Best Window Air Conditioners Review Guide For 2022-2023

Best Window Air Conditioners Review Guide For 2023-2024

February 26, 2023

Best Window Air Conditioners Review Guide For 2023-2024 – Join the millions that have trusted BestReviewsThisYear.com to help them make smarter buying decisions.

Let our independent expert reviews and data-driven shopping recommendations help you find the Best Window Air Conditioner that’s right for you.

Air conditioning is a must-have on hot days, and window-mounted units are among the most popular—and cheapest—ways to cool a room, provided you choose the correct size for the space.

With central air conditioning installation and repair costs running up to thousands of dollars, using a window air conditioner is a more prudent option for combating the summer heat.

Window air conditioners may not be as attractive and easy to install as portable units, but they generally cost lower and cool large spaces more efficiently.

Once you narrow down the space you are trying to cool, the exact window unit to buy depends on several factors, with the number of BTUs being the most important.

Beyond that, there are lots of options to choose from, ranging from basic units that get the job done to models with timers, Wi-Fi compatibility, and more sophisticated cooling systems.

To help you find the highest-quality window air conditioners for this year, we’re sharing our favorite models from the most reliable brands found inside our Best Window Air Conditioners Review Guide For 2023-2024.

LG Window Air Conditioner – Best Smart Window AC

This 8,000BTU air conditioner has a maximum cooling capacity of 340 square feet. Its high BTU implies that it offers more cooling power.

You can use its SmartThinQ app or its remote control to adjust its fan or cooling speed, set the timer, and activate Auto Restart, which saves and restores the airconditioner settings after a power outage.

You can install this 57-pound unit on standard single or double-hung windows that are 22 to 36 inches wide and up to 13 inches high. The unit requires a 115-volt outlet.

SPECS:

Power Source Corded Electric
Brand LG
Model Name Energy Star 8,000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Air Conditioner with Wi-Fi Control
Special Feature Wi-Fi Control
Warranty Type Limited
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) 12.00
Color White
Item Dimensions LxWxH 19.6 x 19.4 x 12.4 inches
Item Weight 58 Pounds
Control Method Voice

About this item:

CONTROL YOUR COOL FROM ANYWHERE – LG ThinQ Technology lets you control your LG air conditioner from anywhere. You can start or stop cooling, change the mode, or set the temperature while on the go. It also works with Amazon Alexa and Hey Google so you can change settings with simple voice commands.
LOW NOISE PERFORMANCE – LG window air conditioners operate at sound levels as low as 52dB (in low mode) eliminating unnecessary noise.
ENERGY STAR CERTIFIED – This air conditioner has met the high standards of the ENERGY STAR Program using energy-efficient technologies that translate into electricity savings.
MULTIPLE FAN SPEEDS – 3 cooling and fan speeds with Auto Cool allow you to customize your cooling.
COOLS ROOMS UP TO 350 SQ. FT.- LW8017ERSM is ideal for cooling medium rooms (10′ X 35″)

PROS:

Removes 2.2 pints of moisture per hour
Filter check reminder and washable filter
Max indoor noise of 58 decibels

CONS:

Can be troublesome to operate using the non-LG app

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Frigidaire Window Air Conditioner – Most Compact

This 5,000BTU air conditioner can cool spaces up to 150 square feet. You can easily choose from any of its fan speed settings: low fan, high fan, low cool, and high cool.

You can also set the device to turn on or turn off in half-hour intervals. This 41-pound unit includes a pleated quick-mount kit with extendable side panels that can be attached to windows that are 23 to 36 inches wide and up to 13 inches high. It needs a 115-volt power socket to work.

