An air conditioner is a system that removes heat from the moisture of the air to improve the comfort of the occupants in that certain space. It is also used to dehumidify rooms filled with heat-producing items or devices. This can be found in the air-conditioning units usually found in our homes or offices. These units come in several types or models.
AC Unit Models
There are six types of air conditioners available for commercial use. They are: the central units, ductless mini split units, window units, portable units, hybrid air conditioners, and the unit with geothermal heating and cooling. Each of the AC units have different purposes and for different locations as well. However, most of them are switched on via remote control.
Central Air Conditioners
Central AC is a type of AC unit. They circulate cool air through a system of supply and return ducts. Supply ducts and registers (openings in the walls, floors, or ceilings covered by grills) carry cooled air from the unit to the home. This cooled air becomes warmer as it circulates through the space; then it flows back to the unit through return ducts and registers.
Even these air conditioners have different types in this sub-category. In a split-system central AC, there is an outdoor metal cabinet that contains the condenser and compressor, and an indoor cabinet, which contains the evaporator.
In many split-system air conditioners, this indoor cabinet also contains a furnace or the indoor part of a heat pump. The air conditioner’s evaporator coil is installed in the cabinet or main supply duct of this furnace or heat pump.
A split-system is most practical if the home has neither a furnace, nor an AC. In a packaged central air conditioner, the evaporator, condenser, and compressor are all located in one cabinet, which usually is placed on a roof or on a concrete slab next to the house’s foundation.
This type of air conditioner also is used in small commercial buildings. Air supply and return ducts come from indoors through the home’s exterior wall or roof to connect with the packaged air conditioner, which is usually located outdoors.
Packaged air conditioners often include electric heating coils or a natural gas furnace. This combination of air conditioner and central heater eliminates the need for a separate furnace indoors. This is most sensible when the house has its own furnace.
Ductless, Mini-Split Air Conditioners
Considered as the most commercialized unit, these are the ones you may find most commonly used in households and offices. The ductless, mini-split AC works just like the central units but has different components. It has an outdoor compressor and an indoor air-handling unit.
Such ACs have a conduit connected to it from the outside to the inside, housing the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing, and a condensate drain. Although they are quite popular, here are some of the advantages and disadvantages that can be laid out.
One of the pros of this AC unit is, it consumes less space in the home, as it is usually attached to the top corner of one wall. Many models can have as many as four indoor units connected to one outdoor unit.
The amount of units relies on how much heating is required for the building. Each of the buildings or zones has its own thermostat, so you only need to condition on that space when it is occupied, saving energy and money.
Since it is smaller than other ACs, it would be a lot easier to install than those other types. Also, the outdoor unit can be 50 feet away from the indoor evaporator, due to connections with the conduits, which eases the hassle of installing the air conditioner.
This makes it possible to cool rooms on the front side of a building house with the compressor in a more advantageous or inconspicuous place on the outside of the building. Since mini-splits have no ducts, energy losses are decreased by more than half.
Duct losses account to 30% of the housing energy consumption, especially if the ducts are in an unconditioned space such as an attic. Last but not least, mini-split air conditioners ensure safety because from the outside to the inside, it only requires a small hole, which isn’t guaranteed by the window unit AC and the others.
However, even amazing products have disadvantages too, and one of them is the cost. This can be factored with the size, as well as the location of the installer.
All these require large investments for it to function properly over a long period of time. If placed or sized wrongly as well, the maintenance and usage would be very costly.
Window Units
A window unit air conditioner is sometimes referred to as a room air conditioner, whereby it is attached to a window, unlike ductless mini-split units. They are seen as bulky, but this is because all the components are cased inside.
This refrigeration unit has a double shaft fan motor with fans mounted on both sides of the motor. One at the evaporator side, and the other at the condenser side. The evaporator side faces into the room to release cool air, and the condenser side faces outside to release the hot draft of air from the air circulation.
Physically, it looks different from the other units as well, whereby all the components seem to look like they are packed together. The indoor components are: cooling coil, fan blower, capillary tube, operation panel, filter drier and the drain pan.
Then, the outdoor components are: the compressor, condenser coil, propeller fan, and the fan motor. Window units are still in use today, but there are some pros and cons regarding the usage of them. Some pros are they are more popular, and price comparisons are easier to find.
Other than that, window units tend to produce lesser noise, which meant lesser energy wastage, making it more energy efficient. Water drains from the unit to the exterior with no intervention needed, and also sends all hot air to the exterior as the warm air is exchanged for cold.
Smaller ones are able to adequately cool a space of 100-300 sq ft, and larger units can cool up to 650 sq ft of space. If carefully placed by the right window or wall, the AC can cool up to more than one room.
