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While summer heat can be a welcome reprieve from the winter’s chill, it can become overbearing at times.

Indeed, the summer heat can really become a health hazard if you live in an area where the high sun beats down all day. That’s why, for many homeowners and office managers, it’s critical to have their space equipped with one or more air conditioning units.

8,000 BTU air conditioners are among the most popular option for this kind of interior cooling because they balance cooling capacity with energy efficiency, size, and noise production.

You may be in the market for this size of air conditioner, and if so, you’ve come to the right place.

OUR TOP PICK

BLACK+DECKER BPACT08WT

Ease of Use

5.0

Cooling Ability

4.5

Value for Money

4.5


Our Score

4.7

Quietest 8000 BTU Window AC

Friedrich CP08G10B
 

Energy Efficiency

4.0

Cooling Ability

4.0

Value for Money

4.0


Our Score

4.0

Best 8000 BTU Window AC

LG LW8016ER
 

Energy Efficiency

4.0

Cooling Ability

4.0

Value for Money

4.0


Our Score

4.0

8 Best 8000 BTU Air Conditioners Reviewed

1 - BLACK+DECKER BPACT08WT

Ease of Use

5.0

Cooling Ability

4.5

Value for Money

4.5


Overall Rating

4.7

I simply have to start with this, the best 8,000 BTU portable AC unit – the BLACK+DECKER BPACT08WT. Now, I know what you’re thinking. “How could the best portable air conditioner with 8,000 BTUs of cooling capacity be made by Black and Decker,” right? Well, I was as surprised as you to learn that this model includes a built-in dehumidifier that allows for maximum cooling in humid environments. I was even surprised to see that it uses an environmentally-friendly coolant, which not even all major AC brands use yet.

If I had to compliment this model on any one feature, though, it would be its user interface. To control this unit, you can simply step up and utilize its LED screen for a quick change. But if you’d rather stay seated, this model’s remote control is simple to use and can connect to the unit from across a 300 sq. ft. room. You’ll be able to customize where you position the BLACK+DECKER BPACT08WT as well, thanks to its inclusion of an exceptionally long 84-3/8” power cord.

The BLACK+DECKER BPACT08WT does leave a bit to be desired when it comes to noise production, however. But if a little sound doesn’t bother you when it comes to cooling your home or office, then this model is for you.

Our Top Pick

AC Type

Portable

EER

N/A

Room Size (Cooling Area)

300 sq. ft.

Dimensions

16.5 x 11.5 x 26 inches

Noise Level

75 dB (on high setting)

Warranty

Yes, 5 year on compressor and 1 year on parts and labor

Pros

  • Built-in dehumidifier allows for maximum cooling in humid environments
  • 84-3/8” power cord allows for use far from a wall outlet
  • LED screen and fully functional remote control make interfacing a breeze

Cons

  • Requires more-than-regular filter cleaning in humid environments
  • Fan settings are not well differentiated

2 - Friedrich CP08G10B

Energy Efficiency

4.0

Cooling Ability

4.0

Value for Money

4.0


Overall Rating

4.0

At first glance, you may not think that the Friedrich CP08G10B is the quietest 8,000 BTU window air conditioner in this collection. But tell that to its 26.7 dB noise level rating! Friedrich isn’t overstating their case here, either. Numerous other users of this AC unit agree that it is whisper-soft when cranked up to full speed. That top cooling mode is no slack, either, as it can cool a 350 sq. ft. room in a matter of minutes as a result of its 4-way airflow control system.

The Friedrich CP08G10 can also help its users breathe easier while it is in operation. That’s because its washable antimicrobial air filter can capture many kinds of airborne particulates before they ever have a chance to make you cough or wheeze. Better yet, the Friedrich CP08G10 includes an automated check filter light so you can always know when it’s time to clean your indoor window AC unit and back to its maximum air cleansing capacity.

