6 Best Air Conditioners in 2024

As you start your search for the perfect air conditioner, you’re probably wondering what sets the best ones apart from the rest. You’re not alone – with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming. But don’t worry, you’re about to get the inside scoop on the top-performing models that’ll keep you cool and comfortable all summer long. From portable powerhouses to window units with smart features, we’ll explore the standout features that make these six air conditioners stand out from the crowd. So, what makes them the crème de la crème of cooling systems?

Whynter ARC-14S Portable Air Conditioner

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The Whynter ARC-14S Portable Air Conditioner is the best choice for those who need to cool a large space of up to 500 square feet.

With its impressive 14,000 BTU cooling capacity and dual hose operation, it can cool your room quickly and efficiently, without breaking the bank.

This powerful air conditioner features a patented auto drain function, which fully exhausts all condensate automatically in most environments, making maintenance a breeze.

Additionally, it has a dehumidifying capacity of 71 pints per day, ensuring your space stays comfortable and dry.

With its eco-friendly CFC-free Green R-32 refrigerant, you can feel good about your choice.

Best For: Those who need to cool a large space of up to 500 square feet and want a powerful, efficient, and eco-friendly portable air conditioner.

Pros:

Impressive 14,000 BTU cooling capacity to quickly and efficiently cool a large space
Patented auto drain function that fully exhausts all condensate automatically in most environments, making maintenance a breeze
Dehumidifying capacity of 71 pints per day to keep the space comfortable and dry

Cons:

Some customers have mentioned issues with the remote control
The bright blue LED panel can be distracting for some users
The unit is quite heavy, weighing 73 pounds, which can make it difficult to move around

LG 6,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner

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The LG 6,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner is an excellent choice for efficiently cooling medium-sized spaces of up to 250 sq. ft.

With three cooling and fan speeds, you can adjust the airflow to your liking.

Plus, the 2-way air deflection feature allows you to direct the airflow exactly where you need it.

You’ll appreciate the auto restart feature, which guarantees your unit resumes operation after a power outage.

This compact unit weighs 39.6 pounds and measures 17.31 x 14.38 x 11.13 inches, making it easy to install in your window.

Best For: People who need to cool medium-sized spaces of up to 250 sq. ft. and want a quiet and feature-rich window air conditioner.

Pros:

Advanced features such as three cooling and fan speeds, 2-way air deflection, and auto restart
Quiet operation with a noise level of 52 dB in low mode
Compact and lightweight design with a removable and washable filter for easy maintenance

Cons:

Limited to cooling spaces up to 250 sq. ft.
No specific information on energy efficiency or energy-saving features
No additional features or smart integrations beyond the standard functionality

GE Window Air Conditioner Unit

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The GE Window Air Conditioner Unit stands out as a top choice for small room cooling needs.

It offers an efficient 5100 BTU mechanical window air conditioner designed to cool rooms up to 150 sq ft.

You’ll appreciate the easy install kit that’s included, making it a breeze to set up in a double-hung window.

With two cooling modes and two fan speeds, you can customize the temperature to your liking.

The mechanical thermostat with 10 temperature settings lets you adjust the temperature with ease.

Additionally, the low-noise operation means you can use it in your bedroom without disruption.

With its compact design and efficient cooling, this unit is a great option for small rooms.

Best For: Small room occupants who need a compact and efficient cooling solution for rooms up to 150 sq ft.

Pros:

Easy installation with included kit for double-hung windows
Flexible temperature control with 2 cooling modes, 2 fan speeds, and mechanical thermostat with 10 temperature settings
Low-noise operation ideal for bedroom use

Cons:

Limited cooling capacity of 5100 BTU, suitable only for small rooms
Relatively heavy at 36 pounds, may require assistance for installation
Noise level of 56 dB may still be noticeable for some users

Frigidaire FFRE053WAE Window Air Conditioner, 5000 BTU, White

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This 5000 BTU window air conditioner is the best choice for small to medium-sized rooms, as its Energy Saver Mode and programmable 24-Hour On/Off Timer help you cut energy costs and customize your cooling schedule.

With its SpaceWise Adjustable Design, you can extend the unit to fit your window, ensuring a secure and efficient installation.

You’ll also appreciate the Effortless Temperature Control, which maintains your preset room temperature, and the Remote Control, which lets you adjust the temperature and fan speed from across the room.

Plus, the Easy-to-Clean Washable Filter captures dust from the air, keeping your air clean and fresh.

Weighing 38.2 pounds and measuring 13.19 x 16 x 12.06 inches, this unit is compact and easy to handle.