However, this compact device also carries several setbacks. The window used will be fully blocked, preventing view to the outside, and not all windows actually support the AC unit. As the water drips from the unit, it could be a disturbance to the pedestrians.
It is also a hassle to move the AC unit from one place to another. Some windows do not have an external support, which can be a hazard, whereby the window unit can fall off, or can be removed, bringing in another of a security problem.
Then, the panels that come with these units can let in a lot of hot air. Last but not least, the window unit does not help to improve the decoration or the aesthetics of the rooms.
Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a unit that does not require permanent installation. It can be moved around the house,unlike the units mentioned prior. Commonly, portable units have wheels connected to them for ease of movement, and are generally very lightweight. They are most ideal for cooling single rooms.
Also, just as it looks, using a portable AC isn’t as complex as the others, and also it functions the same, which is to exchange warm air for cool air. The setup is also considered simpler than the other models. Usually, the unit comes with a window kit.
A window kit has a window slider and exhaust hose, to expel the heat outwards. Some select model ACs can also be vented into a drop ceiling or through a wall. Since portable units are connected to ducts usually, it has several ways to drain water. One of them is the fully self-evaporative method.
This is for advanced portable ac units. It automatically removes moisture by evaporating it out the hose along with warm air, which makes it more convenient, without needing to remove the condensed water. Another way is the gravity drain and condensate pump.
This requires a drain hose to be connected to the appliance, in order to collect the moisture from condensation, and direct the water into a drain. Lastly, it is the manual removal method, which is when buckets attached to the AC have to be emptied as often as every eight hours, one month once.
Buckets have to be emptied each time before using, which can be a hassle to users in general. Although portable units seem to be the best and most innovative version of the AC units, there are some setbacks as well.
The noise produced by the air conditioning is considered more disturbing than that of the window or central units, where it can drown out other noises, such as the television, or conversation. As mentioned, it is when water needs to be cleared out before using the air conditioner.
Just like its size, the portable unit is capable of cooling a room, but unlike the other units which can cool larger areas of space.
Hybrid Units
What does it mean by hybrid? It means that several forms of technology are being used to run an appliance. Generally, hybrid units run on solar power and electricity, hence called as solar-powered air conditioners too.
Hybrid units are said to be the ideal model for promoting eco-friendly usage, as it is energy efficient, and replaces battery power. Other than that, it also provides warm air during winter, portraying the dual method of the typical AC.
Since it is considered a new form of technology, it is likely that prices for each hybrid unit would be very costly, around $2000 per unit. It is also suitable for home use, but by price, other units would have proved to suffice.
Geothermal Heating and Cooling
Geothermal heating and cooling utilize a two-in-one HVAC system. A HVAC system stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning. This system is well-known for household usage of providing heat or using air from the outside to cool your homes.
Since it is quite advanced, you should know that the system is not easy to install, as it is considered one of the most extensive house systems. There are nine parts in the HVAC system: air return, filter, exhaust outlets, ducts, electrical elements, outdoor unit, compressor, coils and blower.
The air return part involves air ventilation, the filter removes dust from the air, the exhaust outlet is where heat is removed, the ducts are where heated or cooled air passes, electric elements are the power supply for the HVAC, the outdoor unit is where the fan is for the air flow, compressors are where the gas will be converted to liquid to be passed to the coils, and last but not least, the blower, where warm air is drawn into the main unit. HVAC systems can last for several years.
Top 11 Best 5000 BTU Air Conditioners in 2021
BTU stands for British Thermal Unit, and 5,000 BTU is equivalent to about 5.27 million Joules. A BTU unit is equivalent to 1055.06 joules. 5,000 BTU Air Conditioners are considered under budget. They can cool from 150 square feet to 250 square feet of the room.
There are many brands selling 5000 BTU air conditioners because it is quite a common type for home and office use. Larger capacities like a 12000 BTU unit are available too, but 5,000 BTU usually is enough.
In the Home Depot, best window unit ACs are sold with 5,000 BTU of capacity. In Amazon, the 5000 BTU air conditioner is a participant of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, which is an affiliate program that advertises goods from the Amazon website.
They are also categorised by the EER rating, which is the energy efficiency ratio. The higher the EER, the more energy efficient that appliance must be.
An average unit has an EER rating of 8.5, and energy efficient ones will have an EER rating of about 11. Most of 5000 BTU models are window units, but the best overall window unit is solely based on the customer’s needs, budget (based on number of rooms) and room size, measured in the unit of “sq ft”.
1. LG ELECTRONICS 5,000 BTU 115-Volt Window Air Conditioner in White
The LG Electronics 5,000 BTU 115-Volt Window Air Conditioner is rated 4.2 out of 5 Stars. It provides a 2-way air direction, and it is remote control operated. It comes with window panes as well, and 2 cool settings.
