capacity
- 1-year warranty
- Easy to install
- 14-hour timer
Cons
- Heavy
- No auto-restart feature
Jake's TakeWith the average extracting capacity, this is a helpful household two-in-one unit.
You will improve the air quality in your room with this Frigidaire window air conditioner, quickly and easily.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
8
Frigidaire 5,000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Mini-Compact Air Conditioner
The minimum window height required for this Frigidaire window air conditioner is 13 inches.
The package includes a mounting kit that helps you to install it easily.
This mini window air conditioner uses a standard electrical outlet and a 6.5-foot long power cord.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- 2 directions for airflow
- Energy saver
- Auto-restart option
Cons
- Produces more noise than similar units
- Complex manual controls
Jake's TakeIf you are looking for a safe and reliable window air conditioner, check this Frigidaire appliance.
The long power cord improves practicality and you can install it by yourself, using only manual.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
9
LG Energy Star Window Air Conditioner
With a cooling power of 6000 BTU, this LG window air conditioner can cool the room size up to 260 sq ft.
It also comes with a dehumidification process, and the extracting capacity is 1.8 pints per hour.
The remote control option is enabled as well as the Wi-Fi connection.
It has the auto-cool option for effortless temperature regulation.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Energy-saving mode
- Wi-Fi connection
- Timer
- LED light shows when is the time for filter replacement
Cons
- Produces noise
- Only suitable for smaller rooms
Jake's TakeThis LG window air conditioner is a contemporary designed, cooling device with exciting additional features.
If the noise doesn’t distract you in your daily activities, make sure to consider this device as your air-quality home appliance.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
10
Frigidaire FFRA0511R1 5, 000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Mini-Compact Air Conditioner
This model of Frigidaire window air conditioner units is compact and strong enough to cool the room up to 150 sq ft.
The unit is made of durable materials and constructed to provide relief during many seasons.
It also features dehumidification, so it can extract 1.1 pints of moisture per hour.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- 2in1: cooling and dehumidifying
- Many speed settings
- Energy-efficient
Cons
- No auto-restart option
- No energy-saving mode
Jake's TakeFor those who don’t wish a bulky and heavy air conditioner, this model might be the right choice.
It is easy to use and because of its design, convenient to place in all standard windows.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
Window Air Conditioners Buying Guide
When the temperature rises, all you can think about are ways to cool the room.
If your room, house or working space doesn’t have access to the central HVAC system, you may be thinking about getting yourself a window air conditioner as a proper replacement.
You would be right.
Before you hit the Add to the cart button, make sure you know the exact specifications of the product you’re buying.
There is more to it than just a cooling option.
To ensure the best possible performance, you should know your room size, your window size, the electrical requirements, installation possibilities, etc.
Let’s start from the beginning.
What is a Window Air Conditioner?
A window air conditioner is a device that consists of three parts – a compressor, condenser coil, and an evaporator coil.
Window air conditioners are capable of cooling or heating one or two rooms using fans.
The devices also have thermometers, air filters, expansion valves, and control panel.
The technology a window air conditioner uses is refrigerant.
People install it inside of the windows, as a permanent or semi-permanent solution for uncomfortable weather conditions.
What this machine does is take the hot air from the room, then it cools it down using refrigerant and pumps it back in the room with a fan.
It pushes warm air outside in the process.
Dehumidification
Another vital role of the window air conditioner is the extraction of excessive moisture from the air.
By dehumidifying the air, the unit becomes a multi-purpose home appliance suitable for use in many rooms.
Things to Consider before Buying a Window Air Conditioner
Now when you are familiar with the device itself, let’s talk about factors that will determine which window air conditioner is the most proper for you.
Size of the Device
The size aspect is the most obvious.
The window air conditioners vary in size, but most of them you can install in standard size double-hung and slider window.
However, if your windows aren’t standard in size, you should double-check whether it is possible to install the window air conditioner inside it.
Cooling Capacity
The capacity of the window air conditioners is expressed in BTUs (British Thermal Units) per hour.
For room size up to 100 to 150 sq ft, the suitable BTUs is 5.000. For every 50 sq ft more, add 1.000 BTUs.
For example, if your room size is 400-450 sq ft, the BTU should be 10.000 BTUs.
Other factors that determine the proper BTUs are ceiling height, the room position, number of people usually in the room, etc.
So, if your room is on the direct sunlight for most of the day, your BTUs should be 10% higher.
If your ceiling isn’t standard 8-foot height, you should increase your BTUs level.
For each person spending time in the room, add around 500 BTUs.
Electrical Requirements for Window Air Conditioners
An average window air conditioner uses more power than most of the household units.
So, to ensure safe and reliable operation, check whether your electrical system meets the air conditioner requirements.
Most of the average air conditioners need 115-, 125-, or 220-volt circuits to run smoothly.
Standard units with BTUs lower than 15.000 operate at 115-155 volts, and those with BTUs higher than 15.000 uses 220-volts.
For a safe installment process, make sure to hire a professional who will install appropriate electrical wiring for powerful units.
Everything you need to know about the electrical requirement, including plugs and voltages, you can always find in the manual, or device specification.
Make sure to read it carefully, and even consult with professionals, if electricity isn’t your area of expertise.
How Much it Cost to Use a Window Air Conditioner
Most of the recommended window air conditioners don’t cost too much to run, thanks to smart and helpful technological improvement.
Innovations such as shut off timers, energy-saving mode, and speed variations decrease energy consumption with smart techniques of desired temperature maintaining.
Also, Energy-star certified units are always the safest choice.
The engineers tested those units in many situations, and they got the energy-efficiency certificate for using 10% less energy than conventional machines.
Maintenance
Every window air conditioner comes with the manual and specific recommendations for cleaning.
Usually, you should thoroughly clean the machine at least once a year, and wash filters sooner.
Most of the devices are very easy to clean with the vacuum cleaner, but some more updated air conditioners may require additional methods.
Never wait for the air conditioner to report an error while operating.
Clean it regularly to ensure durability and prevent any health risks from build-up mold.
Features
When you are ready to invest in the household appliance, such as an air conditioner, it is always wise to check for more features than just cooling. Those are remote control, heating, venting, scheduling, and sleep mode.
Heating
If you think that during winter, you could use some help for heating your room, check for a built-in heating feature in your air conditioner.
With both heating and cooling options, you get a versatile machine suitable for year-round use.
Venting
Vening is a proper mode when you don’t need much of a temperature adjustment in the room.
Better air circulation in the room will provide a fresh air effect and create more comfortable conditions.
Scheduling
If you want to enjoy your free time after you come back from your work, you can schedule your air conditioner to operate on time.
Also, the shut-off timer is excellent for night usage and as an energy saver.
On the other hand, some of the air conditioners feature automatic mode for energy savings.
With this mode, your device will automatically detect the best mode and fan speed to ensure the desired temperature and least energy consumption.
Ending thoughts
Today, most of the window air conditioners are not as noisy as they used to be.
They offer a variety of additional features so it is sometimes hard to pick.
Always check the compatibility with your electrical system, the capacity, warranty period, noise, maintenance, and additional features.
Conclusion
Window air conditioners are usually multi-purpose products.
Some of them can be used only for cooling, but the majority features dehumidification and heating as well.
They cost more money than fans, but they are much more efficient and designed to last for long.
However, before you buy your window air conditioner, make sure that your new device will fit the window size.
Because they are a bit pricey, don’t forget to check a warrant period as well.
What's your take on Window Air Conditioners? You think they're just a luxury or a must-have item? Don't hesitate to share your comment below with your opinion!
