We researched dozens of models to find the best window air conditioners, evaluating them on cooling power, ease of installation, noise level, and energy efficiency. Our top pick is the LG LW6019ER Window Air Conditioner, which is available in a wide range of sizes and is Energy Star certified to save money on electricity. Here are the best window air conditioners. This air conditioner comes with a comprehensive installation kit that fits window widths between 22 and 36 inches. Still, the instructions are a bit sparse, so you may need to research how to install an air conditioner properly if you’ve never done it before. Once you have it set up, the unit has three cooling speeds and three fan speeds, and the 6,000-BTU model can remove up to 1.8 pints of moisture from the air each hour. There’s also a 24-hour timer that you can set using the digital LED control panel and an energy saver function to help save energy. The LG Air Conditioner operates between 48 and 52 decibels, depending on the fan setting, which is on the quieter side for a window unit. It has a full-function remote, a washable slide-out filter for easy maintenance, and a filter check indicator light. Overall, the air conditioner is a great value, but keep in mind that the 18,000 and 24,500-BTU models require a 230-volt plug. Price at time of publish: $310 This budget-friendly AC does have two cooling settings and two fan speeds that you can select using mechanical switches on the control panel. It has four-way air direction functionality that focuses the output of cooled air, and it operates at an average noise level of around 50 to 54 decibels. The whole thing weighs 35 pounds, which makes installation easy. There’s no timer, and the unit isn’t Energy Star certified, but it’s a great no-frills model at an unbeatable price. Price at time of publish: $149 The Windmill comes in a kit that includes scissors, two types of insulation foam, a window lock, and side panels. In addition to the washable, antimicrobial-protected mesh filter, the unit uses activated carbon filters to remove impurities and odors from the air. It’s currently available in an 8,300-BTU size that’s good for spaces up to 350, and the brand just launched a smaller 6,000-BTU model as well. The one thing we don’t love about the Windmill AC is that the smart features are a bit difficult to set up. Our tester noted that it took several tries to connect the unit to her phone. Price at time of publish: $394 Price at time of publish: $399 for standard, small, white unit One of the benefits of having a compact and lightweight air conditioner is that it’s easier to install, especially if you’re doing it by yourself. The unit comes with an installation kit and detailed instructions. Keep in mind that the AC operates at 56 decibels, which is slightly louder than the average window unit, and the dials can be somewhat hard to manipulate at first. Price at time of publish: $179 The Frigidaire has a slide-out chassis that evenly distributes its weight during installation, which is beneficial since the unit weighs 128 pounds. It comes with a remote to adjust temperature and fan speed, and, despite its impressive cooling power, it is Energy Star certified. When figuring out where to install this air conditioner, keep in mind that it requires a 230-volt outlet. Price at time of publish: $1,010 The Midea comes in three sizes, ranging from 8,000 to 12,000 BTU, and it’s Energy Star-certified, providing up to 35 percent more energy savings thanks to its inverter technology. It’s even Wi-Fi enabled, allowing you to control your smartphone’s temperature and settings through your home’s smart hub. The major drawback of this unit is the installation—it’s not exactly the same as other window AC units, but the company supplies videos and instructions to help explain the process. Our tester also appreciated that, unlike most window ACs, this model comes with its own exterior bracket to support the machine on the outside of your window. Price at time of publish: $399 This AC comes in 6,000 or 8,000-BTU sizes and is available with or without Wi-Fi connectivity. Because the compressor is on the window’s exterior, the unit is 30 percent quieter than a traditional AC, operating between 38 and 49 decibels. It has a sleep mode that keeps noise to a minimum, a dry mode that acts as an evaporative dehumidifier, and a remote that lets you adjust the various settings without getting off the couch. Price at time of publish: $530 The air conditioner has four-way air direction control that lets you focus air where you want it, and it comes with a full-function remote that can adjust all its settings. While it’s not Energy Star certified, it has a low-power startup that helps to reduce its energy consumption and can dehumidify up to three pints of moisture per hour. Price at time of publish: $570 In addition to a digital control panel and remote control, this air conditioner is Wi-Fi enabled and can be controlled through the LG ThinQ app, Alexa, and Google Assistant. It has a washable filter and a filter light reminder, and its slide-out chassis makes installation a bit easier. Since it uses so much electricity, this unit requires a 230-volt plug, so make sure it is compatible with the outlet you plan to use. Price at time of publish: $640 The cooling power of air conditioners is measured in British Thermal Units, or BTU, and larger spaces require a higher-BTU air conditioner. “For rooms that are 150 to 500 square feet, look for an AC unit with 5,000 to 14,000 BTUs,” says Carson. “For rooms larger than 500 square feet, opt for something with 18,000+ BTUs.”
Window Size
Before you buy an air conditioner, measure the opening of your window to ensure a proper fit. Most window air conditioners’ specifications usually include a maximum and minimum window width and a minimum window opening height. If you’re planning to install your air conditioner in a horizontal sliding or casement window, you’ll need a unit that’s specially designed for this style of window.
Noise Level
Window air conditioners can be pretty loud, especially on high settings. The noise level of an AC is measured in decibels—the quietest units operate around 40 decibels, while models with an output of 60 decibels or higher will make more of a racket. Consider a unit’s average noise output before buying, especially if you’re using it to cool a bedroom, nursery, or other space where peace and quiet are essential.
Installation Process
It can be challenging to install a window air conditioner, especially if you’re never done it before. Units that use a saddle-style design or pre-assembled frame are easier to set up. Heavy or oversized window air conditioners can be challenging to mount in your window and may require extra hands or even professional assistance. When installing yours, Jonathan Brewer, The Spruce’s Home Improvement Review Board member, says to remember: “Proper sealing around the window AC unit will increase the units efficiency. Don’t forget to also secure the window for safety.”
Settings
Air conditioners often have different settings that allow you to tailor their operation to your needs. Basic mechanical models often have a dial that makes the temperature warmer or cooler, while digital models can be used to set precise temperatures. Many ACs have different fan speeds, and some even offer a variety of operations, including dehumidifying and heating.
Standout Features
Filters
Most window air conditioners use either a washable or replaceable mesh filter. If you suffer from allergies, you may want to look for a model that offers an additional level of air purification. Some modern ACs use activated carbon or other air-purifying filters to remove even more dust particles and other irritants from the air, helping to improve the overall air quality in the room.
Remote Control
Basic air conditioners are usually operated using mechanical dials or digital control pads, which means you have to go over to the unit to change the temperature or fan speed. More advanced models come with a remote, offering the convenience of adjusting the unit’s settings from anywhere in the room. If a product description says the remote is “full function,” all settings are operated via the remote.
Smart Design
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Camryn Rabideau, a freelance writer and product tester for The Spruce. While researching window air conditioners, she spoke with Bailey Carson, Home Care expert at Angi, for insights on selecting the best model for your home. 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. Energy Star certified units can also help save money, as they use about 15 percent less energy than conventional models. She vetted each model for its cooling power, noise level, settings, and energy efficiency, and she scoured dozens of user reviews for insights on the installation and operation of different window units. She personally owns and loves the Windmill air conditioner, which she uses in her bedroom during the summer thanks to its quiet operation. We also tested the Midea 8,000 BTU U-Shaped Inverter Window Air Conditioner in a tester’s home to get additional insights on that particular model.
