Best Through The Wall Air Conditioners – 2021 Guide

Summers can be harsh, especially for people living in hot climates. However, you can still feel the chill air in your living space if you have a powerful cooling unit.

A through-the-wall air conditioner is the ideal option if you seek an energy-efficient and space-saving cooling system.

This guide walks you through some of the best through the wall air conditioners.

Comparison of the Best Through The Wall Air Conditioners

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Louvers automatically oscillate for better air distribution
  • Very low operating noise of around 50 dB
  • Electric cord can be attached from different positions
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  • Will easily cool a large 450 square feet floor area
  • Up to 10 000 Btu cooling capacity
  • Comes with r cooling speeds for your convenience
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  • Best for the Money
  • 7 years and 5 years limited warranty
  • High maximum cooling capacity of 15000 Btu
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  • Best Through The Wall Air Conditioner With Heat
  • Can keep cool and make hot from the same unit
  • Made from durable materials to last longer
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  • Best 5000 BTU Through The Wall Air Conditioner
  • Simple selection controls and LED display for easy reading
  • Very easy to install in your home
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  • Best Frigidaire Through The Wall Air Conditioner
  • High maximum cooling capacity of 16000 Btu
  • Easy accessible controls for quick adjustments
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  • Best LG Through The Wall Air Conditioner
  • Very easy to install in your home
  • Very to read LED Display
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What is a Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner?

You can find many different types of air conditioners designed to fight the searing heat during summers. These cooling units are responsible for keeping your living space cool and comfortable. 

If you seek an energy-saving option that also offers space conservation, a through the wall air conditioner is ideal. This is a uniquely designed cooling system that fits through the wall rather than a window. It is a great source of cooling or supplemental heating for a large living space.

How Do Wall Air Conditioners Work?

A wall air conditioner sucks hot air from the environment into the unit, which is then brought to the condenser where it is cooled. The cool air is then blown back into the room while the hot air leaves from the vents at the back of the unit.

Wall air conditioners are a great choice to cool your living space with minimal power consumption. They are fully equipped to cool a large living space quite conveniently. This is why they are used for both residential and commercial purposes.

Characteristics of Our Favorite Through the Wall Air Conditioners

Before you put your hands on a through the wall air conditioner, it is essential to determine its characteristics. Here are a few key aspects that you should keep in mind while buying one:

Cooling/Heating Capacity

A good-quality wall air conditioner offers superior cooling and heating capacity. Most premium models have a large cooling capacity as well as supplemental heating capability. Such units can not only keep you cool during summers but also ensure you feel warm and cozy in winters. If you are looking for a wall air conditioner that offers a year-round operation, opt for a unit with both heating and cooling capability.

Energy Efficiency

Energy Star wall air conditioners are highly energy-efficient as compared to conventional models. They consume far less energy for cooling or heating operation without compromising on performance. 

As a result, your utility bills can be reduced to a great extent. If you seek a cost-effective cooling or heating solution, then opting for an Energy Star model is the way forward.

Ease of Use

High-quality wall air conditioners are very versatile. They promise a wide range of features that add to the versatility and user convenience. Newer models often come with smart controls, LED displays, and remote control that promise ease of use to the user. 

Review of the Best Through The Wall Air Conditioners

Finding the best through the wall air conditioner is quite challenging nowadays. With so many products and brands to choose from, it becomes truly difficult to pick one for yourself.

To help you find the right unit, we have compiled a list of some of the best options that promise superior performance and good quality.

Best Overall:
Friedrich CP08G10B

Friedrich Air Conditioning Co. Chill Series, CP08G10B Air Conditioner 8,000 BTU Air Conditioner, White

PROS

  • Easily cools a large living space of 300sq ft
  • Flexible power cord promises ease of installation
  • Reduced noise output ensures comfort during use
  • A powerful unit that offers 8000 BTU of cooling power
  • Oscillating louvers ensure cool air distribution evenly throughout the room

CONS

  • Installation instructions are not quite clear

What Recent Buyers Report

People who bought this model are quite satisfied with its overall performance. They admire the low noise output of this air conditioner as compared to other brands. Plus, users like its oscillating louvers that push cool air into your room in no time.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Friedrich air conditioners are highly reliable units that promise superior cooling. This specific model features a powerful cooling operation with 8000 BTUs that will leave your unit cooled in no time. It blows condensed air into the room such that it can easily cool a living space of 300sq ft.

