Buying an air conditioner doesn’t have to be a choice between putting up with searing heat and enduring annoying sounds. With noise dampening technology, more AC models can cool your space while operating quietly.
If you’re scouting for the quietest window air conditioners, you’ll find great recommendations in this report.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Quietest Window Air Conditioners
- OUR TOP PICK: Haier ESAQ406P Serenity Series
- RUNNER-UP: Frigidaire FFRH2522R2
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: LG LW6017R
Comparison of the Quietest Window Air Conditioners
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What Makes These Air Conditioners Quieter Than Other Models?
Many traditional window air conditioners have decibel ratings between 60 to 80 dBA. While that noise level is not likely to split your eardrums, it can jar you out of a peaceful night’s sleep.
This guide includes air conditioners with noise levels below 60 dBA, making them some of the quietest window AC models money can buy. Additionally, they cool rooms nicely, too.
A few sound-damping technologies go into the manufacturing of high-efficient window ACs with quiet operation. These include D/C variable-speed motors that create less noise, noise-reduction fan blades, compressor blankets to muffle sounds, and two-stage compressor cycles.
Best Quiet Window Air Conditioner Reviews
Let’s check out the review of the quietest window ACs currently on the market. Be sure to read the next section on what you need to know before choosing any of these models.
Best Overall:
Haier ESAQ406P Serenity Series
No products found.
PROS
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What Recent Buyers Report
Many buyers express satisfaction with the decibel level of this product model, noting that it lets them study without distractions or enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep.
A few users report that the auto-cool mode is not very quiet, though. Others say some of the units make rattling noises at first.
Why it Stands Out to Us
One of the most outstanding features responsible for the low sound levels of this model is its compressor blanket.
The air conditioner has a decibel rating of 43 dBA, thanks to the effective compressor blanket. You can carry on a normal conversation with the unit working without straining to hear each other, even when the motor kicks in.
It has four operational modes, including energy saver, fan, dehumidifies, and cool modes. The ESAQ406P model comes with an EER of 11.2, putting it among the best energy-efficient AC models.
The remote control makes for convenient temperature adjustment from across the room.
Bottom Line
We recommend the ESAQ406P air conditioner for the bedroom, especially for light sleepers. But consider it only if you have a small room between 150 to 250 square feet. If your space is larger than that, you probably want to take a look at the bigger models in this guide.
Runner-up:
Frigidaire FFRH2522R2
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What Recent Buyers Report
Many buyers with large spaces to cool down describe this window AC as a workhorse with relatively quiet operation and heating function, especially when compared with similar-size units from other brands. Some buyers like that the product comes with a flexible payment plan that allows them to pay in installments.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Our runner up product combines cooling and heating capabilities into one powerful and efficient machine. Frigidaire’s heavy-duty 25K BTU AC keeps your home comfortable all year round, regardless of the weather.
The window AC dehumidifies a whopping 8 pints of moisture per hour, leaving you with cool, dry air. Surprisingly, this powerful machine doesn’t require much start-up power, and it comes with both energy-saver mode and sleep mode to conserve energy. It works with a dedicated 230v outlet for optimal performance.
Although it is the loudest model on our list, it is still quieter than many traditional window air conditioners.
Bottom Line
Consider this model if you plan to cool a large space without deafening everyone in the building with maddening noise. It’s a heavy-duty window AC and overkill for small to medium spaces. Its performance features make it worth buying.
Best for the Money:
LG LW6017R
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What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers who prefer small window air conditioners are full of praises for the LW6017R. Its size, together with its remarkable cooling power, meets the needs of many customers. Plus, they like the price.
Users recommend the product, with some saying they will gladly buy another unit if the need arises.
Why it Stands Out to Us
At 52 dBA, this model is not particularly loud, especially in comparison to most traditional window air conditioners. It certainly won’t keep you awake throughout the night.
Apart from its relatively low indoor decibel rating, it does a pretty good job of cooling rooms up to 250 square feet. It is engineered to remove up to 1.8 pints of water every hour, providing you with cool, dry air.
The product comes complete with a full-function remote control that allows you to set and adjust temperatures and operational modes from the device.
Other features include a 24-hour timer and an energy saver function.
Bottom Line
If you’re tight on cash or simply don’t want to splurge on ACs, consider LG’s small LW6017R model. It may not have the sound of a whisper, but its multiple modes offer flexible cooling and cut down your energy bills.
Quietest 8000 BTU Window Air Conditioner:
Friedrich Chill CP08G10B
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What Recent Buyers Report
Many customers like the product for its cooling capacity and quiet operation, but this model has plenty of minor complaints. A good number of buyers report that some of the units arrive with defective fan blades or other components that cause noises. Overall, buyers generally feel positive about this product.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Friedrich’s CP08G10B is a unique model when it comes to flexible installation. It can fit in your window and also work as a through-the-wall unit. Simply unscrew the screws and slide out the chassis if you need to install it through the wall.
