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Is the hot and humid summer air turning your big living room into a sauna? Don’t worry — a 10,000 BTU air conditioner will keep even large rooms at a comfortable temperature.

These heavy-duty air conditioners are a large investment, though. I meticulously tested and reviewed more than a dozen air conditioners to help you avoid wasting your hard-earned money on an AC unit that isn't up to snuff.

Let’s get into it and find the best 10000 BTU air conditioner for your big rooms!

Quick Guide To 10000 BTU Air Conditioners

1

Editor’s Choice — Window AC

2

Editor’s Choice — Portable AC 

3

Best Value Window AC

4

Best Value Portable AC

5

Best Traditional Window AC with Wi-Fi

6

Best AC for Horizontal/Casement Windows

7

Easiest Window AC to Install


7 Powerful10000 BTU Air Conditioners 

1. Midea U MAW10V1QWT - Editor’s Choice (Window)

Energy Efficiency

4.5

Cooling Ability

4.0

Value For Money

4.4


Overall Rating

4.3

BTUs

10,000

Noise Level (Decibels)

42 dBa

Cooling Area

450 square feet

EER or SEER

15

Dimensions (H x L x D)

13.46 x 21.97 x 19.17 inches

Weight

56.88 lbs

Midea U MAW10V1QWT really makes for an easy choice. If you want one of, if not the best 10000 BTU air conditioner currently on the market, pick this one.

Two things set the Midea U unit apart from other window air conditioners on my list — its inverter compressor and U-shaped design.

Unlike a regular AC compressor that powers on and off, Midea U's inverter unit runs continuously. As such, it avoids the power-hungry start and stop sequences.

Midea U is very energy-efficient, with an excellent 15 EER rating and Energy Star certification.

The inverter compressor is also powerful, resulting in a cooling capacity comparable to old 14,000 BTU AC units. Midea U cools 450 sq ft rooms quickly and effectively and does well in even bigger rooms.

Inverter compressors are also quiet, but Midea U doubles down on silence with its U-shaped design. This form factor allows the window pane to slide down between the AC and compressor compartments, acting as a sound barrier.

As a result, the Midea U’s noise level stays below 50 dB on average. It’s the quietest 10000 BTU air conditioner I’ve reviewed here.

Controlling the unit's AC, fan, and dehumidifier modes is easy with the front panel, or the included remote control (with an LCD display).

Midea U also features a sleep mode and energy saver mode — if you want it to consume even less power than normal.

Thanks to its Wi-Fi capabilities, you can also control the air conditioner with your smartphone. It also supports voice controls through Alexa or Google Assistant.

If there is a downside to the Midea U, the installation process is more involved than with traditional boxy air conditioners.

It's not exactly hard once everything clicks together both in your head and window frame but be prepared for some problem-solving.

Fortunately, this is the lightest window air conditioner on my list, so hoisting it up isn’t an insurmountable challenge.

Sadly, the unit doesn’t really allow you to open the window as advertised — unless you rip off all the insulation foam. At least you can still enjoy the view through the window.

These are small grumbles, though. Overall, Midea U is an exceptional 10,000 BTU air conditioner.

Who Is Midea U MAW10V1QWT Best For?

Midea U MAW10V1QWT is a fantastic window air conditioner for anyone seeking powerful performance and modern high-tech features.

Pros

  • Powerful, efficient cooling even in rooms above the rated coverage area
  • One of the quietest window AC units available
  • Responsive and functional Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Lightweight unit for its size
  • Attractive design that doesn’t block the window

Cons

  • Installation can be challenging
  • Needs a fairly large window opening

2. Black+Decker BPACT10WT - Editor’s Choice (Portable)

Energy Efficiency

4.5

Cooling Ability

4.0

Value For Money

4.0


Overall Rating

4.2

BTUs

10,000

Noise Level (Decibels)

54 dBa

Cooling Area

450 square feet

EER or SEER

6.7

Dimensions (H x L x D)

24.8 x 14 x 15.3 inches

Weight

47.3lbs

A good portable air conditioner joins convenience and cooling power in a happy marriage. In this category, Black+Decker BPACT10WT is the cream of the crop.

This B+D unit surprised me with its strong cooling capacity. On average, portable AC units tend to be less powerful than window ones, but this machine is right up there with the best window units.

Case in point: I ran out of testing space trying to push the B+D past its limits. Like Midea U, it does a good job even in a larger room than the rated 450 square feet.