The unit also promises silent operation even when running at full capacity. The minimum operational noise also makes it a great choice for use in bedrooms. Moreover, the unit has oscillating louvers that evenly distribute cool air across the room. Besides, its flexible power cord ensures an easy installation.

Bottom Line

To conclude, the Friedrich air conditioner is a versatile option for users who would like to install a window or wall air conditioner. It is quite easy to install, while its powerful cooling operation keeps your living space cool during summers.

Runner-up:
Keystone KSTAT10-2HC

Keystone 10,000 BTU 230V Wall Mounted Air Conditioner with Supplemental Heat and Dehumidifier Function, Quiet Wall AC with Remote Control for Small and Medium Sized Rooms up to 450 Sq.Ft.

PROS

  • Offers a large 10,000 BTUs of cooling capacity
  • Promises supplemental heating capability as well
  • Can cool a large room with a size of up to 450sq ft
  • Promises greater versatility with three fan and cooling speeds
  • Includes electronic controls and remote control for maintaining room temperature

CONS

  • Requires a 230v electrical outlet
  • Not suitable for window installation

What Recent Buyers Report

The versatile design of this air conditioner has impressed many buyers. Most users praise its impressive cooling capacity along with its supplemental heat capability. They found it to be quite reliable as it cools the living space very quickly. Plus, it's quite easy to monitor and control with the available remote.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The Keystone wall air conditioner is a remarkable cooling system that offers great cooling capacity. It promises an impressive cooling capacity of 10,000 BTUs that can cool a large room with a size of 450 sq ft. It also promises versatility with its adjustable fan and cooling speed.

You can switch between three fan and cooling speeds to ensure you are comfortable even in the searing heat. The air conditioner also includes supplemental heating capability. This allows it to be used during winters for warm air that can be controlled via a remote.

Bottom Line

All in all, the Keystone air conditioner is a versatile model that is perfectly suited for year-round usage. Its large cooling capacity backed with supplemental heating allows it to be used in any season. Besides, it is easy to use with its remote control.

Best for the Money:
Cooper&Hunter B07MBK961H

Cooper&Hunter 15,000 BTU PTAC Packaged Terminal A/C with Heat Pump (R32 Refrigerant) and 3.5 kW Electric Heater Including Wireless Smart Kit, Remote Controller, and a Power Cord

PROS

  • Perfectly designed for residential and commercial use
  • Promises digital temperature control and LED display for convenience
  • Includes a long 6.5-foot power cord and pre-charged with R-410 refrigerant
  • Features a powerful operation of 15000 BTUs for effective heating or cooling
  • Comes with a limited seven-year warranty on the compressor and a five-year warranty on parts

CONS

  • Wall sleeve and grille to be purchased separately

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers are overwhelmed by the amazing cooling and heating performance of this unit. They believe that it is perfect for residential as well as commercial use. The air conditioner can comfortably heat or cool a large area of up to 875 square feet. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

We like the powerful heating and cooling performance of this air conditioner. It features 15,000 BTUs of heating and cooling capacity, which is enough for a large area. It can either be used in large homes or commercial sectors such as offices that require a powerful cooling system.

Moreover, it comes pre-charged with an R-410 refrigerant that is known to be eco-friendly. A 6.5-foot long power cord is also provided for user convenience. You can also find digital temperature controls and an LED display for added comfort. Plus, the unit comes with a seven-year warranty on the compressor and a five-year warranty on parts.

Bottom Line

This model offers an all-in-one heating and cooling solution throughout the year. It is not only easy to install but also offers great cooling with minimal noise output, making it a great unit to invest in.

