9 Smallest Window Air Conditioners You Can Buy

A ir conditioners are here to stay, that’s a given. With global warming affecting how temperatures will evolve with time, studies show that a dramatic increase in AC unit use is bound to occur in the following decades. This will inevitably mean bad news for future electricity consumption, that’s for sure, but in the meanwhile, we do expect a solution to appear that makes air cooling systems more energy efficient than they are at the moment.

This isn’t to say that AC units now aren’t within decent parameters when it comes to power consumption. Smaller ACs, like the ones we present here, are generally on the energy-efficient side because of their smaller footprint and lower cooling capacity. Needless to say, these systems are generally suited for less demanding jobs, like cooling small offices and rooms. However, this isn’t the case with all products. Some small ACs, while discrete in their design because of the smaller footprint, do deliver a surprising cooling performance.

Regardless of the cooling capacity you seek, as long as you’re on the hunt for a small window air conditioner, you have come to the right place. In the following, we will review and rate the best models at the moment, ACs that have different capabilities when it comes to their cooling efficiency but that all have one thing in common – their small size. So, if you want to make your search easier, stick with us and pick one of these effective systems to keep your home or office cool this summer.

Before we jump into the main topic though, we want to briefly discuss a topic that surely crossed your mind: whether a portable or window-mounted unit is the better choice for you. Let’s first see what differentiates them, as well as their ups and downs.

Portable vs. Window Air Conditioners

To make it through a torrid summer’s day, an AC unit is your best ally. But what type should you buy? There are two main varieties, namely window-mounted units like the products we review here, and portable air conditioners. Each has its own set of pros and cons, but what matters is that both types provide the expected outcome – creating a pleasant habitat indoors by bringing the temperature down a few degrees. In the following, we will crown each type of AC for the aspects it excels at, comparing window-mounted and portable units to see which is the winner.

• Installation: There’s a bit of heavy lifting involved with setting up a window AC. The procedure itself is a bit more complicated too since you have to be careful. You are hanging it out of the window, so extra care is a must. On the other hand, with the portable unit, all you have to do is plug it in and make sure that you set up a vent for it. Winner – portable AC.
• Portability: While it is possible to switch the placement of a window unit, taking it down from where you installed it and setting it up in a different room and window altogether, it will take a few hours and it’s not the easiest task either. On the other hand, as the name suggests, the same isn’t valid with a portable unit. Move it around from room to room as you like by simply pushing it around. So, if there are multiple rooms where you want to use the AC, the latter is your best option. Winner – portable AC.
• Cooling power: There is a wide selection of products to pick from with both portable and window-mounted units. This implies that you will find a product for any area coverage and cooling capability you need. So, both types win.
• Occupied space: The portable type loses ground here to the window-mounted unit since it occupies actual floor space. As opposed to it, the window type installs out of the way, so it doesn’t take up any usable space. Winner – window-mounted AC.
• Price: ACs that cool small rooms generally range in price from $200 to $400, while units that cover larger areas can go for $550 or more. Prices vary for both types depending on their area coverage, cooling capacity, features, included accessories, and even the producing brand. So, there’s no clear winner, both window-mounted and portable ACs being equal when it comes to pricing.
• Noise level: While the exact amount of noise produced differs from one model to another, window ACs are generally quieter because most of the ruckus is directed outside. The same isn’t valid with portable units since they don’t have an exterior outlet to direct the noise, so they are usually louder. Winner – window-mounted AC.

Conclusion: Both portable air conditioners and window-mounted air conditioners are equally great at the core job they must perform, and that’s what matters most. There’s no clear winner, that’s for sure. Each type is preferable for specific situations, and the type that’s best for you depends on what you need. If you have no free floor space or it’s limited, a window-mounted AC is better. If you want to cool multiple rooms without buying more than one AC, then the portable type is the right option. So, it all comes down to what complies with your needs best.

Now that you know a bit more about both main types of air conditioners and you can make an informed decision regarding what you should get, let’s move on and learn what the best small window units are.

