After extensive testing, my top pick is the Frigidaire Window-Mounted Room Air Conditioner because of its ability to cool a 300 square feet room quickly and efficiently. Even the Midea AC and SereneLife AC are reliable options for cooling small to medium-sized spaces.
The perfect air conditioner is energy efficient, operates quietly, has a high cooling capacity, and is affordably priced.
But do all air conditioners on the market fit this description? Certainly not! And finding energy efficiency 8000 BTU (British Thermal Units) air conditioners among the zillions of AC units is tricky.
To save you from investing in the wrong AC unit, I bring to you the 15 tried-and-tested 8000 BTU ACs. Dive in!
Best 8000 BTU Air Conditioner Review
What we like
- Energy star-rated
- Doubles as a dehumidifier
- Easy-to-clean washable filter
- One-year warranty
Having been in the industry for more than a century, Frigidaire is known for pumping out premium-quality home electronic products. And its window-mounted room air conditioner is no exception.
On this window air conditioner, you can adjust the fan speed to 3 different settings to cool the room quickly and efficiently. In addition to that is the programmable timer integrated into the air conditioning unit that allows homeowners to turn it on or off in half-hour intervals for energy savings.
What’s more, this window AC unit maintains the preset temperature in every cycle, so you can rest assured that your space will remain comfortable. And if you like catnapping in the afternoon or catching forty winks during the evening, its “sleep” mode will help you sleep better. When set to “sleep” mode, the temperature slowly increases, allowing you to stay cool, no matter how hot it is outside.
Like modern window AC units, this air conditioner, which doubles as a dehumidifier, is energy star-certified, meaning it will save on energy costs.
As for adjusting the temperature, this 8000 BTU (British Thermal Unit) window air conditioner comes with a remote control, so you can increase or decrease the air temperature with ease. Using the remote, you can also adjust the fan speed from your comfort zone without having to get up.
Besides, its adjustable side panels are extendable, meaning this efficient unit can be installed on all types of windows. Another thing that I like about this AC unit is that the filter is easy-to-clean, meaning you can wash it to clean dust from it.
Floor Area: 350 square feet | Number of Speeds: 3 | Voltage: 115 Volts | Noise Level: 55 dB
What we like
- Integrated with energy saver mode
- Intuitive LED display
- Removable air filter
- 1-year warranty (labor and parts)
Supplied in multiple options, the Midea EasyCool Window Air Conditioner claims to reduce energy consumption, and its energy star status testifies to the same.
Unlike most window air conditioners, it comes with multiple custom settings that make it more energy efficient. Like, I found that this AC unit has an in-built EasyTimer that allows me to program my temperature preferences. And if someday I run the unit for long hours, I simply switch to EcoSave mode– as a result, the room is cooled without consuming too much electricity.
Compared to traditional air conditioners, this unit doubles as a dehumidifier, and that’s what makes it an excellent option for humid spaces. To reduce humidity levels in any space, all I do is switch to dehumidifier mode, and it sucks up moisture from the indoor air.
Unlike the Frigidaire air conditioner, the Midea unit has an intuitive LED display for switching between modes, adjusting temperatures and setting the time. But I like using the remote control that comes with the unit because of its convenience.
Like most newer window air conditioners, the air filter of this unit is removable and reusable. So, whenever the “clean filter” warning is displayed, you can remove it and get rid of pet hairs and dust by washing it.
I found that this AC isn’t easy to install; only people who are DIY experts will be able to mount it with ease. Installation instructions may appear simple, but they aren’t easy to follow. Although the brand sends all accessories with the unit, the screwdriver isn’t supplied.
Floor Area: 350 square feet | Number of Speeds: 3 | Voltage: 110 Volts | Noise Level: 55 dB
What we like
- Sleek and lightweight
- Dehumidifies a room well
- Intuitive controls
- Rolling wheels allow easy portability
What we don’t like
- Makes noise when operating
For someone who has to keep changing his lodging, portable AC units like the SereneLife Portable Air Conditioner make for an excellent pick.
