12 Quietest Window AC Of 2023 | Your Ultimate Guide
The Midea window AC is a smart air conditioner with a U-shaped design, DC inverter technology, and Energy Star rating. Similarly, the hOmeLabs window air conditioner features several cooling modes, a 24-hour timer, and is CSA, DOE, and CEC certified. When compared with portable air conditioners, window ACs are much more efficient and affordable. They […]
12 Quietest Window ACs
1. Midea Window Air Conditioner – Best Smart Window AC
- ULTRA QUIET - The Midea U Smart Inverter AC unit is 9 times...
- MORE THAN 35% ENERGY SAVINGS - With the advanced DC Inverter...
- Low noise
- Energy-efficient
- Voice activation
- Easy installation
- No heat pump valve
2. hOmeLabs Air Conditioner – Best Window AC With Multiple Cooling Modes
- Smart Control Air Conditioner – This WiFi enabled 6,000...
- Energy Star Efficiency - Higher energy efficiency offers...
- Smart controls
- Multiple certifications
- Multifunctional
- Quiet operation
- Slight smell after first use
3. TOSOT Window Air Conditioner – Best Option With Adjustable Air Vents
- MORE SILENT: With improved drainage outlet, a max noise...
- EFFICIENT COOLING: Cool your room fast with 8000 BTUs of...
- Energy star rating
- Adjustable air vents
- Easy installation
- Low noise operation
- Heavy
4. Haier Ultra Quiet Window Air Conditioner – Best Option For Small Rooms
- MAXIMUM COMFORT FOR SMALL ROOMS: Three fan speeds and four...
- ULTRA QUIET - This quiet air conditioner reaches sounds as...
- Multiple cooling modes
- Quiet operation
- Multifunctional
- Energy-efficient
- No voice controls
5. LG Dual Inverter Smart Window Air Conditioner – Best For Large Rooms
- Ultra Quiet Operation - Revolutionary DUAL Inverter...
- 25% More Energy Efficient - DUAL Inverter technology is up...
- Extremely efficient
- Powerful performance
- Voice assistant support
- Easily customizable controls
- Not very easy to install
6. Haier Window Air Conditioner – Best Option With LED Display
- 2016 energy star: 12.2 efficiency Ratio (EER)
- 6, 000 BTU room air conditioner for window-mounted...
- Multiple operation modes
- Button lock feature
- LED display
- Low noise operation
- Maintenance is complicated
7. GE Appliances Window Air Conditioner – Best Window AC For Dehumidification
- ULTRA QUIET - This quiet air conditioner reaches sounds as...
- SMART, EASY OPERATION: Integration with the SmartHQ app...
- Wifi enabled
- Energy-efficient
- Easy installation
- Multifunctional
- Setting up the app isn’t easy
8. Dreo Window Air Conditioner – Best Option With Variable Speed Feature
- Cools Large Rooms: Efficiently cools down your room or...
- Install in Minutes, Cool 4 Seasons: Thanks to its...
- Large cooling capacity
- Quick installation
- Low noise operation
- Faster cooling
- No smart features
9. Emerson Quiet Kool Window Air Conditioner – Best Option With Split Air Exhaust Vents
- Quiet Cooling: This 15,000 BTU window air conditioner...
- Smart Voice Control With Alexa and Google: This Wi-fi...
- Large cooling capacity
- Compatible with voice assistants
- Efficient operation
- Dual air exhaust vents
- Unclear installation instructions
10. KEYSTONE Window Air Conditioner – Best Air Conditioner With Heating Option
- HEAT/COOL AIR CONDITIONER: 18,500 BTU cooling capacity /...
- POWERFUL HEATING OPTION: Supplemental heat capability...
- Powerful cooling
- Heating option
- Easy installation
- Value for money
- No heat pump feature
11. Emerson Quiet Kool Window AC – Best Option With Washable Filter
- Quiet Cooling: This 6,000 BTU window air conditioner...
- Smart Voice Control with Alexa and Google: This Wi-fi...
- Works with smart assistants
- Energy Star certified
- Easy to maintain
- Washable filter
- Complicated Wifi setup
12. Acekool Smart Window Air Conditioner – Best Window AC For Single-Hung Windows
- ❄ Faster & Powerful Refrigerating: 8000 BTU Window...
- ❄ Smart Window Air Conditioner: The Acekool 8000 BTU smart...