Most users won’t need to make use of this model’s slide-out chassis. But if you have experience installing AC units, then you’ll be able to make use of this unique feature to permanently mount this unit as a through-the-wall air conditioner.

Quietest 8000 BTU Window Air Conditioner

AC Type

Window

EER

10.8

Room Size (Cooling Area)

350 sq. ft.

Dimensions

20.9 x 18.4 x 14 inches

Noise Level

26.7 dB

Warranty

Yes, 12 months

Pros

  • Extremely quiet operation at just 26.7 dB
  • Washable antimicrobial air filter and check filter alert ensure everyone breaths well
  • Slide-out chassis also allows for permanent through-wall installation

Cons

  • Coils may fall out of alignment if improperly installed
  • Fans may become jammed by internal Styrofoam over time

3 - LG LW8016ER

Energy Efficiency

4.0

Cooling Ability

4.0

Value for Money

4.0


Overall Rating

4.0

Before doing my research, I might not have believed that one of the best 8,000 BTU window air conditioners on the market today is also one of the cheapest 8,000 BTU air conditioners. But as it turns out, the LG LW8016ER is worthy of both titles due to its ability to cool and dehumidify a 340 sq. ft. room without any trouble. Even if you are using this unit a room larger than its rated capacity, you can bet on the LG LW8016ER to spread your desired cool air far and wide thanks to its 4-way air direction system.

LG has made a point to highlight this model’s EER, which stands at a full 12.1. Perhaps more importantly, LG is proud to highlight the LW8016ER’s 2016 Energy Star rating, which clearly demonstrates its capacity to cool your home without wasting any electricity. The LG LW8016ER also includes an auto cut-off and restart feature. This protects the unit from sudden power surges and ensures that this AC kicks back on after a power outage to ensure that your family is never uncomfortable during rough weather.

Best 8000 BTU Window Air Conditioner

AC Type

Window

EER

12.1

Room Size (Cooling Area)

340 sq. ft.

Dimensions

19.6 x 19.4 x 12.4 inches

Noise Level

54 dB

Warranty

Yes, 1 year

Pros

  • Auto-restart ensures that your home remains cool when your power flickers during a storm
  • 4-way air direction ensures that cooled air is evenly spread throughout a wide room
  • 12.1 EER earned this model an Energy Star rating

Cons

  • Sub-par customer service responsiveness
  • Known motherboard fault isn’t covered under warranty

4 - Frigidaire FFRE083WAE

Energy Efficiency

4.0

Cooling Ability

4.0

Value for Money

4.0


Overall Rating

4.0

I’m always pleased to see one of the top trusted brands in the industry come back with another window AC unit that is well-worth your investment. That’s what you’ll find in the Frigidaire FFRE083WAE, which offers home and office users like you the opportunity to keep your 350 sq. ft. living or working space crisp and cool without wasting any energy. This is a direct result of the low power startup method utilized by this AC unit, which in turn results in this model championing a  12.1 EER.

Related Article – Other Energy Efficient Window ACs

Frigidaire hasn’t just wheeled out the same old AC construction for the FFRE083WAE, either. I’ve noticed that this model is slightly slimmer and slightly lighter than other models that came before it. As such, I would expect that you’ll be able to install this unit into most average size windows without needing to call in an AC installation team. That installation location can be some distance from a power outlet as well because this model’s built-in 6.5-foot power cord has what it takes to literally go the distance.

Top Trusted Brand

AC Type

Window

EER

12.1

Room Size (Cooling Area)

350 sq. ft.

Dimensions

15.5 x 18.5 x 13.22 inches

Noise Level

55 dB

Warranty

Yes, 2 years

Pros

  • Very low EER resulting from low power start-up
  • Compact form factor can be mounted into most windows
  • Extracts 1.7 gallows of humidity per hour, which is impressive for its size

Cons

  • Dial knobs can be difficult to customize
  • Lacks many added features

5 - Honeywell MO08CESWK

Ease of Use

5.0

Cooling Ability

4.5

Value for Money

4.5


Overall Rating

4.7

If I were to choose a runner up for best portable AC, I’d likely go with the Honeywell MO08CESWK. That’s because this model provides a powerful airflow that can drop a 250 sq. ft. room’s temperature down to 61° F. At the same time, this unit can dehumidify a room of comparable size, thus allowing up to 44 pints of water to be extracted every 24 hours and deposited through 47″ exhaust hose.

