No doubt, 14000 BTU air conditioners can keep your home or office cool no matter how scorching the temperature outside is. However, finding a good-quality model requires some digging.
In this article, you’ll learn the essential things about choosing 14000 BTU air-cons to help you find what’s right for you.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best 14000 Btu Air Conditioners
- OUR TOP PICK: Whynter ARC-14S
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Black + Decker BPACT14HWT
- BEST 14000 BTU PORTABLE AIR CONDITIONER: Whynter ARC-143MX
Comparison of the Best 14000 BTU Air Conditioners
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Air Conditioner Rating Basics
Air conditioners come with a few different ratings that might be a bit confusing. Let’s kick things off with a quick rundown of the basics.
What is BTU Rating?
The capacity rating for most air conditioners is in British Thermal Units (BTU). Without getting into all the nitty-gritty of heat measurement, let’s just say it is vital to pay attention to BTU ratings when choosing any type of air conditioner. Higher numbers mean the unit can cool larger areas, and the reverse is also true.
What Does BTU DOE Mean?
The US Department of Energy (DOE) rates BTUs based on the actual efficiency of an AC. In contrast, earlier air-cons only have BTU ASHRAE ratings from the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers. These ratings are based on technical design parameters without considering possible operating losses.
What Does SACC Stand For?
Seasonally Adjusted Cooling Capacity (SACC) is a more recent rating that measures BTU per hour. This is where figuring out the capacity of portable air conditioners can get a bit tricky.
A portable AC with a 14000 BTU ASHRAE rating has a lower SACC rating, but some manufacturers don’t list both ratings. Higher BTU ASHRAE ratings on portable ACs don’t have the same cooling power as window air-cons with the same ratings.
How Big of a Room Will a 14000 BTU Air Conditioner Cool?
Although higher BTU numbers mean more power, you don’t want to waste too much power on a small space. Apart from underutilizing the cooling device, you will be raking higher energy bills.
Typically, a 14000 BTU AC can cool rooms with dimensions of 550 to 700 square feet. However, doors and walls can reduce the reach of cool air within this space.
For example, you may not be too happy with your 14000 BTU AC if you live in a 700-square-foot house with several rooms. It is best to install these units in spaces with fewer partitions for optimal cooling.
Why Did These 14000 BTU Air Conditioners Make Our List?
The air conditioners in this guide have the following qualities:
Energy Efficiency
An air conditioner that cools your room but jacks up your electricity bill isn’t worth the investment. Thankfully, the air-cons on this list are energy-efficient models that save you lots of money in the long run.
Low Noise Level
No matter how quiet an air-con is, it makes background sounds, especially when the compressor kicks in. You may not be able to find a model with absolutely zero noise level, but you can find one with significantly low sounds.
The models that make our list have low decibel (dBA) ratings, meaning they are relatively quieter than other similar-sized ACs.
Ease of Use
You don’t want to invest your money in an AC unit without intuitive controls or one that is too complicated to operate. You will find the models here are pretty straightforward to use, and maintaining them is quite a breeze.
Extra Features
Air conditioners have one purpose, and that is to cool rooms. However, additional features can increase comfort and offer flexibility.
The air-cons in this guide come with different useful features, including auto drain systems, programmable thermostat, dehumidifier, heat and cooling combination, and remote control.
Review of the Best 14000 BTU Air Conditioners
Now that we have all that out of the way, let’s take a more in-depth look at some of the best 14000 BTU air conditioners on the market.
Best Overall:
Whynter ARC-14S
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The ARC-14S checks a lot of boxes for many customers. First, it is reasonably quiet according to many buyers, drains by itself, and it cools quickly even for 620 square-foot apartments with nine-foot ceilings.
Some buyers highly recommend the unit, but a handful of customers report problems with quality control.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This award-winning portable air conditioner strikes a balance between affordability and efficient performance. With a 14000 BTU (ASHRAE) / 9500 BTU (SACC) rating, the model ranks among the top PACs with high cooling capacity.
There are no worries about condensations with the model because its auto-drain function takes care of that without the owner’s intervention.
We like that this portable AC uses an eco-friendly refrigerant – a big plus for earth-lovers. Like other excellent air-cons, this option has three fan speeds, plus three operational modes: fan, air conditioner, and dehumidifier.
Other noteworthy features include auto-restart functionality and a 24-hour programmable timer.
Bottom Line
Most high-performing air conditioners come at steep prices, but that is not the case with the ARC-14S. Consider this option if you want a fast-cooling dual hose PAC that will adequately cool down areas of up to 500 square feet.
