10 Best Energy Efficient Window Air Conditioners 2025 in the United States

The Midea 12,000 BTU Smart Inverter Air Conditioner is a solid choice if you need to cool or heat a room up to about 550 square feet. It offers multi-season comfort by providing both cooling and supplemental heat, though the heat feature won’t work when it’s very cold outside (below 41°F). It stands out for its energy efficiency with an Energy Star rating and inverter technology that can save up to 35% on electricity compared to standard models, which helps lower your energy bills. The unit is fairly quiet at around 45 to 58 dB, meaning it won’t be too disruptive whether you’re working, watching TV, or sleeping.

You’ll find it easy to operate thanks to its electronic controls, remote control, and smart features that let you adjust settings from an app or with voice commands via Alexa or Google Assistant. The 24-hour timer and multiple modes (heat, cool, dry, fan) add flexibility for different needs. Maintenance is straightforward with a washable front panel filter, helping keep the air clean and the unit running efficiently. Installation fits standard double-hung windows between 24 and 38.5 inches wide, and the unit’s size is typical for this power level.

A potential drawback is that the noise level can reach up to 58 dB on higher settings, which might be noticeable in very quiet spaces. The heat function has limitations in colder climates, and the unit weighs 58 pounds, so installation may require some effort. Priced competitively, the advanced features and energy savings make this unit an excellent option for those seeking reliable, year-round climate control with smart convenience.

The GE Profile PHNT12CC Clearview Air Conditioner is a strong choice for medium-sized rooms up to about 550 square feet. Its 12,200 BTU cooling capacity is suitable for this space, offering efficient cooling without overworking the unit. It stands out with inverter technology, which adjusts cooling power smoothly to save energy—this helps it achieve a solid Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 12.1, meaning lower electricity costs compared to less advanced units. Noise is kept low at around 40 decibels, making it one of the quietest window ACs available, so it won't disturb your daily activities or sleep. The unique full-window view design is a nice touch, preserving natural light and letting you open and close your window normally after installation.

Installation is also flexible thanks to the adjustable depth feature, accommodating different window sill thicknesses for a secure fit. On the smart features side, the built-in WiFi and compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant make controlling the unit from your phone or voice commands convenient. It also includes a filter light reminder to help you maintain air quality easily.

The main drawbacks include its weight—about 76 pounds—which might make installation tricky without help. The warranty is fairly standard at one year, which is on the shorter side for a premium product. Some users might find the price a bit higher than basic models. This AC is ideal for those seeking a quiet, energy-efficient, and smart-controlled window unit for medium rooms and who are willing to invest a bit more upfront for these benefits.

The Midea MAW12V1QWT U-Shaped Window Air Conditioner stands out for its energy-saving capabilities, boasting over 35% savings thanks to advanced DC inverter technology and a strong 5-star energy rating. With a cooling capacity of 12,000 BTUs, it effectively cools rooms up to about 550 square feet, making it a solid choice for medium-sized spaces. One of its most notable features is the ultra-quiet operation at just 32 decibels, which is much quieter than typical window ACs, ensuring minimal noise disturbance.

The unique U-shaped design is clever, as it allows you to keep your window partially open for fresh air and a better view, while also including an anti-theft lock for safety. Smart controls are another plus, allowing remote adjustments through a phone app or voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, adding convenience for modern users. Installation is straightforward with a quick-snap bracket, suitable for most single or double-hung windows between 22 and 36 inches wide. The unit includes a dust filter with a clean filter indicator to help maintain air quality.

While the unit is efficient and packed with features, it weighs nearly 59 pounds, which might be a bit heavy for some users to handle during installation. Also, the warranty is limited to two years, shorter than some competitors offer. This Midea model is well suited for those wanting an energy-efficient, quiet, and smart window AC with easy installation and a fresh-air friendly design.