With 900W-rated cooling power, this portable AC unit is efficient enough to cool 215+ square feet of space– that is why I prefer using it in my office space. Although it isn’t as energy efficient as window units, it has a 9.8 seasonal energy efficiency ratio, which is feasible.
Like window ACs, it comes with 3 operating modes– cooling, dehumidifier, and fan. For maximum air circulation, it also features an automatic swing mode with a moving wind vent. At times when my office space becomes humid, I switch to dehumidifier mode, which helps reduce excessive humidity from the room.
Despite being a floor-standing AC, it boasts a space-saving design, thanks to its sleek and lightweight body. Equipped with rolling wheels, it allows for easy portability and allows me to move this unit from the garage space to the living room with ease.
Towards the top of the unit is a digital control panel with touch buttons for turning the unit on/off, setting the timer, and adjusting fan speed settings and temperature. For user convenience, remote control is supplied in the package, and you can adjust all the functions with the touch of a button.
Since it’s a freestanding unit, installation won’t be much of a hassle– be sure to check the instruction manual after unboxing the unit. Although you can use it in your bedroom while sleeping, keep in mind it is noisier than most other units.
Floor Area: 215+ square feet | Number of Speeds: 3 | Voltage: 120 Volts | Noise Level: 55 dB
What we like
- Compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa
- Higher energy efficiency
- Doesn’t require professional installation
- Low noise operation
Want a window air conditioner that you can turn off or on via your smartphone? The hOmeLabs Window Air Conditioner is a smart control unit that can be paired with Google Assistant and Alexa. Pairing it with a smartphone is easy, as I didn’t face much trouble– download the hOmeLabs Connect app and pair your AC via Wi-Fi and dictate all that you want.
Offering higher energy efficiency, this unit has an official Energy Star certification, meaning it would consume less energy than your old AC. Aside from that, I was pleased to discover that this window air conditioner is CSA, DOE, and CEC-certified.
While its primary function is to cool a hot room, it works well to dehumidify a space. That means you can use it as a dehumidifier to reduce humidity levels by changing the operating mode to “dry.” At times when I want to get rid of stale air and want fresh air to circulate, I switch to “fan” mode– so the versatility of this unit is great.
With this air conditioning unit, you can create an ideal sleeping environment by taking advantage of other features such as Follow Me, Eco, Sleep, and 24 hr timer.
You don’t need to be a pro to install this window air conditioner– just skim through the instructions, and this unit will be installed in less than 30 minutes. However, don’t try mounting it all by yourself; I suggest asking for help to prevent damaging the unit.
Unlike traditional air conditioners, it doesn’t make too much noise while operating. Its low-noise operation allows me to carry on my chores like reading and sleeping without trouble.
Floor Area: 350 square feet | Number of Speeds: 3 | Voltage: 115 Volts | Noise Level: 58 dB
What we like
- 220 cubic feet per minute cooling capacity
- Installation doesn’t take too much time
- Multiple fan speeds
- Quiet operation
What we don’t like
- A few parts, like knobs and switches, are flimsy
The next entrant on my list is this window-mounted air conditioner from LG. This multinational South Korean electronics company has managed to earn loyal customers because of top-notch products.
Starting with its simple yet innovative design, this air conditioning unit boasts a modern profile with air louvers placed towards the top. Beside that is a simple control panel that allows easy adjustment of the temperature and fan speed.
Underneath the control panel and air louvers is the air filter that traps dust and pet hairs to keep your indoor air clean and fresh. Once in a while, I take it off and wash it because it is reusable, so you can also do the same.
This LG window air conditioner comes with an installation kit and easy-to-follow instructions, so installation won’t be challenging.