It is also a single hung window type. This model is sold at $165.19, with free shipping to your home. It can cool up to 150 sq ft of room size.
One of the benefits of this model is, it can be connected with Alexa and Hey Google for remote controlling. However, there are reports stating that the vibration of the AC causes loud rattling, which can be irritating. An sound-absorbing object has to be placed by the AC to prevent that issue.
2. FRIGIDAIRE 5,000 BTU 115-Volt Window-Mounted Mini-Compact Air Conditioner with Mechanical Controls
The Frigidaire 5000 BTU 115-Volt Window AC is rated at 4.5 out of 5 stars, better than the model before. It also provides a 2-way air direction, and it is mechanically controlled, which is easy to use. It has an EER rating of 11.1, and has 2 speeds for fans as well.
It is a single hung window type as well, and does not provide a heater. It cools up to 150 square feet of space too, and has effortless temperature control, able to maintain room temperatures, with various temperature settings. The air filter in the appliance is also easy to remove for cleaning. It costs $179.44 with free shipping.
As stated, unlike other models, this one does not come with a heater, which is impractical during the winter. Despite that, controls are much more useful when cooling is needed.
3. TOSHIBA 5,000 BTU 115-Volt Window Air Conditioner in White
The TOSHIBA 5,000 BTU 115-Volt Window Air Conditioner is rated 4.2 out of 5 stars. It has 2 speed modes, with 2-way air direction. It is also easy to install. It is mechanically controlled as well, and the air filter is reusable and easy to clean.
Other than that, the TOSHIBA 5,000 BTU 115-Volt Window Air Conditioner has an EER rating of 11. Window panels are also included. It is a double hung and single hung window AC. It costs $149.00, with no shipping.
This model is usually one of the recommended ones but there are complaints on the company’s website that it carries faults, whereby it doesn’t blow out cold air at all and constant draining needs to be done.
4. KEYSTONE 5,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner with Remote Control in White
The KEYSTONE 5,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner is rated 4.1 out of 5 stars. It operates with remote control, and has only one way air circulation. It covers between 75 sq ft to 150 sq ft of room size, and has an EER rating of 11.2.
This model has fast cooling, due to having three fan speeds, as well as three cooling speeds. It is equipped with sleep mode for energy saving, causing room temperature to gradually increase.
It is energy efficient, whilst providing a cool and comfortable environment. And, the remote control is convenient for all users. It costs $189.99 with free shipping.
However, users who have used this stated that it can be very noisy when using and that it does not blow cool air at all. There are several faults, based on what reviewers have mentioned on Amazon.
5. KEYSTONE 5,000 BTU Window Mounted Air Conditioner with Remote Control in White
This model has a rating of 3.8 out 5 stars, which is the lowest amongst the top picks from this site. However, it is the most energy efficient in the list with an EER rating of 12.1. It has 3 fans speeds too, with 3 cooling speeds.
The air filter is removable too, can be cleaned easily, and reused again. It is also a single hung window type unit, and comes without a heater. However, the sleep mode would increase room temperature gradually in order to save energy. It costs $199.99, with free shipping.
It is easy to assemble and install, but faults have been reported with this model. One of the faults include that it is not as long lasting as compared to the others, and may be noisy after a year of use. But of course, frequency of use should be taken into account. Wear and tear is generally one of the factors for every product, and the more often you use it, the faster the product will wear out.
6. MIDEA MAW05M1BWT Window air conditioner 5000 BTU with Mechanical Controls, 7 temperature, 2 cooling and fan settings, White
This model is rated at 4.5 out of 5 stars. It costs $169.00, with free returns. This 5000 BTU AC has fast cooling: 5, 000 BTU window-mounted mini-compact air conditioner is perfect for cooling a room up to 150 square feet.
This quickly cools down your home, office, or apartment for maximum comfort. It also requires effortless operation. 7 temperature settings, 2 cooling/2 fan only speeds and 2-way air direction give you the perfect amount of cooling every time.
Installation is also easy. You can install it easily with minimal modification to the existing window frame, suitable for windows 23”-36” wide and minimum 13” high. All mounting accessories are included. Other than that, this 5,000 BTU AC is energy efficient.with Combined Energy Efficiency Rate (CEER) of 11. 0, it helps reduce the energy costs.
The reusable and washable mesh filter reduces bacteria, room odors and other airborne particles for a healthier, more comfortable environment. This is Amazon’s choice for the 5000 BTU AC category.
7. Emerson Quiet Kool 5,000 BTU 115V Window Air Conditioner with Mechanical Rotary Controls, EARC5MD1, White
This model has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, slightly lower than the model before this. It costs $159.99, with free returns. Used models cost as cheap as $142.49, with free shipping. This 5000 BTU air conditioner for window-mounted installation cools a room from 100 to 150 sq. ft of room size.
