Best Air Conditioners

Christen da Costa Avatar
Updated Feb 7, 2024 3:37 PM
best air conditioners featured image that shows the top three best air conditioner models

To help you find the best air conditioners, we spent over 15 hours of research compiling a list of the best air conditioner models on the market today. We looked for both portable and window-mounted systems, capable of at least 5000 BTUs — enough to quietly cool up to 150 square feet of space. We also looked for units that were relatively low-maintenance with reusable filters and gave bonus points to ones that had additional features, such as a dehumidifier to remove moisture.

Our top pick for the best air conditioner is the hOmeLabs 14,000 BTU Air Conditioner, which earned the title because it’s the best all-around unit on the list. The BTU rating of 14,000 can cool up to 500 square feet efficiently. Moreover, it has a built-in dehumidifier, includes a remote control, and also a washable filter. Our honorable mention is SereneLife 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner. It’s slightly cheaper (and less powerful) than the top pick yet includes a lot of the same features. Of course, there are several other options. Keep reading to learn more about our top picks.

Top 7 Best Air Conditioners

#1 hOmeLabs 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner

Award: TOP PICK

WHY WE LIKE IT: The hOmeLabs air conditioner has a 14,000 BTU rating, which covers about 450 to 500 square feet. That’s a sizable area for a portable AC, and when you consider everything else it has to offer.

Pros
  • Most feature-rich & dehumidifier
  • Includes remote control
  • The dehumidifier removes 100 pints per hour
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Still needs to be close to a window

Standing at 30-inches tall, the hOmeLabs Portable Air Conditioner offers a 14,000 BTU rating. It’s capable of cooling spaces up to 450 square feet. It’s a floor-based unit, so you don’t have to mount it in a window. Built-in wheels make it rather easy to move from room to room. You will need to install a window slide adapter and connect a hose, but other than that setup is straightforward and installation costs should be relatively low. It has a washable filter, so you don’t need to buy replacements. Furthermore, it comes with a remote, which allows you to configure the unit from afar.

A built-in 100-pint dehumidifier offers moisture and humidity controls if you need them. It adds a lot more value in places where humidity is high. It might also be useful if you install the unit in a much smaller space than intended. Compared to the other air conditioners on the list, the hOmeLabs unit is one of the most expensive. Even so, it’s the best AC option if you want energy-efficient cooling for a decent-sized area and doesn’t like traditional window-mounted units.

#2 SereneLife 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner

Award: HONORABLE MENTION

WHY WE LIKE IT: We chose the SereneLife 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner for honorable mention because it offers a lot of the same excellent features as the top pick, albeit at a more affordable price.

Pros
  • Excellent features, great price
  • The dehumidifier removes 3.8 pints per hour
  • Touch-button control panel with LED display
Cons
  • Still needs to be close to a window

Like our top pick, the SereneLife 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a standing unit at 32 inches tall. It also has wheels so you can roll it from room to room. It still needs to sit close to a window and comes with a window plate and exhaust vent to expel warm air. SereneLife claims the unit can circulate cool air around an area of up to 225 square feet. That’s a decent-sized area for a portable unit. It has three operating modes, including a standard AC cooling mode and a fan-only mode. The third is a dehumidifier which will remove moisture and humidity. It does come with a remote, but there is a touch-button control panel on the top with a digital LED readout display, as well.

The price is average, but overall a little higher than most of the other units on this list. Keep in mind, that a majority of the other units are less powerful, nor are they upright like this one. If you don’t want a traditional window AC unit and want something that can easily be moved around your home, the SereneLife air conditioner is a good choice. It’s also slightly cheaper than our top pick yet has a lot of the same features if you’re on a tight budget.

#3 LG LW8016ER 8,000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner

Award: BEST WINDOW UNIT

WHY WE LIKE IT: The LG LW8016ER 8,000 BTU air conditioner earns the best window unit title because it has a decent efficiency rating alongside some great features. To top it off, it’s one of the quietest units on the list, making it perfect for nighttime use.

Pros
  • High BTU rating for a window unit
  • Quiet operation
  • The dehumidifier removes 2.2 pints per hour
Cons
  • Window units can be unsightly

LG’s LW8016ER window-mounted air conditioner offers 8,000 BTUs, so it can cool an area up to 300 square feet in size — LG claims up to 340 square feet. Either way, that’s an excellent efficiency rating for a compact unit. It has three cooling speeds and three fan speeds. You can control both via the panel on the front of the machine. It has a digital readout, and button-based controls — no knobs. It also comes with a remote.

The LG air conditioner does need to be installed in a window. It comes with everything you need to install the unit, including side panels. In total, you need a space about 22 to 36 inches wide, and 13 inches tall.