This Energy Star-certified air conditioning unit has 3 cooling and fan speeds, so you can customize the cooling experience. In addition, it has a 12.1 combined energy efficiency ratio, meaning you’ll save a lot despite running this unit.
Among the various features, I like the 24-hour on/off timer that allows me to turn it on and off the AC as per my needs. And when in low mode, I noticed that the air conditioning unit barely made any noise. Another interesting feature is the Auto Restart which automatically turns the unit on after it has been shut because of a power outage.
Like other window air conditioners, it comes with a remote control that makes it easy to adjust the settings without leaving your couch or bed.
Floor Area: 350 square feet | Number of Speeds: 3 | Voltage: 115 Volts | Noise Level: 53 dB
What we like
- Easy installation
- Cools a room quickly
- Reasonably quiet
- Available in 2 styles
What we don’t like
- Unit cannot be fully controlled by the front panel buttons
Delivering unique and innovative products since 1991, Tosot is yet another brand that excels in air conditioners.
What made me pick the Tosot window air conditioner was its quiet operation, as it has a maximum noise output of 42 dB and an improved drainage outlet. Although you may hear slight noises of fan flinging water, you can minimize that by removing the improved drain plug.
Mounting this window air conditioner is fairly easy because everything from side panels and foam is included in the package. Also, no technical jargon is used in the instructions; in fact, they are written in simple language.
Right after installation, when I turned the AC on, the room was filled with cold air within a few minutes. So, it’s safe to say that this window air conditioner is highly efficient and can be used in bedrooms, apartments, dorms, and living rooms that are approximately 350 square feet.
Above the air filter sits slanted air louvers that can be adjusted to blow cool air up to 20 feet. I prefer keeping the louvers above the head to cool a room quickly.
This quietest air conditioner is also energy efficient as it has an energy efficiency ratio (EER) of 12.0 and is Energy Star-certified.
As a bonus, this window air conditioner comes with a few bonus features that you won’t find in other ACs. Like, the filter reminder will remind you to clean the filter after operating for 250 hours. Just keep the remote safe because the unit can only be fully controlled with the remote control.
Floor Area: 350 square feet | Number of Speeds: 3 | Voltage: 115 Volts | Noise Level: 42 dB
What we like
- Robust cooling power
- Higher energy efficiency
- Fairly easy to mount
- Cools a space quickly
What we don’t like
- Doesn’t come with a remote control
Designed with the latest technology, TCL aims to deliver meaningful experiences. And its Home Series Window Air Conditioner is one such offering from the brand that helps you stay cool no matter the weather.
Although it is an 8000 BTU window air conditioner, it has robust cooling power. Sure, it may not be an ideal pick for cooling larger rooms, but it cools a 350 square feet space quickly and efficiently. Even then, to my surprise, the unit is comfortably quiet, so you can sleep, read or binge-watch your favorite shows without disturbance.
With 3 fans, this window air conditioner features 4-way directional vents to adjust the direction of airflow as per your needs. The air conditioning engineers have thoughtfully designed the unit, as its 4-way directional vents have an 8-way cooling fan.
In the package, you will find an easy-to-use installation kit that will come in handy for installing the unit. Following the steps mentioned in the instruction manual will ease the installation process, and you will be able to DIY install it. So, I highly recommend you go through them thoroughly before installing the unit. Since it runs on the power cord, install it on a window with a power cord nearby.
Belonging to the line of energy-efficient ACs, this window air conditioner also consumes less energy, reducing electricity bills. The Energy Star rating testifies to its energy efficiency.
Furthermore, you can switch to “eco” mode and “sleep” mode to save energy while running the AC. What I didn’t like about this AC is that it doesn’t come with a remote control.