- Removable and washable filter
- Wifi enabled
- Easy installation
- Energy-efficient operation
- No heat function
Comparison Of The Quietest Window ACs
| Quietest Window AC | Cooling power | Weight | Energy Star | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Midea Window AC | 12000 BTU | 58.9 lb. | Yes | Dust filter, fast cooling, dehumidifier |
| hOmeLabs AC | 6000 BTU | 44.4 lb. | Yes | 5 cooling modes |
| TOSOT Window AC | 8000 BTU | 62 lb. | Yes | Fast cooling |
| Haier Ultra Quiet Window AC | 6200 BTU | 56 lb. | Yes | Remote control |
| LG Dual Inverter Smart Window AC | 14000 BTU | 98 lb. | Yes | Auto-restart |
| Haier Window AC | 6000 BTU | 55.6 lb. | Yes | LED display |
| GE Appliances Window AC | 8300 BTU | 58 lb. | Yes | Remote control |
| Dreo Window AC | 8000 BTU | 62.7 lb. | Yes | Inverter compressor, dehumidifier, fast cooling |
| Emerson Quiet Kool Window AC | 15000 BTU | 119 lb. | No | Split air exhaust vents |
| KEYSTONE Window AC | 16000 BTU | 117 lb. | No | Heating |
| Emerson Quiet Kool Window AC | 6000 BTU | 44.5 lb. | Yes | Easy-access filter |
| Acekool Smart Window AC | 8000 BTU | 45.3 lb. | Yes | Google Assistant, Wi-Fi |
Buying Guide
Even after knowing about the quietest window air conditioners available, picking the right one from the list can still be confusing. Not only do the various options offer different features, but they are designed for specific requirements. That’s why it is important to consider certain factors, such as the cooling capacity, power requirements, price, etc. In this section, I’ve mentioned some of the most important factors to consider when selecting the quietest window air conditioner. These factors will help make it easier to determine the most suitable option.1. Cooling Capacity
The cooling capacity of air conditioners is measured in British Thermal Units or BTUs per hour. One BTU refers to the rate at which the temperature of one pound of water can be increased by one degree. This means an air conditioner with more BTUs has a larger cooling capacity and is more powerful. In general, window air conditioners have a larger cooling capacity than other types of air conditioners. However, it is crucial to select a unit with a BTU level suitable for the room where it is to be installed for the best cooling. Installing a window air conditioner that does not have enough cooling power (BTUs) to cool the space will force it to run continuously. This will result in higher power bills and lead to faster wearing out of the AC components as well as a reduction in the lifespan of the unit. Cooling will also take much longer, and the noise levels will increase as the unit struggles to function properly. But getting the quietest window air conditioner with the largest cooling capacity is also not a great idea. A window air conditioner with a much bigger cooling capacity than is required for the room will cause uneven cooling. It will also result in the AC turning on and off repeatedly, which can lead to more power consumption. In such cases, you may find some areas of the room to be uncomfortably humid despite the air conditioner being operational. That is why I recommend determining the cooling requirements for the room before deciding on the AC unit.2. Durability
Window air conditioners require considerable investment, so finding an option that won’t break down quickly and can last for a long time is crucial. Keep in mind that the major portion of a window air conditioner remains outside the window where it is installed and is exposed to the elements. So, it should be sturdy enough to withstand the most extreme weather conditions. Going with reputable brands when looking for quiet window air conditioners is one way to ensure you get a reliable option. Such brands have been in the industry for a long time and have built their reputation by providing high-quality, durable products. However, that does not mean you should not look at other options. Finding a sturdy window air conditioner from a relatively new brand is also possible. Alternatively, there have been instances where products from established brands have failed to meet the standards of durability expected from them. So, the best method of ensuring you can find a durable window air conditioner is to check out the customer reviews of different options. Customers who have used the air conditioner you are considering will be able to provide first-hand information regarding its durability and performance.3. The Installation Process
Another factor to consider when searching for the quietest window air conditioner is the ease of installation. Easy installation goes a long way in ensuring a good user experience and helps avoid spending more on a professional service. The opposite is also true, and if installation is complicated, it can ruin the experience, even if you have the best window air conditioner. Most window air conditioners are compatible with double-hung windows, while a few can even be installed in single-hung ones. Then, there are some that come with special mounting hardware for wall installations, depending on the brand and type of unit. When choosing between various quiet window air conditioners, try to find out about the installation process. In many cases, window air conditioners can be installed easily without the help of professional installation services, but this may not always be the case. Window AC units with mounting hardware allow you to install the air conditioner even if its dimensions are incompatible with the window. But it is a good idea to take the measurement of your window first, especially its width. Then, check the specs of the window air conditioner to find out the maximum and minimum width required for installation. The unit doesn’t have to be an exact fit since window AC units generally come with a window installation kit. These include side curtains that can seal off any gaps on the sides of the window air conditioner. If you plan to install the window AC unit through the wall, first, make sure it supports such an installation and comes with a proper kit for the purpose. Check the owner’s manual to see whether clear installation instructions have been provided.4. Power Requirements
