7 Quietest Window Air Conditioners (For Summer 2022)

7 Quietest Window Air Conditioners Reviewed

Below are our list and reviews for the quietest window ACs on the market. Each has several unique features so be sure to research each thoroughly.

Not a reader? Then check out our youtube video below that highlights the top models and briefly explains why they are our favorite choices in this category of window air conditioners.

1. Haier ESAQ406T Window Air Conditioner Serenity Series

The top choice on our list, is the Haier ESAQ406T. This ac unit is part of the Serenity Series by Haier. The 6,000 BTU unit also comes with a compressor blanket for sound reduction and operates at just 43 decibels on a low setting.

Like the ESAQ406P (see below), it has a dual motor design, cross-flow fan, and comes with a remote, on/off timer, auto cool, sleep mode, dehumidify mode, and an energy saver setting.

“The Haier ESAQ406T sits in at 6,000 BTU, and Haier argues that it can cool a room up to 250 sq ft, which isn’t bad at all,” says Business Insider. “It’s also Energy Star rated, so while it may not be as energy efficient as the GE, it will still be easier on the wallet than most other air conditioners.”

Noise-wise, this unit produces about the same amount of sound as a white noise machine. But it’s quiet enough to be able to hear family members moving in the hall and doesn’t block out sounds completely.

With most other AC units, you have to turn your TV volume up to hear over the sound produced, but with this one, you likely won’t need to. Though it does produce some noise, it’s closer to what you’d expect from a fan than the rumble of a compressor. The remote is easy to use and simple.

Overall, this machine cools well, is well-made, and is ultra quiet when comparing with most other window units on the market. Though this air conditioner does cost more than units of the same BTU rating, some will find the extra cost worth sleeping through the night. Installation is easy enough but the unit is quite heavy, so ask a friend to help you put it in.

2. Midea U Inverter Window Air Conditioner

The Midea U Inverter is the window air conditioner reimagined. Long gone are the days where you had to choose between having a functioning window and having an air conditioning unit installed because Midea’s innovative U-shape design allows you to have both.

Not only that, but this new design also allows your window to act as a sound barrier, just as it would if it were all the way closed. With the compressor portion outside and the window essentially shut, the 8000 BTU unit runs at an average of just 42 dBa.

If you’re not familiar with decibel ratings, that’s about as quiet as a library or the ice maker on your refrigerator!

One impressive thing about this particular window air conditioner is that this new technology can achieve more than 35% energy savings compared to standard AC units. The Midea U Inverter was the first window AC to be granted Energy Star’s Most Efficient 2020 certification.

The 8000 BTU model weighs almost 68 pounds, so you may want help lifting it into place. Most reviewers found that installation was much easier than traditional models. This Midea U Inverter installation only requires you to install a quick-snap bracket onto your window frame, lift and click-in the U inverter, and then mount the side brackets for a snug fit. You can be cooling off in less than 30 minutes from start to finish.

If that weren’t enough, this unit is completely Wifi enabled and can work via remote control, the MideaAir App, your Amazon Alexa, or Google Home Assistant. So you won’t even need to leave the couch to adjust to your perfect temperature. Should anything go wrong, Midea offers a 1-year parts and labor warranty.

Of course, the only downside to a popular window AC unit like this is that everyone wants to get their hands on it, and it is often out of stock. We suggest that if you find it in stock, that you make sure to snag yours today.

You can check our in-depth review of Midea U Shaped AC to know more about this model.

3. LG LW6017R 6000 BTU Window Air Conditioner

If you’re looking to save some money, the best budget option on our list is the LG LW6017R. This 6,000 BTU air conditioner works for rooms 260 square feet and smaller and comes with an energy saving function and on/off timer.

In addition, it has 3 fan speeds and 3 cooling speeds to choose from. Like the other LG models mentioned, it has the LG patented anti-corrosion protection, full-function remote, and an installation kit included.

“A good air conditioner can help make those hot summers much more bearable,” says Business Insider. “The LG LW6017R Air Conditioner is the best window AC you can buy, with its three cooling speeds and built-in dehumidifier.”

The 2016 version of this model was one of Consumer Reports top recommended units, and the newest model maintains many of those same features and quiet performance. With a dBa noise level of 52, this AC unit is still quiet enough to sleep with while running, although it is 9 decibels difference between the Haier models.

