When you live in a small flat or want to cool only a single room, you can choose to use a window AC unit and not a full home-unit.
Not only that, it’s a cheaper solution than the traditional ones, but these products occupy less space.
But what happens when you have a small window? Luckily, now there are many models of air conditioner for small windows, which are designed specifically for this purpose. This means that they are compact but powerful.
I’ve tested multiple products, and in the end, I managed to pick 10 of the best small window air conditioners available on the market in 2020.
However, before moving on to the actual talk about these products, I want to be sure that you understand all the terms that will be presented in this article.
You will encounter many times the term BTU. So, if your science knowledge is not the strongest one, let me tell you that BTU stands for British Thermal Unit and it describes the quantity of heat energy that is moved around. To simplify this definition, I will say this: the bigger the BTU is, the powerful your AC device is.
However, if your room is very tiny, you won’t need a device that has the highest BTU. My advice to you is to calculate your own required power before making any purchase. You can do this by using an online calculator.
I will present all kinds of small window ac units, so you can be sure you will find one with the right amount of BTU for your needs. So, let’s start!
Best Small Window Air Conditioners Comparision Table:
Before moving to the actual review, I invite you to read this comparison chart. Not only will it help you see the differences between products, but you will be able to pick a few favorites from the start.
| Image | Product | BTU | Dimensions | Weight | Warranty | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | TOSOT 10,000 BTU | 10000 | 27.6 x 22.9 x 17.6 inches | 74.2 pounds | n/a | Check On Amazon |
 | LG LW6017R | 6000 | 14.4 x 17.3 x 11.1 inches | 39.6 pounds | 1 Year Limited | Check On Amazon |
 | MIDEA MAW08R1BWT | 8000 | 16 x 18.5 x 13.4 inches | 54 pounds | 1 Full Year | Check On Amazon |
 | Frigidaire FFRA1022R1 | 10000 | 21.5 x 19 x 14.5 inches | 60 pounds | 2 Years Limited | Check On Amazon |
 | GE AEM10AX | 5200 | 24.5 x 22.8 x 17.5 inches | 50 pounds | n/a | Check On Amazon |
 | Frigidaire FFRE0833Q1 | 8000 | 15.5 x 18.5 x 13.4 inches | 47 pounds | 2 Years Limited | Check On Amazon |
 | Haier ESAQ406P | 6050 | 21.2 x 9 x 12.4 inches | 55.6 pounds | 1 Year Limited | Check On Amazon |
 | Friedrich Chill CP06G10B | 6000 | 20.9 x 18.4 x 14 inches | 60 pounds | 5 Years Limited | Check On Amazon |
 | Frigidaire FFRE0533S1 Mini-Compact | 5000 | 15.2 x 16 x 12 inches | 42 pounds | 2 Years Limited | Check On Amazon |
 | SPT WA-1222S | 12000 | 20.9 x 19.7 x 14.8 inches | 68 pounds | 1 Full Year | Check On Amazon |
Now you have some preliminary data regarding the tiny window air conditioners that are to be discussed. So, let’s find out what are the pluses and minuses of each and every one of them.
Best Smallest Window Air Conditioners For Small Windows Reviews:
#1 TOSOT 10,000 BTU
The first product I want to present is a very powerful one from TOSOT. With a 10,000, it is recommended for spaces that are up to 450 sq. ft.
It has a very minimalistic and modern that will suit any possible room decoration.
Probably one of the best things about this small window ac unit is that it actually incorporates three tools. This means that the TOSOT model, not only works as a window air conditioner, but also as a fan-only device and as a dehumidifying one.
What differences this device from other competitors is its way of controlling the temperature in the room. Usually, these types of products come with the thermostat connected directly to the unit.
TOSOT realized that people want to start/stop the cooling depending on how the temperature is around them and not how it is by the window. So, what they did was to create a remote with thermostat included.
Last, but not least, TOSOT is one of the best smallest air conditioners for Energy-Star rated. This means that this product will save you electricity money and will also be better for the planet.
- Energy-Star rated;
- It is a 3-in-1 device;
- Easy to control temperature due to its portable thermostat.
- Doesn’t show the best results in rooms with high ceilings;
- It is kind of noisy.
#2 LG LW6017R 6,000 BTU
If you are looking for a smallest window air conditioning unit for smaller rooms, you should also look into the LG LW6017R. It has 6,000 BTU, and it is perfect for rooms up to 260 sq. ft.
It comes with three cooling speeds and an auto-cool function for better cooling flexibility. As a plus, it can also be used as a dehumidification device. It will remove up to 1.8 pints/hour.