Runner-up:
Black + Decker BPACT14HWT
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
According to verified customers, the model cools quickly, even in extreme heatwaves. Many buyers find the decent cord length helpful for plugging into not-too-close outlets. Setting up is relatively painless for many people, but attaching the hose is not entirely hassle-free.
Overall, buyers say the BPACT14HWT is worth every penny.
Why it Stands Out to Us
What’s there not to love about a PAC that keeps your space comfortable regardless of the weather? This compact-build AC unit comes with some of the most convenient features, from the self-evaporating drain capability to the set-and-forget timer.
The sleek design suits just about any room in the home or space in the office. Aside from aesthetics, maintenance is a breeze with its slide-out reusable air filter.
The built-in humidifier prevents bacteria growth in hot conditions and keeps the air dry to minimize mold and mildew. You can set the sleep mode to automatically control your room’s temperature at night.
Bottom Line
Although the name says Black + Decker, this spotless-white portable air conditioner is as efficient as it looks, but only for cooling small areas. To sum up, if you need an AC/heater combo, this model is definitely worth the money.
Best 14000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner:
Whynter ARC-143MX
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Customers say Whynter’s 14000 BTU portable air conditioner is an excellent cooling machine, especially for rooms up to 500 square feet. The dual-hose system goes way beyond many buyers’ expectations.
While there are no major issues with the PAC itself, some buyers complain of Whynter’s slow and unhelpful customer support.
Why it Stands Out to Us
One of the most outstanding features of the ARC-143MX is its patented auto-drain functionally that effortlessly removes all condensates, so you don’t need to worry about manually draining the system.
This product also ranks high when it comes to cooling capacity, but that’s not surprising considering its high SACC rating and runs on a dual-hose technology. Even on the hottest days, the PAC does a pretty quick job of cooling down rooms.
It also comes with a fan that runs on high, medium, and low speeds, plus a built-in dehumidifier that removes up to 91 pints of water air daily.
Bottom Line
This is not a bad portable air conditioner by any standards. If you plan to cool any reasonably spacious room, the ARC-143MX with its 9500 BTU (SACC) cooling power will get the job done together with a dual hose system.
Best 14000 BTU Window Air Conditioner:
Keystone KSTAT14-2C
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Some customers report that it is less noisy than other similar-capacity models and consumes less electricity. However, there are some complaints about missing components, inadequate packing of the product, and some buyers recommend testing the unit before installation.
On the whole, buyers are generally happy with the AC’s cooling capacity.
Why it Stands Out to Us
While many other air conditioners have fully-functional remote controls, Keystone introduces a completely new temperature sensing LCD option and calls it the “Follow Me” remote control. The small device has a built-in thermostat that signals the AC unit to adjust the temperature of your specific location in the room.
We like the front-access air filter because it makes washing or vacuuming a lot easier. The KSTAT14-2C model does a decent job of cooling large rooms up to 700 square feet. You’ll save money in the long run with the sleep mode, a programmable 24-hour timer, and the energy saver mode.
Bottom Line
With a 9.5 energy efficient ratio, this through-the-wall option competes favorably with first-rate 14000 BTU air conditioners. It doesn’t come cheap, though. But if you have a room up to 700 square feet, you might want to consider this AC.
LG 14000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner Review:
LG LP1419IVSM
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers are divided about LG’s portable LP1419IVSM, regardless of all its impressive features and smart capabilities. There is a recurring complaint about poor packaging and handling. It is not as quiet as similar-size air conditioners.
Overall, many buyers agree that it is a decent PAC, regardless of the few hiccups.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The LP1419IVSM takes the lead when it comes to effectively removing moisture from rooms of up to 500 square feet. With 6.8 pints per hour dehumidification capability, it is simply the best in its class.
Its Dual Inverter technology results in a higher SACC rating of 10,000 BTUs – a rating higher than most portable air conditioners.
LG includes Wi-Fi capability in this PAC, making it a smart air-con that works with Alexa and Google Assistant. You can control the cooling device from just about anywhere using the SmartThingQ app on your smartphone. Plus, you can change settings with voice commands.
Bottom Line
This portable air conditioner from LG should be on your radar if you live in an unusually humid climate because it has a higher capacity to dehumidify than most other ACs. Of course, it costs more than other options, too.