Best Through The Wall Air Conditioner With Heat:
LG LT1037HNR

LG 9,800 BTU Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner, Cools 450 Sq.Ft. (18' x 25' Room Size), Electronic Control with Remote, 2 Cooling & Fan Speeds, 4-Way Air Deflection, Auto Restart, 230/208V

PROS

  • Comes with an installation kit for convenience
  • Easy to operate with a full-featured remote control
  • Easily cools or warms your living space of up to 450sq ft
  • Reduced noise output of 56dB ensures maximum comfort
  • Large cooling and heating capacity offer year-round usage

CONS

  • Doesn’t operate with standard 115V household electrical outlets

What Recent Buyers Report

Users claim that this air conditioner is the ultimate heating and cooling solution during summers or winters. They admire its energy-efficient operations that are backed with minimal noise. Plus, its good build quality ensures years of use without any trouble.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This LG wall air conditioner stands out to us for many reasons. The first thing that catches our attention is its great cooling and heating capacity. The unit offers 10,000 BTUs of cooling and 11,200 BTUs of heating capacity. As a result, it is the ideal choice for people who seek year-round operability.

The model is also capable of easily heating or cooling a 450 sq ft area, which is enough to meet the demands of most users in the residential sector. The amazing thing about it is that its operating noise is as low as 56dB. Plus, its full-featured remote control and installation kit take care of your comfort.

Bottom Line

In short, this air conditioner is a perfect choice for anyone who experiences different seasons throughout the year. Whether it's winter or summer, this model promises great cooling along with supplemental heat to serve you in all seasons.

Best 5000 BTU Through The Wall Air Conditioner:
Friedrich CCF05A10A

Friedrich CCF05A10A 16' Air Conditioner with 5000 BTU Cooling Capacity 115V in White

PROS

  • Quick and easy to set up
  • Uses Quiet Master Technology for silent operations
  • Comes with Money Saver settings for high energy efficiency
  • Promises smart control with Wi-Fi capability using your phone
  • Ensures eco-friendly operation with numerous adjustable options

CONS

  • Not easy to pair the unit with your Wi-Fi
  • Remote settings don’t sync with the unit while using the app

What Recent Buyers Report

Most buyers are satisfied with the cooling operation of this unit. They believe that it’s a perfect buy for anyone looking for a user-friendly air conditioner. It is simple and easy to set up, while the Wi-Fi capability promises user convenience in all instances.

Why it Stands Out to Us

What impresses us about this Friedrich air conditioner is its outstanding quality and consistent performance. It uses Quiet Master Technology that minimizes noise output during operations. The air conditioner is further embedded with Wi-Fi capability that allows you to monitor and control it using your phone for added convenience.

Additionally, the unit claims to be eco-friendly and comes with a wide range of tweakable options. You can easily switch to Money-Saver mode that maximizes energy efficiency without compromising performance. Plus, it's extremely easy and quick to set up.

Bottom Line

In a nutshell, this Friedrich air conditioner is a great option if you seek maximum user convenience. It not only offers smart controls but also promises a quick setup with its simple design. Besides, it offers high energy efficiency with its Money Saver settings.

Best Frigidaire Through The Wall Air Conditioner:
Frigidaire FFRH1822R2

FRIGIDAIRE FFRH1822R2 18500 BTU 230V Median Slide-Out Chassis Air Conditioner with 16,000 BTU Supplemental Heat Capability

PROS

  • Includes three different cooling, heating, and fan speeds
  • Promises dehumidification capability up to 5.5 pints per hour
  • Comes with a 24-hour on/off timer for scheduling operations
  • Easily directs the airflow with its 8-way comfort control design
  • Features 18,500 BTUs of cooling and 16,000BTUs of supplemental heating capacity

CONS

  • Regular maintenance is required
  • Requires HVAC professional for installation

What Recent Buyers Report

Customers like the Frigidaire air conditioner due to its remarkable heating and cooling. They admire how silently it operates while cooling quite a large living space. Despite its large size, most buyers say it's quite easy to install and is tailor-made for commercial use.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Frigidaire is known for manufacturing some of the best wall air conditioners that you can buy. This specific model is fully equipped to meet your cooling and heating needs. It provides not only 18,500 BTUs of cooling power but also an extraordinary 16,000 BTUs of supplemental heating capacity.

