The bedrooms, offices and other small spaces are well cooled by small 5,000 BTU window air conditioners. They are effective and provide visible cooling of rooms of less than 150 square feet (14 sq. m).
This guide looks at the most recommended cooling-only window AC units of 5,000 BTU on Amazon, with their noise rating, efficiency, and features. All the models are reliable and easy to install.
See in-depth reviews of our favorite models and a complete buying guide below, and find out which 5,000 BTU window air conditioner is the most efficient one to suit your requirements.
| Product | Noise Level | Energy Efficiency | Controls | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frigidaire FFRA051WAE 5,000 BTU | ≈50-55 dB | EER ~11 (Not Energy Star) | Mechanical dials | Reliable cooling, Washable filter |
| Midea MAW05M1BWT 5,000 BTU | ≈49-53 dB | EER ~11 (Not Energy Star) | Mechanical dials | Quiet operation, Compact design |
| LG LW5016 (LW5023) 5,000 BTU | ≈47-52 dB | Energy Star (CEER 11.5) | Digital (thermostat) | Energy efficient, Auto-restart |
| GE AHEC05AC 5,000 BTU | ≈ Fifty-six dB | EER ~11 (Not Energy Star) | Mechanical dials | Budget-friendly, EZ-mount kit |
| TCL 5WR1-A 5,000 BTU | ≈50 dB | EER ~11 (Not Energy Star) | Mechanical dials | Ultra-quiet, 8-way airflow |
| hOmeLabs 5,000 BTU | ≈ Fifty-Seven dB | EER ~10.7 (Not Energy Star) | Mechanical dials | Easy installation, Quiet mini AC |
| Amazon Basics 5,000 BTU | ≈55 dB | EER ~11 (Not Energy Star) | Mechanical dials | Great value, No-frills cooling |
Best 5000 BTU Window Air Conditioners (Reviews)
The following is the review of the best 5,000 BTU window air conditioners. The reviews are on performance, features and optimal uses. All the models were selected because they are effective coolers, have easy operation, and customer satisfaction. These reviews indicate the noise level, energy efficiency, controls, and maintenance so that you can choose the suitable small AC unit in your room.
#1 Frigidaire FFRA051WAE 5,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner
Frigidaire FFRA051WAE is a well-known window air conditioner with the capacity of 5,000 BTU. It cools rooms of approximately 150 square feet that is good in small bedrooms, home offices or dorms. It has mechanical rotary controls, two cooling speeds, two fan-only speeds, and you can change the airflow and comfort in a short period of time. Adjustable thermostat (dial control) maintains the temperature of the room at a constant level and hence you will not be forced to change the settings frequently in order to maintain a comfortable temperature.
This model is liked by many people since it is simple to install and requires minimal maintenance. It has a reusable and washable filter that is slid out, which makes it easy to clean and assists the unit to run efficiently. Sound is of the moderate range, 50-55 dB on high, a soft background noise that most people can live with (approximately that of a floor fan). The unit does not have a remote or a digital display as well. This minimalistic design implies less components to break and a cheaper price. On the whole, the Frigidaire FFRA051WAE is a reliable, efficient, and durable window air conditioner, which is a perfect choice of any person who wants to have a simple, but effective air conditioner.
#2 Midea MAW05M1BWT EasyCool 5,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner
Midea MAW05M1BWT EasyCool is a compact window air conditioner that provides fast, silent and energy efficient cooling to any room of up to 150 square feet. It has a cooling power of 5,000 BTU that enables it to cool the temperature quickly despite its shallow depth of approximately eight inches. The room cools fast since its compressor and airflow design are of high quality. Lots of users also talk about how quiet it is: on low speed setting it makes less than 49 dB, which is very little considering the size of this AC. You may operate it in your bedroom or study without getting incessant noise.
The settings and use of the controls are simple. The temperature dial has only one dial that adjusts 7 levels of cooling and two levels of the fan. It is possible to adjust the temperature and leave the unit to do the job. A two-way air vent can swivel to the side or the front of the room sending cool air.
It is easy to maintain since the filter can slide out and can be washed. Dust and pet hair are deposited on it and the air remains clean. The unit is also well held. It is also accompanied by a window installation kit making it fit well.
It is not Energy Star Certified, but its energy consumption is similar to other 5,000 BTU ones. Lots of customers appreciate the fact that it is powerful but quiet. Midea supports the unit with a one-year warranty, and the company has an excellent reputation, so the offer is ideal to those who wish to have quiet and compact window AC that is heavy on cooling.