Floor Area: 350 square feet | Number of Speeds: 3 | Voltage: 115 Volts | Noise Level: 42 dB
What we like
- High energy efficiency
- Comes with remote control
- Easy to maintain air filter
- Can be used as a dehumidifier
What we don’t like
- Not ideal for windows less than 14”
Equipped with R-32 refrigerant, the Koldfront Window Air Conditioner is one of those units that can cut down energy costs to a great extent compared to those with R-22. As for reducing energy consumption, this unit has a SEER of 12, so it consumes 10% less energy than a 10 SEER unit. Its claims of energy efficiency are testified by the Energy Star certification it has earned.
This 8000 BTU window air conditioner has a temperature range between 62°F and 86°F, which makes it ideal for spaces up to 350 square feet. I like the fact that the air filter of this unit is easy to maintain– you need not call a professional to clean it. Simply take it off, wash it, and reinstall it on the unit, and that’s it!
What makes it the best 8000 BTU air conditioner is that it’s equipped with an LED filter that blinks whenever the filter gets dirty.
Next to the air filter is a digital display with touch controls that makes adjusting the temperature and other settings easily. And for those moments when I don’t want to leave my comfort zone, I use the remote control to change the settings from energy saver mode to sleep mode.
Much like other energy-efficient units, this window air conditioner is integrated with 3 fan settings for convenience. Furthermore, its 4-way directional air louvers ensure even distribution of air, so no corner of your room will have hot air.
With a dimension of 13.3H x 18.5W x 15.75D, this window air conditioner fits higher than 14”.
Floor Area: 350 square feet | Number of Speeds: 3 | Voltage: 115 Volts | Noise Level: Not measured
What we like
- Smart and easy operation
- Cools medium-sized rooms efficiently
- Energy Star-rated
- Comes with an easy-to-install kit
What we don’t like
- Filter must be cleaned every 30 days to maintain efficiency
Rated as the number 1 window air conditioner brand in the US, GE is committed to offering the best solutions to homeowners, and its window-mounted air conditioner proves the same.
Before anything else, I would like to mention that this is an energy-efficient unit, meaning it offers comfort without racking up utility bills. Like most air conditioner units, it is Energy Star-certified, so there will be more energy savings and low electricity bills.
With this AC, you can save more on energy bills if you switch to “eco” mode. On “eco” mode, the unit automatically turns off the compressor and fan, which cuts down energy consumption.
From the get-go, what I liked about this unit is that it can be integrated with the SmartHQ app, through which this AC can be controlled. For instance, you can turn the unit on/off, adjust the temperature or keep tabs on its operation from anywhere in your home or the world.
Moreover, this energy-efficient unit has 3 fan speeds and 3 cooling modes to customize the cooling experience, so you can stay comfortable.
Coming with a fixed chassis, this air conditioner is easy to install, more so since it comes with an installation kit. Similar to other air conditioners, the filter is washable– for maximum efficiency, I suggest cleaning them every 30 days.
Beneath the 2 air louvers sits a control panel from which speed, mode, and temperature can be adjusted. But that’s not the only way to adjust the settings of this air conditioner. You can use the remote control or smart assistants to make adjustments.
Floor Area: 350 square feet | Number of Speeds: 3 | Voltage: 115 Volts | Noise Level: 58 dB
What we like
- Small and compact
- Can be installed without professional help
- Comes with a digital display and a remote control
- Filters dust and other particles from the indoor air
If you are scouting for air conditioners for your workshop or a prefab guest house, the BLACK+DECKER Air Conditioner would be a sensible pick. That’s because its 8000 BTU cooling capacity cools rooms up to 350 square feet well.
Integrated with 4 settings– auto, low, medium, and high, this air conditioner provides relief from the scorching heat, no matter the weather outside. Furthermore, its programmable thermostat adjusts the temperature automatically based on the settings you feed into the unit– that’s what adds to its versatility.
On the fore part of the unit is a digital display that features all the settings from “check filter” to “energy saver” mode, so you can adjust them with ease. Or you can simply use the remote control to change the settings from time to time without getting up.
Upon reading the product manual, I discovered that the air filter is made of nylon– which means you can detach it and wash it to circulate air (fresh and clean air).