Top 9 Smallest Window Air Conditioners Compared

Photo	Product	Window Compatibility	Cooling Power	Area Coverage	Dehumidification Rate	Cool Speeds/Fan Speeds	Warranty	Price
Best Overall	1. Whirlpool WHAW101BW	26” to 36” wide and 16” high	10,000 BTUs	450 sq. ft.	2.11 pints/hour	3/3	1 year
	2. Koldfront WAC10002WCO	23 to 36” wide and 15.5” high	10,000 BTUs	450 sq. ft.	N/A	3/3	2 years	Check Price at Amazon
	3. Windmill Smart Home AC	23”-37” wide and 14” high	8,300 BTUs	350 sq. ft.	N/A	3/3	1 year
Best for the Kitchen	4. Friedrich CP06G10B	18 3/8”-28” wide and 14” high	6,000 BTUs	250 sq. ft	1.8 pints/hour	3/3	1 year	Check Price at Amazon
Editor’s Choice	5. Haier ESAQ406T	26 to 39” wide and 13.3” high	6,000 BTUs	250 sq. ft.	N/A	4/4	1 year for parts and labor, 5 years for the sealed system	Check Price at Amazon
Best for Small Bedroom	6. Frigidaire FFRE063WAE	23 to 36” wide and 14” high	6,000 BTUs	250 sq. ft.	1.3 pints/hour	3/3	1 year for parts and labor, 5 years for the sealed system	Check Price at Amazon
	7. LG LW6017R	21 to 35” wide and 12” high	6,000 BTUs	260 sq. ft.	1.8 pints/hour	3/3	1 year	Check Price at Amazon
Best for the Money	8. hOmeLabs AC-188	23 to 36” wide and 13” high	5,000 BTUs	150 sq. ft.	N/A	2/2	2 years	Check Price at Amazon
Best for the Money	9. Midea MWA06CR71-E	23 to 36” wide and 14” high	6,000 BTUs	250 sq. ft	1.27 pints/hour	3/3	1 year	Check Price at Amazon

1. Whirlpool WHAW101BW

Summary: Cool comfort is what this Whirlpool window AC offers despite the small size. Suited for windows with a minimum width of 26 inches and height of 16 inches, it’s a petite yet fierce cooling system that you can count on for years to come. It even does a great job at removing excess moisture to increase comfort indoors on more fronts than one, making the presence of a dehumidifier in the room where you install it obsolete.

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A brand that likely needs no introduction by now is Whirlpool. Famous for the qualitative household appliances and electronics it produces, this manufacturer has graced customers with yet another product worth investing in, the Whirlpool WHAW101BW window AC. Small yet fierce, easy to install and use, it’s a product that you are sure to be glad you bought. The feedback from existing customers is positive, and after testing it ourselves, we must admit we were impressed by it too.

*The window installation kit is included with the purchase, so you don’t have to spend extra cash for the setup at all.

Design & Accessories

This small Whirlpool air conditioner measures 21.5 inches in width by 19.8 inches in depth by 14.7 inches in height, which makes it suited for windows measuring from 26 to 36 inches in width and at least 16 inches in height. It boasts a simple design so that you won’t have trouble figuring out what buttons to press when you want to customize any of the provided settings. For that matter, a remote is included too, so you’ll have a significantly more convenient manner at your disposal to change settings from afar. Moreover, it features a digital display that makes selecting your preferred settings a breeze.

Cooling Performance

What matters most with an AC unit is its cooling ability. Since this Whirlpool model is rated at 10,000 BTUs per hour, it means that you can confidently install it in a room measuring 450 square feet tops. There are 3 cooling settings you can pick from too, so you can customize the pace at which the room is brought to your chosen temperature. The 24-hour timer is another factor that impacts its performance from this point of view since you can pick how long it should run continuously. Evidently, the timer reduces power draw too.

Dehumidification Performance

Top-tier air conditioners like the Whirlpool WHAW101BW provide an extra perk – dehumidification. In the room where you’re using this product, you won’t need to turn on a dehumidifier, that’s for sure. What makes us say this is the 2.11-pint dehumidification rate per hour of the AC, reducing air moisture at a considerable rate to ensure that the RH level will lower.