The warranty plan follows 1-2-5 years of warranty (1 year labor, 2 years parts and 5 years compressor).
Other than that, the mechanical rotary controls with 2 cooling speeds, 2 fan speeds and variable temperature dial, to accommodate the users. Excess moisture removal can go up to 1.3 pints per hour for a more comfortable environment.
Lastly, the quiet operation keeps you cool and comfortable without keeping you awake, which is on a low dBA of 50.
In spite of the working functions, users have stated that this model is not as simple to assemble and install, when put in comparison with the other air conditioners. But fret not, there is still a user manual and a step-by-step guide onto how to install it.
If you are not familiar with installing an air conditioner, you can also get your local neighborhood’s handyman to help you with installation, which can stop you from breaking a bank to hire someone with more experience.
8. Impecca 5000 BTU per hour Mechanical Controlled Mini Window Air Conditioner
This model has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, which is the highest in the list. It costs from $209.95, with free shipping. This 5000 BTU model has 2 cooling speeds, 2 fan-only speeds, 2 way air direction and users can enjoy comfortable noise levels with our preferred unit’s whisper quiet operation. It also has an eco-friendly refrigerant.
So far, there haven’t been any massive complaints for this product. The product may be slightly more expensive, but you will be paying a little bit more for a better product overall.
For a 5,000 BTW air conditioner, it is definitely not the most quiet, and also not noisy enough to keep you awake. One of the customers reported with a 5 star that, it helped cool the living room down when the humidity was bad. Overall, this product is great when your budget is higher, and do not mind spending a little more for a higher quality air conditioner.
9. AMANA 5,000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Air Conditioner with Mechanical Controls, White
This model has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, being on the lower tier as compared to the other models. It costs $189.99 with free shipping. This 5000 BTU AC is for window-mounted installation.
This model cools a room up to 150 sq ft, and it is equipped with up to 1.06 pints per hour dehumidification.
The mechanical rotary has controls with 2 fan speeds (low and high), and the 8-Way directional airflow louvers direct the air where you need it. Also, it has a removable and washable air filter for convenient maintenance.
There are reviews stating that it is noisy and partially dysfunctioning. However, this model is considered just adequate for cooling purposes.
10. TCL 5,000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Air Conditioner with Mechanical Controls
This model of 5000 BTU AC from TCL has a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars, having a slight lower rating than the other models. It costs $169.00, with free shipping. Then, this 5000 BTU AC is built for window-mounted installation. It can cool a room of up to 150 sq ft.
It is built with up to 1.37 pints per hour dehumidification. The mechanical rotary controls with 3 cooling speeds and 3 speeds (high and low options). The 8-Way directional louvers direct the air where you need it most. Then, there is a removable and washable air filter for convenient maintenance.
The multi-directional louvers outlets ensure consistent air flow to every part of your living room, making sure the room is well cooled. There is also a very simple rotary control, that mechanical rotary controls with 3 cooling speeds, as well as 3 fan speeds. The installation is extremely simple, and there is also a window mounting kit included when you purchase this product. Overall, this product itself easy to install, not just the window mounting kit.
11. PerfectAire 115V Mechanical Controls Perfect 4PMC5000 5,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner, EER 11.1, 100-150 Sq. Ft. Coverage, White
This model with 5000 BTU has a rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars, lower than the rest. It costs $258.03, with free shipping. This AC of 5000 BTU is perfect for small spaces that require supplemental cooling and it cools areas between 100-150 sq ft.The 2-speed mechanical rotary has several controls, with different cool and fan modes.
It also has a slide-out washable air filter. This 5000 BTU model has 2-way air direction control and an expandable window mounting kit accommodates vertical sliding, double-hung windows with a 23” – 36” width and 13” minimum height.
There is a hassle which is, the space has to be at least 23 inches to fit the model, in order to fit the accordions and other components at the sides of the AC. Other than that, despite the lower rating, it works decently most of the time, with hardly any issues reported.
The Final Verdict
Across these 11 models, the average rating out of 5 stars would be 4.2 stars. The cheapest model belongs to the TOSHIBA model, at $149.00, for a new model, but for a used model, the used Emerson AC would be $142.49, making it the cheapest in this list.
Other than that, the most expensive model would be the PerfectAire model, costing $258.03, but the rating does not account to the price, with a 3.9 stars rating. The model with the lowest rating is the second KEYSTONE product, at 3.8 stars, and the one with the highest rating is the IMPECCA model, at 4.6 stars.
Overall, the 5000 BTU AC model with the best compromise would be the MIDEA model, having a 4.5 stars rating, costing $169.00. The coverage area isn’t needed to be considered as all of them cover the same area of size of 150 sq ft. In the end, it is based on the buyer’s option, factoring from their needs and budget.