Feature-wise, it offers the standard 3-in-1 functionality with a fan, dehumidifier, and cooling mode. You can also set the unit to go off on a timer, and it has a sleep mode for night-time energy savings.

As a unique feature, you can activate the MAX mode (all upper-case is appropriate) with the display-equipped remote control.

This mode sets the air conditioner to full blast and drops the temperature in a hot room within minutes.

This B+D unit really deserves to be called portable. Its compact design and low weight (lightest on my list) make it very easy to move around.

The only thing limiting portability is the fairly stiff exhaust hose that can’t bend too much. On the plus side, though, the hose has pre-assembled end caps.

I appreciate B+D saving my nerves by not making me screw the connectors onto the hose.

Thanks to its auto-evaporative functionality, the air conditioner recycles condensation water to cool itself. There’s rarely a need to drain it unless you live in an extremely humid area.

Even then, the box includes a handy drain hose. Combine that with the washable filter, and you have a portable air conditioner with very straightforward maintenance.

The only issue with B+D is its relatively low energy efficiency. With a mere 6.7 EER rating, you may see an uptick in your electricity bills.

In my books, though, that’s worth it. The Black+Decker is the best portable AC unit because it simply works.

Who Is Black+Decker BPACT10WT Best For?

This Black+Decker BPACT10WT unit is ideal for homeowners who want a reliable and powerful portable AC that’s easy to roll around the house.

Pros

  • Lots of cooling power for a portable air conditioner
  • Great portability with a compact and lightweight design
  • Rugged and sturdy build quality
  • Simple to maintain
  • Pre-assembled exhaust hose

Cons

  • Low energy efficiency
  • Stiff exhaust hose limits placement options

3. LG ‎LW1016ER - Best Value Window AC

Energy Efficiency

4.1

Cooling Ability

4.0

Value For Money

4.0


Overall Rating

4.0

BTUs

10,000

Noise Level (Decibels)

52 dBa

Cooling Area

450 square feet

EER or SEER

12.1

Dimensions (H x L x D)

15 x 22.2 x 23.6 inches

Weight

74 lbs

Whoever said you can't get a powerful, well-built 10,000 BTU window air conditioner at a decent price hasn't seen the LG LW1016ER, that's certain.

This window unit has shockingly good cooling power and construction quality, considering its price point.

The LG unit blows so much cool air that I had no problem keeping a 450-square-foot room chilled, even when running the air conditioner on the energy-saving mode.

At full blast, this machine shouldn’t have any issues cooling spaces well above its rating.

This air conditioner’s construction is so tight you can barely fit a paper sheet between the joints. You shouldn’t have to worry about rattling or vibration.

I was surprised to see the internal air channel is hard plastic and metal instead of styrofoam, as common with affordable ACs. The non-porous surfaces help keep the air conditioner mold-free — I can appreciate that as an asthma patient.

Controls are simple and straightforward, and the remote feels responsive even though it has no display or backlit buttons. You get all the usual functionality — except sleep mode. I’m curious why LG left that one out.

Although the AC has three fan speed settings, I didn’t notice much difference between the fan speeds. That’s alright, though, because the noise levels are relatively low.

It can’t compete with the Midea U (few ACs can), but even at its loudest, I measured 57 dB of noise three feet away.

The LG has good energy efficiency, with a 12 EER and an Energy Star rating. Annually, it shouldn’t add more than around $75 to your power bill.

Finally, we have a nice installation kit, which features cut-to-size insulation panels, like the Koldfront.

Installation can be a bit complex. You have to pull the unit out of its chassis and fix that to the window frame first. Then again, that means the LG could also conceivably work as a through-the-wall air conditioner.

The biggest drawback is this unit's size — it's huge and heavy. I recommend carefully measuring your window before buying to ensure you have the necessary space. Also, buy a support bracket.

That heft only underlines the LG’s solid construction, though. Take good care of it, and this high-value AC will keep you cool for years.

Who Is LG LW1016ER Best For?

Homeowners looking for an affordable but high-quality window air conditioner will fall in love with this LG LW1016ER unit.