Performance Test Feedback

Whirlpool WHAW101BW Specifications Sheet
Minimum Window Height: 16”	Window Width Range: 26” to 36”
Cooling Capacity: 10,000 BTUs	Area Coverage: 450 sq. ft.
Power Rating: 826 watts	Noise Level: 55 – 59 dB
Energy Efficiency Ratio: 12.1	Dehumidification rate: 2.11 pints/hour
Fan Speeds: 3	Air Direction Control: 8-Way
Included Window Mounting Kit:	Warranty: 1 year

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2. Koldfront WAC10002WCO

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Summary: When the blaze hits, you wish you had this powerful unit installed in your home, so you will always have the heat under control. With a generous temp range and a high BTU rating, it’s among the most powerful offered in the industry. The manufacturer also put attention to the consumption and fitted it with useful settings that lower the operating costs.

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If you are looking to provide cooling for a large area, this model by Koldfront is the best option. It is bulkier than any other model, but it can effectively cool up spaces up to 450 sq. ft. The cooling rating reaches 10,000 BTU, so aside from the equally impressive performing Whirlpool WHAW101BW, it’s the only AC considerably stronger than its competitors that only bring 6,000 BTU to the table. It manages to lower room temperature to 62 Fahrenheit but it can also increase it to 82 Fahrenheit so it can be used all year round.

Installation

As mentioned, it requires installation in a frame, so you must check its dimensions and the requirements of the mounting frame. The housing measures 14.6” high, 19” wide, and 21.5” deep and fits within a minimum height of 15.5” and a width between 23” and 36”.

It is packed with many nice features that allow you to adapt it to your preferences. Among others, it has a built-in timer, an energy saver mode, as well as multiple fan velocities – low, medium, and high. Here are some other nice traits:

• Sleep mode for reduced energy costs: when this mode is selected, the temperature is constantly adjusted by 2 degrees Fahrenheit. This happens for 6 hours, and then it returns to the value you’ve selected.
• Alerts you when you should replace the filter: the LED light illuminates to remind you to clean the filter. It is set to alert you after 250 hours of use.

You can point the air stream in the direction you want: you can manually adjust the louvers to distribute the air evenly. With the help of the center handle, you can guide them in any of the four directions. Four velocities are available, along with 4 pre-set modes.

• Long-range remote: in case you want to control it from a distance, you can use the remote that works from a 16-feet distance.

Energy Use

The yearly operating costs will double with this unit, but this is normal since it has twice the power of the regular small models. The estimated annual cost for 8 hours per day for 3 months is $81. This is a decent cost if we compare it to other similar models that can cost you up to $127 per year. It is Energy STAR approved, so you can definitely trust it to lower your bills. Besides, the Energy-Saving mode turns on the fan for two minutes every 10 minutes whenever the temperature exceeds the level you set, at which time the compressor will resume cooling.

With a machine as important and expensive, a warranty is an essential aspect to keep your eyes on. The period provided for this model lasts for 2 years and covers the costs of replacement parts and labor.

Koldfront WAC10002WCO Specifications Sheet
Minimum Window Height: 15.5”	Window Width Range: 23” to 36”
Cooling Capacity: 10,000 BTUs	Area Coverage: 450 sq. ft.
Power Rating: 880 watts	Noise Level: 57 – 59.5 dB
Energy Efficiency Ratio: 12	Dehumidification rate:
Fan Speeds: 3	Air Direction Control: 4-Way
Included Window Mounting Kit:	Warranty: 2 years

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3. Windmill Smart Home AC

Summary: This Windmill AC is the smart option for modern folk. And this is all thanks to the fact that it’s Wi-Fi and app-enabled, which means that you have a more convenient means to monitor and control the system since you will be doing it using your smartphone.

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Needless to say, the main reason why this Windmill AC features in our top is thanks to its compact size and packed design. It’s really a standout when it comes to looks, the simple yet modern design making it a perfect fit with any décor. But we’re not here to talk about aesthetics, far from it. While it does deserve a lot of praise for the way it looks and its small size, what makes the Windmill rank so high is the cooling performance and the fact that it’s smart.