That dehumidification system can activate itself, too, thanks to the Honeywell MO08CESWK’s smart digital humidistat. Along the same lines, this model also utilizes a smart digital thermostat and soft-touch control panel that is exceptionally easy for even novice users to engage with. Those same users won’t need to strain themselves to move this portable AC unit about, either. That’s because it weighs only around 45 lbs., which makes it among the lightest in its class.

Runner Up For Portable AC

AC Type

Portable

EER

N/A

Room Size (Cooling Area)

250 sq. ft.

Dimensions

13.5 x 14.6 x 27.7 inches

Noise Level

53 dB

Warranty

Yes, 1 year

Pros

  • Among the lightest in its class at 45 lbs.
  • Smart digital thermostat and soft-touch control panel allow you to set energy-saving modes with ease
  • Smart digital humidistat activates automatically and can withdraw 44 pints each hour

Cons

  • Does not exhaust heat efficiently
  • May leak if used in an overly-humid environment

6 - Frigidaire FFRE0833S1

Energy Efficiency

4.5

Cooling Ability

4.0

Value for Money

4.0


Overall Rating

4.2

Prospective AC users who are shopping on a budget always want to get the best value for their money (don’t worry, I’m right there with you). If you count yourself among this frugal crowd, then perhaps the Frigidaire FFRE0833S1 is for you. You’ll immediately notice that his model is among the most affordable in its class, especially given that it is manufactured by one of the most trusted names in the industry. But then, you’ll be thoroughly amazed that such an affordably priced AC unit could come with such a modest price tag and still provide an EER worthy of an Energy Star rating.

Speed is another major operational asset that the Frigidaire FFRE0833S1 provides, as can be seen in its top-tier motor RPM ratings. When cranked up to this model’s 1,630 RPM top speed, this AC unit can cool down a warm room in a matter of minutes – all while still filtering bothersome impurities out of the air. To that end, this model’s clean air ionizer removes pollen with an enhanced level of efficiency. As such, the Frigidaire FFRE0833S1 is certainly the window AC unit of choice for severe allergy sufferers.

Best Value For Money

AC Type

Window

EER

12

Room Size (Cooling Area)

350 sq. ft.

Dimensions

18.5 x 17.5 x 13.4 inches

Noise Level

56 dB

Warranty

Yes, 1 year

Pros

  • EER of 12 worthy of Energy Star rating
  • 1,630 RPM motor speed allows for rapid cooling
  • Clean air ionizer removes pollen and impurities to provide allergy relief

Cons

  • Remote is a little complex to use
  • Short lifespan if used continuously

7 - Whynter ARC-08WB

Ease of Use

4.5

Cooling Ability

4.0

Value for Money

4.0


Overall Rating

4.2

For the longest time, I simply couldn’t make eco-friendly recommendations for portable AC units to buy clients and customers. But now, I can take heart in knowing that green homeowners and office managers can use the most eco-friendly 8,000 BTU air conditioner on the market without reservation. Indeed, the Whynter ARC-08W really goes the extra mile when it comes to green operations. This model’s CFC-free R-410A refrigerant and lead-free RoHS compliant components are just two prime examples that should interest any environmentally-minded shoppers.

Eco-friendliness is not the only thing that the Whynter ARC-08W has to offer, of course. In fact, it features a self-evaporative system that exhausts most condensate, even when the ambient room humidity is higher than most portable air conditioning units can handle. It also utilizes a reengineered filtering system that could make a difference for folks who are sensitive to indoor and outdoor allergens. To that end, you can count on this unit’s silver-ion coated pre-filter and activated carbon filter to capture everything that bothers your lungs, from smoke to pollen.