SPECS:

Power Source Corded Electric
Brand Frigidaire
Model Name FFRA051WAE
Special Feature Dust Filter
Warranty Type Limited
Color White
Air Flow Efficiency 136 Cubic Feet Per Minute Per Watt
Item Dimensions LxWxH 16 x 15.25 x 12 inches
Item Weight 35.27 Pounds
Core Material Aluminium Alloy

About this item:

Effortless Temperature Control: Our air conditioners maintain the preset room temperature, so you will remain comfortable at all times
Easy-to-Clean Washable Filter: Capture dust from the air and keep your dehumidifier working efficiently with our easy-to-clean washable filter
SpaceWise Adjustable Design Optional Side Panels: With the Adjustable Side Panels, the side panels will extend to best fit your window
Power Cord: Comes with an extra long three-prong cord — makes extension cords unnecessary
Effortless Restart: Automatically resumes operating at its previous settings when power is restored to your unit
Compatible with our mounting bracket (B0872XNZP3) and side panel (B0872Y4MCL). These accessories are sold separately

PROS:

ENERGY-STAR certified
Washable filter
Max indoor noise of 56.5 decibels

CONS:

Manually operated

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Midea Window Air Conditioner – Best Budget

This 5,000BTU fan-air conditioner has 7 temperature settings that can be adjusted via remote for cooling rooms up to 150 square feet. It requires a 110-volt to operate. It’s a 43-pound unit that can fit into windows that are 23 to 36 inches wide and up to 13 inches high.

SPECS:

Power Source Corded Electric
Brand Midea
Model Name EasyCool Window Air Conditioner
Special Feature Dust Filter, Fast Cooling
Warranty Type Limited
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) 11
Color White
Air Flow Efficiency 145 Cubic Feet Per Minute Per Watt
Item Dimensions LxWxH 15.35 x 15.98 x 12.05 inches
Control Method Touch

About this item:

PERFECT FOR SMALLER ROOMS – Midea’s Affordable Window AC unit is perfect to help your room be as comfortable as possible. It can cool 150 sq. ft. with 7 temperature settings, 2 cooling/2 fan-only speeds, and 2-way air direction to give you the perfect amount of cooling every time.
ENERGY EFFICIENT- Midea’s 5,000 BTU window air conditioner has a Combined Energy Efficiency Rate (CEER) of 11.0 which helps reduce the energy costs to save you money throughout the year.
QUIET & EASY TO USE – This window AC unit is quieter than a household refrigerator. It also features easy-to-use mechanical controls to quickly set the time, temperature, and mode and has a removable & reusable air filter.
EASY INSTALLATION – Easily install in your home or apartment’s existing window frame. Suitable for windows 23”-36” wide and minimum 13” high. All mounting accessories are included. A screwdriver is required (but not included) for installation. For some window frames, pilot holes are recommended before installing screws. Please see included instruction manual for further detail.
WARRANTY: 1 Year Parts & Labor Warranty comes with each Midea product to ensure the quality of our brand to our customers. Our team is happy to help if any questions or issues arise and make sure to register your product on our website for even faster support in the future.

PROS:

Two-way air direction
Washable filter
Maximum indoor noise of 56.2 decibels

CONS:

No timer and energy-saving mode

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Friedrich Window Air Conditioner – Best Quality

This 8,000BTU, remote-controlled unit can cool spaces up to 350 square feet. The unit’s louvers can swing to and fro by themselves when you turn on Auto Air Sweep. Meanwhile, its MoneySaver mode allows the device to go on fan mode when the weather or room temperature becomes cool.

It also has a 24-hour timer, an Auto-Restart feature, and remote control for setting adjustments. The air conditioner must be plugged in a 115-volt outlet. This 63-pound unit can be fitted into windows 20 inches wide, 13 inches high, and 36 inches deep. It also comes with a sleeve for through-the-wall mounting.

SPECS:

Power Source Corded Electric
Brand Friedrich
Model Name CP08G10A
Special Feature Compact
Item Dimensions LxWxH 20.88 x 18.38 x 14 inches
Item Weight 64 Pounds
Control Method App
Self Timer Duration 24 Hours
Voltage 115 Volts
Floor Area 300 Square Feet

About this item:

POWERFUL – With 8,000 BTUs of cooling power, this durable room air conditioner will cool up to 300 square feet. This trusted air conditioner will keep your home cool whether you install as a window air conditioner or in a wall.
ULTRA QUIET OPERATION – AC units can be noisy but with this Friedrich Chill Series Air Conditioner is designed to cut operation noise to a minimum, giving you the luxury of enjoying the peace and quiet in your home.
CONTINUOUS AUTO AIR SWEEP – Experience the coolness of this energy star air room conditioner across your entire home. This compact AC unit automatically oscillates its louvers left and right during cooling, making sure you can feel the coolness everywhere.
POWER CORD FLEXIBILITY – Installation has never been easier. The power cord attached to this air conditioner can run either left of right, out of the side or front of the unit.
SPECIFICATIONS – 20.7 x 18.6 x 13.9 inches (DxWxH)