Best For: Small to medium-sized rooms that need efficient and customizable cooling.

Pros:

Energy-efficient with Energy Saver Mode and programmable 24-Hour On/Off Timer
SpaceWise Adjustable Design for a secure and efficient installation
Effortless Temperature Control and Remote Control for convenient temperature management

Cons:

Some customers found the eco-mode to be annoying
A few customers reported the unit to be noisy or loud
Instructions for installation can be vague

Midea 8,000 BTU U-Shaped Smart Inverter Air Conditioner

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Looking for an air conditioner that can efficiently cool a room up to 350 square feet while being ultra quiet and energy-efficient, with the added convenience of smart features and flexible window opening?

The Midea 8,000 BTU U-Shaped Smart Inverter Air Conditioner might be the perfect fit for you.

This unit is designed to provide long-distance airflow up to 20 feet, and its U-shaped design blocks noise from the outside compressor, making it ultra quiet.

With Wi-Fi enabled smart control, you can control the unit through the MSmartHome app on your iOS or Android device.

Plus, its flexible window opening allows fresh air into your home while maintaining your view.

You’ll also enjoy energy savings of over 35% compared to traditional units.

Best For: Those who need an efficient and quiet air conditioner for rooms up to 350 square feet, with smart features and flexible window opening.

Pros:

Ultra quiet operation with U-shaped design that blocks outside compressor noise
Smart control through Wi-Fi enabled MSmartHome app on iOS or Android devices
Energy efficient with over 35% energy savings compared to traditional units

Cons:

Installation can be challenging, especially with specific window requirements
Some users may find the price to be higher than expected
Limited warranty period of only 1 year

Windmill Modern Air Conditioner

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With its sleek design and whisper-quiet operation, the Windmill Modern Air Conditioner is an ideal choice for anyone seeking to cool spaces up to 250 square feet while enjoying the benefits of eco-friendly R32 refrigerant and advanced smart features.

You’ll appreciate the auto-dimming LED display, which promotes comfortable sleep without any distractions.

This award-winning air conditioner comes with a pre-built install kit and a simple-to-follow install guide, making setup a breeze.

Plus, you can control it remotely using the top-rated app or voice control with any voice assistance device.

With its curved edges and clean lines, this modern air conditioner will beautifully complement your home’s interior.

Best For: Those who want a modern, eco-friendly, and feature-rich air conditioner for small to medium-sized rooms up to 250 square feet.

Pros:

Easy installation and setup with a pre-built install kit and simple-to-follow guide
Quiet and efficient cooling with WhisperTech technology and auto-dimming LED display for comfortable sleep
Advanced smart features with remote control and voice control using any voice assistance device

Cons:

Limited cooling capacity of 0.5 tons, suitable only for small to medium-sized rooms
No batteries included or required, which may be a drawback for some users
No specific details on the warranty terms and conditions beyond the 1-year warranty period

Factors to Consider When Choosing Air Conditioners

When you’re in the market for a new air conditioner, it’s vital to ponder a few key factors to guarantee you find the right one for your needs.

You’ll want to think about the space you have available, how much cooling power you need, and how energy efficient the unit is.

Space and Portability

You’ll need to think about the space you need to cool, as air conditioners are designed to handle areas ranging from 150 to 500 square feet. This will help you choose the right type of air conditioner for your needs.

For small to medium-sized rooms, portable air conditioners are a great option. They’re lightweight and easy to move around, making them perfect for spot cooling.

On the other hand, window units are better suited for larger spaces, as they can handle more square footage.

When it comes to portability, consider the size and weight of the air conditioner. If you plan to move it between rooms or floors, look for units with handles and wheels for easy transportation.

You’ll also want to think about the dimensions of the air conditioner and the window or space where it will be installed. Make sure it fits comfortably and securely to guarantee proper airflow and safety.

Cooling Capacity Needed

Determining the right cooling capacity is essential, as it directly impacts the air conditioner’s ability to effectively cool your space.

To get it right, you’ll need to factor in the size of the room. A general rule of thumb is to allow 20 BTUs per square foot for a room with a standard 8-foot ceiling. So, for a larger room or one with multiple windows, you may need a higher cooling capacity, such as 10,000 BTUs or more. On the other hand, a smaller room might only require 5,000 BTUs.

The number of occupants is also a factor, as more people generate more heat and require a higher cooling capacity. Additionally, you’ll need to take into account the room’s insulation, window size, and the number of heat-producing appliances, such as computers or lamps.

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) provides some guidelines: 9,000 BTUs for 100-150 square feet, 12,000 BTUs for 150-250 square feet, and 18,000 BTUs for 250-400 square feet.