Haier 14000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner Review:
Haier HPND14XCT
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers are glad about their purchase and even report that it works beyond their expectations. Some who have 450 to 500 square-foot houses and even a few others with larger homes say it cools down their spaces within 30 minutes.
However, some customers say it can get slightly loud.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is Haier’s top-of-the-line portable air conditioner with a dual hose system in the 14000 BTU range. Its performance will easily give other similar-sized PACs from other brands a run for their money.
We like that it doesn’t draw in hot air like single-hose PACs, making it cool rooms very fast. It comes with a full-function remote for greater convenience in adjusting the settings.
Talking about settings, this unit runs on three different modes, including fan, cool, and dehumidification, to extract water from your room’s air. Its automatic restart functionality remembers your settings and restores them after a power outage.
Bottom Line
The Haier HPND14XCT is one of the brand’s best models as far as dual hose systems go. It is an excellent choice for homes and businesses in warm or hotter climates. We highly recommend this 14000 BTU portable air conditioner.
7. LG LP1417GSR
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Users say this unit puts out some great air, and it is easy to use. It can get a bit loud, though, and a few buyers say their unit produces lots of water.
The general pulse from customers indicates that this product is not only affordable but is also worth buying.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The auto-swing vent of this PAC is exceptional. It circulates cool air to every part of a 400-square-foot room with its fan, cool, and dry operations. Besides its amazing cooling capacity, its sleek modern design blends with most room décor.
This impressive freestanding air conditioner comes with nearly every feature a good-quality PAC should have, including an auto door open/close system, thermostat control, timer, full water indicator, and LCD remote control, all at a highly affordable price.
Apart from its low upfront price, the AC is cheap to maintain in the long run and consumes minimal energy, making it cost-effective.
Bottom Line
This option might just be what you need if you are looking for a portable air conditioner that is affordable but blows icy cold fast. Note, though, this particular PAC unit is pre-owned but works just like brand new.
Types of Air Conditioners With a 14000 BTU Rating
There are a few different air conditioners in the 14000 BTU range. Some common types include:
Window Air Conditioners
These are the most popular variations of air conditioners for single rooms. You can find them in most homes, cabins, and apartments, especially in regions with hot, dry summers.
Window air-cons are good examples of monoblock ACs that have all their components in one box. They fit into openings in the wall or through windows.
Portable Air Conditioners (PACs)
Similar to window units, PACs are self-contained cooling devices that are easy to transport from room to room.
These are the easiest air conditioners to install because they are freestanding units. PACs have one or two hoses for air intake and funneling out air.
Ductless, Mini-Split Air Conditioners
Mini-Split air conditioners are an excellent choice to install in buildings that don’t have ductwork. These are typically two components that work indoors and outdoors to cool a room. The air-handling units are inside the house, while the condenser and compressor work from outside the house.
Like window units, the indoor components of split ACs mount on walls in each room. However, they don’t go through walls or require large openings to fit through.
Comparison Overview
BTU vs Sq Ft
Understanding how BTUs relate to square footage is crucial in choosing an air conditioner with your space's right cooling capacity.
The BTU of an AC indicates its power or size in terms of cooling capacity. On the flip side, the square footage is the ideal space where the air conditioner can cool.
A 14000 BTU might be too powerful for a small room and inadequate for very large areas.
Single Hose vs Dual Hose AC
Portable air conditioners come in single and dual-hose configurations. The single-hose system uses only one hose – that’s a no brainer. The hose works for both air intake and exhaust.
Single-hose designs will cool your space, but not as efficiently as their dual-hose counterparts. In a nutshell, a single-hose portable AC is most suitable for cooling smaller areas.
Also, you can consider this option if you’re on a tight budget.
On the other hand, dual-hose units have a hose for intake and another for exhaust air. It cools faster and more efficiently, but at a higher price and consumes more power.
10000 vs 12000 vs 14000 BTU AC
A handful of factors go into choosing the right BTU rating for the space you want to cool. These include average climate, room location in respect to sunlight and other heat-producing appliances, and room’s ceiling height.
Heavily shaded rooms in cold climates will require air conditioners with less BTU rating than the same room size in hotter climates.
As a general estimate, 10000 BTU air-cons cover rooms of about 400 to 500 square feet. 12000 BTU AC is suitable for cooling rooms of 450 to 550 square feet. Lastly, 14000 BTUs will serve rooms of 550 to 750 square feet.
8000 BTU vs 14000 BTU Air Conditioners
It is easy to assume that higher BTU numbers are better, but that is not always true. It is crucial to choose an air conditioner with the right cooling capacity for your space.