What sets it apart from all other ACs we reviewed for this article is the fact that you can control it from anywhere using the app on your Android or Apple device. It even works with voice commands via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. This makes it a smart air conditioner, one that any modern person would surely benefit from using. Sure, the app is a bit annoying to set up since you have to wait a bit for an email from customer support before you follow through with the installation. But other than this, it’s perfect. No glitches, rare crashes, smooth navigation, and an intuitive, user-friendly design.

You surely want to benefit from optimal performance on the AC’s part. For this to be possible, we recommend that you use it for cooling an area no larger than 350 square feet. After all, it’s an 8,300 BTUs air conditioner, so you can’t expect it to cool down the whole house or a very large space. To maximize efficiency and lower operating costs as much as possible since your preferred temperature will be reached ASAP, it blows the cool air at a 45-degree angle into the room.

It won’t take you longer than 20-30 minutes to finish setting it up since it’s pre-assembled straight out of the box. Just make sure that the window you intend to install it in is single- or double-hung and that the vertical opening is 14 inches minimum, while the window width should range from 23 to 37 inches. If this checks out, then you can go ahead and set the AC up.

The auto-dimming LED display ensures it won’t become a distraction while you’re trying to fall asleep. Of course, the low operating noise helps too, making it a viable addition to the bedroom. It even scores high in the eco-friendly department since it uses a different refrigerant than the one commonly used with ACs. While most units use the 410a, this Windmill entry uses the R32 refrigerant that has 68% less global warming potential compared to its predecessor. In conclusion, if you’re looking for a smart, effective, efficient, and eco-friendly small air conditioner to keep you cool during heat waves, look no further than the Windmill Smart Home AC.

Windmill Smart Home AC Specifications Sheet
Minimum Window Height: 14”	Window Width Range: 23” to 37”
Cooling Capacity: 8,300 BTUs	Area Coverage: 350 sq. ft.
Power Rating: 690 watts	Noise Level: 50 dB
Energy Efficiency Ratio: 12	Dehumidification rate: N/A
Fan Speeds: 3	Air Direction Control:
Included Window Mounting Kit:	Warranty: 1 year

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4. Friedrich CP06G10B

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Summary: It provides great results in cooling areas that don’t exceed 250 sq. ft., as most of the models we have revised. You will enjoy the convenience of pre-set functioning modes and an intuitive panel that simplifies its maneuvering. You might find it noisier than you thought it would be, even on the lowest setting.

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Our next option is this model made by Friedrich, suitable for slightly larger rooms – up to 250 sq. ft. for which it engages 6,000 BTU. The CP06G10B we are currently reviewing comes with some nice traits that make it versatile. It restarts automatically in case of a power shortage, remembering the preferred settings. Additionally, it has side curtains that can be extended to reduce the exterior light and noise. Another nice feature is the possibility to run the power cord on either the right or left side of the cabinet.

• Uses little electricity: the unit is Energy STAR qualified, so it is an energy-efficient model that will help you save more money and protect the surroundings. According to the estimations, using it for 8 hours per day for 3 months will cost you $44. Other Energy Star certified options are the Koldfront WAC10002WCO and the Haier HWR06XCR.
• Can be set to power on and off automatically: among the top features it offers is the 24-hour timer. You can program it now, and it will turn on or off at a particular hour.
• Uniform air distribution with the help of the air sweep louvers: once turned on, it automatically oscillates the louvers from left to right to uniformly distribute the air. You can also move them up and down but only manually.

Friedrich CP06G10B Specifications Sheet
Minimum Window Height: 14”	Window Width Range: 18-3/8” to 28”
Cooling Capacity: 6,000 BTUs	Area Coverage: 250 sq. ft.
Power Rating: 530 watts	Noise Level: 60 dB
Energy Efficiency Ratio: 12.2	Dehumidification rate: 1.8 pints/hour
Fan Speeds: 3	Air Direction Control: 4-Way
Included Window Mounting Kit:	Warranty: 1 year

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5. Haier ESAQ406T

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Summary: Clients praise the whisper-quiet functioning that makes it ideal even for bedrooms. Having it mounted is not a hard task, so you can easily do it yourself, and you will like how intuitive it turns out to be. Maintenance might be a bit complicated as the filter comes out with difficulty.