Energy Efficiency Matters

As you consider the right cooling capacity for your space, don’t forget that energy efficiency plays a vital role in keeping your energy bills in check and reducing your environmental footprint.

When choosing an air conditioner, look for the ENERGY STAR certification, which verifies the product meets strict energy efficiency guidelines.

You should also check the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) and Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings, as higher ratings indicate a more energy-efficient unit.

These ratings can help you save up to 20-40% on your energy bills, depending on the unit and your energy usage habits.

Additionally, features like auto-restart, programmable timers, and smart sensors can optimize energy consumption and reduce waste.

By choosing an energy-efficient air conditioner, you’ll not only save money on your energy bills but also minimize your environmental impact.

Noise Level Importance

When selecting an air conditioner, consider the noise level, since it can substantially impact your comfort and peace of mind, especially in bedrooms or living rooms where quiet is essential.

You’ll want to check the decibel rating to guarantee you’re getting an air conditioner that won’t disrupt your daily life. A noise level of 40 dB or lower is considered quiet, while 50 dB or higher is considered loud.

For instance, the Whynter ARC-14S Portable Air Conditioner has a sound level of 51 dB, which is relatively quiet, while the GE Window Air Conditioner Unit has a noise level of 56 dB, which is louder.

If you value a peaceful environment, look for air conditioners like the Midea 8,000 BTU U-Shaped Smart Inverter Air Conditioner, which boasts ultra-quiet operation. Some models, such as the Windmill Modern Air Conditioner, even feature WhisperTech technology, which reduces noise levels for a more comfortable experience.

Don’t underestimate the importance of noise level when choosing an air conditioner – it can make all the difference in your overall comfort and satisfaction.

Filter Maintenance Ease

Since you’ve got your noise level under control, it’s time to think about the upkeep of your air conditioner, starting with the filter, which can make a substantial difference in its performance and your indoor air quality.

A washable filter, like the one in the Frigidaire FFRE053WAE Window Air Conditioner, can help reduce maintenance costs and make cleaning a breeze. On the other hand, some air conditioners, like the Whynter ARC-14S Portable Air Conditioner, come with an activated carbon air filter that requires periodic replacement for peak performance.

The ease of filter maintenance can substantially impact the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the air conditioner.

A dirty filter can increase energy consumption and reduce airflow, making regular cleaning or replacement vital.

A removable and washable filter, like those found in the GE Window Air Conditioner Unit and the LG LW6017R Window Air Conditioner, can simplify the maintenance process and reduce the need for frequent replacements.

Smart Features Desired

Your ideal air conditioner should come equipped with smart features that cater to your unique needs, making it essential to weigh the type of smart functionality you desire.

For instance, do you want to be able to control your AC remotely through a mobile app? Look for Wi-Fi connectivity, which allows you to adjust temperature, fan speed, and mode settings from anywhere.

If you’re already invested in a smart home ecosystem, consider an AC compatible with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant for seamless integration.

Energy monitoring features can also help you optimize your energy usage and reduce your carbon footprint by providing real-time energy consumption data.

Advanced features like geofencing and scheduling can automate your AC’s settings based on your location and daily routine, promoting energy efficiency and convenience.

Additionally, some smart ACs come with air quality sensors that detect pollutants and allergens, adjusting the air purification mode to provide a healthier indoor environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Air Conditioners Be Used as Heaters in Winter?

You’re wondering if your air conditioner can double as a heater in winter. While it’s technically possible, it’s not the most efficient or cost-effective solution, and you might be better off with a dedicated heating system.

Are Portable Air Conditioners More Expensive Than Window Units?

It’s ironic that you’re wondering about portable AC costs, considering you just learned they can double as heaters. Anyway, you’ll find that portable air conditioners are often pricier than window units, mainly due to their convenience and versatility.

Can Air Conditioners Be Installed in Casement Windows?

You’re wondering if air conditioners can be installed in casement windows. The answer is yes, but it requires a special kit that adapts to the window’s crank-out design, providing a secure and sealed installation.

Do Air Conditioners With Inverter Technology Save Energy?

You’ll be surprised to know that 40% of global energy is consumed by HVAC systems! When it comes to inverter technology, you’ll save around 30-50% energy compared to traditional ACs, as they adjust compressor speed to match cooling demands.

Can Air Conditioners Be Used in Humid Climates?

You’re wondering if air conditioners can handle humid climates. Yes, you can use them in humid areas, but they’ll work harder to remove excess moisture, which might increase energy consumption and reduce their overall efficiency.