It has a noise level of 47 dBA on its lowest setting and 51 dBA on full blast and can easily cool approximately 300 to 350-square-foot areas.
The unit has an excellent build quality designed for long-lasting operation. You won’t have to spend excessively on utility bills, thanks to its money saver settings and programmable on/off timer.
Bottom Line
This window unit is great for medium bedrooms. It will keep you comfortable without loud humming. Its sleek, stylish design and low noise, coupled with its versatility and energy-saving features, makes it an excellent, quiet 8000 BTU window air conditioner.
Quietest 5000 BTU Window Air Conditioner:
Midea MAW05M1BWT
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What Recent Buyers Report
Many buyers prefer this option for cooling smaller rooms, particularly their kid’s bedroom. Its decent price range is another factor for its popularity among users. The pulse from customers is generally positive concerning its overall performance and quietness. However, some buyers are not impressed by the lack of remote control.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This 5000 BTU window air conditioner might not have fancy features, but it packs quite a punch when it comes to cooling a small area of about 150 square feet. At 51 dBA, this unit won’t bother a sleeping child or interrupt your flow of thoughts in the office.
The option offers you two-way air direction, two fan-only speeds, and two cooling speeds. On top of that, you have up to seven different temperature settings to choose from, depending on your preference.
Although Midea’s compact device is ineffective for large spaces, it is affordable and has a remarkable energy efficiency ratio.
Bottom Line
This machine should be on your radar if you’re scouting for a quiet window AC unit for a relatively small room. It puts up a decent cooling performance and has an inexpensive price tag, but it lacks a remote control.
Quietest 6000 BTU Window Air Conditioner:
Haier Serenity ESAQ406T
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What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers are generally happy with this model’s performance in terms of powerful cooling and super-quiet operation. Light sleepers say it is one of the quietest window air conditioners in the 6000 BTU range. Many users recommend the product for small apartments, rooms, or offices, regardless of its comparatively higher price.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is the second entry from Haier on this list. It has a decibel level of 44 dBA when running on low settings.
It cools down areas of about 150 to 250 square feet without consuming too much power. But that’s not surprising, considering it has an EER of 12.2, making it highly energy-efficient.
This model features a cross-flow fan that effectively distributes cool air to every part of the room. The energy saver and sleep mode further reduce energy consumption while keeping you cool and comfortable.
The air conditioner comes with a full-function remote control for conveniently changing temperatures.
Bottom Line
Haier makes some of the quietest 6K BTU window air conditioners, and we’ve included two excellent options on this list. Our overall best product has the lowest decibel level, while this one has the highest energy efficiency rating. Now, you can choose based on what is more important to you.
Quietest 12000 BTU Window Air Conditioner:
Midea MAW12V1QWT
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What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers are happy with the overall performance and sound level of this model. Some users report that the installation and setup process is a bit tricky and takes time, but it is worth it.
The window AC is highly energy-efficient, and the smart features work great, according to many customers.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The MAW12V1QWT packs quite a punch when it comes to efficient cooling, but it is surprisingly quieter than most window air conditioners. Its U-shaped design allows your window to slide between the groove and block the sound from the compressor outside.
Apart from its remarkable cooling capacity, it produces stronger airflow that can reach up to 20 feet across the room, allowing cold air to circulate properly.
The model’s design allows you to open your window for fresh air even with the unit installed. The unit comes with an anti-theft mechanism, so your window stays secured while it is closed.
Bottom Line
If you want a window air conditioner that can operate nearly as quietly as a library, you might want to choose the MAW12V1QWT. You get the perks of a smart AC, plus you save tons of money on energy bills.
Quietest 10000 BTU Window Air Conditioner:
TOSOT Quiet Window Air Conditioner
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What Recent Buyers Report
Generally, buyers tend to be happy with this model in terms of noise level and cooling power. They like the unit’s gorgeous design and the built-in insulation foam strip and foam board. There are no major complaints about the unit itself, but the company lacks a phone in customer support.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We think this model is in a class of its own when it comes to construction. It is aesthetically pleasing and doesn’t look anything like the traditional window AC.
Aesthetics aside, you can sleep comfortably without having to endure annoying sounds, even when the air conditioner is on full blast.
The cooling power is sufficient to chill spaces up to 450 square feet. But it doesn’t only cool your room. It also removes up to 2.6 pints of water from indoor air every hour (that’s an impressive 1.2 liters per hour). On top of that, it has a fan-only function.
Bottom Line
The sound-damping technology of this model is topnotch, the build quality is unique, and it’s an energy-efficiency machine. Combine these with the iFeel remote control, and it’s easy to see why this TOSOT product is remarkable. We highly recommend it.