When needed, this air conditioner can reduce moisture from space by changing the mode to dehumidifier mode. Ideal for small to medium-sized rooms, this air conditioner weighs less than 50 lbs, so mounting it will be easy.
As is expected, this unit is Energy Star-certified, like most air conditioners, so it will definitely help you save a few dollars on utility bills. Although it is integrated with R-32 refrigerant, it has a SEER of 5.2, which is very low. And that is why I suggest this for spaces where it won’t be used for too long.
Floor Area: 300 to 350 square feet | Number of Speeds: 3 | Voltage: 115 Volts | Noise Level: 59 dB
What we like
- Dual drainage methods
- Quiet operation
- Easy to install
- Removes moisture from the space
For small spaces, the TURBRO Greenland Portable Air Conditioner will be the best bet because of its cooling capacity. This 8000 BTU air conditioner may appear simple, but it offers robust cooling and cools a 300 square feet room within a few minutes, thanks to the turbo mode.
Unlike other portable air conditioners, it’s not just an AC; rather, it’s a multifunctional unit because it doubles as a fan and a dehumidifier. Whenever I have to remove moisture from my space, I simply switch to the dehumidifier mode. Meanwhile, the 2-speed fan mode generates a draft of fresh air.
As you’d expect with portable AC units, this one comes with 4 in-built wheels for easy movability. Therefore, moving it from the dining room to the bedroom wasn’t too much of a chore.
With this portable air conditioner, you won’t have to break a sweat to install it because it’s easy to set up. Just make sure to place the unit upright for a minimum of 4 hours before powering it on.
What’s more, this portable AC unit has a control panel, but even then, the brand supplies a remote control. Noteworthily, its remote control is integrated with a temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the corner where you’re sitting; hence, it cools the room accordingly.
Although it isn’t Energy Star-rated, its programmable timer function turns the unit on/off automatically as per your schedule, saving money on energy bills. Compared to other portable air conditioners, it features dual drainage methods, allowing bucketless operation. Besides the washable filter, it is integrated with the “auto restart” function.
Floor Area: 300 square feet | Number of Speeds: 2 | Voltage: 115 Volts | Noise Level: 52 dB
What we like
- Pre-assembled design
- Low power and quiet operation
- Helps save energy
- 30-month warranty
Want to beat the heat by keeping your space cool but dread energy bills? The Dreo Inverter Air Conditioner will cool your space with its low-power operation, so you won’t have to spend hundreds on utility bills.
This Energy Star-certified air conditioner has a 15.0 SEER rating, meaning it will save 35% on your energy bills compared to conventional compressors. Therefore, you can stay cool without worrying about electricity bills.
When it comes to cooling an office or other space of 350 square feet, this variable-speed air conditioner works well and cools it efficiently. Over and above that, it’s equipped with directional louvers which can be positioned in any direction.
I also appreciate the pre-assembled design of this air conditioner because of which installation doesn’t take too much time. The only thing you will have to do is slide the air conditioner inside an open window and fasten the screws to mount it securely.
Besides cooling a space efficiently, I noticed that the air filter purifies the indoor air by catching dirt and dust. Later, you can detach it and wash it to remove impurities.
Instead of 3 modes like most air conditioners, it comes with 5 modes– cool, circulate, dehumidify, auto, and sleep. Using the remote control, you can switch between modes and adjust the temperature between 61 and 88°F.
And if you find it difficult to read the settings because of the small screen of the remote, the digital panel on the unit will come in handy. A 24-hour timer is also integrated into the air conditioner.
Floor Area: 350 square feet | Number of Speeds: Adjustable | Voltage: 115 Volts | Noise Level: 42 dB
What we like
- Small and compact size
- Contains R-32 refrigerant, which is environmentally-friendly
- Dehumidifies a space well
- Self-evaporating operation
What we don’t like
- Filter requires frequent cleaning
Operating at 58 dB, the BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner is a fairly quiet device; therefore, you can carry on your chores without getting disturbed due to loud noise. And if you prefer the quietest environment when sleeping, switching to “sleep” mode will do the trick and reduce further noise.
