Why settle for separate window AC units and heaters when you can have both in one device? In 2023, window AC units with heat have become the perfect solution for keeping your space cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Window AC units with heat can work both as air conditioners and heaters, eliminating the need for two separate HVAC devices.
Gone are the days of cluttered spaces and double expenses. Now, a single 2-in-1 unit can fulfill all your cooling and heating requirements. But not all window AC units with heat are created equal; it's important to choose wisely.
How Do Window AC Units with Heat Work?
All window AC units consist of key components like expansion valves, compressors, fans, and controls. The crucial part for understanding how these units provide heating is the condenser coil (indoors cold coil) and the evaporator coil (outdoor hot coil).
Window AC with heater in cooling mode. To switch to heater mode, the "hot" and "cool" coils are reversed.
During the summer, the indoor air is cooled as it passes over the cold condenser coils. The gathered heat is then transported to the outdoor hot evaporator coils, where it is dissipated. This process results in cooler indoor air.
In the winter, the window AC unit with heat works in reverse. The refrigerant flow is reversed, turning the indoor cold condenser coil into a hot evaporator coil. The cooler indoor air is run over these hot coils, effectively heating it up. This condenser-evaporator coil reversal via opposite refrigerant flow is the key to heating.
Effectively, window AC units with heat can produce almost the same amount of heating as cooling. For example, the popular LG LW1216HR generates 12,000 BTU of cooling output in the summer and 11,200 BTU of heating output in the winter. Its efficient performance makes it the best LG window AC unit with heat.
3 Key Metrics When Buying a Window AC and Heat Unit
When purchasing window AC units, two factors are crucial: cooling capacity and energy efficiency. The cooling capacity should adequately cool down your room or rooms, while energy efficiency is key to reducing overall costs and being eco-friendly.
When it comes to window AC units with heating, you need to consider the heating capacity as well. Therefore, we have three key metrics to keep in mind:
Cooling Capacity and Coverage Area
Every window AC unit with heat has a designated cooling capacity measured in BTU (British Thermal Units). The cooling output ranges from 8,000 BTU to 25,000 BTU. It's important to choose a unit that is neither too weak nor too powerful for your space.
To properly size the cooling effect to your room size, a rule of thumb is to use 25 BTU per square foot. For example, a window AC unit with 12,000 BTU of cooling output is enough to cool down spaces up to approximately 500 square feet.
Heating Capacity and Coverage Area
Similar to cooling capacity, heating capacity is measured in BTU. Window AC units can generate heating outputs ranging from 3,500 BTU to 16,000 BTU. Larger units can act as stand-alone heaters, whereas smaller units are used as supplemental heating sources.
For example, the Koldfront WAC8001W produces 3,500 BTU of heating output and is ideal for heating rooms up to around 150 square feet. On the other hand, units like the Koldfront WAC25001W generate 16,000 BTU of heating output and can heat spaces of over 700 square feet.
Energy Efficiency of Window AC Units with Heat
Energy efficiency is crucial to minimize electricity consumption while maximizing cooling and heating performance. Look for window AC units with high EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) and HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) ratings.
The LG LW1216HR stands out with its impressive energy efficiency. It has an EER rating of 11.3, requiring only 1,060W to produce 12,000 BTU of cooling output. For heating, a total of 3,500W is needed to generate 11,200 BTU of heating output.
With these metrics in mind, let's explore the best window AC units with heat in 2023.
List of the Best Window AC Units with Heater
- Koldfront WAC25001W: The biggest window unit with heat (25,000 BTU).
- LG LW1216HR: The best LG and most energy-efficient AC and heat window unit.
- Frigidaire FFRH0822R1: The best small window air conditioner with heater (8,000 BTU).
- Koldfront WAC8001W: The cheapest window AC with heater (below $500).
- PerfectAire 3PACH18000: A powerful heating and cooling window unit.
These top-rated units offer different capacities and price points, giving you options to suit your specific needs.
Example of EnergyGuide electricity expenditure (based on CEER rating) for the #1 Koldfront WAC25001W window AC unit with heater.
Each unit has its unique features, from the Koldfront WAC25001W being the largest and most powerful, to the LG LW1216HR offering exceptional energy efficiency. The Frigidaire FFRH0822R1 stands out as the best small unit, while the Koldfront WAC8001W offers an affordable option. Finally, the PerfectAire 3PACH18000 provides a balance of power and affordability.
Regardless of your choice, these window AC units with heat will provide you with year-round comfort and convenience.
That concludes our list of the best window AC units with heat in 2023. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to leave a comment below.