As design stands, it is a compact ac unit, so there aren’t many things to say here. However, I will mention its coating that is made from an LG patented anti-corrosion material that will guarantee that the device will have a longer life.
The last thing I want to say about the LG LW6017R is that it comes with an installation kit when you order it, so the setup should be very easy to do.
- Made from an anti-corrosion material;
- Has 3 cooling speeds;
- It comes with a remote.
- This small ac unit is suited only for small rooms.
#3 MIDEA MAW08R1BWT
The next product I want to talk about is the MIDEA MAW08R1BWT. I will start by saying that this product can actually be used for three purposes: air conditioner, just as a fan, and for dehumidification.
Due to its power, this smallest 8000 BTU air conditioner is recommended for rooms up to 350 sq. feet.
It is very easy to install. You don’t need to make any notable modifications to your window frame. Also, you receive all the mounting accessories you will need. However, be sure to have a screwdriver nearby.
The MIDEA MAW08R1BWT has a very nice design that also includes an LED display that has three modes: a timer mode, an energy saver mode, and a sleep mode.
For easy control over the window air conditioning unit, you also receive a remote control.
You might not know this, but Midea is actually the biggest provider of air conditioning devices, so the warranty you receive when buying it is available worldwide.
- It has a great price;
- Is a 3-in-1 product;
- It has a great worldwide warranty;
- It comes with an energy saver mode.
- It is kind of noisy.
#4 Frigidaire FFRA1022R1 10000 BTU
The next on the list is a device suited for rooms up to 450 sq. ft from Frigidaire. Their FFRA1022R1 model is a 10,000 BTU compact window ac unit that uses standard 115V electrical outlets.
However, you can also use it as a dehumidification machine (can remove up to 2.7 pints per hour).
When you order it, you will also receive a window mounting kit that will ensure an easy installation.
It has multiple speeds, electronic control, and of course, a remote control.
The FFRA1022R1 model is a multi-mode one. It has an energy save mode, a sleep mode, and even an auto cool one.
Probably one of the things that make it be among the best smallest window air conditioners is its 8-way air direction.
Another worth mentioning feature is its washable mesh filter that comes with a check filter alert.
At a certification level, this AC is not ENERGY STAR Certified. However, it has the UL/CUL (SA11087) Safety Certification.
- It has an 8-way air direction;
- It can be used for dehumidification purposes as well;
- Suits bigger rooms;
- It has a washable filter.
- It is not energy star certified.
#5 GE AEM10AX 22-inches
The GE AEM10AX is a product for small windows that is Energy Star Certified. It is 5200 BTU; therefore, it is suited for very small rooms.
It has three speeds for both cooling and fan. These are controlled with the help of a digital thermostat and also of remote control. The last one will let you manage the temperature from anywhere in the room.
For a comfortable room cooling, the AC has a 4-way adjustable air direction. Also, you can program it to turn on/off at any time with the aid of the 24-hour timer.
The great part of the GE AEM10AX model is that it comes with removable and washable filters. This will not only be very good for the environment, but it will also decrease your expenses.
The mounting recommendations are for windows that are 22.5 to 38 inches wide and 13.5 inches high.
- It is Energy Star Certified;
- It has washable and reusable filters;
- It can be programmed to turn on or off.
- It is a little bit noisy.
#6 Frigidaire A/C/FFRE0833Q1 – 8000 BTU
Another device from Frigidaire that I want to talk about is their FFRE0833Q1. With an 8,000 BTU, it is great for cooling rooms up to 350 sq. ft.
This smallest window air conditioner doesn’t require too much electrical power to start and stop, making it perfect for people who care about energy savings. This will not only save you money but will also help the environment.
Its electronic controls let you select the temperature to match your needs and preferences easily. You don’t have to guess the temperature, because its display always shows it.
The FFRE0833Q1 has a feature known as “Quick Cool and Quick Warm” that will let you speed up the fan as you please.
You can program your machine to start and stop whenever you want with the help of its 24-hour timer. Keep in mind that its remote control also works like a thermostat and is not used only for setups.
The last feature that I want to mention is its “Clean Air Ionizer” that removes pollens and other impurities from the room, making the air you breathe better.
- It has 8-way comfort control;
- It has a clean filter alert;
- Comes with a sleep mode;
- It also purifies the air.
- It is loud;
- It is heavy.
#7 Haier ESAQ406P Serenity Series 6050
I’ve spoken only of tiny window air conditioners that are kind of noisy, so let me present you not just any silent product, but actually the quietest one there is on the market.