Most Eco-Friendly 8000 BTU AC

AC Type

Portable

EER

N/A

Room Size (Cooling Area)

250 sq. ft.

Dimensions

17 x 28 x 13.6 inches

Noise Level

53.6 dB

Warranty

Yes, 1 year

Pros

  • Self-evaporative system exhausts most condensate, even under humid conditions
  • Utilizes CFC-free R-410A refrigerant and lead-free RoHS compliant components
  • Silver-ion coated washable pre-filter, and activated carbon filter removes smoke and danger well

Cons

  • On the heavier side for a portable unit
  • Requires emptying regularly

8 - Koldfront WTC8001W

Energy Efficiency

4.0

Cooling Ability

4.0

Value for Money

4.0


Overall Rating

4.0

Finally, let’s round off this collection of top-tier AC units with the best 8,000 BTU through-the-wall air conditioner – the Koldfront WTC8001W. This 8,000 BTU wall air conditioner has a lot to offer folks who are willing to keep their temperature control system in place year-round. To be specific, this model provides 4,200 BTU of heating capacity in addition to its cooling modes. As such, the Koldfront WTC8001W can easily and efficiently be used to supplement any existing in-home or in-office HVAC system.

Most of this model’s primary features are as effective in heating mode as it is when cooling. For example, the Koldfront WTC8001W’s 4-way air directional louvers can ensure that every corner of a 350 sq. ft. room is as hot or as cold as you like it. This model also has an outstanding energy saver mode that only runs its internal fans as little as once every ten minutes. When paired with the Koldfront WTC8001W’s sleep function, you can bet that this unit will save you energy and money in both the summer and winter.

Best 8000 BTU Through The Wall Air Conditioner

AC Type

Through-the-wall

EER

9.6

Room Size (Cooling Area)

350 sq. ft.

Dimensions

20.4 x 24.2 x 14.5 inches

Noise Level

N/A

Warranty

Yes, 2 year

Pros

  • Digital thermostat can control both heating and cooling for all seasons use
  • Energy saver mode cycles fan every couple minutes
  • Four operation modes include 4,200 BTU heating

Cons

  • Wall sleeve needed for mounting not included
  • Lacks certified noise rating

8000 BTU Air Conditioner Compared

Image
BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air...
Friedrich Chill Series Window Air Conditioner...
LG 8,000 BTU Mounted Window Air Conditioner,...
Frigidaire FFRE083WAE Window Air Conditioner,...
Honeywell MO08CESWK6 9,100 BTU (ASHRAE)/6,100...
Whynter 8,000 BTU Eco-Friendly Portable Air...
Model
BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air...
Friedrich Chill Series Window Air Conditioner...
LG 8,000 BTU Mounted Window Air Conditioner,...
Frigidaire FFRE083WAE Window Air Conditioner,...
Honeywell MO08CESWK6 9,100 BTU (ASHRAE)/6,100...
Whynter 8,000 BTU Eco-Friendly Portable Air...
AC Type
Portable
Window
Window
Window
Portable
Portable
EER
N/A
10.8
12.1
12.1
N/A
N/A
Noise
75 dBa (on high)
26.7 dBa
54 dBa
55 dBa
53 dBa
53.6 dBa
Image
BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air...
Model
BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air...
AC Type
Portable
EER
N/A
Noise
75 dBa (on high)
Price
-
Price
Image
Friedrich Chill Series Window Air Conditioner...
Model
Friedrich Chill Series Window Air Conditioner...
AC Type
Window
EER
10.8
Noise
26.7 dBa
Price
Image
LG 8,000 BTU Mounted Window Air Conditioner,...
Model
LG 8,000 BTU Mounted Window Air Conditioner,...
AC Type
Window
EER
12.1
Noise
54 dBa
Price
Image
Frigidaire FFRE083WAE Window Air Conditioner,...
Model
Frigidaire FFRE083WAE Window Air Conditioner,...
AC Type
Window
EER
12.1
Noise
55 dBa
Price
-
Price
Image
Honeywell MO08CESWK6 9,100 BTU (ASHRAE)/6,100...
Model
Honeywell MO08CESWK6 9,100 BTU (ASHRAE)/6,100...
AC Type
Portable
EER
N/A
Noise
53 dBa
Price
Image
Whynter 8,000 BTU Eco-Friendly Portable Air...
Model
Whynter 8,000 BTU Eco-Friendly Portable Air...
AC Type
Portable
EER
N/A
Noise
53.6 dBa
Price
-
Price