PROS:

Stale air exhaust
Removes 2.2 pints of moisture per hour
Filter alert and antimicrobial, washable air filter

CONS:

Bulky
Other wall sleeves won’t work

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Amana Window Air Conditioner – Most Lightweight

This 40-pound, 5,000BTU air conditioner features a 24-hour on and off timer, Auto Restart, and Sleep Mode that gradually raises the room temperature from the hour it’s activated.

You can adjust settings using its rotary dials or by remote control. This unit can be mounted on windows 22 to 35 inches wide and at least 14.5 inches high.

SPECS:

Power Source Corded Electric
Brand AMANA
Model Name 5,000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted
Special Feature Window-Mounted Unit
Warranty Type Limited
Color White
Item Dimensions LxWxH 16 x 15.3 x 12.5 inches
Item Weight 39.7 Pounds
Core Material PVC
Energy Star 5 Star

About this item:

5, 000 btu air conditioner for window-mounted installation
Product Dimensions: 15.30″ D x 16.0″ W x 12.50″ H | Window opening maximum width (in.): 35 | Weight: 39.70 lbs
Cools a room up to 150 sq. Ft. With up to 1.06 pints per hour dehumidification
Mechanical rotary controls with 2 fan speeds (low and high)
8-Way directional air louvers directs the air where you need it
Removable and washable air filter for convenient maintenance

PROS:

Eight-way directional louvers
Clear filter reminder and reusable filter
Maximum indoor noise of 55 decibels

CONS:

Support bracket sold separately

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TOSOT Window Air Conditioner – Best Modern Style

This unit is one of the most visually appealing with a modern style. At 8,000 BTUs, it can cool up to 350 square feet. A smart thermostat is built into the remote, and a touch panel is on the unit.

SPECS:

Power Source Corded Electric
Brand TOSOT
Model Name 8,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner Cools up to 350 sq. ft.
Special Feature Remote control
Color White
Item Dimensions LxWxH 17.2 x 21 x 12.8 inches
Item Weight 52.9 Pounds
Control Method Remote
Voltage 115 Volts
Wattage 660

About this item:

QUICK COOLING: Give your hot room the cold shoulder. TOSOT 8,000 BTU Window Air conditioners are best for spaces up to 350 sq. ft. If your space has high ceiling, an open floor plan, or a lot of traffic, you may want to consider sizing up.
MODERN DESIGN: This ain’t your grannie’s Window AC. Gone are the eyesores of yesterday, with their ugly metal grilles messing up the flow of your interior decorating skills. Bring the art gallery to your home by installing this sleek, minimalistic air conditioner in your living room window.
1 PRODUCT, 3 USES: At TOSOT, we want our products to solve as many of your problems as possible. That’s why we’re giving you three products for the price of one! This is not only a Window Air Conditioner, but also comes with modes for fan-only and for dehumidifying.
SMART TEMPERATURE CONTROL: On most air conditioners, the thermostat is located on the unit itself. TOSOT Air Conditioners uses a thermostat is located on the remote, meaning your AC will cool your space based on the temperature around your remote (which is probably close to you, right?)
SAVES YOU MONEY: TOSOT Window Air Conditioners are Energy-Star rated, making them better for the environment and your wallet. Everyone may not agree on climate change, but the one thing we can all stand behind is lower utility bills.

PROS:

Unique remote with embedded thermostat
Visually-appealing modern style
Built-in dehumidifier

CONS:

Energy-star rating not listed

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Frigidaire White BTU Window Air Conditioner – Best Traditional

This compact 5,000 BTU unit can cool 150 to 200 square feet. It has manual control knobs, with 7 temperature settings, 2 cool modes, and 2 fan speeds. The antibacterial filter is washable.