#4 Black & Decker BPACT14WT 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner

Award: QUIETEST

WHY WE LIKE IT: The Black & Decker BPACT14WT portable air conditioner is the best high-end because, although it’s expensive, it has excellent features and build quality to back up the price. At 14,000 BTUs it can cool 450 square feet of space and has multiple modes, like a stealthy sleep mode.

Pros
  • Best quality
  • Dehumidifier built-in
  • Stealthy and quiet sleep mode
Cons
  • No efficiency rating listed for the dehumidifier
  • Expensive

The Black & Decker BPACT14WT portable air conditioner is a standing unit, but it still needs to be installed near a window. That said, there are wheels on the bottom so you can move it about freely. It offers 14,000 BTUs, which can cool up to 450 square feet efficiently. As with the other air conditioners on the list, it includes a built-in dehumidifier, but it does not list the efficiency rating. It has a couple of operating modes, including a timed mode with a 24-hour timer, and a sleep mode for quiet operation.

The Black & Decker air conditioner comes with a remote for easy operation, as well as all the mounting accessories you need, like an exhaust hose and window panels. The company claims you can vent the warm air through a wall or door if you don’t mind the nearby space getting warmer and don’t want to use a window. For the price, the Black & Decker AC unit is one of the most expensive on the list, second only to the top pick, the hOmeLabs portable air conditioner.

#5 Friedrich Chill CP06G10B 6,000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner

Award: EASIEST TO MAINTAIN

WHY WE LIKE IT: The Friedrich Chill CP06G10B 6,000 BTU window-mounted air conditioner is the best DIY unit, thanks to a slide-out chassis. After it’s installed, you can easily remove the casing to service and clean the unit and remove the washable filters.

Pros
  • Washable antimicrobial filters
  • Slide-out chassis
  • Optional expandable side curtains
Cons
  • Uninspired design
  • Window units can be unsightly

The Friedrich Chill CP06G10B window-mounted air conditioner offers 6000 BTUs, which is capable of efficiently cooling up to 200 square feet. Friedrich claims it can handle up to 250 square feet. It is one of the few units on the list that doesn’t include a built-in dehumidifier. It does, however, have three cooling and fan-only speeds with an ultra-quiet mode for use at nighttime. Its Energy Star is qualified, so it makes efficient use of power. It also comes with a digital remote and all the mounting accessories. A slide-out chassis means it’s easy to remove and service after it’s been mounted in a window.

The Friedrich Chill air conditioner must be mounted in a window. In total, you need a space about 20 to 36 inches wide, and 14 inches tall.

#6 TOSOT 8,000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner

Award: BEST DESIGN

WHY WE LIKE IT: The TOSOT 8,000 BTU window-mounted air conditioner is the best-designed unit. It offers a sleek, attractive window design with minimalistic venting. It also features a built-in dehumidifier, reusable filter, and a unique thermostat that’s built into the remote control.

Pros
  • Sleek, minimalistic visual design
  • Thermostat built into the remote
  • Washable, reusable filter
Cons
  • Window units can be unsightly

The TOSOT window-mounted air conditioning unit offers 8,000 BTUs, which is enough power to efficiently cool up to 300 square feet of space — TOSOT claims up to 350 square feet. What’s most striking about the unit, however, is that it’s sleek and employs a minimalistic design. Instead of the rather ugly metal grilles of similar units, it has low-profile vents especially when everything is sealed up. A built-in dehumidifier means the unit will cool and remove humidity from a space. A built-in reusable filter can be cleaned, so you don’t have to replace it regularly, just clean it. Furthermore, the system offers smart temperature controls with the thermostat on the remote — not the actual unit. That means the unit will cool the space based on the temperature that the remote picks up.

Because the TOSOT air conditioner does need to be installed in a window, it comes with everything you need, including side panels. You will need a space of about 23 to 36 inches wide, and 15 inches tall.

#7 Frigidaire FFRA0511R1E 5,000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner

Award: BEST BUDGET

WHY WE LIKE IT: Frigidaire’s FFRA0511R1E 5,000 BTU window-mounted air conditioner is the best budget pick because it’s the cheapest on the list, and despite that, it offers some excellent features.

Pros
  • Great for small spaces
  • 11.1 energy efficiency ratio (EER)
  • The dehumidifier removes 1.1 pints per hour
Cons
  • Window units can be unsightly

The Frigidaire FFRA0511R1E window-mounted air conditioner offers 5,000 BTUs and is capable of cooling up to 150 square feet of room air. It is one of the least efficient window-style AC units on the list, but it’s also the cheapest. A built-in dehumidifier will help remove moisture and lower humidity in the space. There are two cooling speeds and two fan speeds, and the air flows in two directions. There are physical controls, temperature, and fan speed control knobs, on the front of the unit.