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Smaller spaces don’t require such extended power, so you might be ok with what this model has to offer. Slightly smaller in size, it can deal with the heat in rooms measuring up to 250 sq. ft. and it can also regulate humidity by extracting around 1.5 pints every hour. Another option for 250 sq. ft. spaces that comes from the same manufacturer is the Haier HWR06XCR. Both products are worth acquiring, but the widely appreciated reliability of the ESAQ406T during extremely torrid days was the differentiating factor that determined us to pick it as the best AC that Haier has produced yet.

• An innovative cross-flow fan: it ensures a higher performance without creating a loud noise. The airflow is smooth, reaching 200 CFM, while the cooling power reaches 6,000 BTU. The current can be sent in any of the four directions, as the top-angled air discharge can be moved.

You can use the functional remote to access its settings from a distance and you will find it very simple to use as all the selections will be shown on the generous display.

• It’s ultra-quiet at 44 dB: you can have it running even while you sleep, especially since it offers a special Sleep mode that ensures the ideal temperature will be achieved without disturbing your sleep. While it flaunts the same cooling power as this Haier model does, the Friedrich CP06G10B is louder, so the product we review here is your better alternative if you value a discrete operation.

The timer setting will come in handy whenever you will need to set a schedule, making it easier to arrive home to the ideal ambiance.

• The fan velocity can be set to one of the 4 provided levels: ensures you will find the one that feels the most comfortable.

It also offers pre-set modes that have it running within certain parameters, so all you have to do is pick either the Sleep, Energy-Saving, Dehumidifier, or Cool mode. To ensure a clean ambiance at all times, a filter was also added, one that you can wash so you won’t have to permanently buy new filters. Every time it will require cleaning, a light will appear on the control panel, making it easier for you to ensure proper upkeep.

Considering the asking price, generous protection is welcome, and the manufacturer is aware of this so they cover the AC for 1 year after the purchase. The essential and most expensive part, the sealed element, is protected for 5 years, contributing to a stress-free utilization of this product.

Haier ESAQ406T Specifications Sheet
Minimum Window Height: 13.3”	Window Width Range: 26” to 39”
Cooling Capacity: 6,000 BTUs	Area Coverage: 250 sq. ft.
Power Rating: 540 watts	Noise Level: 44 dB
Energy Efficiency Ratio: 12.2	Dehumidification rate: 1.5 pints/hour
Fan Speeds: 4	Air Direction Control: 2-Way
Included Window Mounting Kit:	Warranty: 1 year for parts and labor, 5 years for the sealed system

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6. Frigidaire FFRE063WAE

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Summary: As one of the most popular models preferred by clients, it stands out through the compact shape and cooling ability that makes it ideal for medium-sized rooms. It offers all the essential settings and is very comprehensive to maneuver, especially thanks to the long-range remote.

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Designed by a trustworthy brand, this unit stands out through its quiet run, a feature that makes it ideal for bedrooms. It offers both a fan and a cooling mode, each of them with three speeds, which will reach different sound levels. Thus, on the lowest setting, the maximum number of decibels will be 51, which is lower than the average, on medium speed, it will produce 53 decibels, while on the highest setting, where most units tend to get fairly loud, this model will stay somewhere under 55 decibels.

While the sound level is significant, the good news is that it doesn’t affect the unit’s performance. Thus, the strong motor will deliver up to 6,000 BTUs, enough to cover a space of 250 sq. ft.

Other excellent features are:

• Strong airflow: with a peak of 169 CFM, attained at the highest speed, 145 CFM at medium speed, and 132 CFM at the lowest speed, it can be considered fast, as long as it is used in the recommended space.
• Built-in timer: pick the time for it to start and turn it off in 30-minute increments.
• Energy-saving operation: it has been Energy-Star verified and has a merged energy-efficiency ratio of 12.1, being more effective than most conventional units.
• Dehumidification: this function allows it to draw around 1.3 pints of moistness per hour, so it can maintain a mold-free environment in small rooms that are exposed to humidity. It also cleans the air as it passes through the filter.

Besides all these, it comes with an excellent service contract that covers parts and labor for 1 year and the sealed system for 5 years.