Like other portable air conditioners, this one also is a floor-standing unit that cools a 150 square feet room quickly and efficiently. For this reason, I prefer using it in my cabin, although you can use it in the office, small bedrooms, and living rooms.
This portable air conditioner, as one would expect, comes with built-in wheels that allow me to move it from one corner of my office space to another without difficulty. Even these built-in wheels make the installation process relatively simple– wheel it to whichever room you wish to install, position it near a window, and attach the hose.
When not in use, simply unhook and store it wherever you have storage space.
Atop the unit is an LED display through which you can control the air temperature, mode, and other settings. Since the air filter traps dirt, dust, pet danders, and other particles, you will have to clean it twice a month to enhance its efficiency.
This portable air conditioner combines 3 energy-efficient functions in 1, meaning you get a dehumidifier, a cooler, and a fan in one unit. Although it’s a floor-standing unit, it is a self-evaporating unit. Rest assured, your space will remain dry, cool, and clean.
Lastly, you get a 5-year warranty on compressor parts and a 1-year warranty on other parts and labor.
Floor Area: 150 square feet | Number of Speeds: 3 | Voltage: 115 Volts | Noise Level: 54 dB
What we like
- Cools a 350 square feet room quickly
- Comes with an LED display
- Restarts automatically after a power outage
- 1-year warranty on parts or labor and a 4-year warranty for a sealed system
What we don’t like
- Quite loud on high setting
Do you often go on long voyages on your travel trailer? Well, in that case, the Keystone Window-Mounted Air Conditioner is worth every cent to keep your trailer cool during hot summer afternoons.
Not just travel trailers, but this air conditioner is a reliable option for attics, home offices, small living rooms, bedrooms, and apartments.
Offering 3 fan speeds, this air conditioner allows you to customize the cooling experience as per your needs. With a built-in dehumidifier, this unit works well in humid spaces as it removes excess moisture from the indoor air. This way, it would prevent mold and mildew from thriving in the space.
On the low setting, this air conditioning unit runs at 49 dB; however, it is quite loud if you run at a high setting– so keep that in mind.
Furthermore, this small and compact air conditioning unit sports a digital display on the left-hand side. Using that, you can turn it on/off, switch between different modes, set a timer, or increase/decrease the temperature with ease.
And if you’re too lethargic to leave your couch or bed, simply make use of the remote control that comes with the unit. What I like about the remote control is that it has a built-in remote thermostat, allowing you to set the temperature from any corner of the room.
Keep in mind this unit isn’t Energy Star-rated, although the brand offers it in Energy Star style– so choose the style carefully. Still, if you go for the former option, you can turn on “energy saver” mode to save a few dollars on energy bills yearly.
Floor Area: 350 square feet | Number of Speeds: 3 | Voltage: 115 Volts | Noise Level: 59 dB
What we like
- Made of robust materials
- Comes with all supplies needed to mount it
- Easy to use remote control
- Usable in all seasons, including winter
What we don’t like
- Requires professional installation
Buying a separate air conditioner and a heating system is expensive for most of us. Instead of settling for either of the two, investing in the PerfectAire Air Conditioner will guarantee you comfort in all seasons.
Radiating 3500 BTU of heat and 8000 BTU of cold, this 2-in-1 air conditioner is a versatile unit that you can get hold of. With the touch of a button on the remote, you can program your desired temperature and switch to “sleep” mode, “energy saver,” or “follow me” mode.
And if it sits beside your office table, you can modify the settings using the control panel on the top left side of the unit.