Pros

  • Efficient cooling, even in larger spaces
  • First-class build quality
  • Reliability and energy efficiency provide excellent value
  • Low-ish noise levels
  • Good installation kit

Cons

  • Huge and heavy beast of an AC
  • Complicated installation

4. Serene Life SLPAC10

Energy Efficiency

4.5

Cooling Ability

4.2

Value For Money

4.2


Overall Rating

4.3

BTUs

10,000

Noise Level (Decibels)

56 dBa

Cooling Area

270 square feet

EER or SEER

9.1

Dimensions (H x L x D)

32.1 x 17.4 x 13.4 inches

Weight

55.1 lbs

Portable air conditioners tend to be power hogs, making them expensive to run. Serene Life SLPAC10 stands out by not piling zeroes at the end of your energy bill.

This portable air conditioner boasts an excellent 10.5 EER rating. That’s basically unheard of for a portable unit.

Although portable ACs aren’t eligible for Energy Star ratings, you can rely on this machine to keep your utility costs tolerable.

To drive home how energy-efficient Serene Life is, it beats the PerfectAire window AC. And it certainly consumes a lot less power than the Black+Decker.

If you’re worried that the low energy consumption comes at the expense of cooling power, I can tell you your fears are unfounded.

This unit does very well in rooms up to the rated 450 square feet, lowering the temperature almost as fast as the B+D.

During my tests, Serene Life also did okay in larger spaces — but only okay. That said, I can’t fault the machine for not doing more than it’s designed for.

In terms of functionality, the Serene Life unit provides everything any portable AC worth its salt should. It can run in AC, dehumidifier, or fan-only mode.

I enjoyed finding out that there's a noticeable difference between the three fan speed options.

The dehumidifier mode is surprisingly powerful and sucks a lot of moisture out of my indoor air. You'll have to rig up a continuous drainage solution to keep the AC from flooding, but that's just the nature of the beast.

Serene Life’s noise levels aren’t any higher than with any average portable air conditioner — it’s not quiet but not horrible, either. You may not want this machine in your bedroom, but I liked having the unit drown out outdoor sounds.

Size-wise, Serene Life is fairly big. It’s still not impossible to move, but it does weigh about 10 pounds more than the B+D unit and is quite a bit taller.

The window kit is otherwise fine, but the panel’s size is a bit awkward. It may need some cutting or a creative extension piece to fit your window.

With this unit’s low cost and energy savings, though, you can easily afford an extension piece.

Who Is Serene Life SLPAC10 Best For?

This Serene Life SLPAC10 portable AC is ideal for those who want the jackpot of quick cooling, affordable price, and excellent energy efficiency.

Pros

  • Amazingly energy-efficient for a portable air conditioner
  • Good cooling capacity in medium-sized rooms
  • Efficient dehumidifier mode
  • Low purchase and running costs

Cons

  • Awkwardly sized window panel
  • Big for a portable unit

5. GE AHY10LZ

Energy Efficiency

4.5

Cooling Ability

4.0

Value For Money

4.0


Overall Rating

4.2

BTUs

10,000

Noise Level (Decibels)

62 dBa

Cooling Area

450 square feet

EER or SEER

11.4

Dimensions (H x L x D)

14.5 x 19.8 x 19 inches

Weight

60.5 lbs

Want to have your entire home connected to the internet? GE AHY10LZ is a capable 10,000 BTU window air conditioner that integrates into your smart home without a fuss.

This GE unit is reasonably affordable while still providing efficient cooling in rooms up to 450 sq ft that it's rated for. Like the LG AC, the GE was able to effectively cool my home even when running in the Eco mode.

Speaking of the Eco mode, the air conditioner also features a sleep mode and a simple-to-use 24h timer function.

It can run in AC or fan-only modes but doesn’t have a dedicated dehumidifier function, unlike all other machines on my list.

I didn’t miss the dehumidifier, though, since even in normal AC mode, it sucks around 2 pints/hour of moisture out of the air.

Still, that’s something to be aware of if you happen to live in a Florida swamp or another hyper-humid region.

Controlling the available modes is a cinch with the front control panel and the included full-function remote control.

The remote has no display or backlit buttons, but the Wi-Fi connectivity is what you’ll likely use with this unit anyway.

The GE app has had some functionality issues, but the latest versions have massively improved reliability.

The Apple version crashed on me a couple of times, but it was no worse than any other AC control app. On Android, I encountered no problems with phone or voice control.

GE’s EZ Mount install kit lives up to its name. Together with the AC’s relatively compact design and low weight, mounting it to the window is effortless.

