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10 Best Cheap Window Ac Unit 2025 in the United States

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#1

Winner

Frigidaire 5,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner with Remote Control, Cools Up to 150 Sq. Ft., Quiet Operation, Eco Mode, 3 Fan Speeds, Auto Restart, White

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,230
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Noise Level
Size and Installation

Most important from
16744 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
The cooling output is impressive; it can turn a hot room freezing cold within an hour.
Noise Level
The unit is surprisingly quiet, quieter than a pedestal fan, making it ideal for bedrooms.
Size and Installation
Installation is manageable, though having a second person to help is advisable.
Additional Features
The long power cord is a convenient feature, providing flexibility in placement.

The Frigidaire FHWC054TE1 is a compact window air conditioner that offers 5,000 BTUs of cooling power, making it suitable for a small room up to 150 square feet. It's a good fit for those seeking an affordable cooling solution without excessive energy consumption, boasting a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 11. While it’s not Energy Star certified, its efficiency is adequate for its price range.

With a noise level of 52 dB, it operates relatively quietly, allowing for a peaceful environment in your room. The unit is also easy to install thanks to its manageable size and the included window kit. It measures 14.4 x 16 x 12.2 inches and weighs 35.5 pounds, which should fit standard windows comfortably.

Additional features like the multi-speed fan, remote control, filter light reminder, and washable dust filter add to its convenience and ease of use. It lacks some advanced energy-saving features and higher energy efficiency ratings found in more expensive models. Despite this, the affordable price point suggests that it’s a reliable option for budget-conscious buyers looking for basic cooling needs.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,230
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Noise Level
Size and Installation

Most important from
16744 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
The cooling output is impressive; it can turn a hot room freezing cold within an hour.
Noise Level
The unit is surprisingly quiet, quieter than a pedestal fan, making it ideal for bedrooms.
Size and Installation
Installation is manageable, though having a second person to help is advisable.
Additional Features
The long power cord is a convenient feature, providing flexibility in placement.
#2

Frigidaire 5,000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner, Cools Up to 250 Sq. Ft., Quiet Operation, Effortless Temperature Control, 2 Fan Speeds, Auto Restart, White

Rating
10.0
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Noise Level
Size and Installation

Most important from
16744 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Perfect for a small room, this unit delivers an impressive cooling output and is quite manageable in terms of weight.
Noise Level
Despite its budget-friendly nature, this unit is significantly quieter than a standard pedestal fan.
Size and Installation
The long power cord is a thoughtful addition that simplifies placement and installation.
Additional Features
The absence of a calibrated thermostat or remote might be a drawback for some, but it doesn't detract from its overall performance.

The Frigidaire FFRA051WAE Window-Mounted Room Air Conditioner offers a cooling capacity of 5,000 BTU, making it suitable for small rooms up to about 150 square feet. Its Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) of 11 is decent, though not the highest in its category, meaning it won't be the most energy-efficient option but still reasonable for the price. One of the standout features is its noise level, which at 52 dB, is relatively quiet and should not be too disruptive in a home setting.

The unit is compact, with dimensions of 15.25"D x 16"W x 12"H, and is designed to fit standard double-hung windows with widths between 24 to 36 inches, making installation straightforward, especially with the included adjustable side panels and extra-long power cord. The easy-to-clean washable filter is a practical feature for maintenance and ensuring efficient operation.

However, it is worth noting that this model does not have an Energy Star rating, which might be a consideration for those particularly focused on energy savings. Additionally, it lacks modern conveniences like remote control or smart home compatibility, which might be a downside for tech-savvy users. This air conditioner is a solid, budget-friendly option for those needing to cool a small space without too many bells and whistles.

Rating
10.0
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Noise Level
Size and Installation

Most important from
16744 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Perfect for a small room, this unit delivers an impressive cooling output and is quite manageable in terms of weight.
Noise Level
Despite its budget-friendly nature, this unit is significantly quieter than a standard pedestal fan.
Size and Installation
The long power cord is a thoughtful addition that simplifies placement and installation.
Additional Features
The absence of a calibrated thermostat or remote might be a drawback for some, but it doesn't detract from its overall performance.
#3

Midea 5,000 BTU EasyCool Small Window Air Conditioner - Cool up to 150 Sq. Ft. with Easy-to-Use Mechanical Controls and Reusable Filter, Perfect for Small Bedroom, Living Room, Home Office

Rating
9.9
Cooling Capacity (BTUs
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
12708 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs
While it lacks modern features like a remote control, it cools effectively even in very hot weather.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
The unit is impressively efficient, pulling no more than 400 watts even at its max cooling setting.
Noise Level
It is surprisingly quiet. You barely know it is on.
Size and Installation
Installation is straightforward, and it fits perfectly in small windows.