SPECS:

Power Source Corded Electric
Brand FRIGIDAIRE
Model Name Frigidaire FFRA051ZA1 17″ Window Air Conditioner with 5000 BTU Cooling Capacity – 115V in White
Color White
Item Dimensions LxWxH 41.2 x 40.8 x 30.2 inches
Item Weight 39.7 Pounds
Voltage 115 Volts
Wattage 450 watts
Floor Area 150 Square Feet
Controller Type Remote Control

About this item:

Window Air Conditioner with 5000 BTU Cooling Capacity
Quick Cool & Quick Warm When you need to cool down quickly or warm up faster, use the quick cool/warm mode to speed up the fan.
Effortless Temperature Control Our air conditioners maintain the preset room temperature, so you will remain comfortable at all times.
Easy-to-Clean Washable Filter Capture dust from the air and keep your air conditioner working efficiently with our easy-to-clean washable filter.
SpaceWise Adjustable Design Optional Side Panels With the Adjustable Side Panels, the side panels will extend to best fit your window.
Power Cord Comes with an extra long three-prong cord — makes extension cords unnecessary.
Effortless Restart Automatically resumes operating at its previous settings when power is restored to your unit.

PROS:

Removable, washable antibacterial filter
Auto-restart with multiple cooling, temp, and fan modes
Extra-long 3 prong extension cord

CONS:

No remote

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Best Window Air Conditioners Buying Guide For 2023-2024

Whether it’s your apartment that doesn’t have central air conditioning or your workstation that gets stuffy, using window air conditioners can help improve hitherto hot spaces. Window AC units have several benefits that make them a better choice over other AC units.

But with several options out there in the market, how can you make the right choice? Keep reading to find out more.

Tips for Buying the Right Air-conditioner for You:

Here are some tips that should help you make the right choice when selecting a window air-conditioner.

Cooling capacity:

This should be the first thing to consider before you buy your window AC. The cooling power of the air-conditioned is measured using British Thermal Units per hour. Go for a unit with a BTU level that is made for your space.

If you buy an AC having little BTU power, it will keep running while cooling your space. This will cost you a lot of energy.

If you get an AC with a BTU that is too big for your space, it will cause an uneven distribution of the cooling effect. This will cause some parts of your room to be hot while others will be cold.

Installation process:

Note that the majority of window air-conditioning units are made to fit inside double-hung windows.

You will find models you can install in customized wall space. This provides a unique option for people whose window dimensions are too big or too large.

Before installing the Air-conditioner, measure the internal dimensions of the window frames. Also, ensure to pay close attention to the width of the frame. Ensure to search for the maximum and minimum window width as indicated in the AC specification.

Features:

One thing you need to consider before buying a window AC is the features that come with it. Some AC units come with Wi-Fi functions, others come with timers. But while such features are an added advantage, you should only buy a unit with features you intend to use.

Maintenance:

Window air conditioners need regular maintenance to keep them in good working condition.

Note that they get exposed to external debris and dirt which may accumulate at the back or inside. Also, there will be a build-up of particles and dust on the air filter with time. If this doesn’t get fixed, they could all cause your AC to be less effective.

For a long-lasting operation, ensure you clean the unit one time a year at least. Using an AC that has a slide-out chassis will make the work easier because you only need to slide the unit out to be able to access it.

Benefits of Using a Window Air-conditioner:

Window air-conditioners have several comparative advantages over other types of ACs. Here are some outstanding benefits of using window ACs.

Lower cost:

Window ACs are generally more affordable than the rest, this is in addition to the less expensive cost of operation every month.

Although the cost of a window AC depends on the BTU capacity, brand, and features of the device, it is still the most affordable.

Energy efficiency:

This is the biggest benefit of using window ACs. If you are looking to get the best cooling effect without spending too much, window AC units are the real deal. Most of these ACs come with a good energy efficiency ratio.

They are multifunctional:

A lot of window air-conditioners do a lot more than give the user cool air. Some of these AC units give both cooling and heating effects in homes and offices. With this dual function, you can use the AC all year round.

They are portable:

Living in a non-permanent house means you may have to move often, window ACs are perfect for this situation.

Since they are easy to install anywhere there is a window, it makes them ideal for location nomads. Hence, when you are moving, you do not have to buy a new unit thus saving costs.

They can be used anywhere:

Window AC units can be used in different places such as dorm rooms, sublets, and apartments. They may also be used in small businesses and offices as well as bedrooms.