The unit can also dehumidify your living space up to 5.5 pints per hour. If you live in a humid climate, then this air conditioner is a great pick. Moreover, its eight-way comfort control design promises effective airflow, and it also includes multiple cooling, heating, and fan adjustment settings. Besides, you can also schedule its operational hours with its 24-hour on/off timer.

Bottom Line

All in all, the Frigidaire air conditioner is a large unit capable of providing cooling operation and supplemental heat in a large area. It is perfectly suited for offices or large living spaces where you require a powerful unit.

Best LG Through The Wall Air Conditioner:
LG LT1016CER

LG 9,800, Universal Design that Fits Most Sleeves 10,000 Air Conditioner, 115V, 440 Sq. Ft. for Bedroom, Living Room, Apartment, with Remote, 3 Cool & Fan Speeds, Wall AC Unit, White, 10000 BTU

PROS

  • Very easy to operate 
  • Promises 10,000 BTUs of cooling power in a large area
  • Includes remote control and installation kit for comfortable set up
  • A highly versatile unit that offers three different controllable fan speeds
  • Energy-efficient design that also offers dehumidification capability with a 10.6 CEER rating

CONS

  • Build quality is not that great

What Recent Buyers Report

Reviews for this model suggest that this is a robust air conditioner that does the job quite well. It is capable of not only cooling your room but also dehumidifying it while consuming less power. Plus, its ease of operation and versatile design add to the user’s comfort.

Why it Stands Out to Us

LG offers its customers an Energy Star wall air conditioner that has exceptional cooling capabilities. This sound cooling system promises 10,000 BTUs of cooling capacity to cool your room in no time. Its cooling power is enough for large living spaces and is energy-efficient at the same time. The air conditioner also offers dehumidification capability with an astounding 10.6 CEER rating for energy efficiency.

A remote control is included with the package, along with an installation kit for easy installation. Most importantly, this model is quite simple to operate and has tweakable fan speeds to attain the desired cooling performance.

Bottom Line

You are looking for the best through the wall air conditioner, right? This model by LG is the perfect option for anyone looking for a versatile and user-friendly air conditioner. It's perfectly suited for humid conditions because of the unit’s dehumidification abilities.

Best 8000 BTU Through The Wall Air Conditioner:
Keystone KSTAT08-1C

Keystone 8,000 BTU 115V Wall Mounted Air Conditioner & Dehumidifier with Remote Control - Quiet Wall AC Unit for Bedroom, Bathroom, Nursery, Small & Medium Sized Rooms up to 350 Sq.Ft.

PROS

  • Air filters are quite easy to clean
  • Comes with an Energy-Saver mode for conserving energy
  • An energy-efficient air conditioner with 8000 BTUs of cooling power
  • Three different cooling modes and fan speeds promise high versatility
  • Includes remote control with built-in thermostat for even cooling throughout the room

CONS

  • A bit bulky
  • No instructions manual is provided

What Recent Buyers Report

Most recent user reports praise that this is a fine-quality air conditioner. It has great cooling power that offers energy-efficient operations with minimal noise output. The unit is quite user-friendly and offers many customizable options to offer added versatility.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Keystone offers an energy-efficient wall air conditioner that is designed to meet the modern cooling needs of customers. This remarkable unit features 8000 BTUs of cooling power that effectively cools your living space. It comes with a full-featured remote control that has a built-in thermostat that not only allows you to monitor room temperature but also ensures even cooling.

Also, there are three different cooling modes and fan speeds that you can adjust according to your requirements. The air filters are simple and easy to clean, while its Energy-Saver mode minimizes power consumption to reduce operational charges.

Bottom Line

If you seek an energy-efficient air conditioner, then this is a great option. Its robust and practical construction provides great cooling with minimal power consumption. Besides, it's highly versatile with adjustable cooling modes and fan speeds.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Through the Wall Air Conditioners

There is no doubt that wall air conditioners are a reliable cooling and heating solution for residential and commercial sectors. However, all the good does come with some drawbacks. Let’s have a look at both aspects. 