#3 LG LW5016 (LW5023) 5,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner
LG LW5016, marketed as LW5023/LW5024, is an energy-saving 5,000 BTU window air conditioner with additional features to make it convenient. It has a Combined Energy Efficiency Ratio (CEER) of approximately 11.5, which has earned it an Energy Star certification of low energy consumption. This is one of the best models, in case the priority is to keep the electricity costs down. It is meant to cool down small rooms of up to 150 sq. ft. and has sound levels as low as ~50 dB on the low setting, which is one of the quietest ones, perfect to use in bedrooms or offices when you need to have some peace and quiet.
The LG has electronic controls that have an adjustable digital thermostat, which gives it a more accurate temperature control than the simple dial types. It has various cooling options and fan speeds to adjust comfort. Most of them have a convenient remote control that allows you to adjust the settings across the room (refer to the particular model variant to make sure that it has a remote control). Special features are auto-restart which automatically switches the AC back on with your previous settings after power failure, and a removable, washable filter with reminder indicator light. It can be easily installed using the provided window mounting kit and its small chassis can be fitted in standard windows (usually 21 to 35 inches wide). To sum up, the LG LW5016/LW5023 is a quiet, highly energy efficient and easy to operate unit, which is the best option to consider in case a person is ready to pay a little more to save on energy bills in the long run and enjoy the convenience of the controls.
#4 GE AHEC05AC 5,000 BTU Mechanical Window AC Unit
The GE AHEC05AC is a good option in case you require a small AC that is reliable and fits in your budget. This 5,000 BTU window air conditioner is a quick and low-priced way of cooling rooms of up to 100-150 square feet. It has basic mechanical knobs: one is to choose between low and high cool settings, one is to choose between low and high fan settings to ventilate, and the other one is a 1 to 10 dial to adjust the temperature. It is simple to use, as the only thing to do is to turn the knobs and the AC will cool the room. Despite the simple controls, it is a cooler that cools down the room quickly on hot summer days, especially in small rooms.
The unit is supplied with an EZ-mount installation kit which assists in fixing the unit in the window; the majority of users consider the process of setting it up fast and simple. Its noise level when operating at full power is approximately 56 dB which is average among a 5,000 BTU AC. There is a constant hum when the unit is in high, but the noise is not really annoying during the day. It is possible to run it on low at night so that it is not so noisy. It also has a washable mesh filter that traps dust; pull it out after every few weeks, wash it and have the AC running efficiently. There is no remote or advanced settings on the GE, and the fewer electronic components the more reliable it can be in the long term. The GE 5,000 BTU window AC is a low-priced, easily operated, and reliable cooling machine that is ideal to anyone who seeks a simple air conditioner with a reliable brand to help them cool down in a small room.
#5 TCL 5WR1-A Home Series 5,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner
TCL 5WR1-A is a small window air conditioner designed to fit in a small area and cool a room. It is silent and allows you to control the air flow. It is rated at 5,000 BTU and has the capacity to cool rooms that are 150 square feet. At the low setting, it operates somewhere around 50 dB, which is why it is suitable to use in bedrooms or living rooms where you would want little noise. The unit allows you to circulate cool air in eight directions. It has two pairs of vents which are facing up, down, left and right. This large airflow range assists in the distribution of cool air and eliminates hot spots.
The TCL 5WR1-A has a simple mechanical control. It possesses two cooling speeds and two fan speeds as well as a timer. It has no digital features and all the settings can be changed using the knobs fast. The unit automatically comes back with the same settings after a power outage since mechanical air conditioners retain their settings even when the power is switched off. The installation kit is applicable in windows measuring 23-36 inches wide and 14.5 inches and above. Routine maintenance is simple: just wash or vacuum the washable air filter to maintain the unit in good shape. This model is popular among many people since it has a modern appearance and it provides a cool, relaxing effect without much noise. The TCL 5WR1-A is a good option in case you desire silent comfort and the opportunity to direct the air where it is necessary.
#6 hOmeLabs 5,000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner
The hOmeLabs 5,000 BTU Window AC has been rated as a good product with rapid, silent cooling, easy installation and operation. It is intended to be used in rooms of 100-150 sq. ft.–suited to apartments, cabin, or additional cooling in a large house. The mechanical thermostat of this model has 7 temperature settings and 2 cooling speeds, and you can set it to 2 fan-only settings, so you can adjust a comfortable environment. According to many users, the AC is not very loud considering its size (approximately in the mid-50 dB range on high) and on the low setting it gives some soft white noise that aids in sleeping.