This corded electric unit is available in multiple styles, from 8000 BTU to 12000 BTU– therefore, you’re spoilt for choices. Furthermore, it features an “auto restart” option, because of which the unit restarts itself in case of power outages.
However, unlike other air conditioners on this list, this unit isn’t Energy Star-certified, so definitely, it won’t cut down on energy costs. The brand, nevertheless, does offer an “energy saver” mode, so you can switch to that if your motive is to save money while running the unit.
Top rail, accordion panels, foam, screws, brackets, and seals– the brand sends all the necessary supplies that will be needed to install this air conditioning unit. So, installing it yourself won’t be a hassle; however, calling for professionals would be a better bet if you’re not confident in your DIY skills.
Professional installation is also recommended because the unit weighs about 71 pounds, which means it is too heavy.
Floor Area: 300 to 350 square feet | Number of Speeds: 3 | Voltage: 115 Volts | Noise Level: 58 dB
Comparison Of The Best 8000 BTU ACs
Buying Guide
With so many options at your disposal, were you able to decide which one would be ideal for your needs? No? Well, I knew it, but you’re not alone– countless people get stuck in the decision-making process.
Knowing the pros and cons of the 15 best 8000 BTU air conditioners helps greatly, but choosing one remains a daunting task. That’s because there’s a lot to look for when buying an air conditioner for your home or office space other than the price.
So, if you’ve been looking for pointers on choosing the right air conditioner, this section will prove helpful. Ahead, I’ve discussed some important factors I’ve learned over the years that you must keep in mind while buying an 8000 BTU air conditioner. Let’s check them out!
1. Type Of Air Conditioner
By now, you’ve learned that 8000 BTU air conditioners are of 2 types– window air conditioners and portable air conditioners. Out of the 2, which one you go for depends on your needs and requirements.
Window air conditioners are mounted on the windows, with a few of them mounted through the wall. Since they are immovable, they are considered a permanent cooling solution.
Furthermore, window ACs have a high cooling capacity and are larger and heavier than other air conditioners. An 8000 BTU window-mounted air conditioner makes for an excellent option for 300 to 350 square feet of space, like small to medium-sized living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and garages.
On the other hand, portable air conditioners are most popular when it comes to 8000 BTU air conditioners. That’s because they come with built-in wheels and can easily move from one space to another.
Instead of mounting them on the walls, you can simply place them in any corner of the room, plug the cord into the electrical outlet and turn it on. It will start cooling your room. Nevertheless, you must keep in mind that they aren’t as powerful as portable ones.
Even when it comes to energy efficiency, window-mounted air conditioners have the edge over portable units.
2. Noise Level
Despite many manufacturers claiming that their AC units are the quietest, I’ve learned that not all of them live up to their claims.
For that reason, I highly recommend everyone check the noise level of whichever AC they are planning to buy. Deciding the noise level is especially difficult for first-time buyers, but don’t worry, for I’ll help you out.
Any air conditioner whose noise level falls between 44 and 56 dB (decibel) is considered less noisy or quiet. Go for a 40 dB air conditioner if you wish to have library-like silence in your home. Using an air conditioner that barely makes noise will help you sleep better and work better without distractions.
Remember that any air conditioning unit above 56 dB will be loud or noisy, which will make carrying out chores difficult, let alone sleeping.
Some ACs also come with a “sleep” mode and “eco” mode that further reduces noise levels, making them virtually silent. So, if you go for AC units whose noise levels are above 56 dB, look at whether they have these 2 modes or not.
3. Energy Efficiency Ratio
EER, or energy efficiency ratio, is the measurement of the efficiency of an HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system in terms of output vs. energy consumption.
When buying an air conditioner, you should always go for units whose EER ratings are high because the higher the ratings, the more energy efficient the unit will be. That means you will save a lot of money annually on your energy bills.
Nevertheless, units with high EER come with an expensive price tag, but it’s a one-time expenditure.