I was impressed with the package's three different kinds of insulation foam that help you plug gaps.

Although it doesn't quite match the LG, this Energy Star-certified AC is an energy-efficient unit with an 11.4 EER rating. You won’t have to worry about your bills getting out of control.

The only warning I have about this air conditioner is the noise level. This is the loudest unit I've reviewed, so I wouldn't recommend having it in your bedroom.

Noise aside, though, GE is a solid Wi-Fi-enabled AC that performs as it promises.

Who Is GE AHY10LZ Best For?

This GE AHY10LZ unit is best for owners of smart homes looking for an affordable Wi-Fi-capable 10,000 BTU window air conditioner with a traditional form factor.

Pros

  • Powerful cooling capacity in 450-sq-ft rooms and below
  • Comparatively compact and lightweight machine
  • Simple and straightforward usability
  • Wi-Fi capabilities
  • Good installation kit

Cons

  • Loud noise levels
  • Imprecise thermostat
  • No separate dehumidifier mode

6. PerfectAire 3PASC10000 - Best AC for Casement Windows

Energy Efficiency

4.5

Cooling Ability

4.0

Value For Money

4.0


Overall Rating

4.2

BTUs

10,000

Noise Level (Decibels)

61 dBa

Cooling Area

400-450 square feet

EER or SEER

9.5

Dimensions (H x L x D)

20.5 x 23.5 x 14.5 inches

Weight

71 lbs

Most window AC units are designed for conventional vertically-sliding double-hung windows — which can be an issue in some homes. PerfectAir 3PASC10000 can fit a narrow or even a casement window with its vertical design.

Unlike any other window AC unit on my list, the PerfectAir is taller than it is wide. With a 14.75” width and a 23.5” height, it can be a great fit for both very old and new houses with unconventional window sizes.

The vertical shape doesn’t affect the unit’s performance. It has a strong cooling capacity that quickly chills a 450-square-foot room. Like the Midea U and LG units, this one can help you stay cool (if not cold) in even a bit larger rooms.

This unit actually has a stronger airflow than most other air conditioners on my list. In fan mode, it’s a great way to circulate air through your home.

On the topic of modes, PerfectAire has loaded this vertical unit with 3-in-1 operating modes (AC/fan/dehumidifier), a sleep and Eco mode, a programmable timer, and multi-speed fan settings.

The unique shape doesn’t compromise this AC’s features.

The remote controls are possibly the best that I tested. The remote itself is responsive, and it has both a digital display and backlit buttons for easy usability in the dark.

It also has a portable Follow Me thermostat that monitors the temperature around the remote and adjusts the air conditioning unit accordingly.

The PerfectAire is a heavyweight unit, both in terms of build quality and heft. At 77 pounds, this is the heaviest unit on my list.

I recommend having an additional pair of hands to install this AC. Fortunately, apart from lifting the unit, the installation process is simple. The mounting kit even includes a welcome support bracket.

The Achilles' heel of this unit is the cost. It's quite pricey, and with a 9.5 EER rating, the energy efficiency is fairly sub-par in comparison.

That’s the story with all vertical window AC units, though. If your home has narrow or casement windows, this PerfectAir unit is well worth its price.

Who is PerfectAir 3PASC10000 Best For?

This PerfectAir 3PASC10000 is a great choice for homes with narrow, horizontally sliding or casement windows.

Pros

  • Fits into a narrow window frame
  • Excellent remote with a portable thermostat
  • Durable unit that can take a beating
  • Straightforward installation despite the unit’s weight

Cons

  • Pricey to buy and operate
  • Very heavy

7. Koldfront WAC10003WCO

Energy Efficiency

4.2

Cooling Ability

4.0

Value For Money

4.2


Overall Rating

4.1

BTUs

10,000

Noise Level (Decibels)

-

Cooling Area

450 square feet

EER or SEER

12

Dimensions (H x L x D)

14.63 x 19 x 21.44 inches

Weight

57.3 lbs

When your home needs cooling, the last thing you want is to spend hours trying to mount your AC to the window in sweltering heat. With Koldfront WAC10003WCO, you can forget about that headache.

This 10,000 BTU window air conditioner is quick and easy to install for a couple of reasons.

First, it’s the second lightest window unit on my list, losing only slightly to the Midea U. Even if you’re working alone, lifting this machine up to the window won’t require spending a year at the gym in preparation.