The Haier ESAQ406P air conditioning unit operates at 43 decibels. This represents 9db quieter than the other models. All this is possible due to its compressor blanket that reduces noise.
However, the noise it makes is not is solely quality. It is also Energy Star Certified, meaning that not only will it help the environment, but you will also save money.
This small ac unit has a cross flow fan that allows it to release a stronger and smoother airflow. Due to its 6050 BTU, it is perfect for any room up to 250 sq. ft.
Just as you imagined, the Haier ESAQ406P comes with a remote control that will help you set the temperature the way you want.
- It has 4 modes: cool mode, fan mode, energy saver mode, and dehumidification mode;
- Incredible silent;
- Energy Star Certified.
- It can be considered expensive.
#8 Friedrich Chill CP06G10B 6000 BTU
Friedrich Chill CP06G10B is also an Energy Star certified small window ac unit. With its 6000 BTU, it works great for any 250 sq. ft. rooms. It circulates 200 cubic ft of air per minute.
The device comes with three speeds for cooling and fan-only modes. Also, it has a feature called “Auto-Air Sweep” that permits a better air distribution.
It has a very pretty white design that will suit any room decoration and is a very silent model. Speaking of its appearance, the product also comes with a set of expendable side curtains, but also an anti-intrusion protection system known as EntryGard.
The Friedrich Chill CP06G10B window air conditioning unit allows you to program it in advance for the next 24 hours.
It is very easy to install and find an outlet for it because its power cord can be turned either to the left or right of the front unit, depending on your needs.
Lastly, its filters are washable and reusable, so you don’t have to worry about buying new ones.
- It has an anti-intrusion protection system;
- Has 3 speeds;
- Great warranty;
- Energy Star Certified;
- Washable and reusable filters.
- It doesn’t have the best customer support.
#9 Frigidaire FFRE0533S1 5,000 BTU
The last Frigidaire model that I want to talk about today is the FFRE0533S1. With its 5000 BTU, this mini ac window unit is great for very small rooms (up to 150 sq. ft.)
It received the Energy Star Certification in 2016 due to its 12.2 EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio). However, it is not the only thing worth mentioning in this sector because it also has the UL/CUL (SA11087) Safety Certification.
The Frigidaire FFRE0533S1 model, which we think is one the best smallest window air conditioners, comes with a remote control that will let you set the temperature just as you want. You can direct the cool air as needed due to its 4-way air direction.
It can also be used for dehumidification purposes (it can remove 1.1 pints per hour.)
The device comes with washable filters, so all you have to do is to take them, wash them, and leave them to dry.
It suits perfectly on windows that have a 23 inches – 36 inches width and 13 inches high.
- It is Energy Star Certified;
- It has the UL/CUL (SA11087) Safety Certification;
- It has 4-way air direction;
- Good value for money;
- It has washable filters;
- It makes a bigger noise than others.
#10 SPT WA-1222S 12,000BTU
I’ve left this model to be the last because it is the most powerful one suited for small windows. With an impressive 12000 BTU, the SPT WA-1222S has three fan speeds and four modes: a dry mode, an auto mode, an energy saver mode, and a sleep mode.
Due to one of its features called the Fresh Air Vent, not only it circulates the air, but it also removes any smells.
It has every important certification, such as the Energy Star Certification and the UL Safety Approval.
The SPT WA-1222S model has a thermostat that will not only measure your room temperature but which is also set up in a way that will save energy.
You can easily control the device with the help of its remote control, and you can see in real-time the room’s temperature due to its digital display.
Of course, you can also work around the settings and tell your window ac unit when to start and stop in the following 24-hours window.
When you order this product, you also receive a window installation kit.
- It has a flexible window mount;
- It has an Energy Star Certification;
- It is UL Safety Approval;
- It is suited for bigger rooms.
- It is noisy;
- Can be considered expensive.
Best Smallest Window Air Conditioners For Small Windows Buying Guide
What you Need to Consider when Buying an Air Conditioner for Small Windows
As you can see, there are so many wonderful models of air conditioners for small windows. So, how can you be sure you picked the correct one for your needs?
This is why I created this buying guide section that will teach you exactly what to look for in an air conditioner device. So, get yourself a comfortable place and check all the vital features that you should read about.
1. Room’s Characteristics
As I previously told you, the power of the air conditioners is measured in BTUs, and depending on how big or small your room is, you should pick a device with that will have just the correct power to cool it.