Tips for Installing Your Window AC:

When you buy your Window air-conditioner, you need to know how to install one especially if you want to do it yourself. Here are steps you should take when installing the AC unit.

Clean your window:

Ensure your window is clean and dry before you install the AC unit. If you install the AC without cleaning it, you won’t be able to clean either side of the glass.

Get it leveled off:

Ensure you install the unit in a way that is level. If your installed unit faces downwards, the condensation may not drain out of the bottom.

Plug the gaps:

the cool air will escape from your house regardless of how efficient your air conditioner is. This means you may have to pay higher energy bills. Ensure to fill the gaps between the window and upper sash. Also, fill the gaps around the panels.

If you’d like more information on how to install your window AC unit, this video from MegaSafetyFirst is a great resource:

How To Keep Your Window AC in Good Shape:

Proper maintenance of your AC plays a big role in prolonging its lifespan and efficiency. Here are some tips that should help you maintain it yourself.

Clean the filters:

As easy as cleaning the AC filters is, most people forget to do so. The easiest way to do this is by following the instructions from the manufacturer in this regard.

Clean the coils:

The AC coil is the component that moves the cool air in and the hot air out, they also attract dust and dirt. You should clean them from time to time and ensure you dry them when done.

Keep the cool air in:

Always do all you can to keep the hot air out and the cool air trapped in. To do this, ensure the curtains and shades are drawn during summer.

Q&A

Q: What Is the Price Range of a Window Air-conditioner?
A: The cost of a window air-conditioning unit depends on the brand, size, and features. For instance, if you want to get an AC for a small room, a budget less than $200.

For medium-sized rooms, you should have a budget between $200 and $500 depending on the unit’s BTU. For large spaces, you need a unit that produces between 12,000 and 14,000 BTU units and they cost at least $400 each.

Window air-conditioning units help make life easier for the user. The pleasure you enjoy from using them depends on the choices you make when buying. This is why you need the right information about what to expect before you buy one.

Q: Does the size of my window affect which window AC unit I can buy?
A: Yes, it does. Because there is no one standard size for windows, you’ll have to measure your window and pick a window air conditioner accordingly.

Otherwise, you’ll set yourself up for frustration when you go to install a unit that doesn’t fit properly.

Q: Can I remove my window air conditioner at the end of each summer?
A: It depends on what type of unit you buy. Some are meant to be installed permanently, and cannot be removed when the seasons change.

These offer the advantage of a better seal and insulation. However, if you’d like to remove your window AC units once the warm weather has ended for the year, you should purchase a removable window air conditioner.

Q: Can I plug a window air conditioner into a regular outlet?
A: No, you shouldn’t. If you do, you risk overloading the circuit, which can be dangerous and may have very bad consequences. Your best option is to run the window AC unit on its own dedicated circuit.

Q: How do you install a window air conditioner?
A: Installing a window air conditioner can seem intimidating, but as long as you have the right tools and take your time, it’s a project that a beginner can handle. Start by attaching the top rail and side filler panels to the AC unit, if they aren’t already.

From here, carefully set the air conditioner on the window frame, and close the window’s bottom sash, so it’s behind the top rail. The AC should slope backward a few degrees for proper drainage.

From here, secure the filler panels and attach the sash lock to keep the air conditioner firmly in place. Finally, fill in any gaps with foam insulation before plugging in the unit and turning it on.

Q: How do you clean a window air conditioner?
A: It’s essential to clean your air conditioner at least once a year, usually before you install it for the season.

Remove and clean the face panel using soapy water or hydrogen peroxide, then clean (or replace) the unit’s filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Vacuum out the appliance’s interior and straighten out any fins that might be bent.

Q: How long do window air conditioners last?
A: Most window AC units last between 10 and 15 years with regular cleaning and maintenance. However, the exact lifespan of your AC unit will depend on several factors, including how often you use the unit and where it’s located.

Q: Do window air conditioners use a lot of electricity?
A: Window AC units use between 12 and 17 kilowatt-hours per day. For reference, refrigerators use between 1 and 1.5 kilowatt-hours per day.

To make sure you’re not using more electricity than necessary, do your research on the best size unit for your space, and look for units with timers or the ability to set schedules, so they’re only running when you need them.

Energy Star certified units can also help save money, as they use about 15 percent less energy than conventional models.