Many users will appreciate that the vent on this unit is pointing upward instead of out toward the room, more efficiently cooling the room without blowing air on you as you sleep. Since being directly exposed to forced air isn’t particularly healthy, this is preferable.

The installation is quite painless, even for those who are not the “handy types.” It weighs just about 40 pounds so depending on your strength, you might be able to do it alone or might require some help.

When you install this unit, getting it into the window should be quick. It can be installed and removed within minutes without permanent holes or fasteners in the frame or window jambs. This is great if you plan to take it with you when you move.

But during the installation process, keep in mind that the adhesive strip that comes with it for the window frame is very sticky. Be careful not to get it on your hands. If you do, it will wash off with soap and water, though. This strip will help the seal stay in place.

This machine is easy to operate, and you can set the timer to stop and start at the correct times during the morning and night. As long as you use this unit in the right size space, it will cool your room down very well and keep you comfortable in the heat of summer.

4. Frigidaire FGRQ0833U1 Energy Star Window AC

Although the FRIGIDAIRE Energy Star 115 8,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner doesn’t come with Wi-Fi, NY Mag points out that “you can actually make pretty much any air conditioner Wi-Fi compatible with a plug from Amazon.” The site also named the model as one of their best window air conditioners, along with Business Insider, stating: “If you want a slightly quieter AC for your bedroom, Frigidaire’s is a great option.

The manufacturer says it runs at 44 decibels, though The Wirecutter pegged it at 54 decibels during its tests.” I experienced similar results, however, it’s still one of the quieter models I’ve used, ranking similarly to the LG LW8016ER in terms of noise.

This model works best for rooms measuring 350 square feet or smaller, making it an excellent option for your office or bedroom. With minimal noise output, you shouldn’t be distracted while working or sleeping, either. Thanks to innovative louvers which move air in an outward, circular motion, any room you install it in will be cooled rapidly and efficiently.

With an Energy Star qualification, you can count on the product providing great overall performance. Featuring an ionizing air filter, it’s been shown to be a bit more effective than your regular filter, and has the ability to dehumidify up to 1.9 pints per hour!

To ensure you have complete control over the temperature in your home, the unit comes packed full of useful features. A built-in timer lets you preset it to turn on and off in 30-minute increments, along with 3 various fan speeds according to your preferences. The temperature sensing remote control is one of my favorite features, controlling the cooling level based on the room instead of the main unit which is often much colder.

The only thing I’d really like to see improved upon in the future, is the brightness of the LEDs and temperature displays. There’s currently no way to dim the lighting, which would be a very welcome improvement.

5. LG LW8016ER Window-Mounted Air Conditioner

The next quietest option on our list for medium size rooms, this LG 8,000 BTU machine works for rooms 340 square feet and smaller. Like the LW1216ER covered above, it has an energy efficiency ratio of 12.1, an on/off timer, and energy saving function. It also comes with a fully functional remote and protective anti-corrosion coating.

“The LG LW8016ER is a top choice for an office or den, and some people will find it quiet enough for a bedroom, too,” says Wirecutter.

This unit is also recommended by Consumer Reports. It is slightly louder than the previous LG unit and comes with a dBa level of 54.

Even on very humid nights, this unit gets the job done and cools your room down very effectively. If you have a small house, this can be used to cool down other rooms, too, and provides good airflow. The instructions are not as straightforward as those of other brands, but installation is easy apart from that.

It has extra panels on the side to block out the hot air from outside even more. You can cut these and add them to the unit’s sides as soon as you’ve installed it. These are an addition to the existing accordion panels the unit already comes with. Instead of dropping your central AC down to cool your house, this unit works for a single area and saves you money on electricity.

It won’t rattle your window frame like some other models and even alerts you when it’s time to clean out the air filter. This is especially important for customers with pets. Some users reported that this unit wasn’t as quiet as they would have liked, but that it’s still quieter than most similar products on the market. We feel its a solid choice for basements rather than bedrooms.

6. LG LW1216ER Window-Mounted AC

As our pick for the best performing quiet AC for larger spaces, the LG LW1216ER is a 115V, 12,000 BTU unit and works for spaces 550 square feet or smaller. Great for quickly cooling your room down, it has an energy efficiency ratio of 12.1, and an on/off 24-hour timer.

“Reviewers say the unit is easy to use and among the quieter window air conditioners they’ve owned, especially on lower speeds,” says The Spruce. “Many rave about how cold it keeps larger spaces, even when the temperature is sky-high.”