As it’s a window-mounted unit, you’ll need to install it within a properly sized window. It comes with a mounting kit and side panels, to block out the open air. In total, you need a space about 23 to 36 inches wide, and 13 inches tall. Depending on where you live, you may not be able to install this type of unit — HOAs usually prohibit doing so. For a smart ac unit, read about the best wifi smart air conditioner.

Beginner’s Guide To Air Conditioners

While finding the best air conditioner for 2024 can be daunting, you only need some basic information to find your ideal choice. For example, what is the square footage of the space you want to cool? Next, decide if you want to invest in a built-in central air conditioner or a portable model. In addition, think about other tools you may need, like passive cooling and dehumidifiers. Before settling on a particular unit, though, read our beginner’s guide below on how to select a new, high-rated air conditioner for 2024.

STAT: Around 87% of homes in the United States have some form of air conditioning. (source)

What Exactly Is An Air Conditioner?

An air conditioner is a home appliance that cools indoor areas during the hot summer months. These machines can service single rooms at once, in the case of window units and portable units, or an entire home, in the case of a central unit. There are plenty of different air conditioners, each with specialized features and accessories. Some modern AC units, for example, integrate with smart assistants and smartphone apps, in addition to boasting a heat pump and exhaust hose for heating.

Understanding How Air Conditioners Function

When the heat’s hitting hard, you may wonder how it is that air conditioners keep you cool. Simply put, an A/C unit pushes hot and humid air inside your home through its system, cooling it in the process and recirculating it through your house. Refrigerants and fans work together to move the air along the system, and the absorbed heat is dumped outside.

Additionally, its product specifications make it easy to install in any window or wall, and the extra features allow for a customized cooling experience. With these benefits, no wonder many people are choosing portable ACs for their homes.

Did You Know?

When Did Central Air Conditioning Hit The Market? Air conditioning room units became affordable and popular in the 1950s. However, it wasn’t until the 1960s and 1970s that central air became a standard for new homes.

Using Your Air Conditioner

The temperature is rising, so it’s time to switch the A/C on. But how exactly do you use an air conditioner? For most models, it’s simply a model of switching it on and setting the temperature. Some thermostats require you to set a temperature that’s below the ambient temperature of the house, and many smart thermostats allow you to handle everything with a few simple taps on your smartphone.

The introduction of Amazon Alexa-enabled smart thermostats with their helpful features, including voice commands and AI learning capabilities, have made adjusting the temperature even easier. With these smart features, you can easily control your home’s climate from anywhere.

What Does BTU Stand For And What Does It Mean?

When reading many of our available air conditioner reviews you may see the term BTUs concerning HVAC and air cooling. It stands for British Thermal Units. This unit of measurement indicates the cooling power of a given air conditioner model. Generally speaking, window units range from 5,000 to 24,000 BTUs, while central units extend to 30,000 or more BTUs. The higher the BTU rating, the higher the price ranges and the greater the cooling capacity. 

Did You Know?

How Long Do Different Types Of Air Conditioners Last? The quality of the air conditioner unit is the top indicator of how long it will last. That said, the average lifespan of an air conditioner is about 10-15 years. With regular maintenance and efficient use, most models can last even longer. For best results, pick a feature-rich model and pre-schedule your regular maintenance.

Choosing An Air Conditioner

First of all, examine your needs. If you require just a single room to be cooled, go with a simple window unit. If you need a room to be cooled but don’t have ready access to a window, go for a portable air conditioner or indoor unit. If you need an entire home to be cooled, choose between one of the main central air conditioner designs. Some central AC designs require full ductwork, and others like a mini-split do not. Installing the required ductwork into older homes is expensive, so consider that. If you have special installation needs, such as casement windows, you’ll have to choose a specific style of air conditioner. 

This can affect the cost of installation, as well as the initial costs, so it’s important to do your research and consider a wide range of options.

Step 1. What Size Is The Room You’re Trying To Cool?

If you’ve settled on a window unit or portable AC, you need to match the size of your room with the cooling power of the unit. Generally speaking, a bare-bones AC features a minimum of 5,000 BTUs of cooling power, which is enough for 150 square feet. A 7,000 BTU AC unit ups this measurement to 250 square feet. When shopping for an AC, the packaging should list the BTU metric and how much cooling power this measurement provides. There are dozens of air conditioners out there to match your cooling needs.

Step 2. What’s Your Budget?

You don’t need to spend a ton to get a solid air conditioning unit. Of course, just like other appliances, the more you spend, the more features you’ll get. For example, you should expect to see more energy-efficient models with high SEER ratings and active temperature control at higher price points. The type of A/C you get also has a huge impact; window A/C units can cost between $100 and $1000, while central air starts around $1500 and goes as high as $6000 or more.

Step 3. Are You Energy Conscious?

