As the temperature starts to soar, most of us often face the dilemma of choosing which air conditioning system to install in our homes. A central air conditioning unit or a window air conditioning unit. While both options have their own advantages, many homeowners are often torn between cost and energy efficiency. And if both units offer the same cooling capacity and serve the same purpose, which one should you choose? Well, if you're looking for a cheaper option, then a window air conditioner stands out as the obvious choice. In this post, we highlight the reasons why a window air conditioner is cheaper to run than central units.
Operating costs
The cost of running a window air conditioner is largely determined by the amount of power it consumes. Window air conditioners generally require less power to operate than central air units. According to Energy Star, a 5,000 BTU window air conditioner uses only 500 watts of electricity per hour, while a 12,000 BTU central air unit uses 3,500 watts per hour. This means that running a central air unit is almost seven times more expensive than running five LG window air conditioners.
Efficiency
Window air conditioners are designed to cool a small area, which makes them more efficient than central air units. Central air systems require a lot of energy to cool the entire house, even if some rooms are not in use. Window air conditioners, on the other hand, only cool the room they are installed in, which means they require less energy to operate.
Maintenance costs
Maintaining a central air unit can be expensive, as it requires regular servicing to keep it running efficiently. In addition, central air units have a lot of components that can break down, which can add to maintenance costs. Window air conditioners, on the other hand, have fewer components and are simple to maintain. They can be easily cleaned and serviced by the homeowner, which can save money in the long run.
Installation costs
Installing a central air unit can be costly, especially if your house doesn't already have ductwork. Ductwork installation can add thousands of dollars to the cost of a central air system. Window air conditioners, on the other hand, are simple to install and don't require any significant modifications to your home. They can be installed in a matter of minutes by anyone with basic DIY skills.
Zoning
Central air systems are designed to cool the entire house, which means that you can't control the temperature in individual rooms. This can be a problem if you have rooms that are not in use, or if you and your partner prefer different temperature settings. Window air conditioners, on the other hand, allow you to cool individual rooms, which means you can set different temperatures in different rooms.
Conclusion
Indeed, a window air conditioner is a cheaper alternative to central units and is just as effective. Since they are smaller, easy to install, require less maintenance, and consume less energy, they are the perfect choice for a single room or apartment. So, if you're looking for a cost-effective option that won't make a dent in your wallet at the end of the month, then a window air conditioning unit is the way to go.
Need help? We've done the research for you and found the Best Window Air Conditioner on Amazon. Every day, we read hundreds of reviews and try the highest-rated products we have listed.
Best Window Air Conditioner - Reviews
The Best
Product information
The Midea U Smart Inverter AC is a game-changer in the world of window air conditioner units, offering an innovative design that utilizes your window to block out external noise. This U-shaped design, coupled with a highly efficient inverter system, guarantees ultra-low noise and vibration levels. It's a whopping 9 times quieter than traditional units, operating at a mere 32 dBA. Its cooling capacity is impressive, boasting 890W of cooling watts and rated cooling amps (AHAM) of 9.97. The unit's control is electronic, using R32 as a refrigerant.
One of the most remarkable features of the Midea U Smart Inverter AC is its energy efficiency with the Energy Star program. Thanks to advanced DC Inverter technology, it achieves over 35% energy savings compared to other traditional window air conditioner units. This outstanding efficiency has earned it the prestigious ENERGY STAR Most Efficient Certification, making it the first window AC unit to receive such an accolade.
The Midea U Smart Inverter AC also comes with smart control capabilities. It's Wi-Fi enabled, allowing you to control it from anywhere using the MSmartHome app available on iOS or Android platforms. Moreover, it's compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant devices. This means you can use voice commands to control the unit throughout your house, office, or apartment, adding a convenient and modern touch to its operation.
Another unique feature of this AC unit is its flexible window opening. The U-shaped design allows your window to open, letting fresh air into your home while maintaining more of your view when the window air conditioner unit is installed. When the window is closed, the Anti-Theft Mechanism locks the window for added safety, providing peace of mind along with comfort.
Installation of the Midea U Smart Inverter AC is robust and straightforward. The package includes a quick-snap bracket. You simply set the unit on the bracket and secure the sidearms. Just like that, you're done and ready to enjoy. It's suitable for single-hung or double-hung windows with widths ranging from 22"-36", and a minimal height of 13.75".
Smart Home Compatibility: The unit is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing for voice control and integration into your smart home system.
Energy Savings: It promises up to 35% energy savings, which can significantly reduce electricity costs over time.
