In-wall air conditioners offer a unique and space-saving solution for cooling your home. Unlike portable or window units, in-wall ACs are installed through the wall, making them the perfect choice for those who want to maximize their living space. These units are also highly efficient and can effectively cool spaces up to 700 sq ft, even during the hottest summers.
The prevalence of window/wall AC units in the Northeast US is a testament to their popularity and effectiveness. According to the EPA's statistics and analysis report, 58% of Northeast homes own some form of window/wall AC unit. This is double the rate of homes in the Midwest, South, or West.
Choosing the best in-wall air conditioner requires some research. You'll need to consider factors like the size of the unit (ranging from 8,000 BTU to 14,000 BTU), the brand (such as Koldfront, Frigidaire, or LG), energy efficiency (measured by the EER rating), and the overall performance of the unit.
To help you make an informed decision, LearnMetrics has prepared a comprehensive guide for buying a wall-mounted air conditioner. By comparing the specifications and analyzing the track record of reliability, we have identified the top choices for in-wall AC units in 2024.
In-Wall vs Through-The-Wall vs Wall-Mounted vs Built-In Air Conditioners (Clearing Up Terminology)
Before diving into the details, let's clarify the various terms used to describe in-wall air conditioners. These terms are often used interchangeably and refer to the same type of unit with slight variations in installation and operation.
- In-Wall Air Conditioners: These units are installed and operate inside the wall.
- Through-The-Wall Air Conditioners: This phrase is appropriate because these ACs literally go through the wall. These units do not require venting like portable ACs, as they are designed to vent on their own.
- Wall-Mounted Air Conditioners: In-wall air conditioners are mounted inside the wall, not on the wall. Despite this, they may look like they are hanging on the wall like a painting.
- Wall Sleeve Air Conditioners: A sleeve is used around the unit to assist with installation, prevent vibrations, and reduce noise levels.
- Built-In Air Conditioners: These units are built directly into the wall, providing a seamless and integrated cooling solution.
In summary, all of these terms can be used interchangeably to describe in-wall air conditioners.
Window/wall AC units are most prevalent in the Northeast.
The Basics of In-Wall Air Conditioners
In-wall air conditioners come in a range of cooling capacities, measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). The cooling capacity determines how effectively an AC can cool a space. In the case of in-wall units, cooling capacities typically range from 8,000 BTU to 14,000 BTU.
Smaller in-wall air conditioners with 8,000 BTU are suitable for cooling areas up to 350 sq ft, while larger units with 14,000 BTU can cool spaces up to 700 sq ft. Properly sizing your in-wall air conditioner is crucial to ensure adequate cooling for your specific square footage.
8,000 BTU to 14,000 BTU in-wall air conditioners can also be installed directly under the window.
Some in-wall air conditioners also come with heating capabilities, specifically heat pumps. These units can provide supplemental heating or stand-alone heating depending on their BTU capacity. For example, the Koldfront WTC8001W offers 8,000 BTU cooling and 4,200 BTU heating, making it a versatile option for year-round comfort.
When choosing an in-wall air conditioner, it's important to consider the recommended coverage area based on the BTU capacity. The EPA recommends using approximately 20 BTUs per square foot for energy-saving operation. This means that for a 400 sq ft space, you would need an 8,000 BTU in-wall AC unit. It's advisable to err on the side of caution and choose a slightly higher BTU capacity to ensure optimal cooling.
Energy efficiency is another crucial factor to consider when selecting an in-wall air conditioner. The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) rating indicates the energy efficiency of an AC unit, with higher ratings indicating greater efficiency. In-wall air conditioners with EER ratings of 10 or higher are considered highly efficient, with some units boasting exceptional ratings of over 11. For example, the Friedrich CP08G10B features an impressive EER rating of 11.2.
Reliability is a key consideration as well. Opting for a reputable brand can provide peace of mind and ensure the longevity of your in-wall air conditioner. Brands like Koldfront, Frigidaire, LG, and Friedrich have established track records for producing reliable and high-quality wall-mounted AC units.
Required installation hardware with a sleeve; every in-wall AC producer has their own kit.
Now, let's explore the top in-wall air conditioners you can find in the market in 2024:
Best Through The Wall Air Conditioners in 2024 (Comparison)
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Koldfront WTC8001W: Overall Best Through The Wall Air Conditioner
- Cooling Capacity: 8,000 BTU
- Heating Capacity: 4,200 BTU
- Energy Efficiency Rating (EER): 10.9
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Frigidaire FFTA123WA1: Best 12,000 BTU Through The Wall AC Unit
- Cooling Capacity: 12,000 BTU
- Energy Efficiency Rating (EER): 10.5
- Energy Star rated
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LG LT1037HNR: Best Through The Wall Air Conditioner With Heater
- Cooling Capacity: 10,000 BTU
- Heating Capacity: 11,200 BTU
- Energy Efficiency Rating (EER): 10
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MIDEA MAT08R1ZWT: Cheapest Through The Wall AC Unit
- Cooling Capacity: 8,000 BTU
- Energy Efficiency Rating (EER): 10.6
- Affordable price below $400
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Keystone KSTAT14-2C: Best Big Through The Wall Air Conditioner
- Cooling Capacity: 14,000 BTU
- Energy Efficiency Rating (EER): 9.3
- Coverage area of up to 700 sq ft
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Friedrich CP08G10B: Most Energy-Efficient In-Wall Air Conditioner
- Cooling Capacity: 8,000 BTU
- Energy Efficiency Rating (EER): 11.2
- Exceptional energy efficiency with low electricity costs
These top-rated in-wall air conditioners offer a range of features and specifications to suit different needs. Whether you require supplemental heating, high energy efficiency, or increased cooling power, there is an option available to meet your requirements.
If you are interested in purchasing an in-wall AC unit, consider the cooling capacity, energy efficiency, brand reliability, and price point that aligns with your specific needs. By making an informed decision, you can enjoy comfortable and efficient cooling in your home throughout the year.
If you have any further questions or need assistance choosing the right in-wall air conditioner, feel free to leave a comment below. We're here to help!