Considerations When Buying An 8000 BTU AC Unit

AC Type

There are numerous AC types, many of which I’ll go into detail about in another section below. But most often, you’ll run into window units and portable units. As their suggests, these different unit types differ based upon their intended installation location, that being mounted in a window or moved from place to place on demand, respectively.

Coverage Area

Coverage area describes how much physical space an air conditioning unit can reliably cool when implemented into a room. Coverage area is usually measured in square feet but only accounts for space that lacks major structural impediments (such as doors or division walls) that may inhibit the floor of cool air around the room.

Energy Efficiency Rating (EER)

An air conditioner’s EER (short for energy efficiency rating) is a measurement of how many watts/amps that unit uses while in operation compared to how effectively it translates that electric intake into cooled air. Ideally, you’ll want to pick out a model with the highest possible EER. However, a lower EER may be suitable if you don’t use your air conditioner occasionally or only need to cool a small space.

Noise Levels (DBA)

Air conditioners almost always produce some noise while they are in operation. As such, it’s worth your time to appraise each model you’re interested in based upon their noise level. This factor is measured in decibels (dBA) so that you can realistically understand how loud each unit will be while in operation compared to other common household or office noise sources.

Performance Features

Extra features are always worth looking into on an air conditioner, not least because they can make the indoor air cooling process much easier to facilitate without much user interaction. For example, sleep mode or a programmable time can ensure that your unit doesn’t run and waste electricity during the cool parts of the day. Similarly, a built-in dehumidifier or a set of multiple fan speeds can ensure that you’re always getting the best air quality while cooling your living or working space.

Installation Requirements

Be sure to check your desired unit’s installation requirements before finalizing your purchase. Specifically, you should appraise if that unit’s venting and drainage requirements will be feasible in your chosen installation location. Also, be sure that the unit you’ll likely plug your unit into can provide enough voltage safely without over-taxing your localized electric system.

Price & Warranty

As always, be on the hunt for a bargain while comparing prospective air conditioners. Ideally, your chosen model should provide you with a worthwhile number of features that justify its price point in comparison to your budget. Don’t forget to factor in the added value of a warranty, either, as those policies can save you a lot of money on repairs or even a replacement down the line.

Types Of AC Units With The 8000 BTU Rating

Portable

Though they resemble a dehumidifier unit, these air conditioners score big points with those in need of cooling an unusually-sized space due to their flexible use in any location (near a wall outlet, of course). Like a window air conditioner, these units are fully unitary. However, due to their minimized form factor, they tend to be noisier and on the weaker side, overall.

Window

These are the most common type of AC unit due to their simplified installation method in the exterior window of almost any building. These units are relatively easy to control through their modern digital interface, which makes them ideal for users who don’t want to fuss about with a bunch of complex settings.

Through-The-Wall

A through-the-wall air conditioner resembles a window air conditioner in many ways, including their unitary body and simplified control scheme. However, these models are designed to be mounted permanently in a space cut out from an existing wall. These definitely require a professional to install, but often make up for this cost by being the most energy-efficient.

wifi air conditioner

When Is An 8000 BTU AC The Right Choice?

In many ways, an 8,000 BTU air conditioner is not too big and not too small – it’s just right.