Second, Koldfront’s installation kit is better than most. The side panels feel somewhat sturdier than average, and you get a lot of foam for plugging gaps.

Like the LG unit, you get cut-to-shape insulation panels to fit over the side curtains.

Koldfront has a great cooling capacity in its class — it wouldn’t be on my list otherwise! Blowing cold air with respectable gusto, it made my 450-sq-ft test space feel a lot cooler within minutes.

In fact, I ended up running this unit only on the lowest fan speed. The strong airflow made me feel a bit too chilly if cranked higher.

Using the low power only added to this unit’s good energy efficiency. It has a solid 12 EER rating — and it’s Energy Star-certified. I’m not sure why Koldfront doesn’t advertise the fact. [1]

The Koldfront features multiple operating modes (AC/fan/dehumidifier) alongside a timer, a sleep mode, and an energy-saver mode. With the latter, saving energy is easy with this unit.

The controls are self-explanatory. You won't find a display or lit buttons on the remote control, but at least it works fine with reasonably wide-use angles.

Koldfront’s noise level is decidedly average. It doesn’t offer exactly quiet operation, but it’s also not any louder than most air conditioners. Unless you’re particularly noise-sensitive, this unit shouldn’t bother you.

Although I didn’t run into issues, I have heard that the Koldfront has some problems with long-term durability. It works well until it doesn’t. Fortunately, the front-loading washable filter makes maintaining the unit easy.

In a nutshell, Koldfront is a well-performing basic window AC unit that makes installation a breeze.

Who Is Koldfront WAC10003WCO Best For?

This Koldfront WAC10003WCO is the perfect air conditioner for those who want their powerful window AC to be easy and quick to install.

Pros

  • Strong cooling capacity even above its rating
  • Lightweight design and good mounting kit make installation simple
  • Energy-efficient operation
  • Good value for money

Cons

  • Questionable long-term reliability

10000 BTU Air Conditioners Compared

Image
Frigidaire 10,000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted...
FRIGIDAIRE FFRS1022R1 10000 BTU 115-volt...
SereneLife SLPAC10 SLPAC 3-in-1 Portable Air...
PerfectAire 10,000 BTU Slider Air Conditioner...
Honeywell Home MN10CESWW Environmental...
BLACK+DECKER 10,000 BTU Portable Air...
Model
Frigidaire 10,000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted...
FRIGIDAIRE FFRS1022R1 10000 BTU 115-volt...
SereneLife SLPAC10 SLPAC 3-in-1 Portable Air...
PerfectAire 10,000 BTU Slider Air Conditioner...
Honeywell Home MN10CESWW Environmental...
BLACK+DECKER 10,000 BTU Portable Air...
AC Type
Window
Window (Casement)
Portable
Window (Slider)
Portable
Portable
EER
10.9
10.4
10
9.5
9.0
9.4
Noise
53 dBa
55 dBa
52 dBa
56 dBa
54 dBa
75 dBa (on high)
Image
Frigidaire 10,000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted...
Model
Frigidaire 10,000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted...
AC Type
Window
EER
10.9
Noise
53 dBa
Price
Image
FRIGIDAIRE FFRS1022R1 10000 BTU 115-volt...
Model
FRIGIDAIRE FFRS1022R1 10000 BTU 115-volt...
AC Type
Window (Casement)
EER
10.4
Noise
55 dBa
Price
Image
SereneLife SLPAC10 SLPAC 3-in-1 Portable Air...
Model
SereneLife SLPAC10 SLPAC 3-in-1 Portable Air...
AC Type
Portable
EER
10
Noise
52 dBa
Price
-
Price
Image
PerfectAire 10,000 BTU Slider Air Conditioner...
Model
PerfectAire 10,000 BTU Slider Air Conditioner...
AC Type
Window (Slider)
EER
9.5
Noise
56 dBa
Price
Image
Honeywell Home MN10CESWW Environmental...
Model
Honeywell Home MN10CESWW Environmental...
AC Type
Portable
EER
9.0
Noise
54 dBa
Price
Image
BLACK+DECKER 10,000 BTU Portable Air...
Model
BLACK+DECKER 10,000 BTU Portable Air...
AC Type
Portable
EER
9.4
Noise
75 dBa (on high)
Price
-
Price

How to Choose a Reliable 10000 BTU AC Unit

Not all 10,000 BTU air conditioners are made equal. You should carefully consider your and your home’s needs when choosing an AC to ensure it can reach and maintain your desired temperature.