Since window AC units are the most powerful when it comes to air conditioners, they require more power. That is why they do not run on standard electrical circuits present in most homes and require special circuits with higher capacities. What type of circuit you need for installing a quiet window air conditioner will depend on its cooling capacity. Usually, window air conditioners require 115V, 125V, or 125V electrical circuits. A window AC unit with a cooling capacity of less than 15,000 BTU can be installed on a 115 to 125V circuit, which is found in most residential structures. However, when installing quiet window air conditioners with a capacity of over 15,000 BTUs, you will need a circuit with 220V or higher. Such units will also require special wiring, and you may need to hire an electrician to get them installed. You can find the power requirements by reviewing the specifications on the product page. This will also provide information regarding the correct plug type required for the window AC unit, another important aspect of the installation process.5. Energy Efficiency
Window air conditioners are great for reducing power consumption and saving energy. But how much energy you can save will depend on various factors. These include the size of the window AC unit, the Energy Star rating, the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio or SEER, and the Energy Efficiency Ratio or EER. Going with an Energy Star-rated option will provide a better experience when searching for quiet window air conditioners. Most of the window AC units that I’ve mentioned above come with this rating, and these usually consume around ten percent less energy than those without an Energy Star rating. Then there is the EER, which lets you know the number of BTUs used by the quiet air conditioner for one watt of power. Window AC units that have a higher EER are more energy efficient. The US Department Of Energy recommends using a window air conditioner with an EER of at least 10.0 for optimal performance and maximum energy savings.6. Additional Features
Most modern window air conditioners have several features and can do more than just cool your room. They often perform functions such as heating the room and getting rid of humidity, eliminating the need to use separate appliances for such purposes. Such functions are usually available in the case of reversible window air conditioners. If you’re living somewhere that experiences extreme summers and winters, a reversible quiet window air conditioner can be a good choice. You can use it for cooling during the summer and as a central heating unit in winter. Reversible window AC units operate by reversing the refrigerant flow so that it works as an evaporator and condenser simultaneously. For that purpose, they have a heat pump with a reversing four-way heat valve. So, they can help maintain an optimal temperature without requiring separate appliances for heating and cooling. And besides saving on a separate heater, you will have greater savings since heat pumps do not require as much power as a regular heater. There is also less impact of such window air conditioners on the environment, and the noise levels are lower.7. Maintenance
While window air conditioners have a longer lifespan than portable ones, they require proper maintenance to keep them in good condition. Since the larger portion of a window air conditioner remains outside the window, it is always exposed to the elements. Dust and dirt can easily find their way into the chassis of the unit. When dust particles accumulate on the air filter of the window air conditioner, they can restrict airflow and reduce the operating efficiency of your AC. To prevent that from happening, it is important to clean the chassis at least once a year. I recommend searching for the quietest window air conditioner with a slide-out chassis, which can make maintenance very easy. Additionally, look for options with washable air filters since you just need soap and water to clean them. You may also consider looking for window air conditioners that have features like mosquito nets that can prevent insects from entering your home.8. Noise Levels
It should be obvious that the operational noise levels of a window air conditioner are among the most important factors to consider when looking for the quietest window air conditioner. If you get disturbed even by the slightest noise, selecting the wrong air conditioner can make for an unpleasant experience. While it is possible to reduce the noise produced by most window air conditioners, opting for an option that makes less noise is better. To do so, compare various options and check the specs sheet to determine the operational noise levels. High-end options generally offer multiple cooling and fan speeds, which can determine the noise produced. Running your window air conditioner at lower speeds can reduce the noise produced significantly. Additionally, features like digital thermostats and timers can be very helpful in ensuring that the unit only turns on when the temperature is uncomfortably high. Also, besides ensuring that your window air conditioner works properly, proper installation can help reduce the noise produced. Loose components and parts like side panels and gaskets can make even the quietest window air conditioners noisy. So, check that the gaps are filled with foam, and mounting parts are tightly secured. Finally, regular maintenance will help prevent the airways and fan blades from getting clogged with dirt. Dirt can damage the bearings and lead to noise.9. Budget
In most cases, the budget will determine which option to choose when looking for the quietest window air conditioner. You may find that a particular option is too costly, but before making a decision, compare the pricing with other similar options and the features they offer. Alternatively, if you find a good option, consider looking at different companies, as some may be offering the same unit at a lower cost. Going with an established brand might help find a reliable option quickly, but it may be costlier than one from a relatively newer one. Also, you might get better support and overall experience when dealing with a well-known brand. But some newer brands may offer a similar product and good service at a lower cost.Silent Window AC FAQs
Window air conditioners are the simplest of all AC systems and use two air cycles to function – the room air cycle and the hot air cycle. There is an insulated partition within the chassis of a window air conditioner that separates the room air and hot air compartments.