Open Window Flexibility: The unique U-shape design allows you to open your window even when the unit is installed, providing fresh air circulation.
Ultra Quiet Operation: The unit operates quietly, reducing disturbances caused by typical air conditioner noise.
Cooling Capacity: With a 10,000 BTU rating, it can efficiently cool rooms up to 450 sq. ft., making it suitable for medium to large spaces.
Remote Control: Comes with a remote control for convenient operation.
Installation Requirements: The U-shaped design might require a more complicated installation process compared to traditional window units.
Window Restrictions: The unique U-shape design may not fit all window types or sizes.
Cost: Depending on the price point, it might be more expensive than other models with similar BTU ratings.
Smart Home Limitations: While it's compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, those who use other smart home systems might find it less convenient.
Wi-Fi Requirement: As a smart device, it requires access to Wi-Fi for full functionality, which might not be ideal for those with unreliable internet connections.
Our Thoughts - The effectiveness and suitability of an air conditioning unit can depend on individual needs and circumstances, so it's always best to consider these points in relation to your specific requirements.
Very Good
Product information
The LG ThinQ Window Air Conditioner is a pioneer in the world of cooling systems, offering cutting-edge DUAL Inverter technology that provides a powerful yet quiet performance. This revolutionary technology operates at incredibly low sound levels, as low as 44dB in sleep mode, ensuring you have a peaceful atmosphere at all times. The unit's amperage stands at 11.5 amps, and it has a robust cooling power of 920W, making it perfectly suited for larger spaces.
One major advantage of the LG Window Air Conditioners is its exceptional energy efficiency. The DUAL Inverter Compressors outperform many others on the market by being up to 25% more energy efficient than the ENERGY STAR certification requirement. This translates into significant energy savings for you, which naturally results in lower electricity bills, making it an economical choice for your cooling needs.
The LG ThinQ Window Air Conditioner is not just about performance and efficiency; it also offers smart control capabilities. With the LG ThinQ App, you can control your air conditioner from anywhere using your smartphone. It also supports voice commands, allowing you to operate it using Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa. This smart feature adds a layer of convenience, making it easy for you to adjust your room's temperature, no matter where you are.
The unit offers multiple fan speeds, with four cooling and four fan speeds, along with an Auto Cool feature. This gives you the flexibility to customize your cooling based on your preference and the specific requirements of the room. Whether you want a gentle breeze or a stronger airflow, the LG ThinQ Window Air Conditioner provides the options you need.
The LW1019IVSM model of the LG ThinQ Window Air Conditioner is specifically designed to cool medium-sized rooms, for example making it ideal for spaces up to 450 sq. ft., equivalent to a 15' X 30' room. This makes it a perfect choice for most bedrooms, living rooms, or offices.
Cooling Capacity: With a cooling capacity of 10,000 BTUs, this unit is capable of efficiently cooling rooms up to 450 sq. ft., making it suitable for medium-sized rooms.
Energy Efficiency: Many models from LG come with an Energy Star rating, which means they're designed to consume less electricity and save on energy costs.
Multiple Modes: Often, these units offer various modes like cooling, fan-only, and energy-saving, providing flexibility depending on your needs.
Remote Control: The inclusion of a remote control allows for easy operation without needing to manually adjust settings on the unit.
Reputable Brand: LG is a well-known, reputable brand in the electronics industry, known for its quality and reliability.
Noise Level: Some users have reported that LG's window air conditioners can be a bit noisy, especially at higher fan and compressor speeds.
Installation: Depending on the model and your window sill type, installation might be a bit tricky and could require professional help.
Price: LG's air conditioners can be more expensive compared to other brands with similar BTU ratings.
Lack of Smart Home Integration: Unlike some newer models, this unit may not support smart home integration with systems like Alexa or Google Assistant, which could be a drawback for those wanting to integrate it into their smart home system.
Size: The unit might be bulkier than other models, potentially blocking more of your window view.
Our Thoughts - Note that these points can vary based on specific models and user preferences. This unit operates silently yet cools the house rapidly. We purchased it to replace an outdated GE air conditioner, and the contrast is striking. The previous one was incredibly noisy, akin to an aircraft preparing for takeoff. Installation was a breeze, and the added convenience of a remote control is a great perk! Truly, this is the finest air conditioning unit we've had to date.
