If you’re looking for a cost-effective solution to cool your home, while also having a low negative impact on the environment, then an energy efficient air conditioner may be the right choice for you. After carefully reviewing dozens of products, we’ve decided to compile a list of the 10 best energy efficient air conditioners in 2018, in order to make your purchasing process easier.
In our reviews, we’ve considered user rating, BTU, efficiency features, unit size, and cooling capacity. Without any further ado, here are our favorite energy efficient air conditioners that can be found for sale in 2018:
10. Kuhl Energy Star Room Air Conditioner
The clever design on this air conditioner ensures that it has an energy efficiency ratio of 11.2. It cools well and operates quietly, making it a very convenient model.
| User rating | BTU | Unit size | Cooling capacity (sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.7/5 | 5,800 | 21" x 19" x 14" | 250 |
Pros
- Stores custom cooling programs and schedules
- Constructed with durable galvanized steel and rifled copper tubing
- Window or wall installation allowed
- Quick installation
Cons
- Rather heavy
- Expensive purchase
9. Frigidaire 115V Air Conditioner
In addition to cooling, this air conditioner also removes pollen and other impurities from the air. It easily mounts on any window and can plug into a standard 115V electrical outlet.
| User rating | BTU | Unit size | Cooling capacity (sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.1/5 | 10,000 | 21" x 19" x 14" | 450 |
Pros
- 11.3 energy efficient ratio
- Eco setting for extra efficiency
- Cools quickly
- Quite affordable
Cons
- Remote control only works from close range
- Slightly inaccurate thermostat
8. Whynter Green ARC-10WB Air Conditioner
You can operate this model on either the air conditioner, fan, or dehumidifier hose. It has a portable design, so it can be installed quickly in any room.
| User rating | BTU | Unit size | Cooling capacity (sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.8/5 | 10,000 | 17" x 13" x 28" | 300 |
Pros
- Comes with anti-bacterial filter
- Uses CFC free refrigerant and lead-free components
- Recycles moisture to cool air efficiently
Cons
- Works best in smaller areas
- Inconveniently short exhaust hose
7. Koldfront Window Air Conditioner
Koldfront’s air conditioner is energy star rated because it has a special energy saver mode to reduce power usage. You can set the thermostat anywhere between 62 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit.
| User rating | BTU | Unit size | Cooling capacity (sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.3/5 | 10,000 | 14" x 19" x 21" | 450 |
Pros
- Also dehumidifies
- Three fan speeds
- LED alert for filter change
- Remote control included
Cons
- Only dehumidifies smaller area
- Noisy startup
6. Della Air Conditioner
This air conditioner from Della uses an ozone-safe refrigerant bar to make it even more environmentally friendly. It has a multi-speed cooling fan and two-way air direction for additional comfort.
| User rating | BTU | Unit size | Cooling capacity (sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.7/5 | 8,000 | 11" x 14" x 30" | 300 |
Pros
- 24-hour timer
- Portable for extra versatility
- Affordable and compact
Cons
- Lack of screen on vent tube
Tip: If you’re looking for a low-profile air conditioner, make sure to check out our article on the best low profile air conditioners of 2018.
5. Friedrich Chill Series Room Air Conditioner with Heat
This product is one of the most energy-efficient air conditioners of this year and it can be used to either chill or warm a room. It can be installed in either a window or a wall for extra convenience.
| User rating | BTU | Unit size | Cooling capacity (sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.6/5 | 18,000 | 17" x 26" x 29" | 1,000 |
Pros
- Impressive capacity
- Sleek and unobtrusive appearance
- 11.2 energy efficient ratio
- Three cooling modes
Cons
- Not budget-friendly
- Difficult installation due to large size
4. Cool Living Energy Star Window Mount Air Conditioner
You can mount this air conditioner in any window to enjoy energy efficient cooling. Its thermostat can be set anywhere from 62 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit.
| User rating | BTU | Unit size | Cooling capacity (sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.1/5 | 8,000 | 19" x 15" x 14" | 350 |
Pros
- 7 different modes
- Energy star certified to use 15 percent less energy than normal
- Programmable timing
Cons
- Somewhat noisy
3. LG Window-Mounted Air Conditioner
With both three cooling speeds and three fan speeds, this window-mounted unit easily adjusts to all your cooling needs. It has an 11.5 energy efficiency ratio, so you can be confident that it uses power effectively.
| User rating | BTU | Unit size | Cooling capacity (sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6/5 | 6,000 | 18" x 15" x 12" | 260 |
Pros
- Convenient Remote Control
- Dehumidification up to 1.8 pints per hour
- 24-hour programmable timer
- Energy saver function
Cons
- Slightly loud
2. Frigidaire Window-Mounted Air Conditioner
Most of the people who have tried this air conditioner agree that it is the top choice if you need a small and efficient unit. This compact air conditioner mounts in the window easily and keeps your home cool without wasting electricity.
| User rating | BTU | Unit size | Cooling capacity (sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.1/5 | 5,000 | 16" x 15" x 12" | 150 |
Pros
- Two-way air direction
- Dehumidifies at 1.1 pints per hour
- Very quiet while the fan runs
Cons
- Not ideal for larger spaces
1. Haier High-Efficiency Room Air Conditioner
With an energy efficiency ratio of 11.3, you can enjoy a nice, cool home without using excessive amounts of energy. The four functions on this AC include cooling, fan, energy saver, and dehumidification.
| User rating | BTU | Unit size | Cooling capacity (sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.2/5 | 12,000 | 20" X 14" x 20" | 550 |
Pros
- Braille for visually impaired
- Magnetic remote control for convenient programming
- Electronic control panel
- Easy to install
- Runs quietly on all modes
Cons
- Unit may be a bit loud
Conclusion
When you get the right energy efficient air conditioning unit, you can choose the ideal combination of cooling power, appearance, and environmentally-friendly features. Have you tried any of the air conditioners on our list? Comment below to let us know which one is your favorite option.