Frigidaire FFRE063WAE Specifications Sheet
Minimum Window Height: 14”	Window Width Range: 23” to 36”
Cooling Capacity: 6,000 BTUs	Area Coverage: 250 sq. ft.
Power Rating: 500 watts	Noise Level: 51 – 55 dB
Energy Efficiency Ratio: 12.1	Dehumidification rate: 1.3 pints/hour
Fan Speeds: 3	Air Direction Control: Swing
Included Window Mounting Kit:	Warranty: 1 year for parts and labor, 5 years for the sealed system

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7. LG LW6017R

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Summary: The popularity of the brand can be seen in this product which has plenty of positive reviews from customers. It’s effective in cooling mid-size spaces and it can be used in any season. The dehumidifying feature is impressive, as it manages to considerably reduce the moistness in the air.

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Ideal for small windows, this unit is also very quiet. Additionally, it can successfully cool a room of 260 sq. ft., and it supplies a dry airflow of 134 CFM. It has a cooling capacity of 6,000 BTUs. The unit is 17.31 inches wide, 11.125 inches tall, and 14.375 inches long, and it weighs 39.6 lbs.

With multiple built-in functions, it is one of the best you can get. It has a built-in thermostat that allows you to set the temperature and select among 3 cooling modes. You can also opt for the Fan Only mode and choose among 3 speeds. Additionally, you can alter the air direction from left to right.

• Energy saver mode: to help you save energy, the fan stops on its own when the compressor stops. Then, the fan turns on every 3 minutes to check the temperature. If the temperature is higher than desired, the fan will instantly start to cool the room. The inside temperature can be set between 60 and 86F.
• Can be used as a dehumidifier: when set in dry mode, it is capable of collecting humidity from the air. It can collect up to 1.8 pints of water.
• Control the unit while sitting on the couch: the included remote control allows you to pick the preferred temperature, speed, mode, and time.

LG LW6017R Specifications Sheet
Minimum Window Height: 12”	Window Width Range: 21” to 35”
Cooling Capacity: 6,000 BTUs	Area Coverage: 260 sq. ft.
Power Rating: 520 watts	Noise Level: 52 – 56 dB
Energy Efficiency Ratio: 11.3	Dehumidification rate: 1.8 pints/hour
Fan Speeds: 3	Air Direction Control: 2-Way
Included Window Mounting Kit:	Warranty: 1 year

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8. hOmeLabs AC-188

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Summary: Some people appreciate the simple design as they don’t like the hassle of touchscreens or push-button control panels. It does a good job lowering the temp on summer days but it’s not suitable for large rooms. Its biggest drawback is the lack of a remote that would make distance maneuvering a whole lot easier.

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In case you don’t enjoy a big budget but still want to find a lasting solution to deal with the hot days, here is your go-to option. It is compact and lightweight, and it includes a mounting kit. It fits windows measuring 13” high and between 23” and 36” wide, so the standard frame should accommodate it properly.

This model is very simple in design and operation, so don’t expect it to blow your mind. It lacks a control panel with touch buttons or displays and offers in return a simplistic panel with two dials, one for selecting the temperature and one for the fan mode. It is fit for rooms up to 150 sq. ft., packing the same cooling capacity of 5,000 BTUs as the Friedrich CCF05A10A does. It has 7 temp settings to choose from and modifiable High or Low fan speeds that help it lower the ambient temperature in less than 15 minutes after turning it on. Once the desired temperature is achieved, it will stop and start automatically to maintain that level.

The top louvers can be moved to the right and left, thus allowing you to redirect the airflow to the areas that most need it. While it manages to take out some of the moisture from the air, it’s not one of its strong points. What it does achieve is to retain some of the dust and debris from the air thanks to the outsized mesh filter at the back.

hOmeLabs AC-188 Specifications Sheet
Minimum Window Height: 13”	Window Width Range: 23” to 36”
Cooling Capacity: 5,000 BTUs	Area Coverage: 150 sq. ft.
Power Rating: 460 watts	Noise Level: N/A
Energy Efficiency Ratio: 11.1	Dehumidification rate: N/A
Fan Speeds: 2	Air Direction Control: 2-Way
Included Window Mounting Kit:	Warranty: 2 years

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9. Midea MWA06CR71-E

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Summary: It’s good for small rooms up to 200 sq. ft. or less, so don’t expect it to make wonders in large areas. Mounting is very simple as it comes with all the required components, including side panels to adjust to the length of various windows. It is comprehensive and all in all, does a good job for its cost.