Good Value
Product information
The unique feature of "Effortless Temperature Control" in our windows air conditioners ensures your comfort at all times. By maintaining the preset room temperature, you no longer have to worry about constant adjustments to stay cool and comfortable. The controller type is user-friendly with a simple button control system. Moreover, the core material is made from a sturdy Aluminium Alloy, ensuring durability and long-term use. With an efficient Air Flow of 136 CFM and an LCDI 5-15P plug type, these window air conditioners have been designed for optimal performance. Furthermore, the eco-friendly R-32 refrigerant type used in our air conditioners contributes to environmental sustainability.
Our window air conditioners come with an "Easy-to-Clean Washable Filter" that captures dust from the air efficiently. This feature not only keeps your air conditioner running smoothly but also the air quality ensures cleaner air circulation within your space. The filter's easy-to-clean design simplifies maintenance, making it easier for you to keep your air conditioner working at peak efficiency.
The "SpaceWise Adjustable Design Optional Side Panels" are a standout feature of our air conditioners. These adjustable side panels extend to fit your window perfectly, providing a tailored fit for any window size. This unique feature allows for a more secure installation and improved performance by preventing air leakage around the unit.
Our air conditioners come equipped with an extra-long three-prong power cord. This eliminates the need for extension cords, making installation and operation simpler and safer. This thoughtful design element ensures that you can easily place the unit where it's most needed without worrying about the proximity to an electrical outlet.
The "Effortless Restart" feature is another key advantage of our window air conditioners. In case of a power outage, the unit automatically resumes operating at its previous settings when power is restored. This means less hassle for you and a quicker return to comfort. Additionally, our air conditioners are compatible with our mounting bracket (B0872XNZP3) and side panel (B0872Y4MCL). While these accessories are sold separately, they can enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your air conditioner.
Cooling Capacity: With a 5,000 BTU rating, this unit is ideal for small rooms up to 150 sq. ft., providing efficient cooling where it's needed.
Temperature Control: The unit offers adjustable temperature settings, allowing you to customize your comfort level.
Easy-to-Clean Filter: It comes with a washable and reusable filter, which not only helps save money over time but also ensures a healthier environment by removing airborne particles.
Energy Efficiency: This unit is designed to consume less power, making it an energy-efficient choice for cooling small spaces.
Brand Reputation: Frigidaire is a well-established brand known for its quality and reliability.
Limited Coverage: With a 5,000 BTU capacity, this air conditioner is only suitable for small rooms. It may not provide sufficient cooling for larger spaces.
Noise Level: Some users have reported that the unit can be somewhat noisy, particularly at higher settings.
Lack of Advanced Features: This model doesn't come with smart home compatibility or remote control, which are features available in more advanced models.
Installation: Depending on your window type and installation skills, setting up the unit might be challenging.
Manual Controls: The controls on this unit are manual, which might be less convenient than digital controls or remote operations.
Our Thoughts - These points can vary based on individual preferences target temperature and specific needs. It's quite beneficial in that it offers various modes and allows for temperature control. Unlike most air conditioners that only provide a 'low' setting, this one stands out as you can adjust it to your preferred exact temperature, which is ideal.
Good
Product information
TOSOT's 8,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner delivers quick cooling for spaces up to 350 sq. ft., making it the perfect solution for a hot room. If your room has unique features such as a high ceiling, and an open floor plan or experiences a lot of traffic, you might want to consider a larger size machine. This powerful air conditioner ensures that your space is cooled efficiently, providing relief during those hot summer days.
Gone are the days when air conditioners disrupted your room's aesthetics. TOSOT's window AC units boast a modern design that compliments your interior decor rather than detracting from it. Say goodbye to the unsightly metal grilles of traditional air conditioners and welcome this sleek, minimalistic unit into your living room. It's more than just an appliance; it's a stylish addition to your home.
TOSOT believes in delivering value, which is why this product comes with three functions in one unit. Besides being a window air conditioner, it also includes modes for fan-only operation and dehumidifying. With TOSOT, you get a multifunctional product that caters to all your comfort needs, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck.
One of the standout features of TOSOT Air Conditioners is the smart temperature control. Unlike most air conditioners where the thermostat is located on the unit, TOSOT places the thermostat on the remote. This means your AC cools your space based on the temperature around your remote, which is likely closer to you, providing a more precise and comfortable cooling experience.
Not only does TOSOT Window Air Conditioner keep you cool, but it also saves you money. The units are Energy-Star rated, making them more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. While opinions may differ on many topics, we can all agree on the appeal of lower utility bills. By choosing TOSOT, you're opting for a solution that benefits both your wallet and the planet.
Efficient Cooling: The TOSOT 8,000 BTU Air Conditioner is designed to cool spaces up to 350 sq. ft., making it ideal for small to medium-sized rooms.