Too much BTU can shorten the lifespan of the air-con, regardless of brand or maintenance history. If you install a 14000 BTU unit in a small area, it will quickly cool the room and cycle off and back on too frequently. This can weaken the compressor over time.
Installing a small-capacity unit for a larger room will overwork the compressor and shorten the unit’s lifespan, too.
An 8000 BTU AC is ideal for a space of 300 to 350 square feet, while a 14000 BTU air-con will adequately cool a room of 550 to 700 square feet.
Window AC vs Portable
Window air conditioners don’t draw in warm air. That means if the rating says 14000 BTU, that’s the amount of heat the unit will remove.
In a nutshell, they have more cooling power relative to their portable counterparts. However, these units are removable from the outside, which is a big security risk.
On the other hand, portable air conditioners are easily movable from room to room, don’t protrude through a window, and have flexible setup options. But you will spend more money buying a 14000 BTU PAC to cool the same area as a window AC with the same rating.
LG LP1419IVSM
How to Clean a Portable Air Conditioner
1. Unplug and Empty: Disconnect the unit from the wall to prevent electrocution. Empty the water storage tank if there is water inside.
2. Take the Unit Apart: Start by detaching the hose, and then use a screwdriver to unscrew the unit’s plastic coverings. Remember to keep the screws in a safe place and note where each came from as you remove them.
3. Remove Dust Build-up: It is normal for large amounts of dust to collect on the condenser and fins. Remove the dirt by hand. It should come off easily. Remember to cover your nose with a mask.
4. Vacuum the Unit: Use a standard or handheld vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to clean fins. Alternatively, you can wash the unit outdoors using soap and water. Remember to take out and clean the air filter and air intake vents.
5. Reassemble the Unit: Ensure the condenser, fins, and other visible internal components are sparkling. Now, piece back the plastic coverings, making sure to screw in the parts nice and tight.
6. Plug in and Enjoy: Connect the unit to its outlet, turn it on, and enjoy super-cooling.
Be sure to refer to this video for a demonstration.
Conclusion
You’ll agree that buying the best-fitting air conditioner takes a little more than choosing the first one that pops up. It may seem like too much information to assimilate at once, but these are crucial considerations for selecting the best option. Remember them when you purchase your 14000 BTU AC.
People Also Ask
It is crucial to learn almost everything you can about these ACs before making any financial commitment. Eye-catching designs are great, but knowing the right unit size for your space and its electrical requirement is equally essential.
Here are some questions (and answers) many people ask about these large-capacity air-cons.
How Many Square Feet Will a 14000 BTU Air Conditioner Cool?
These units can cover an approximate area of 550 to 700 square feet. Anything less than that is overkill, and larger areas might not receive adequate cooling.
Environment factors, including the room’s location, average population in the room, and the presence of heat-generating appliances, can increase or decrease this estimation.
How Much Electricity Does a 14000 BTU Air Conditioner Use?
Electricity usage depends a lot on the specific cooling capability of the air conditioner. A 14000 BTU air-con has an average electricity usage of 4.1 kWh.
In comparison, a 10000 BTU AC uses approximately 2.9 kWh units of power. Generally, higher BTU ratings consume more electricity than low capacity models.
How Many Amps Does a 14000 BTU Air Conditioner Use?
Like electricity consumption, amperage depends on how much power a particular AC model consumes. Air conditioners with smaller BTU ratings will typically use lesser amps. On the flip side, large-capacity AC units will naturally use more amps.
The average amperage reading for a 14000 BTU air conditioner is 11.7 amperes.
How Many Tons of Air is 14000 BTU?
14000 BTU is approximately 1.2 tons of air conditioning. Labels on ACs unit can be confusing. Some use heat measurement (the British Thermal Units), while others specify cooling measurement (refrigeration tonnage).
One ton is approximately 12000 BTU. Typically, one refrigeration ton is ideal for cooling rooms of 550 square feet.
How to Measure Square Feet of a Room For Air Conditioner
First, measure the length and width of the room using a tape measure. Next, multiply the width of the room by its length and round the answer to a practical figure (whole number). Lastly, divide the result by 0.05 to get the minimum BTU air conditioner suitable for the room.
Is Haier a Good Brand Air Conditioner?
Haier manufactures some of the best-selling air conditioners. The brand’s window and portable ACs are among the top models in the industry.
The brand compares favorably with other leading names such as Whynter, Della, and GE. Haier’s air-cons generally tend to give Friedrich and LG a run for their money.