The remote is stylish, fully functional, and makes using the unit more convenient. And the machine comes with an anti-corrosion, gold fin coating (LG patented) that protects it and allows it to last longer. When you order this product, the AC comes with an included installation kit, making setup quick and easy.

The noise level of this larger unit is greater than the previous Haier models but that’s to be expected given it cools a bigger space. It is still very quiet in terms of dBa output, coming in at 52 for the indoor noise level and 60 for the outside of the unit.

The unit itself is modern and attractive, with a standard window AC machine look, and fits in well with most types of décor. It’s boxy, white, and measures about 22 by 15 by 24 inches. You may want to call a strong friend (or two) to help you put this unit in as it weighs roughly 80 pounds.ly

The fan speed is a little slow to change, requiring 5 to 10 seconds to switch once selected. However, the speeds don’t seem to differ much from each other. Though some may see this as a con, it’s part of what makes the AC unit so quiet. If you happen to use this as an add-on to a trailer, you might have to find some sort of solution to the lack of included back-grille to protect against debris and bugs when in motion.

7. Koldfront WAC25001W 25,000 BTU Heat/Cool

The quietest air conditioner for large rooms/spaces is the Koldfront WAC25001W window air conditioner.

This 25,000-BTU unit (dimensions: 18.6’’H x 26.5’’W x 26.5’’D) can easily cool a space up to 1,500 sq. ft.—all while having every beneficial feature you could want in a window AC: adjustable fan speed; 4-way air-directing louvers; washable filter with cleaning indicator light; sleep, energy-saver, and dry modes; 24-hour timer; an all-controlling remote; and even, an electric heater promised to provide heating for 700 sq. ft. of space. It manages to do all of this with an EER of 9.4 and an estimated yearly energy cost of $259.

This unit is somewhat loud (64 dba) when it is running at its highest fan speed and maximum cooling power. One Amazon user commented that he/she could not hear the TV with the AC on.

Keep in mind that this is a very large window AC, and when it is in a large room, this level of sound normally will not seem as intense as it would in a small room. Also, this unit is so effective that you can usually keep the sound down by having the unit on a low setting (this also saves energy). You can also avoid putting audio media (TV, radio, etc.) close to the AC; however, if it is on low, you should not have much trouble.

Users are consistently pleased with this unit’s performance. It dehumidifies at a maximum of 137 pints of water/day, and many find that it can really freeze them out, even in larger spaces.

It comes with a 2-year, limited warranty on parts and labour; the purchase includes thorough instructions and all necessary parts to install the unit. Just be sure you have a working partner to help you with installation—this AC weighs 131 lbs. Also, be sure you have an appropriate 240V, 30A outlet close to the window.

How We Found The Quietest Models

Over the last year, we’ve reviewed more than 40 window air conditioning models to determine which offer the best noise levels while still performing well. So although we do take into consideration the overall decibel rating of a unit, we also consider how well it performs, because a quiet ac unit that doesn’t actually cool your room isn’t a good purchase.

We’ve also considered customer feedback and industry reviews for ultra-quiet air conditioner units. Sources like Consumer Reports, Wirecutter, Popular Mechanics and other publications each offer helpful reviews for units in general, so we considered these recommendations and suggestions while researching the best quiet window air conditioners.

With that in mind, we recommend the Haier ESAQ406T as our Editor’s Choice because of its decibel rating, good reviews and inclusion in industry recommended reviews from sources like Wirecutter.

Our runner-up is the Midea U Inverter which also receives good reviews, industry recognition and maintains a low decibel rating compared to similarly-sized units. This model was our previous #1 choice although it is difficult to find in stores.

For large rooms, we recommend the LG LW1216ER. Our top choice for medium-sized spaces is the Frigidaire FGRQ0833U1, and our budget recommendation is the LG LW6017R. We also have a compilation of the best window air conditioners for large rooms, so do check that out as well.

Understanding Decibel Levels

Decibels are used to measure “the pressure of the sound waves traveling through the air from a source of noise,” says Explain that Stuff. “You have to think about the decibel scale very carefully because it’s a logarithmic scale and it works in a different way to the scale on a ruler, which is a linear scale.”

Essentially, the decibel scale moves up the ladder in powers of ten, so something that’s at 50 dbA isn’t just a little louder than something at 40 dbA: it’s exponentially louder.