In addition, a window AC has condenser and evaporator coils, a compressor, a thermostat, a filter, a blower, and fans. A fan within the unit cools the room by blowing hot air over the evaporator, while another fan outside keeps the condenser cool.
A. Room Air Cycle
The air inside the room where your window air conditioner is located is called room air. When the unit is turned on, the blower starts up, followed by the compressor, which starts cooling the evaporator or cooling coil. The blower, which is present behind the evaporator coil, starts pulling in hot room air along with dust and dirt particles.
This air passes through the filter, which separates the dust particles and prevents them from passing through. After going through the air filter, the air passes over the cooling or evaporator coil. The temperature of this coil is considerably lower than that of the room air, which allows the refrigerant inside the coil to absorb heat from the air.
As the temperature drops, moisture condenses on the surfaces of the cooling coil to form dew, as the dew point of the air is higher than the coil temperature. Dew formation reduces the moisture from the air, eliminating humidity from the room.
This air, which has low temperature and low humidity values, is pulled in by the blower and pushed out at high velocity into the room through a metal duct. It comes out from the front panel of the window air conditioner and helps keep the room cold and humidity-free.
However, the air within the room has a higher temperature and contains moisture, which is absorbed by the cool air that comes out from the AC. This makes the air hotter, so it gets pulled back into the window air conditioner, and the cycle continues.
B. Hot Air Cycle
The hot air cycle uses atmospheric air to cool the condenser, which is that component of window air conditioners that remains outside the room. It has a propeller fan that pulls in the outside air, which has a high temperature and passes it over the condenser.
When this air passes over the condenser, it absorbs heat from the refrigerant, which is present inside the condenser and has a high temperature. This further increases the atmospheric air temperature, which can be felt at the back of the unit.
The refrigerant becomes cooler once the atmospheric air absorbs heat from it, allowing it to enter the expansion valve. Once there, it passes to the evaporator coil while the hot external air enters the atmosphere. Again, fresh air is pulled by the propeller fan and passes over the condenser, allowing the cycle to continue.
There can be several reasons why your window air conditioner is making noise, such as:
- Defective Or Broken Fans
Loose, broken, or bent fans or fans with dirty blades are among the most common causes of noise in a window air conditioner. If your window AC is making banging or rattling noises, defective fans are the most likely cause.
- Improperly Lubricated Fan Motor
If the fan motor of your window air conditioner is not lubricated properly, it can make screeching noises when the AC is turned on. You can get a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technician to take a look at the problem in that case.
- Compressor Operating At An Extremely High Temperature
Sometimes, when the compressor of your window air conditioner is operating at an extremely high temperature, it can lead to a pressure buildup. In such cases, you may hear a screaming or hissing sound coming from the air conditioner.
- Damaged Or Broken Coil Fins
Another reason for a noisy window air conditioner may be dirty or bent coil fins. They may need to be cleaned and straightened if that is the problem.
- Buildup of Dust
The chances of dirt and debris buildup in window units are quite high since the larger portion of such units remains outside the window. If too much dust accumulates within the chassis, you may hear a humming sound when the AC is turned on.
- Refrigerant Leak
Refrigerant leaks can result in a gurgling or hissing sound, and it is crucial to resolve the issue as soon as possible as it can cause health issues like poisoning.