The Midea 5,000 BTU EasyCool Small Window Air Conditioner is a suitable option for those looking for an affordable AC unit to cool small spaces up to 150 square feet. It offers good cooling capacity with 7 temperature settings and 2 cooling/fan-only speeds, making it versatile enough for different preferences and needs. The unit has a Combined Energy Efficiency Rate (CEER) of 11.0, which is commendable for its class, helping to save on energy costs over time.

Additionally, it's designed to be quieter than a household refrigerator, operating at 57 dB, which is relatively quiet for a window AC unit. Users will appreciate the easy-to-use mechanical controls and the removable, reusable air filter that simplifies maintenance. Installation is straightforward, with all necessary mounting accessories included, but do note that a screwdriver is required, and some window frames might need pilot holes drilled for installation. The AC is suitable for windows between 23'' to 36'' wide and at least 13'' high.

One potential drawback is its basic functionality; it lacks modern features like a remote control or Wi-Fi connectivity, which could be a downside for some users. Additionally, while the noise level is generally low, it may still be noticeable in very quiet environments. The unit comes with a one-year parts and labor warranty, which provides some peace of mind. In summary, this AC unit is best suited for small bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices where users need a cost-effective and efficient cooling solution without too many frills.

Rating
9.9
Cooling Capacity (BTUs
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
12708 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs
While it lacks modern features like a remote control, it cools effectively even in very hot weather.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
The unit is impressively efficient, pulling no more than 400 watts even at its max cooling setting.
Noise Level
It is surprisingly quiet. You barely know it is on.
Size and Installation
Installation is straightforward, and it fits perfectly in small windows.

Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Window Ac Unit

When choosing a window air conditioning unit, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. A window AC unit can be a great way to cool a room without the expense and hassle of installing central air conditioning. By understanding the key specs, you can make an informed decision that balances cooling power, energy efficiency, and noise levels with your specific requirements.
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)Cooling capacity, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), indicates how much heat the unit can remove from a room per hour. This is crucial because it determines how effectively the unit can cool your space. Units with lower BTUs (5,000-8,000) are suitable for small rooms up to 350 square feet, while medium-sized rooms (350-550 square feet) may require 8,000-12,000 BTUs. Larger rooms (550-1,000 square feet) will need units with 12,000-18,000 BTUs. To pick the right one, match the BTU rating to the size of the room you want to cool. If the unit is too powerful, it will cycle on and off too frequently, leading to inefficiency and higher energy costs. If it's too weak, it won't cool the room effectively.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) measures how efficiently the air conditioner uses energy to cool a room. A higher EER means better energy efficiency, which can lead to lower electricity bills. EER values typically range from 8 to 12. For a more energy-efficient unit, look for an EER of 10 or higher. If you plan to use the AC unit frequently, investing in a higher EER can save you money in the long run. Consider your usage patterns and energy costs when choosing the EER rating.
Noise LevelNoise level is an important factor, especially if the unit will be installed in a bedroom or living area where quiet is essential. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB). Units with noise levels below 50 dB are considered quiet, while those above 60 dB can be quite loud. If you are sensitive to noise or plan to use the unit in a quiet environment, look for models with lower dB ratings. For less critical areas, a higher noise level might be acceptable.
Size and InstallationThe physical size of the unit and the ease of installation are also important considerations. Ensure that the unit will fit in your window and that you have the necessary tools and skills for installation. Some units are designed for easy installation with minimal tools, while others may require more effort. Measure your window dimensions and compare them with the unit's specifications to ensure a proper fit. If you are not comfortable with DIY installation, consider hiring a professional.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance the functionality and convenience of your window AC unit. Common features include remote controls, programmable timers, sleep modes, and energy-saving settings. These features can make the unit more user-friendly and efficient. Think about which features are important to you and how they will impact your daily use. For example, a programmable timer can help you save energy by allowing the unit to turn on and off at specific times, while a remote control adds convenience.

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