Here’s my breakdown of the most important factors to consider when shopping for air conditioners.

Use It In The Right Sized Room (BTU/SQ-FT)

Try not to place 10,000 BTU air conditioners in rooms larger than 450 square feet in size.

The cooling capacity of both portable and window air conditioners is measured in British thermal units (BTU), which directly dictate the square footage the AC can cool.

The actual calculation is somewhat complex, but the basic principle is easy to understand — a higher BTU rating means the AC can cool a bigger room.[2]

10000 BTU air conditioners are designed to cool 450-square-foot rooms at maximum.

Some AC units — such as Midea U or Black+Decker on my list — can work for even larger spaces, but their efficiency begins dropping quickly as the coverage area increases.

I recommend always matching your AC’s cooling capacity as closely as possible to your room’s actual size.

Window Vs Portable — Choose the Right Type

10,000 BTU window air conditioners are typically more powerful and energy-efficient, while portable AC units give you flexible positioning and look less intrusive on the outside.

Think about what type of air conditioner will serve you best before you commit to a purchase.

Window air conditioners generally have a higher cooling capacity than portable AC units. They’re also virtually always more energy-efficient, which helps you save money on your bills.

However, you can often install portable air conditioners in windows that can't accommodate a window unit.

Some HOAs or landlords also ban window air conditioners for their admittedly less-than-aesthetic appearance, but they may let a portable AC unit slide.

Save Energy and Money with a High EER Rating

I recommend choosing an air conditioner with an EER rating of at least 11 to ensure your unit’s high energy efficiency keeps your bills in check.

The energy efficiency ratio (EER) measures how energy-efficient any given AC unit is. The basic principle is the same as with the BTU rating. The higher the EER score is, the more energy-efficient your air conditioner is.[3]

An EER rating of at least 11 is generally considered the gold standard for energy-efficient ACs, and that’s what I would aim for.

For additional proof of low power consumption, look for an AC unit with Energy Star certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Keep It As Quiet As Possible (dBA)

I advise purchasing an air conditioner with average noise levels around 50-55 dB to ensure you can still hear yourself think with the AC unit running.

No matter what the marketing materials state, there’s no such thing as a silent air conditioner. Compare the units’ stated decibel ratings and choose a machine with noise levels below 55 dB at the high setting.

A noise level of 50 dB is comparable to an average refrigerator, so an air conditioner producing this level of noise won’t be distractingly loud. If you have sensitive ears, though,

I recommend looking at AC units with inverter compressors, such as the Midea U, for even quieter operation.[4]

Make Installation Easy

Look for lightweight air conditioners with a good mounting kit to avoid frustrating difficulties during installation.

With window air conditioners, the unit’s weight and mounting kit often dictate how difficult it is to get installed.

A lightweight unit, like the Midea U or Koldfront, is easier to lift up to the window opening.

A good installation kit, with support brackets and plenty of insulation foam, means you’ll have all the components you need straight out of the box and won’t have to make a trip to the hardware store.

Portable air conditioners are typically easy to install, but a sturdy window panel and simple hose connections will still make the job more straightforward.

A lighter unit will also be easier to move to storage once the hot summer days are over.

Consider Maintenance Needs

Choose an air conditioner with features that make maintenance and cleaning easier, such as front-loading washable air filters and a slide-out chassis.

To get a long service life out of your air conditioner, you must maintain and clean it regularly.

All units on my list have washable filters, which are easy to clean and reduce the need to buy replacements.

Each window air conditioner I’ve listed also features a front-loading filter, which is unlikely to be blocked by walls or furniture.

Additionally, if you buy a window AC with a slide-out chassis (like the LG), you’ll be able to pull the AC unit itself out of its housing. That can make cleaning the inside of the machine very straightforward.[5]

Set Your Budget Before Shopping

I strongly recommend calculating how much you can spend on an air conditioner before you start browsing units.

10,000 BTU air conditioners are available at a wide price range, but they do tend to be on the expensive side. For example, the units on my list sell from around $370 to more than $500.

As such, it's important that you know how much you can afford to pay before you look at any units. This way, you can avoid wasting time on ACs beyond your means and can focus on getting the best unit for the best price.

