When looking to cool your space effectively with a window air conditioner, finding a model that offers reliable performance, easy installation, and quiet operation is essential. This guide compares some of the best window air conditioners ideal for various room sizes and preferences, including energy-efficient and smart features suited for modern needs.
| Product | Cooling Capacity (BTU) | Suitable Room Size | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| GE 5000 BTU Mechanical Window AC | 5,000 | Up to 150 sq ft | Manual fan and cooling settings, easy install, low noise |
| Frigidaire 5,000 BTU Window-Mounted AC | 5,000 | Up to 250 sq ft | Two fan speeds, quiet operation, washable filter |
| Midea 12,000 BTU Smart Inverter Window AC | 12,000 | Up to 550 sq ft | Heat/Dehumidifier function, smart control, energy star |
| Midea 5,000 BTU EasyCool Small Window AC | 5,000 | Up to 150 sq ft | Mechanical controls, reusable filter, quiet operation |
| LG LW1424RD 14,000 BTU Window AC | 14,000 | Up to 700 sq ft | Electronic controls, remote, 3 fan speeds, auto restart |
GE 5,000 BTU Mechanical Window Air Conditioner for Small Rooms
The GE Window Air Conditioner Unit delivers 5,000 BTUs of cooling, perfect for small rooms up to 150 square feet like bedrooms or offices. It features a mechanical manual adjustable fan and cooling settings, providing straightforward operation without complicated controls. The package includes an easy install kit, allowing you to set up your unit quickly. With low-noise operation, this AC supports peaceful environments, especially suitable for nighttime use. Its efficient cooling for small spaces makes it a practical solution for those in need of a compact and reliable window AC unit.
Frigidaire 5,000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner
This Frigidaire window AC unit efficiently cools spaces up to 250 sq ft, offering a great balance between power and quiet performance at 52 dBA. It has two fan speeds and customizable temperature settings, helping maintain consistent comfort through Effortless Temperature Control. The washable filter makes maintenance easy and supports long-lasting performance by capturing dust and improving air quality. This model is designed to provide undisturbed comfort, making it ideal for bedrooms and small living spaces.
Midea 12,000 BTU Smart Inverter Window Air Conditioner with Heat
Designed for larger rooms up to 550 sq ft, the Midea 12,000 BTU Smart Inverter AC combines cooling, heating, and dehumidifying functions in one smart unit. Electronically controlled with an LED display and multiple modes (Heat, Auto, Cool, Dry, Fan), it offers versatility year-round. Smart features include app control and voice assistant compatibility (Alexa, Google Assistant). This Energy Star certified model uses inverter technology to save up to 35% energy and includes an automatic shutoff and defrost feature. The washable front panel filter simplifies upkeep while ensuring peak performance.
Midea 5,000 BTU EasyCool Small Window Air Conditioner
The Midea EasyCool 5,000 BTU AC is a budget-friendly option perfect for cooling small rooms up to 150 sq ft. It features simple mechanical button controls with 7 temperature settings and dual cooling and fan-only modes. Its 145 CFM airflow and 1.27 pints per hour moisture removal capability ensure effective cooling and dehumidification. The unit runs quietly and includes a reusable, easy-to-clean filter to reduce dust. With a CEER of 11.0, this window air conditioner balances good energy efficiency with ease of use.
LG LW1424RD 14,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner with Remote
The LG LW1424RD stands out for cooling large room spaces up to 700 square feet with 14,000 BTUs. It features three cooling and fan speeds with an Auto Cool option for customizable comfort. Electronic controls with a remote make operation convenient, while the slide-out washable filter keeps maintenance easy. Additional features include Auto Restart to turn the unit back on after power outages and a 24-hour digital timer for scheduling. This model combines power, convenience, and quiet operation.
Buying Guide: What to Consider When Choosing an Old Window Air Conditioner
Choosing the right window air conditioner involves considering multiple factors to ensure it meets your cooling needs efficiently and cost-effectively.
Cooling Capacity & Room Size
Calculate the size of the room you want to cool and choose a BTU capacity accordingly. Small rooms (up to 150 sq ft) are best cooled by units around 5,000 BTU, while larger rooms (up to 700 sq ft) may require 12,000 to 14,000 BTU units to maintain optimal temperature.
Energy Efficiency
Look for units with Energy Star certification or a high Combined Energy Efficiency Ratio (CEER) to save on electricity bills while reducing environmental impact.
Noise Levels
Review decibel (dBA) ratings for quieter operation, especially for bedrooms or small living areas. Units around 50-60 dBA are considered quiet for home use.
Control Type & Features
Decide if you prefer manual mechanical controls or advanced electronic controls with remote, smart app integration, and voice assistant compatibility. Smart units provide convenience but may come at higher costs.
Installation & Maintenance
Consider units with easy install kits and washable filters. Regular cleaning of filters ensures better performance and air quality while requiring minimal effort.
Additional Functions
Some models offer extra functions like heating, dehumidifying, and fan-only modes, providing year-round utility beyond simple cooling.
Physical Size & Compatibility
Make sure the air conditioner fits your window dimensions comfortably. Some accessories like insulated foam panels may be needed for proper sealing and improved energy efficiency.