Quiet Operation: Despite its potent cooling capacity, this AC operates quietly, ensuring minimal disturbance.
Smart Remote Control: This feature allows for convenient setting adjustments from any part of the room.
Energy Efficiency: The TOSOT 8,000 BTU Air Conditioner is Energy Star-rated, enabling you to cool your space without worrying about exorbitant energy bills.
LED Display: This feature enhances the visibility of your chosen settings, adding to the ease of use.
Price: Some consumers may find the price point of the TOSOT 8,000 BTU Air Conditioner to be on the higher side.
Installation: While not a common issue, some users have reported challenges with installation.
Size: Due to its robust cooling capacity, the unit may be larger than typical window AC units, which could pose a challenge for smaller windows.
Our Thoughts - The TOSOT 8,000 BTU Air Conditioner is a reliable, efficient, and user-friendly cooling solution. It offers several benefits, including efficient cooling, quiet operation, smart remote control, and energy efficiency. While it does have some drawbacks, such as its price and size, the pros significantly outweigh the cons for most users.
Good
Product information
Keystone is proud to offer reliable air conditioning solutions that deliver consistent cooling, even on the hottest days. Our robust 8,000 BTU window air conditioner is designed to efficiently move cool air to a range of spaces from your apartment, bedroom, or garage to any small-sized room up to 350 sq. ft. This powerful unit ensures your comfort by providing cool air and a refreshing respite from the heat.
For maximum comfort, our air conditioner features three cooling modes, three fan speeds, and 4-way adjustable air louvers. These options allow you to tailor the cooling to your specific needs. Additionally, the built-in dehumidification system is highly efficient, removing 1.9 pints of moisture from the air every hour. This feature enhances your comfort by reducing humidity levels in your space.
One of the key benefits of our air conditioner is its quiet operation. With a low noise level of 49dB, it's the perfect air conditioner for spaces where peace and quiet are paramount, such as your bedroom or nursery. Whether you want to enjoy a good night's sleep, watch TV without disturbance, or work without interruption, this air conditioner ensures your home remains a serene sanctuary.
Smart remote control is another standout feature of our air conditioner. This remote not only controls the AC but also measures the temperature of the room you're in. It displays this temperature on an LCD screen and sends a signal to the AC unit every three minutes. This ensures accurate cooling, offering comfort wherever you are in your home.
At Keystone, we understand the importance of energy efficiency. That's why our air conditioner includes 'Energy Saver' and 'Sleep' modes. These smart features automatically program your unit to use less energy while delivering the same level of comfort. By using these modes, you can give your electric bill a break without compromising on your comfort.
Efficient Cooling: The 8,000 BTU cooling capacity makes this unit perfect for small to medium-sized rooms up to 350 sq. ft., offering maximum comfort.
Dehumidifier Function: With a dehumidification level of up to 1.9 pints per hour, this air conditioner also effectively removes moisture from the air.
Quiet Operation: Despite its powerful cooling capabilities, this unit operates quietly, making it ideal for apartments, living rooms, and bedrooms.
Smart Remote Control: The inclusion of a smart remote control allows for convenient setting adjustments from any part of the room.
Energy Efficiency: While the unit provides efficient cooling, there's no explicit mention of an Energy Star rating or specific energy-saving features.
Size: Some users may find the size of the unit to be larger than expected, which could pose an installation challenge for smaller windows.
Our Thoughts - The Keystone 8,000 BTU Window Mounted Air Conditioner and dehumidifier is a versatile and efficient cooling solution. Its strong cooling capacity, dehumidification function, quiet operation, and smart remote control are major benefits. While it may have some downsides in terms of energy efficiency and size, its overall performance and functionality make it a worthy consideration for those looking to beat the heat.
Good
Product information
Introducing a smart control air conditioner that brings convenience to your cooling needs. This WiFi-enabled 10,000 BTU window air conditioner allows you to control your cooling effortlessly. Simply press the SMART button to pair it with your mobile phone and gain control via the Home Labs app. It's also compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant for hands-free operation. With dimensions of L 19.88 × D 20.86 × H 16.14 in, this 830 W AC unit can cool any room or space up to 450 sq ft, making it a versatile addition to your home.
Our air conditioner is Energy Star-certified, offering higher energy efficiency than non-Energy Star units. This distinction means you're investing in a product that offers more value and efficiency. Additionally, our AC unit holds CEC, DOE, and CSA certifications, further underlining its quality and performance standards.