Advantages

Here are some advantages of using wall cooling systems:

Inexpensive

Wall air conditioners are quite cheap as compared to other types of cooling systems. A good-quality unit will only cost you between $300 and $800, depending on the size and features. Plus, they are easy and cheap to replace.

Space-Saving

Unlike window air conditioners, wall units are space-saving as they are installed within the wall instead of a window. They promise you not only an unobstructed view but also negate air leakages, which window ACs don’t offer.

Cooling Capacity

Through the wall air conditioners promise a much larger cooling capacity than other units, which allows them to be feasible to use in commercial sectors as well.

Disadvantages 

One major drawback associated with wall air conditions is:

Maintenance

Wall air conditioners require regular maintenance to ensure consistent performance. Their air filters must be cleaned regularly, while frequent maintenance checks should be scheduled for long-lasting operation.

Through the Wall Air Conditioner vs Window - Comparison Overview

You might get confused about the type of air conditioner you should purchase. If you have trouble deciding between a wall and a window air conditioner, then this comparison is for you.

Similarities 

Window air conditioners, along with wall units, serve the same purpose: cooling. They are fully capable of cooling a significant living space and are quite energy-efficient. They consume significantly less energy as compared to conventional models. As a result, your utility bills are minimized.

Plus, installing a window or wall air conditioner is a great choice if you want to conserve space. Since these units are fitted in a window or wall, they allow you to save floor space.

Differences

Window air conditioners are slightly more expensive as compared to wall ACs. Therefore, if you are low on budget, the latter would be a more viable option.

Friedrich CP08G10B

Through the Wall Air Conditioner Installation

Installing a through the wall air conditioner is not a difficult task. However, it is always recommended to seek the help of an HVAC professional. If you plan to do it yourself, here are a few simple steps that you need to follow.

  1. The first thing you need to determine is whether your unit requires 120v or 240v. You can determine it by unplugging the plug and viewing the printed information on it.

  2. You would also have to measure the size of your unit. Carefully measure the height and width of your air conditioner and remove the decorative frame if available.

  3. Once you have measured the unit’s width and height, it's time to pull it out. You now have to measure how deep it is. Make sure to use a drop cloth for protection against dust buildup in the sleeve.

  4. After you’ve pulled out the unit, measure the depth of the sleeve. Clean the dust or debris that has accumulated over time. Don’t forget to attach the grounding wire on the side of the sleeve such that it can bend and come out from the front end.

  5. Place the new unit into the sleeve and attach the ground wire to the unit. Make sure to use insulation foam to fill any voids.

If you are still unsure of the installation process, refer to the video below for a complete overview.

Conclusion

Wall air conditioners are a great choice that can be conveniently used in residential and commercial areas. Their large cooling capacity, backed with versatility and energy-efficient operations, promises a reliable cooling solution. Our list of the best through the wall air conditioners includes units that promise superior quality and cooling performance that you desire. So, picking any of these can be a great idea. 

People Also Ask

A lot of people are confused about whether they should invest in a wall air conditioner. To ensure you are left with no ambiguities, we have listed some commonly asked questions that will help you find answers to your questions regarding troubleshooting and installation of wall air conditioners.

What is the Cost to Install a Through the Wall Air Conditioner? 

Through the wall air conditioners are one of the cheapest models that you can purchase to keep your living space cool. They are not only inexpensive but also promise cheap installation and replacement costs. Typically, the installation costs of a wall air conditioner range between $300 and $600.

What Are the Different Types of Plugs For a Through the Wall Air Conditioner?

Air conditioners use different types of plugs to power their operations. There are four basic types that include parallel, perpendicular, tandem, and large tandem plugs. The type of plug your unit requires depends on its power requirements.

Can a Window Air Conditioner Be Installed in a Wall Sleeve?

No, window air conditioners cannot be installed in a wall sleeve. Most units are intended to be fitted in the window and cannot be installed in the wall through a wall sleeve. Therefore, it is recommended that you only consider a window AC if you plan to install it in a window opening.