Air conditioners are essential during the summer months, but finding the right one can be challenging with so many options available. As an HVAC design engineer in New York City, I have installed countless air conditioners and know what works best. In this guide, I'll share my top picks and help you find the perfect 20000 BTU air conditioner for your needs. So, let's dive in!
Top Picks
When it comes to cooling your home efficiently, these are my top three recommendations:
- Friedrich™ Kuhl Commercial Window/Wall Air Conditioner, Cool Only, 20,000 BTU, 230V - Best Overall Option
- Toshiba 18,000 BTU 230-Volt Touch Control Window Air Conditioner with Remote and ENERGY STAR - Best Window Unit
- DAIZUKI MINI SPLIT 18000 BTU Wi-Fi Connected Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner with Heater and Remote Included - Best Mini-Split Option
Friedrich™ Kuhl Commercial Window/Wall Air Conditioner
How Does an Air Conditioner Work?
You may have used an air conditioner before, but do you know how it actually works? Let's take a closer look at the science behind air conditioning and how it keeps you cool during hot summer months.
Air conditioners work on the principle of evaporation. Just like sweating cools your body, air conditioners cool your home by absorbing heat. They take warm air from inside your home, pass it over a cold coil, and absorb the heat. Then, the refrigerant evaporates, taking the heat with it. The cold air is then passed over a hot coil to release the heat outside. This cycle continues until the desired temperature is achieved. Air conditioners not only cool the air but also remove humidity, making them more effective than fans.
Air Conditioner
Does an Air Conditioner Remove Humidity?
Yes, an air conditioner removes humidity from the air. It does this by cooling and dehumidifying the indoor air. As warm, moist air passes over a cold coil, the water in the air condenses into liquid form and drips into a drain pan. The cooled, dry air is then circulated back into the room. Removing humidity has several benefits, such as making the air feel cooler, reducing mold and mildew growth, preventing window condensation, and improving indoor air quality.
Air Conditioner Indoor Unit
When choosing an air conditioner to reduce humidity, ensure you select the right size for your space. An oversized unit may cool the area too rapidly, leaving moisture in the air and causing humidity levels to rise. Conversely, an undersized unit running continuously won't be able to keep up with demand, resulting in high humidity levels.
Air Conditioner Efficiency Rating
Air conditioners are rated for efficiency in several ways:
- SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio): Measures cooling output per unit of energy used. Higher SEER ratings indicate better efficiency. A SEER of 10 or higher is considered highly efficient.
- EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio): Measures cooling output per unit of energy used at a specific temperature and humidity level. Like SEER, higher EER ratings indicate better efficiency.
- COP (Coefficient of Performance): Measures the heat removed per unit of energy used. Higher COP ratings mean better efficiency.
When choosing an air conditioner, consider these efficiency ratings along with the size of the unit, as larger units aren't necessarily more efficient. Regular servicing also helps maintain peak efficiency and extend the lifespan of your air conditioner.
Air Conditioner Efficiency Rating
Air Conditioner Features To Consider
When shopping for an air conditioner, keep an eye out for these important features:
- Timer and Programmable Start: Set the air conditioner to turn on at a specific time, ensuring your home is at the perfect temperature when you arrive.
- Sleep Mode, Econ Mode, Energy Saver Mode: Save energy and sleep comfortably with these modes that gradually adjust the temperature or reduce energy consumption.
- Remote Control: Easily adjust the temperature from anywhere in the room without getting up.
- Auto Restart After Outage: Automatically restarts the unit after a power outage, ensuring continuous cooling.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Control the unit remotely using your smartphone or tablet.
- Digital Controls: Set the temperature and timer with ease using digital controls.
- Fan Speeds and Fan-Only Mode: Choose the desired fan speed and circulate air without cooling.
- Fresh Air Option: Bring in outside air for improved indoor air quality without opening windows.
- Ionizer: Remove particles from the air, benefiting those with allergies or asthma.
Consider these features alongside user reviews to make an informed decision.
Woman holding phone with running smart home application for air conditioning
What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?
The size of the air conditioner you need depends on factors such as the square footage of your home, climate, and personal preferences. A general rule of thumb is to have around 20 BTUs of cooling power per square foot. For example, a 500 square foot area would require a 10,000 BTU air conditioner. However, factors like a hot climate, high ceilings, or many windows may require a more powerful unit.
Consider the square footage of your space, climate conditions, and other factors before shopping for an air conditioner. Window units and portable units are great for smaller spaces, while larger spaces may require mini-split or central air conditioning systems.
Size Air Conditioner
Best 20,000 BTU Air Conditioners On The Market Right Now
To help you choose the best 20,000 BTU air conditioner, I've compiled a list of my top picks based on energy efficiency, noise level, and price. These units are known for their performance and features. So, let's take a closer look:
Friedrich™ Kuhl Commercial Window/Wall Air Conditioner, Cool Only, 20,000 BTU, 230V
Rated as the best overall option, the Friedrich™ Kuhl Commercial Window/Wall Air Conditioner is perfect for cooling large spaces. With 20,000 BTUs of cooling power, this unit can cover up to 1,000 square feet. It's also Energy Star certified, ensuring energy efficiency and cost savings. The Friedrich™ Kuhl offers three fan speeds, a remote control, and an auto-restart feature. Installation in standard-sized walls is a breeze with the included kit.
Pros:
- Powerful 20,000 BTU cooling capacity
- Suitable for commercial spaces
- Multiple operation modes and remote control
Cons:
- Higher price tag compared to other models
- Some noise reported by users
Toshiba 18,000 BTU 230-Volt Touch Control Window Air Conditioner with Remote and ENERGY STAR
If you prefer a window unit, the Toshiba 18,000 BTU 230-Volt Touch Control Air Conditioner is an excellent choice. With Energy Star certification, this unit is both efficient and cost-effective. It features a touch control display, remote control, sleep mode, and multiple fan speeds. The sleek design complements any home decor.
Pros:
- Energy Star certified for efficiency
- Convenient touch control display and remote control
- Sleek design
Cons:
- Some users report noise issues
- Does not have a built-in heater
- Window installation model only
DAIZUKI MINI SPLIT 18000 BTU Wi-Fi Connected Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner with Heater and Remote Included
For those looking for a ductless mini-split option, the DAIZUKI MINI SPLIT 18000 BTU is an excellent choice. This unit offers Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control it remotely using your smartphone. With 18000 BTUs, it can cool or heat large rooms effectively. It also features a remote control, multi-stage filtration, and a programmable timer.
Pros:
- Quiet operation
- Remote control and timer function
- Wi-Fi connectivity for remote control
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Remote control may require adjustments for precise temperature control
FAQs
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Q: How loud are these air conditioners?
- A: While noise levels vary, these models are known for their quiet operation. However, it's always a good idea to check user reviews for specific noise concerns.
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Q: Can these units be used in commercial spaces?
- A: Yes, the Friedrich™ Kuhl Commercial Window/Wall Air Conditioner is especially suitable for commercial use due to its high cooling capacity and various operation modes.
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Q: Are these air conditioners energy-efficient?
- A: Yes, all three models mentioned are known for their energy efficiency. The Friedrich™ Kuhl and Toshiba units are Energy Star certified, indicating their efficiency.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 20000 BTU air conditioner can make a significant difference in keeping your home cool and comfortable throughout the summer. Consider factors such as energy efficiency, noise levels, and features when making your decision. With my top picks, you can find a high-quality unit that meets your needs. Remember to consult professionals for any major decisions regarding your home's cooling system. Stay cool!