Quietest Small Window Air Conditioner:
Keystone KSTAW05B
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What Recent Buyers Report
Many happy customers report that this small 5000 BTU window AC cools their rooms down to a chill. They like that it works great and doesn’t use up a lot of power. However, some of the units may have issues with the water drainage, according to a handful of users.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The KSTAW05B has several standout features. It works quietly at 49 dBA on its lowest setting, with a maximum noise level of 55 dBA, which doesn’t come close to some models’ lowest noise levels.
Although it is a small window unit, it packs enough cooling power for rooms up to 150 square feet. You can select from high, medium, and low fan speeds or chose to run the AC in energy saver, sleep, or dehumidification modes.
The “check filter” function alerts you to clean the washable and reusable filter, and the “Follow Me” remote control makes temperature adjustments very convenient.
Bottom Line
This is an excellent choice for your kid’s bedroom or any small room in the house. You can expect to spend less on utility bills because it is an Energy Star-rated product. The KSTAW05B is a feature-rich model worth considering.
Can You Really Find a Quality Air Conditioner That’s Affordable?
First of all, it is a misconception that all expensive air conditioners are high-quality options. It is also not correct to assume that all affordable models are cheap and low-quality products.
Certain performance features, including low sound levels and cooling capacity, are what makes an AC good or not.
The products in this guide cut across a wide price range. Whatever your budget, you are sure to find something that works for you on this list. Keep in mind, though, even the “cheapest” AC here has high cooling power, and most importantly, operates quieter than most standard window AC units.
What Do I Need To Know Before Buying?
There are several aspects to consider when purchasing an air conditioner.
What Size Window AC Do I Need?
Air conditioner size refers to its cooling power measured in BTU. Different room sizes require different AC BTU ratings. First, measure your room and multiply the length by the width to get the square footage. The recommendation is 20 BTUs per square foot of the area you want to cool.
How Much Electricity Does a Window AC Use?
Midsize window air-cons consume more electricity than other home appliances such as a refrigerator because of their larger compressors. However, energy-efficient models use less electricity.
In most cases, midsize window units consume roughly 900 watts per hour, which translates to a monthly electricity usage of approximately 130 to 150 kWh.
How Many Watts Does a Window AC Use?
The exact wattage for window air-cons depends on a few factors such as the AC’s size and age. However, the general estimate for large models is 1440 watts, while the smallest units use about 500 watts. If you are considering a medium-sized unit, it will likely use approximately 900 watts.
How Many Amps Does a Window AC Use?
The amp rating for AC units is anywhere from 15 to 20 amps, with voltage ratings set at 115v, 125v, and 220v. 20 amps on a 220v circuit are the ideal electrical requirement to run larger window ACs. Smaller units will work fine with a lower voltage on 15 amps.
How Long Does a Window Air Conditioner Last?
A window air conditioner should last between 10 to 25 years, depending on its maintenance history. Other factors can also impact an air-con’s life expectancy. These include the workload on the unit and its location. It is best to install your AC in a shaded area, away from direct sunlight.
Conclusion
There’s no such thing as zero decibels with air-cons. However, with improvements in noise dampening technology, it shouldn’t be too difficult to find air conditioners that will operate without disrupting your flow of thoughts or keep you up all night. A good place to find one is in this report.
Haier ESAQ406P Serenity Series
People Also Ask
Even the quietest air conditioner can become noisy over time if you don't provide adequate maintenance. If small animals get into the unit, noise levels will be the least of your concerns.
Here are some questions and answers on how best to maintain your window AC and keep it running quietly.
Why Does My Window Air Conditioner Smell?
A smelly AC can be a result of several factors. A stale smell is likely because of water accumulating in the drain pan, leading to mildew growth.
A leak in the refrigerant line can cause your AC to smell like a car's exhaust. Trapped rodents can also produce awry smells.
How to Quiet a Noisy Window Air Conditioner
The quickest and hassle-free method to quiet a noisy window air conditioner is to use a quality sound blanket. These blankets are acoustic enclosures specifically for ACs. They can reduce air-con sounds by 40% and won't cause overheating. A sound dampening blanket won't compromise your AC's performance in any way.
TOSOT Quiet Window Air Conditioner
How to Keep Bugs Out When Using a Window Air Conditioner
Use a combination of items to completely insulate the window unit against bugs. Caulks will permanently seal up tiny cracks. Duct tapes are best for covering cracks up to 1-inch. Cardboards will do the trick for wider gaps, such as the top of the AC where it meets your window.
How to Get Mold Out of Window AC Unit
Turn off and unplug the AC unit from the power source. Remove the front body grill and take out the filter.
Unscrew and lift the cover of the front body grill, and vacuum the components inside. Wipe any mold with warm, soapy water. Clean the filter and reassemble the unit.