Additional Features

In addition to the primary considerations I listed above, there are smaller things that can still impact the convenience of using your new air conditioner. Here are some of the more significant ones:

  • Warranty: Something can always go wrong with any machine, and a good warranty can help you get a broken machine fixed quickly. All units on my list include at least a 1-year warranty.
  • Remote Control: A responsive remote control with a display and backlit buttons can make adjusting your air conditioner easier, especially if you plan to have it in your bedroom.
  • Wi-Fi Capabilities: Look for ACs with built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, like the Midea U or GE, if you want a smart device that can integrate into your home network.
  • Operating Modes: Most air conditioners can work in cooling, fan, and dehumidifier modes — but not all of them. Consider your home region’s conditions when deciding if you need, for example, a separate dehumidifier mode or a fan mode for air circulation.
  • Filter Type: Besides having a washable filter, pay attention to whether your AC is compatible with special filters, like HEPA filters, that can improve the air quality in case you're asthmatic (like I am).
best through the wall air conditioner

When Should I Use a 10000 BTU Air Conditioner?

The primary use case for 10000 BTU air conditioners is acting as a stand-alone cooler in relatively large rooms, but they can also assist a struggling central air conditioner in even bigger spaces.

A 10000 BTU air conditioner — whether a window or portable unit — packs quite a punch in terms of cooling capacity. As such, they’re typically more than enough to cool fairly large rooms, up to 450 square feet, on their own.

The most common locations for a 10000 BTU AC include living rooms, kitchens, hallways, and big bedrooms.

One word of warning for the latter, though — air conditioners this big tend to be relatively noisy, so they might disturb light sleepers.

Naturally, a 10,000 BTU AC will also work in smaller rooms. However, you should be careful not to place an air conditioner this powerful in a space that's too small.

First of all, installing an overpowered AC is a waste of money since an 8,000 BTU or even a cheap 6,000 BTU unit may be enough.

Second, cooling an undersized space can harm or even break a powerful AC by freezing its cooling coils.

In addition to functioning on its own, a 10000 BTU AC can provide supplemental cooling to a central AC that’s not quite up to the task.

For example, let’s say you converted your home into a modern open floor plan, but now your old central air conditioner can no longer cool it properly.

A 10,000 BTU window or portable can help the old system maintain a more consistent temperature in your renovated home.


Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Square Feet Can a 10000 BTU AC Cool?

A 10,000 BTU air conditioner is designed to efficiently cool 400 to 450-square-foot rooms. Depending on the AC, they may also suit slightly smaller or larger rooms, but an inappropriate room size will decrease the unit’s efficiency.

How Much Energy Does a 10000 BTU AC Use Per Hour?

On average, 10,000 BTU air conditioners use roughly 800-1,300 watts of electricity per hour. You can lower the electricity consumption by purchasing an Energy Star-certified energy-efficient AC unit and running it on low fan speeds.

How Much Does It Cost to Run a 10000 BTU AC All Day?

Running a 10,000 BTU air conditioner all day (for 24 hours straight) will cost approximately $2.50. However, the ultimate cost will depend on local electricity prices and how energy-efficient your unit is.


So, Which AC Should You Buy?

There you have it — my list of the best 10,000 BTU air conditioners and the basics of what makes these machines tick. You’re now ready to compare them and choose one that’s a perfect fit for your home’s needs.

That said, I know picking an AC can be difficult, even with plenty of advice. Here are my personal Top 3 recommendations to make the choice easier for you:

  • Midea U MAW10V1QWT is quite possibly the best 10,000 BTU window air conditioner currently available.
  • Black+Decker BPACT10WT is a reliable, powerful, and lightweight portable air conditioner for your big rooms.
  • LG ‎LW1016ER is an affordable option for a high-value window AC.

References: 

  1. https://www.energystar.gov/productfinder/product/certified-room-air-conditioners/details/2329585
  2. https://www.calculator.net/btu-calculator.html
  3. https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/room-air-conditioners
  4. https://www.electricalworld.com/en/Decibel-dB-Comparison-Chart/cc-42.aspx
  5. http://woodacrehvac.com/difference-fixed-chassis-slide-chassis/index.html

Josh Mitchell

Founder

Josh Mitchell
My name is Josh and I am obsessed with home appliances. From portable AC units to heaters and air purifiers, I enjoy testing, learning and using these devices to improve the air quality inside my family home.

My Favorite Home Appliance?

Midea U Shaped Window Air Conditioner

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