In fact, based upon their physical dimensions, these units typically have enough cooling power to chill a small room or keep the temperature comfortable across a wide-open office space. 

So, an 8,000 BTU air conditioner would be the right choice if you’re looking to cool anywhere within the range of 350 square feet or more at once.

Need a different size unit? We have reviewed larger and some smaller options at different levels below:

Related Article – What Size of Window AC Do I Need?


Installing Mid-Sized Home Air Conditioning Units

More often than not, installing a new 8,000 BTU air conditioning unit will involve mounting your chosen model in an exterior window that is centrally located within your living or working space.

To do this, you’ll first need to ensure that your chosen window opens safely while also removing any screens or physical impediments.

Don’t forget to measure your chosen window, either, just in case you need to obtain extra supports to secure your compact air conditioning unit later on.

Next, you’ll want to check if your unit uses any kind of window-based bracketing system.

If so, follow the instructions in your unit’s installation manual to secure this equipment properly.

Then, follow these video guide steps or continue reading your guide to mount your new air conditioner in your window safely.

Alternatively, if you are installing a different kind of air conditioner, you should check the website of your chosen model’s brand to find the installation guide that is right for your model. Don’t be afraid to call in an HVAC technician, either, as they can be a significant asset when it comes to properly installing these following types of air conditioners:

Type

Self-Install

HVAC Technician Required

Window

Yes

No

Through the Wall

No

Yes

Portable

Yes

No

Mini Split

No

Yes

RV/Campers

Maybe (depending on size)

Yes

People Also Ask (FAQs)

How does an 8000 BTU AC compare to a 6000 BTU AC?

As you can imagine, an 8,000 BTU unit is slightly more powerful than a 6,000 BTU unit when it comes to raw cooling capacity. As a result, 8,000 BTU units are more ideal if you are trying to cool a larger space or cool a smaller area (such as a server room) to a cooler temperature. 8,000 BTU units are noisier, however, and often require more mounting due to their size.

How does an 8000 BTU AC compare to a 10000 BTU AC?

8,000 BTU AC units are usually a fair bit smaller than their 10,000 BTU counterparts, making them ideal for installation in an average-sized window. However, 8,000 BTU units aren’t generally able to overcome obstacles in the path of their cooling, which most 10,000 BTU units can do with ease.

What can be done to extend the life of a portable AC?

Don’t run your portable AC unit continuously if you can avoid it. Also, make sure you regularly clean out your portable AC unit to ensure that its filters are not clogged up. A clogged filter can cause a unit’s cooling components to work harder, which in time shortens the unit’s lifespan.

Which models on this list of best 8000 BTU ACs offer heating as well as cooling?

Only one of these listed models is built to both heat and cool – the Koldfront WTC8001W. This model is designed to be permanently mounted, though, so prospective users must commit to using it year-round.

Related Article – Portable AC and Heater Combos

Where is the best place to buy this size air conditioner?

While Home Depot, Walmart, and Lowes can also sell you an air conditioner in a pinch, the best place to find the next unit that’s right for you is online at Amazon. They have a massive selection that is far outpacing what a brick and mortar store can offer. That’s to say little of its prices, either, which are considerably lower by comparison due to Amazon’s affordable shipping options.


Conclusion

Now that you know what to look for in a high quality 8,000 BTU air conditioner, you should feel ready to pick out the AC unit that will best serve your home or office. Better yet, you know what features and specifications to look for when trying to find a multi-functional unit on a budget.

Of course, you may still be looking for a professional recommendation, and on that front, I am willing to provide. As such, I recommend checking out the BLACK+DECKER BPACT08WT.

This portable unit can be used in almost any home or office set up while minimizing noise output compared to traditional portable units. This model’s programmable controls are simple to learn as well, thus ensuring that you are always maximizing its energy intake.

Our #1 8000 BTU AC
BLACK+DECKER BPACT08WT

Ease of Use

5.0

Cooling Ability

4.5

Value for Money

4.5


Overall Rating

4.7