4. Dehumidifier Mode
Today, almost all air conditioning units come with a dehumidifier mode that makes it easy for homeowners to remove excess humidity from the space. When you switch to this mode, your room will feel less humid or muggy and a more comfortable space.
So, I highly recommend you go for air conditioners that come with a dehumidifier, especially if you live in places with humid climates. By dehumidifying your room, you can even eliminate the problems of mold and mildew.
5. Wi-Fi Enabled
When you’re upgrading to a new air conditioning unit, it’s wise to go for models that are Wi-Fi enabled because of the convenience it offers.
A Wi-Fi-enabled AC can be paired with a smartphone, and you can control the settings from anywhere in the world. Such ACs are also compatible with smart assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant.
One of the perks of owning a Wi-Fi-enabled AC is that you can program daily cooling regimens to turn the unit on/off as needed. However, a smart AC would cost a lot more than a regular one. So, go for it only if you can afford to spend that much money; otherwise, a standard unit would be feasible.
6. Installation
Installation is another factor you must consider when buying an 8000 BTU air conditioner.
Generally, portable ACs have the edge over window AC units because you don’t have to do much to install them. After unboxing them, you only have to place them in the right spot near an electric outlet, attach the hose and turn it on.
On the other hand, window-mounted air conditioners aren’t easy to install. Only if you are a pro at DIY tasks should you attempt installing such ACs inside the window. Even a seasoned DIYer should refrain from installing such ACs because even the slightest mistake could damage the whole unit.
7. Price
From affordable units to luxury ones, 8000 BTU air conditioners are available in various price ranges. Therefore, I suggest you prepare a budget before shopping so that you don’t end up overspending.
Most people think that affordable units aren’t of good quality and expensive ones are of premium quality. However, that’s not the case– what I suggest is to weigh down the features of the unit against the price because that will help you make a sound decision.
8000 BTU Air Conditioner FAQs
Ideal for small to medium-sized spaces, 8000 BTU air conditioners work well on spaces up to 350 square feet, equivalent to 1600 cubic feet.
No, adding a unit whose BTU exceeds 8000 in a small to medium-sized room won’t be a sensible decision. In regard to air conditioners, more isn’t always better. Although the higher BTU unit will cool the room quickly, remember the room will become overly humid.
At the same time, units with fewer BTUs won’t cool the room at all but consume a lot of power.
Mid-size 8000 BTU air conditioners use about 715 watts of energy. At times, it may even consume less than 715 watts, so your electric bills won’t be high.
This totally depends on the dimensions of your living room. As 8000 BTU air conditioners are among the smallest units, they are highly efficient in cooling spaces of 250 to 350 square feet.
So, if your living room is about 350 square feet, an 8000 BTU air conditioning unit will be an excellent addition. Meanwhile, you will have to look for other options if your living room is spacious.
An inverter of 6000-watt DC to AC will be efficient for running 8000 BTU air conditioners. In fact, such inverters can also be used to run 15000 BTU air conditioners. However, before you go ahead to purchase an inverter, make sure to check with the manufacturer’s recommendation in the manual. As that will give you a clear picture of the inverter you will need to run your AC efficiently.
Verdict
To survive hot days, an air conditioner is an absolute necessity because they make your space cooler, making summers bearable. However, you can reap these benefits only if you choose the right unit for your space.
Still unable to decide which one should you pick? Let me ease your confusion by letting out my top picks.
Amongst all the options, the Frigidaire Window-Mounted Room Air Conditioner takes the crown because of its 3 adjustable fan speeds that allow users to customize the cooling experience. Other than its washable air filter, I like the fact that it is energy efficient and helps me save a few dollars every month on my electricity bill.
And if you’re looking for an air conditioner that comes with an intuitive LED display, you can never go wrong with the EasyCool Air Conditioner from the Midea Group. Besides being energy efficient, the unit is covered with a 1-year warranty on labor and parts.
On that note, I shall call the curtains for the day. Adios!