Our multifunctional window AC unit provides more than just cooling. It features a COOL mode for efficient room cooling, a DRY mode for reducing humidity, and a FAN mode for circulating fresh air. But that's not all! This unit also includes other beneficial features such as a 24-hour timer and Eco, Sleep, and Follow Me modes. These functions allow you to create the perfect environment for your comfort.
You don't need to be a professional to install this air conditioner. In as little as 15 minutes, you can install it yourself and start enjoying a cooler, more comfortable home. We do recommend having a second person to assist with the installation for ease and safety. The manual provides complete, easy-to-follow installation instructions to guide you through the process.
One of the standout features of our air conditioner is its low-noise operation. With a noise level of 52 to 56 dB, it operates quietly in the background without disturbing your activities. Whether you're engrossed in your favorite series, reading a good book, or catching up on sleep, this unit ensures your relaxation is undisturbed.
Smart Control: This WiFi-enabled air conditioner allows you to conveniently control cooling settings from your smartphone or with voice commands via Alexa or Google Assistant.
Eco Mode: The Eco Mode helps to conserve energy, reducing your carbon emissions footprint and potentially lowering your energy bills.
LED Control Panel: With the LED control panel, you can easily view and adjust settings for optimal comfort.
Low Noise: Despite its powerful cooling capabilities, this unit operates quietly, ensuring minimal disturbance.
Efficient Cooling: The 10,000 BTU cooling capacity makes this unit ideal for rooms up to 450 sq. ft., offering maximum comfort.
Limited Cooling Area: While this AC unit effectively cools the immediate area, some users have reported it struggles to cool spaces separated by walls.
Installation Issues: Some users have found the installation process challenging.
Our Thoughts - The hOmeLabs 10,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner offers a bevy of advantages including smart control, an eco mode, a user-friendly LED control panel, quiet operation, and efficient cooling. While there are some minor drawbacks, such as limited cooling area and potential installation issues, the overall performance and high-tech features make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a robust and convenient cooling solution.
FAQs
Is it cheaper to leave the window AC on all day?
In a nutshell, yes, it can be more cost-effective to keep your air conditioner running throughout the day. However, this doesn't imply that you should have it operating at maximum capacity, making cold air in your home so chilly that you require a sweater or jacket for comfort.
How to choose the right size window air conditioner?
Selecting the correct size for a window air conditioner is crucial for efficient and effective cooling of your space. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make the right choice:
Measure the Area: Start by measuring the room where you plan to install the air conditioner. For square or rectangular rooms, multiply the length by the width to get the area in square feet. If your rooms are not separated by doors, consider them as one when calculating the total area.
Determine the BTUs Needed: After obtaining the area, determine the British Thermal Units (BTUs) required for that space. The BTU rating signifies the amount of heat an AC unit can remove from a room per hour. As a general rule, home offices usually need an air conditioner in the 5,000, 6,000, or 7,500 BTU category.
Consider Room Characteristics: The characteristics of the room also influence the size of the air conditioner needed. If your room receives a lot of sunlight during the day, increase your BTUs by 10%. Conversely, if your room is shaded for most of the day, decrease your BTUs by 10%.
Window Size: Check the size of your windows. Window-mounted AC units are designed to fit into standard window sizes, so ensure your chosen AC will fit into the window frame.
Type of Air Conditioner: Lastly, decide on the type of air conditioner that suits your needs. This decision can be influenced by factors such as room layout, window location, and personal preferences.
Remember, an air conditioner that's too large for a room will cool quickly but may not properly dehumidify the room, while an undersized unit will struggle to cool the room effectively. So, it's critical to choose the right size for optimal comfort.
What's better to have, a bigger or smaller AC unit?
Choosing between a bigger or smaller air conditioning unit depends on your specific needs, but it's essential to note that bigger isn't necessarily better when it comes to AC units.
A larger AC unit may cool your room faster, but it might not effectively remove humidity, leading to a damp and clammy environment. On the other hand, an undersized AC unit may not sufficiently cool your space, causing it to run continuously and consume more energy.
The best approach is to choose an AC unit that's appropriately sized for your space. To determine the right size, measure the square footage of your room and match it to the correct British Thermal Units (BTUs) required for efficient cooling.
Remember, an appropriately sized AC unit will maintain a comfortable temperature and humidity level in your room, resulting in energy efficiency and cost savings.
What's the best temperature in the house to save money in summer?
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends a perfect thermostat setting for each season, and in the summer, it's 78 degrees. This temperature strikes a balance between maintaining a comfortable environment and minimizing your energy costs. When you're not at home, consider adjusting your thermostat to 88 degrees to reduce strain on your air conditioner and further lower your energy bill.