- Loose Screws
When window air conditioner units are operational, their vibration can cause the screws of internal components to become loose. This can lead to a rattling noise when the appliance is switched on.
- Incorrect Amperage Or Faulty Power Cord
If the power cord of your silent window air conditioner is damaged or worn out, you may hear a buzzing sound. This sound can also be heard if the unit is plugged into the wrong power outlet.
If you’re having difficulty looking for the quietest window air conditioner, try out these steps to make your noisy window air conditioner quieter.
- Make Sure The Unit Is Installed Correctly
Check that the window air conditioner sits properly on the window sill and there are no gaps. In case there are, use putty or caulk and fasteners to seal them up and prevent the passage of air. This can help make the unit more effective and help reduce noise.
- Place A Rug Below The Window AC
A rug can be very effective in absorbing the reverberating noise produced by the motor of the air conditioner while it is running.
- Cover The Air Conditioner With A Blanket
Covering the AC unit with a blanket can also help absorb vibrations from the AC motor. But when doing so, make sure not to cover the outlets and vents from where the air blows out.
- Ensure Proper Insulation
If the building insulation is damaged or worn out, it can allow sound waves to pass through easily. So, make sure to replace any torn insulation and use moisture-resistant material for the purpose.
- Check The Internal Components Of The AC
Taking a look at the internal components of the window air conditioner can help identify the cause of the noise, making it easier to come up with a solution. For instance, the fan blades may be bent and cause noise by hitting the front grille. Or nuts, bolts, and screws may have become loose and may need to be tightened.
- Avoid Running The Unit At Maximum Power
Even if you run the quietest window air conditioner at maximum power all the time, it may start to make some noise. So, avoid doing that and, instead, search for ways by which the unit can function more effectively at lower power levels. You can create a temporary awning above it or place it in a more shaded area.
As I mentioned before, when it comes to installing air conditioners, window units are the best choice. They do not require any special skill or expertise and can be installed without the help of professionals. You just need to remember a few things when installing quiet window air conditioners.
Firstly, make sure to select an option that fits your window properly, as window AC units are available in various sizes. Most window air conditioners are compatible with double-hung windows, though some may also be compatible with single-hung ones. You can find out the dimensions of the air conditioner on the specs page.
Selecting the right option will make installation easier since it will ensure that the unit fits properly into the window without leaving any gaps for air to pass through. This also means that you won’t have to put in additional effort to seal the gaps using insulation and other materials.
Another thing to keep in mind is the weight. Window air conditioners are quite heavy, and picking them up and placing them in the window can be a bit difficult. I recommend asking friends or family members to help when doing that to avoid accidents and injuries.
Finally, make sure to install the unit on a circuit that can support it, as window air conditioners with a larger cooling capacity require more powerful circuits.
Regular cleaning can help your quiet window air conditioner last longer and operate more efficiently and noiselessly. To get started, you will require a few things, most of which may be present at home or can be bought from the nearby home supply store.
Items Needed
- Vacuum with hand attachment
- Warm water
- Detergent or soap
- Toothbrush
- Bristle brush
- Cloth or rag
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Can of compressed air
A. Cleaning The Air Filter
Make sure to disconnect the window air conditioner from the power source before you start cleaning. Usually, this will require removing the front panel first, though some units have filters that can be simply pulled out. Check the owner’s manual to find out how to remove the air filter from the unit.
Once the filter is removed, use a vacuum with a hand attachment to remove the dust accumulated on it. Then, use soapy water to wash the filter and scrub it using the bristle brush. Let the filter dry completely before you reinstall it.
B. Cleaning The Coils
After removing the front panel, locate the evaporator coils and gently wipe them clean with a toothbrush. Do the same with the fins present on the coils but make sure to be very careful as these can easily get damaged. Once done, blow compressed air onto the coils and fins to remove any remaining dust.
C. Cleaning The Exterior
Use a damp rag or cleaning cloth to wipe the exterior panel of the air conditioner. If it has become extremely dirty, remove it and submerge it in water containing soap and use a rag or a brush to clean it. Let the panel dry properly before reinstalling.
After you finish cleaning the grille, use the cloth to wipe the sides and the top of the window air conditioner. Also, empty the plastic or metal drip tray, if present, and wipe it clean.
D. Preventing Mold Growth
To prevent mold growth, you can put some hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle and spray it on the exterior of the window AC. Allow ample time for all the parts to dry before placing them back and plugging in the air conditioner.