Yes, there are online calculators that will help you to find out what your room needs with just a few clicks. However, if you want to get a quick idea of what you should look into, I will make a short correlation between the room’s size and the air conditioner’s power.
- A room between 150 – 350 sq ft. will need a device with 5,000 – 8,000 BTU;
- A room between 350 – 550 sq ft. will need a device with 8,000 – 12,000 BTU;
- A room between 550 – 1,050 sq ft. will need a device with 12,000 – 18,500 BTU;
- A room between 1,050 to 1,600 sq ft. will need a device with 18,500 – 25,000 BTU.
To know the correct size of the room all you have to do is to measure its length and width and them multiply them
However, you should not make a purchase solely thinking of the BTU table. Think of other aspects as well, such as the room’s height, or people living in the room. Here are some extra suggestions:
- If the sun doesn’t light the room too much, reduce the AC’s capacity by 10%;
- If you don’t have too much shade in the room, increase the AC’s capacity by 10%;
- If there are more than two people on a regular basis in the room, then increase the AC’s capacity with 600 BTU for every extra person;
- If you are using the device in the kitchen, you will need to increase the AC’s capacity with 4000 BTU.
2. The structure and materials used for your home
An extra factor to think about is the quality and the materials used when building your walls and windows.
As an example, buildings that have older kinds of brick will absorb heat and maintain hotter air, unlike the newer condos that have special chemical compounds in the walls and that also use a paint that is meant to reflect heat.
If you know all these aspects, you will be able to invest in the correct small window ac unit for your house.
3. Warranty
I know that you don’t want to think of the situation of the air conditioner machine breaking before you even making a purchase. However, the warranty is an important factor, and some products offer better warranties than others.
So, be sure and look into this aspect as well.
4. Certifications
This is not a must, but I do recommend you to look into products that have a UL Safety Approval and are also Energy Star Certified.
These products are made using better insulating components and also have more precise guidelines that will help guarantee that you get a good seal throughout the unit, reducing leak possibilities.
Also, they will consume less electricity making it better for your bank accounts and also for the planet.
5. Features
Usually, the important features will be available in most small window air conditioners. However, there are a few you should look into more carefully.
Timer:
Basically, almost all models come with a timer that will show when the device on or off. Also, it will let you make an on/off schedule for a 24-hour window. This way, you can save energy and turn in on only when you need it to cool the air.
Sleep mode:
This feature allows you to raise the temperature in the room gradually when sleeping. This means that you will be able to fall asleep at a lower temperature and have the comfort of a higher one during the night. This will also reduce the noise level to low, giving you better sleep quality.
Remote control:
I actually don’t think that there is a model that doesn’t come with remote control. The difference between them is given by what that remote knows to do.
For example, for some models, the remote control will just start and stop the device, while others will also play the thermostat role.
Filters:
The filters are extremely important. Not only that, but some of them are also washable and removable, but they are also able to pick up pollutants from the room and keep air purer.
Also, some models have an alert that will let you know that the filters need to be washed or changed.
Multiple Functions:
Some air conditioning units also have other purposes. For example, some of them work as simple fans or as de-humidification tools.
6. Noise
This is a very important aspect to consider, especially if you have a light sleep or small children. A loud air conditioner can ruin your nights just as much as heat. So, a low profile ac unit can do the job if you have children in the house.
This being said, check for the decibel level before buying a device.
7. Cost
After you will check all of these characteristics, check your wallet and see how much you can afford to pay for a tiny window air conditioner.
The prices for them can be in the three digits to 4 digits price range.
How To Proper Install an Air Conditioner for Small Windows
Most of the air conditioners come with an installation kit that will tell you the steps you need to take to install it.
Everything should be pretty easy to handle, but if you have never used a screwdriver in your life, you should better read the next section because it will come in very handy.
1. Steps you need to take before the actual setup
Before actually installing the air conditioners, there are some aspects that you need to take into consideration.
- If your room has multiple windows, I recommend you to pick the one that has the most shade. This way, the unit will work better. If you just have one window and is a sunny one, then ignore this part.
- Look for a power outlet near the window. You will need it in order to plug-in the air conditioning unit. If you don’t have an outlet close, just prepare an extension cord.
- Check if your outlet fits with the plugin cord of the unit. Almost every country has a different type. If it is different, just buy an adaptor.
2. Prepare your window
Be sure that your window doesn’t have any damage, and it is in good condition. Mark, it’s a center. This will guarantee that the flanked panels reach all the windows in an equal mode.
