Best Window Air Conditioners
Finding the best window air conditioner might be your priority, but what about a quiet air conditioner? The best window AC units not only keep your home cool but also operate quietly. Many air conditioner manufacturers tout quiet operation. Read through window air conditioner reviews to compare brands like Amana, Frigidaire, LG, Koldfront and Toshiba for their features, cost and warranties.
How we chose the best window air conditioner
When compiling our best window AC unit list, we considered many factors for each profile, including output capacity, unit price and warranties. But the most important factors are the unit’s average running decibels and quiet operation. Additional criteria to also factor:
- Consumer ratings: Research review sites with a mix of ratings — not just five-star reviews.
- Energy efficiency: Look for window air conditioners with EER ratings.
- Average cost: Some air conditioners are available through dealer websites that list pricing information. Otherwise, you’ll have to contact a dealer directly to receive this information.
- Sound ratings: When you see a decibel (dB), that’s the unit used to measure an HVAC’s sound intensity. Older models are louder, but newer models can be up to 50% quieter. Look for sound ratings below 60 decibels for the quietest operation.
- Specialized features: Check the specifications each window air conditioner lists to determine which you need for your home. Examples include smart app features and remote control operation.
- Warranties: The warranty should outline what’s covered if you register it, as well as what’s available if you don’t. For example, if you don’t register your air conditioner within six months, what does the warranty cover? Look for warranties with a long duration, as well as coverage for parts.
- Reliability: You want the air conditioner’s capacity to cool the square footage you need, so look for that in the specifications.
The best window air conditioners
Below you’ll find profiles of the best window air conditioners that detail their sound ratings. Out of the five profiles, Amana wins as the quietest air conditioner with an average running sound rating of 52 decibels at its lowest setting.
Quietest: Amana Window A/C: AMAP151BW
This window air conditioner offers flexible comfort using eco mode, sleep mode and three cooling speeds. Its programmable timer means you can customize how long the unit operates. Maintenance is quick and straightforward with a removable, washable air filter.
Features
- Output capacity: 15,000 BTUs
- Physical unit size: 25.4″ x 23.6″ x 17.9″
- Energy ratings: 11.9 EER and Energy Star qualified
- Average running decibels (high, medium, low): 56 / 53 / 52
- Specialized features: Cools up to 700 square feet, automatic restart and remote control
Cost
- Unit price: $500
- Parts/repair cost: Repair parts prices range from $.25 for plastic clamps to $2,000 for a condenser
- Maintenance needs: Clean air filter monthly
- Availability: Available through big-box stores
Warranty
Frigidaire Gallery Smart Window A/C with WiFi Control
This Frigidaire window air conditioner cools up to 450 square feet with many easy-to-use features. There’s a smart app to change temperatures remotely and programmable features can help save money. Its three-speed fan lets you adjust for optimal comfort.
- Output capacity: 10,000 BTU
- Physical unit size: 19″ x 24-5/8″ x 14-1/2″
- Energy ratings: 12 EER and Energy Star qualified
- Average running decibels: 54 decibels
- Specialized features: Smart app, sleep mode and remote control
Cost
- Unit price: $350
- Parts/repair cost: Repair parts range up to $500 for fan motors
- Maintenance needs: Check air filter at least once per month
- Availability: Use Frigidaire’s “Where to Buy” tool, or shop through a big-box retailer
Warranty
- Limited one-year warranty and limited 2-5 sealed system warranty
LG LW1216ER Window A/C
The LG LW1216ER window air conditioner delivers whisper-quiet comfort at sound levels as low as 53dB. These units install quickly and operate efficiently with a washable air filter. Its LED light display and straightforward control panel make it easy to operate.
- Output capacity: 12,000 BTU
- Physical unit size: 23.62″ x 15.00″ x 22.20″
- Energy ratings: 12 EER and Energy Star qualified
- Average running decibels (high, medium, low): 55 / 54 / 53
- Specialized features: Turbo indoor fan, 24-hour timer, filter alarm and auto restart
Cost
- Unit price: $380
- Parts/repair cost: Repair part prices range between $4 for a clamp and $99 for a fan assembly
- Maintenance needs: Check the air filter twice monthly and clean as needed, wipe the front grille and wash cabinet
- Availability: Use LG’s “Where to Buy” function or purchase from a major retailer
Warranty
- Five-year limited warranty for the compressor, labor and parts
Koldfront WAC12001W Window A/C
With electronic touch controls and remote control, this Koldfront window air conditioner cools your home easily and conveniently. It cools up to 550 square feet quietly and efficiently.
Features
- Output capacity: 12,000 BTU
- Physical unit size: 23″ x 23″ x 22.625″
- Energy ratings: 10.9 EER
- Average running decibels: 55 decibels
- Specialized features: Four settings, remote control and electronic touch controls
Cost
- Unit price: $450
- Parts/repair cost: Repair parts range between $25 and $50
- Maintenance needs: Check the air filter monthly to ensure it’s clean
- Availability: Purchase directly from the manufacturer or a big box retailer
Warranty
- Two-year parts and labor warranty
Toshiba Window A/C
Cool up to 250 square feet with Toshiba’s quiet operation window air conditioner. It features quick and easy installation, a touch-control design and a filter-clean warning alarm.
- Output capacity: 6,000 BTUs
- Physical unit size: 18.5″ x 16.3″ x 13.4″
- Energy ratings: 11 EER
- Average running decibels: 54 decibels
- Specialized features: Four-way air circulation, digital controls and window heater option
Cost
- Unit price: $220
- Parts/repair cost: Repairs could cost up to $1,600 for condensate coils
- Maintenance needs: Clean the cabinet regularly and check the air filter once monthly
- Availability: Direct from big-box retailers
Warranty
- Limited one-year warranty
FAQs
What is the most energy-efficient window air conditioner?
According to Best Buy, the most energy-efficient window air conditioners are from Frigidaire. However, Home Depot lists LG as the most efficient manufacturer due to its ENERGY STAR qualifications. To determine which is the most energy-efficient air conditioner, look at the EER (energy efficiency ratio). Units with Energy Star qualifications must meet specific government energy efficiency criteria.
How many decibels is a quiet air conditioner?
You’ll find that, when an air conditioner is old, it’s noisier. That noise is measured in decibels. Air conditioners with sound levels of 55 decibels or lower are considered “quiet operation.” For comparison, think of how a new dishwasher sounds. Your new window air conditioner should be quieter than that.