The sound of rustling leaves is about 20 dbA, and 30 dbA is about the same as a quiet rural area, which has all sorts of low-level, natural noises going on at once. As you move up the decibel scale, the intensity of noise level goes up significantly.

For example, a noise at 60 dbA – conversation, a larger window AC unit – is about half as loud as 70 dbA. You may think that the difference between 60 and 70 is fairly minor, but the truth is that moving from 60 to 70 dbA makes something twice as loud.

So, you can see that small differences in decibel ratings can make a big difference in the actual noise level in your home. Choosing a unit on the low end of that range can help keep white noise to a minimum, and you would generally hear a noticeable difference in a unit that operates at 50 dbA and one that operates at 60 dbA.

Another factor to consider is distance. The decibel rating of your window air conditioner may be 50, but the ultimate “intensity” of the noise will change based on the distance between the unit and the listener. A unit on the other side of a bedroom won’t appear to be as loud as one right next to your head while you’re sleeping, for example.

“You know from your own experience that distance affects the intensity of sound — if you are far away, the power is greatly diminished,” says HowStuffWorks.

For those reasons, it’s good to have an idea of where your unit will be placed in the rooms you’re looking to cool. If you know the distance between you and the unit will be longer, you may have a little more flexibility in noise level.

Small rooms with little distance to work with may require smaller, quieter units to maintain your ideal noise level. If your room or home doesn’t allow for window ACs, you can also find a small portable air conditioner that will fit the cooling needs of your space.

How to Get a Quiet Cooling Experience

For most users, the perfect air conditioner is as quiet as possible. You generally sleep a lot better in a cooled down room, with a unit that makes just enough noise to cover city and traffic noises. This list will give you some ideas for achieving almost no noise at all from your unit.

Check the Power Cord

If your cord is frayed, twisted, or worn down, it won’t supply the machine with enough power. This problem can lead to vibrating noises and intermittent stops when the unit restarts. Replace your cord or hire someone to do so if you notice these issues.

With the correct installation, proper maintenance and care, your unit should give you years of quiet and cool air in the space you install it in. If you’re unsure about any of the steps involved with installing or using it, don’t hesitate to hire a professional to help.

Keep the Filter Clean

Most units will come with a filter screen near or inside the faceplate. Take this off and clean it once a week during the hot season when you’re using your machine a lot. Many modern machines will let you know when it’s time to change the filter.

Look at the Insulation

Most unit cabinets come with insulation in the faceplate and walls to deaden noise. If this insulation is torn, worn out, or missing altogether, it must be replaced with material that is resistant to moisture. This insulation should be packed tightly into the walls and faceplate to reduce noise from the moving parts of the AC unit. If you aren’t sure how to do this, have an experienced friend or professional help you.

If the faceplate on your machine comes with a large open grid, you can reduce the air intake quite a bit by adding some insulation. This can stop excessive vibration and annoying noise. While you’re at it, check that the housing and faceplate on the unit fit together well, connecting smoothly without any air gaps.

Check the Moving Parts

Before putting the unit in, make sure its mechanical parts are all in working order. Look at the fan blades inside the machine’s front face to ensure they’re straight. If they aren’t, they could rub against the unit’s faceplate and make a very irritating noise.

You should also look at the unit’s fan attachment to make sure everything’s in order. Add some WD-40 or another type of lubricating spray to the rotating plate so it runs smoothly.

Always Properly Install the Machine

If your unit isn’t mounted tightly enough in your window frame or is installed on an unstable ledge or frame, it’s going to buzz, hum, and rattle loudly.

Before you go through the trouble of installing your unit, make sure the frame is firm enough to support it.

Add putty or caulk to the edges if necessary and tighten all of the window’s fastenings to create a seal that is airtight to fully support the machine.

Put It in a Shaded Area

Even if you get the highest quality AC unit, it’s not going to function at its best in the full sunlight. Try, instead, to put the unit in a shaded window. If this isn’t possible, put an awning over it to create shade and help the machine function at optimal capacity.

Get the Correct Sized Unit

An AC unit that is meant for a larger space than the room you have it in will irritate you as it constantly turns on and off, making noise. You shouldn’t hear every single time the fan stops or turns on. A unit that isn’t large enough for the room it’s cooling will create a wheezing noise as it struggles to keep up with the volume of the space.