After you finish this, adjust the panels that you receive along with the air conditioner package. Be sure you put them in the correct places. Arrange them to secure that they fit exactly in the right place, then secure them with screws. Double-check to see if you have tightened the screws just enough to prevent the unit from collapsing or shaking.
3. Mount the unit
Usually, these products are lightweight and can be managed by a single person. However, I recommend you to find another set of hands to come to your help. You want your window ac unit to be balanced and stable.
The first thing you need to do is to open your window. Once this is done, lift the AC into the window and hold it still.
When it is located in its proper place, shut the window on the top, but be sure that the big part of the unit hangs on the outside part of the room. Close the window to keep the device tightened and stop it from falling.
4. Screw its panels and brackets
At this moment, you have finished the most difficult part of the installation. Now, all you have to do is to secure your small air conditioner system in place. To do this, you will need to screw its brackets and panels tightly to keep it from dancing around or even falling.
A/C Maintenance
Just as all air conditioner models, the window ones also will require some regular service before the hot weather hits. There are some parts that will require a professional inspection, such as voltage inspection, the examination of drainage line, or checking the level of refrigerant.
Also, a technician will examine the motor and the thermostat to be sure the air conditioning unit will work properly when the time comes, and you need to cool down your room.
However, there are also parts that you can and should do if you want your device to work and to pay less for the annual professional inspection. These being said, let’s see what you can do to help your air conditioner to live a longer and better life.
When you have a big air conditioner unit, there are many steps you need to take in order to provide better maintenance. You will need to check both the inside and the outside parts to ensure everything is in order.
Luckily, carrying this task on window a/c units is far more straightforward and easy because, first of all, there are fewer parts involved.
DIY Maintenance
To begin with, you will need to unplug the unit. You don’t want any electrical accidents to occur while doing this maneuver.
The next thing you have to do is to remove the front plate and clean the coils. I recommend you to use a soft brush attachment from your vacuum cleaner.
Even if you vacuum the coils, I guarantee that they also need some deeper cleaning. So, what I recommend is to fill a spray bottle with the cleaning solution you prefer using, spray the front coils really well, and then use a clean cloth to remove the dirt. If the coils are really dirty, you can let them soak for a few minutes.
Repeat the same process for the fan, but be careful you don’t spill water on the electronic parts and the control unit.
Keep in mind that your unit’s coil fins can get twisted very easily, and this will lead to intense problems. The good part is that these fins can be repaired with a fin comb.
Once this is done, you need to do what I consider to be the nasties part. You have to check the drain pan for possible rust, algae, or any blockage. If any, remove them.
The last step includes filter checking. So, take the filter out. This should not be a difficult task, so if you feel like doing something hard, you probably are doing it wrong; therefore, you should stop not to damage anything. Check out the instruction manual and see how it’s done.
Once you’ve taken the filter out, give it an inspection. If it’s really damaged, throw it away and buy a new one. However, if it’s only dirty, then you can wash it using water and a soft brush.
Leave it dry completely before putting it back on.
Even if you completely change the filters and you don’t wash them, I still recommend you to let the unit rest for at least 24 hours before you start using it again.
This way, you will be sure that the coils and the fan are completely dried, and no water is left inside.
Why is it Important to Clean your A/C Unit?
Many people don’t know this, but cleaning your window AC unit will not only make it work better and live longer, but it will also prevent the growth of very nasty bacteria that can do you a lot of harm.
You might say that it is a very cold environment and bacteria cannot live there. You couldn’t be farther from the truth.
For example, for Legionella, an air conditioner unit is the perfect place to live. This microorganism is very happy with the cold, watery environment.
Therefore, if you don’t clean your unit frequently, you might find yourself a very nasty roommate that can give you very bad pneumonia.
Also, if the fear of getting sick doesn’t convince you, let me tell you that a clean window AC device will also save you money. This is true because the heat transfer that takes place in the unit will be able to happen faster in a clean product than in a clogged and dirty one. This means that less electricity will be required, hence fewer bills to pay.
In Conclusion To Smallest Window Air Conditioners For Small Windows
It was a long article, but I hope that I was able to offer you all the information that you were looking for the best smallest window air conditioners. To make a recap, I will say this:
- If you are looking for the most powerful model then you should pick the SPT WA-1222S;
- If you want the quietest model, then you should pick the Haier ESAQ406P;
- If you want the AC with the best warranty, you should choose the Midea MAW08R1BWT.
Of course, the other products are also amazing, and most probably you will be happy with either one.
I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences related to the air conditioner for small windows subject, so don’t hesitate to leave a comment. Also, feel free to share this post with your friends.