There are some serious real-world benefits to using an energy-efficient air conditioner, such as reduced energy costs and a reduced carbon footprint. To ensure your AC unit meets modern efficiency standards, look for the Energy Star seal of approval and energy saver features while shopping for a new air conditioner. Energy Star also maintains a service that lists any air conditioner that meets the organization’s standards, all while meeting your heat transfer needs to beat the summer heat. You’ll also want to choose an AC unit with a good SEER rating.

STAT: On average, 12% of a US household’s energy consumption is because of air conditioners. Information courtesy of the Energy Information Administration. (source)

Step 4. Are You Looking For Alternatives?

While an A/C unit is an excellent choice to regulate the temperature in your home, it may not be the appliance you need. Air conditioning solutions can be very expensive, and may not fit into your budget. Some solutions may be a better use of your money such ash something that just helps control environmental conditions like humidity. For example, you may want powerless passive cooling for a sunroom.

Types Of Air Conditioners

There are many types of air conditioners to suit the needs of different consumers. Window units cool a single room at once, as do portable rolling air conditioners. Conversely, central air conditioners cool an entire home, with standard units requiring ductwork and mini-split units eschewing ductwork. Also, most air conditioner types are available with heat pumps and related heating elements for warming spaces during winter.

Window Air Conditioners

Air Conditioners By BTU Rating

  • 5000 BTU Air Conditioners
  • 6000 BTU Air Conditioners
  • 8000 BTU Air Conditioners
  • 10000 BTU Air Conditioners
  • 12000 BTU Air Conditioner
  • 15000 BTU Air Conditioners

Air Conditioners By Noise Level

  • Quiet Portable Air Conditioners
  • Quiet Window Air Conditioners

Air Conditioners By Size

Air Conditioners By Form Factor

STAT: Houses that use single units spent an average of $156 on A/C, compared to central air system households, which spent $299 on their energy bills. However, single units are less effective at cooling larger areas and, as a result, less efficient. Single room units cost about $0.31 per square foot cooled, while central air costs around $0.15 per square foot. (source)

Top Air Conditioner Brands

  • Best LG Air Conditioners

Owning An Air Conditioner

There’s more to owning an air conditioner than just setting the thermostat and turning your fans to “automatic.” Once you pick your ideal A/C unit, learn to perform essential maintenance and look out for any warning signs of serious issues. In addition, most units should be cleaned at least twice a year to maintain peak efficiency and effectiveness. While deep cleaning is a professional job, there are many aspects that you can take care of on your own. So, if you’d like to know all about owning an air conditioner, check out this guide.

Common Installations Performed With A/C Units

How you install an air conditioner is going to depend on the type of A/C you have. To install a window air conditioner, you need to begin by measuring the window to pick the right size unit. Then place the unit in the window and lock it in place and seal any gaps around it. If you have a floor unit, attach the exhaust hose to the window and plug in your A/C unit. The location you install filters on every model of air conditioner is going to vary, as form factor and manufacturer both change the shape and location, so consult the owner’s manual. You’ll likely need a professional to install central air conditioning, as the process is involved and complex.

Cleaning Air Conditioners

Clean each component of your air conditioner every month or two during the summer months and once before the summer begins. Clear debris from the outdoor unit and wipe down the indoor components with a microfiber cloth and an approved cleaning solution. Remove any mold in your AC unit, and be sure to clean the evaporator coils. Finally, never forget to clean or replace the air conditioning filter as indicated by the instructions. Some filters need to be replaced every two to three months, while others must be cleaned manually every one to two months.

Did You Know?

How Often Should You Clean Your A/C? As air conditioners circulate the air in your home, hair, dirt, and dust get pulled into the unit’s internals. The built-up debris can lead to an increase in allergy symptoms and a reduction in heating and cooling. Therefore, you should schedule professional A/C cleanings about twice per year to keep the system in perfect working order.

Repairing Your Air Conditioner

Air conditioners tend to see heavy use during the hotter months of the year, and that means that parts will naturally wear. If you’ve run into some kind of problem with your A/C. One of the most common places to check when an A/C fails is the compressor, because if the compressor fails, the A/C will stop properly cooling air, even if it keeps running.

Common Troubleshooting Tips For Your Air Conditioning Unit

A/C units use a lot of power and moving parts to keep your home climate controlled. Unfortunately, parts can go bad just like other appliances, and your air conditioner will need service. For most serious repairs, you’ll need to contact a certified repairer. That said, there are some problems you can fix on your own.

Air Conditioner Service Frequency

As a general rule of thumb, service your central air conditioner twice each year, once before summer and once before winter. When it comes to window units and portable AC units, however, service the units when they encounter a repair issue.

insider tip

If you’re trying to save money or be ecologically conscious, set your thermostat higher. The U.S. Department of Energy suggests 78F in the summer.

Best Air Conditioners Questions (FAQ)

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