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Versatile and stylish, this AC is perfect for areas between 150 and 250 sq. ft., as it boasts a 6,000-BTU cooling power. You will simply love its functionality, as well as the included remote control that allows you to set it while relaxing on the sofa. It is fit for windows with a width between 23” and 36” and a height of 14 inches. It comes with all the accessories included for performing the installation and clear instructions.

The estimated energy cost per year is $48, so you can consider it an energy-efficient option. To help you reduce the electricity bills, it features an Eco mode. Therefore, once the set temperature is reached, it shuts off automatically. You can also set it to turn on or off with the built-in 24-hour timer. For cool nights, you can select the sleep mode that automatically regulates the temperature to feel more comfortable.

• It cools, dehumidifies, and circulates the air in the room: you can choose one of the 3 functions available to feel as comfortable as possible. You don’t have to buy a separate dehumidifier as this AC is also able to remove water from the air with just a push of a button.
• Automatically corrects the temperature based on the location of the remote control: the remote control doubles as a thermostat. The “Follow Me” mode enables the unit to regulate the temperature so you can enjoy the same comfort even if you’re not near the AC.

Midea MWA06CR71-E Specifications Sheet
Minimum Window Height: 14”	Window Width Range: 23” to 26”
Cooling Capacity: 6,000 BTUs	Area Coverage: 250 sq. ft.
Power Rating: 700 watts	Noise Level: 51.9 – 55.5 dB
Energy Efficiency Ratio: 12.2	Dehumidification rate: 1.27 pints/hour
Fan Speeds: 3	Air Direction Control: 4-Way
Included Window Mounting Kit:	Warranty: 1 year

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Alternative Small Windows ACs Worth Checking Out

Aside from the 9 models that we included in our top, there are a few other worthwhile small ACs that you should look into before you decide. We didn’t include them in the main ranking either because they came from the same brand as some of our picks, in some cases because of similarity issues, or simply because we considered their flaws more off-putting than those of our top selections. Nevertheless, these are high-performing products that deserve a chance, especially if you don’t find exactly what you’re looking for in our top. One of these alternative products might work better instead. So, here is a brief description of their capabilities and downsides:

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many BTUs do I need?

Considering that an AC needs 20 BTUs per square foot of the room, you will need to measure the space that needs cooling, calculate the area, and multiply the sum by 20. Nonetheless, other factors may influence the final value. For example, if your room is exposed to the sun most of the day, you should increase the BTU by 10%, while if it is rather shady, you can decrease the value by 10%. If more than one person is living in the room, you should add 600 supplementary BTUs for each additional person. Moreover, if you are planning to mount it in the kitchen, make sure to add 4,000 extra BTUs to the number, as this is a humid and hot space.

Do window ACs use a lot of electricity?

Units of this type are designed to cover a single room, so compared with an AC that covers the entire house, they are less power-consuming. They are a great pick if you are spending a lot of time in a single room and don’t want to pay extra on getting the entire house cooled down. Nonetheless, if you are planning on mounting a window unit in every room, you may end up paying more than for central cooling, especially if your rooms are large and need a lot of cooling.

Can you use a window AC without a window?

The answer is no. Although you may hear that some people made some adjustments and managed to connect it to a vent, this is not a safe method, and we don’t advise it. Alternatively, it is good to know that there are plenty of safe alternatives if you don’t have a window available. For example, you could buy a portable AC, which can be connected to a vent through a hose.

What happens if the AC unit is too small?

If the unit doesn’t have enough BTUs, it will struggle to reach the optimal temperature, and this means that it will run continuously. This will make the compressor and motor wear faster, leading to more frequent maintenance and repairs. On the other hand, there’s not a good idea to use a unit that is too big either, as it will cool the room too fast, leaving no time for the dehumidification process to take place.

Will rain damage a window air conditioner?

