If you’re looking for a cost-effective solution to cool your home, while also having a low negative impact on the environment, then you need the absolute best energy efficient air conditioner on the market. After carefully reviewing dozens of products, we’ve decided to compile a list of the 10 best energy efficient air conditioners in 2018 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 available on the market in 2018:
10. Midea EasyCool 3-In-1 Portable Air Conditioner
- 8, 000 BTU (ashrae-128)/6, 000 BTU (Doe 2017) cool only PF portable Unit on wheels with exhaust hose Assembly and window...
- Large LED digital display and an easy-to-read control panel with sleep, timer, fan, mode, temperature, and power buttons
- Choose from automatic, cool, dry, or fan only settings; timer can be set for up to 24 hours
The clever design and engineering of this air conditioner ensures an energy efficiency ratio of 11.2. It cools well and operates quietly, making it a very convenient model. This might be the best energy efficient air conditioner for you if you’re looking for a model you can install both on windows and walls.
| 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. Global Air 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
- Digital controls offer precise temperature adjustments and the remote control lets you control the air Conditioner from...
- Self-evaporative system no water tank. The condensing water is recycled to improve the efficiency through cooling...
- Maximum room size up to 400 square feet. Over-cold protection three minutes restart Delay function. Wind blows upward...
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. In addition, its portability makes it highly convenient for any environment. All in all, this is a serious contender for the title of the best energy efficient portable air conditioner in 2018.
| 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 move often or simply want a single air conditioner for more than one room without breaking the bank, check out the best portable air conditioners on the market in 2018!
8. Friedrich Chill Series CP10G10B Window Air Conditioner
- POWERFUL - 10,000 BTUs of cooling power that will cool rooms up to 450 sq. ft. can be installed as a window air...
- ULTRA QUIET OPERATION - Window ac designed to cut operation noise to a minimum
- AUTO AIR SWEEP LOUVERS - Provide consistent air distribution, for even cooling throughout the room or in large, open...
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 being the most efficient air conditioner so far on our list.
| 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
Note: This product is currently unavailable, but if you’re a fan of the LG brand we recommend looking into this next model:
LG 9,800 BTU Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner
- 2016 energy star: 10.6 energy efficiency Ratio (EER)
- 9800 BTUs cools a room up to 450 sq. Ft
- Special 230V electrical outlet required (unit will not work with a standard 115V outlet)
This through-the-wall LG air conditioner is the best energy efficient air conditioner you could get in 2018 if you have little to no space for it. It has a 10.6 energy efficiency ratio and can work on three cooling or fan-only speeds. In addition, it comes with an easy to clean filter and an alert that lets you now when it needs cleaning.
| User Rating | BTU | Unit Size | Cooling Capacity (sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4/5 | 9,800 | 24" x 20.1" x 14.4" | 450 |
Pros
- Can cool down a room of up to 450 square feet
- Easy maintenance and cleaning
- The best energy efficient air conditioner for the money according to customer reviews
Cons
- Quite noisy
7. Kenmore Smart 04277107 Room Air Conditioner
- Connect Now: Control and monitor on the go with Kenmore Smart AC App on your phone or tablet
- 10,000 BTU cools spaces up to 450 sq. ft. Cord Length : 6 feet
- ENERGY STAR Certified. Recommended room size: 300 - 500 square feet
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. In addition, it comes with a self-evaporation system that further increases its efficiency. This energy efficient portable air conditioner comes with an extendable exhaust hose with a maximum length of 59″ and a window kit, which makes it even more convenient.
| 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
6.Honeywell MN10CESWW Portable Air Conditioner
- Powerful air flow and quiet operation - cools rooms 300-450 sq. Ft. (Temperature range 61F to 89F)
- 10000 btu (ashrae-128 standard)/5500 btu (doe+ 2017 standard)
- Auto evaporation - no bucket to empty (except in areas with high humidity), long-lasting, washable dust filter, quick &...
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. It comes with a programmable timer that can be set between 30 minutes and 24 hours in 30-minute increments. All in all, this is the third best energy efficient air conditioner according to ratings and reviews from verified customers.
| 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
5. GE AEV05LX 17″ Window Air Conditioner
- Volts:115 Volts
- Type:Window
- Chassis Type:Slide Out
In addition to cooling, this air conditioner also features a clean air ionizer that removes pollen and other impurities from the air, making it the best energy efficient air conditioner for those who suffer from allergies or other respiratory afflictions. It easily mounts on any window, can plug into a standard 115V electrical outlet, and has a 11.3 energy efficient ratio.
| User rating | BTU | Unit size | Cooling capacity (sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.1/5 | 10,000 | 21" x 19" x 14" | 450 |
Pros
- Eco setting for extra efficiency
- Cools quickly
- Quite affordable
Cons
- Remote control only works from close range
- Slightly inaccurate thermostat
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.
4. LG LP0817WSR 115V Portable Air Conditioner
- Portable air conditioner with auto evaporation system
- 8000 BTU (ASHRAE-128 Standard) / 5500 BTU (DOE 2017 Standard)
- Uses a standard 115-volt/15 amp electrical outlet (6-ft. long power cord),Window Installation Kit
Most of the people who have tried this air conditioner agree that it is the top choice if you are looking for the best energy efficient air conditioner for home use. 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
3. GE AEM05LX 19″ Window Air Conditioner
- Volts:115 Volts
- Cooling Capacity (BTU): 5200
- Number of Cooling Speeds: 3
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. In addition, this unit comes with a magnetic remote control that can be placed on the unit and that also has braille, making it the best energy efficient air conditioner for the visually impaired.
| 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
Cons
- Unit may be a bit loud
2.Black + Decker 10000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner Unit
- COOL AS A CUCUMBER: Keeps a room, home, bedroom, apartment, dorm or garage that is approximately 150 - 250 square feet...
- DESIGN ENGINEERING: Vertical motion creates a steady and powerful airflow that provides consistent temperature in any...
- TOP TECHNOLOGY: Enjoy the simplicity and precision of programmable, electronic controls and the clarity of an LED...
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. All in all, this is the second best energy efficient air conditioner on the market according to ratings and reviews from verified customers.
| 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 areas
- Noisy startup
1.Frigidaire FFRE0533S1 5,000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Mini-Compact Air Conditioner
- 2016 energy star: 12.2 energy efficiency Ratio (EER)
- 5,000 BTU mini-compact air Conditioner for window-mounted installation, Dehumidification up to 1.1 pints per hour
- Quickly cools a room up to 150 sq. Ft, Cabinet Height: 12", Cabinet Depth (w/ Front): 15-1/4", Cabinet Depth: 13"
This product is the most energy-efficient air conditioner of this year and the best part is 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 and space. It comes with a remote control and a 24-hour timer. It features 3 fan speeds and also has a LED alert that lets you know when to change the filter.
| 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 because of its large size
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. According to our research, the absolute best energy efficient air conditioner is the one from Friedrich Chill series as it is a well-made, reliable product with useful features.
Have you tried any of the air conditioners on our list? Comment below to let us know which one is your favorite and which ones you had trouble with!