These units are designed to stand outdoor conditions, so the chances of them getting damaged by rain (even heavy rain) are slim. Nonetheless, if you’ve dealt with a storm lately, you may want to inspect your unit for possible branches or debris that may have gotten stuck inside. Also, if you are dealing with a yard flood and your AC touches the water, you should get it checked once the water retreats.

Do window air conditioners circulate the air?

Yes, they do have a fan, which usually helps circulate the cooled air. But if you only want to use it to stir the air in the room for a while, without employing the cooling function, this is possible. Most models will offer a Fan setting.

Do window ACs clean the air?

They come with filters (most are mesh models and washable). While you shouldn’t expect an AC to have the purification power of a high-end air purifier that uses a HEPA filter, you can rely on it to filter larger particles and allergens, making the air cleaner and safer to breathe.

Do window air conditioners pull air from outside?

The process here doesn’t imply drawing air from outside to cool the room, as a fan would do, but evicting the hot air from the room outside. Thus, the air indoors gets in contact with the refrigerant in the AC and gets cooled, while the refrigerant absorbs all the heat. The heat from the refrigerant is released outside, making it cool again for the cycle to restart.

How long do window ACs last?

A series of factors can influence the unit’s lifespan like the environment where it is used or the number of hours per day it operates. Nonetheless, the average functioning time is 10 years, assuming that the unit isn’t exposed to high humidity or extensive use.

Do window air conditioners need maintenance?

They are basically easy to maintain, as all internal components are sealed. You will only need to replace the filter once a month to ensure that the air in your room stays clean and wipe the interior part of the unit once in a while.

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Conclusion

Now that we have reached the end of our analysis, it’s time to conclude. As you have probably noticed, we have only selected products that can pass the test of time and which can deliver great airflow with minimum energy consumption and at low noise levels.

Nonetheless, when picking one for your home, you should consider other criteria as well, like, for example, the size of the area you wish to cool or the amount of money you are willing to spend. In this direction, revisiting some of our best models can help you make a better decision. Here’s what we recommend:

Best Small Window AC for Sale: Whirlpool WHAW101BW

Suited for areas of up to 450 square feet due to its 10,000 BTUs cooling capacity, this Whirlpool entry is worth every cent not only for its heavy-duty cooling performance but also for its small footprint. It measures 21.5 inches in width by 19.8 inches in depth by 14.7 inches in height, so you can see why it qualifies as a small window AC. In fact, it’s suited for windows that measure at least 16 inches in height, and range from 26 to 36 inches in width. To top all this, we mention that it comes with a remote control, as well as the complete window mounting kit. Moreover, it features a 24-hour timer to give you full control over the unit’s operation.

Editor’s Choice: Haier ESAQ406T

Our favorite stands out through its excellent 6,000 BTUs cooling capacity and 12.2 efficiency ratio. This little AC can provide cool air for a room measuring up to 250 sq. ft. with a noise of 44 dB at low speed, a level that is often reached by purifiers, therefore you can rest assured that it won’t disturb your peace. Just like the previous model, it can be used as a dehumidifier as well. Plus, it comes with a remote, so you can easily control it from the coziness of your couch.

Best Small Window Air Conditioner for Kitchen: Friedrich CP06G10B

If the unit you are looking for is intended to be used in the kitchen, then we recommend this AC from Friedrich. Not only that it has a good 6,000-BTU cooling capacity, which will allow it to deal with the heat in a small kitchen, but it comes with a strong dehumidification function that will help you deal with steam and condensation.

Best Small Window Air Conditioner for Small Bedroom: Frigidaire FFRE063WAE

It is created to stay quiet, even at the highest speed, with a peak of only 55 dB and a minimum of 51 dB. Besides, it has enough power to preserve a comfortable temperature day and night without having to overrun the motor. The airflow is excellent, and it also offers a dehumidification function that will keep mold out of your room.

Best Small Window Air Conditioner for the Money: hOmeLabs AC-188

This unit offers great quality at an excellent price and won’t raise your electricity bills too much, as it features an energy efficiency ratio of 11.1, a value that will materialize in no more than $41 per year, assuming that you use it only during the summer months for 8 hours per day. Besides that, it is very effective, as it can cool a 150 sq. ft. room in only 15 minutes. Not to mention that it comes with 7 temperature settings, so you will be able to customize it to your taste.