The hOmeLabs AC is easy to set-up and this is one of its strong points. It is supplied with an elaborate installation kit which consists of insulation foam, side accordion panels to make sure that there is a good window seal and leaf guards to prevent the unit being covered with debris. Lots of customers state that they can install it within 15 minutes. When in operation, the unit quickly cools small rooms (it is sometimes noticeable within 1520 minutes on a hot day). The air vents on the front panel are adjustable (two way directional control) to direct the airflow. It, as well as other window air conditioners, has a washable, reusable air filter that collects dust, cleaning it will ensure that the unit will remain efficient and maintain a good airflow. Having a reputation of quality appliances, hOmeLabs is a new brand, but this AC is not an exception. It comes with a typical 1-year guarantee and a helpful customer service. In case you need a small window air conditioner that is simple to set up, is quiet, and cools efficiently, the hOmeLabs 5,000 BTU model is a great budget option.
#7 Amazon Basics 5,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner
The Amazon Basics 5,000 BTU Window AC provides simple, inexpensive cooling by a company you know. Choose this model when you are looking to have a basic window unit to cool a small area with no additional features that increase the price. It is suitable to rooms of 150 sq. ft. or less such as a small living room, bedroom or workshop. You have mechanical controls to set the cooling, a dial thermostat and a 2-speed fan/cool switch. You have the option of high and low cooling and fan-only mode to have the simple air circulation when you only want ventilation. It is simple and thus anyone can use it and the likelihood of electrical components breaking down is low.
The Amazon Basics AC is cheap, but it does not compromise the essentials. It has a flexible mounting kit and side panels that are compatible with standard window openings (23 to 36 inches wide) and provide a tight fit. A washable filter that traps dust and particles is also removable on the unit. Wash it once a month to maintain a high airflow. There is no noise (~55 dB on high). This is about equivalent to other 5k BTU units and can be experienced as soft white noise at night. The model does not have the Energy Star rating, although it is as efficient as other simple models in this category. In general, Amazon Basics 5,000 BTU AC is a very useful and affordable air conditioner. It is ideal to those who want to save on their purchases or renting windows AC, or someone who wants an additional window AC to keep them comfortable without all the fancy features.
Buying Guide: Choosing a 5000 BTU Window Air Conditioner
There are some important factors that should be taken into consideration when buying the best 5,000 BTU window air conditioner other than the cooling capacity. A mini window unit must not only be suitable to your window but also must be efficient and quiet to your comfort. The most crucial points to consider are mentioned below: noise level, energy efficiency, ease of installation, controls and settings, type of filter, warranty, and maintenance. Knowing these factors will assist you in comparison of models and in choosing the appropriate AC to your needs.
Noise Levels
Another important factor is noise level, particularly in case the AC is to be installed in a bedroom or a quiet office. Window AC units with 5000 BTU usually make noise within 50 to 60 decibels. To give an idea, ~50 dB is something like a soft fan or light rain, whereas 60 dB is more of a regular conversation. The models that are quieter (less than 50 dB or in the low-50s on low fan speed) are the best option to consider when the person is a light sleeper or noise-sensitive. Pay attention to a unit that boasts of such features as quiet operation or gives a decibel rating. Overall, seek units that have noise below 55 dB to have a quieter place. It is also worth remembering that you can turn the AC on a lower fan at night to make it less noisy. Correct installation (tightening any loose elements and applying foam insulation strips) will assist in avoiding vibrations and rattling sounds and make your window AC work as quietly as possible.
Energy Efficiency
The energy efficiency defines the amount of electricity that the AC consumes to cool your area. An important measure is the EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) or the more recent CEER (Combined Energy Efficiency Ratio) of window units, the BTUs divided by the power consumption (in watts). The greater the EER/CEER the more efficiently the unit cools, and the less you have to pay on your electric bill. The EER of many 5000 BTU units is about 10-12. In case you are concerned about energy savings, look at an Energy Star certified model – these must be very efficient (e.g., an Energy Star 5,000 BTU AC may have a CEER of ~11.0 or more). A high-efficiency AC will not only reduce the operating expenses but also will not create such a load on the electrical network of your house. Moreover, certain models include an energy saving mode (especially electronic control models) in which the compressor and fan are turned off when the desired temperature is achieved, and turned on again periodically to keep the temperature. This aspect has the capacity to minimize power consumption. In comparing models, look at the estimated annual energy cost (usually on an EnergyGuide label) to give you a sense of the efficiency of the unit. Finally, it may be a little more expensive to buy a more efficient window AC, but it will be worth it in the long-term due to reduced energy costs.
Installation
When buying a window AC, make sure it will fit your window, or you can install it without any danger. The standard 5,000 BTU window air conditioners are made to fit standard double-hung windows. They usually need a window width of about 22 to 36 inches and opening height of about 13 to 15 inches. The unit may always have specific mounting requirements and dimensions. Installation is normally done by lifting the unit into the window, unfolding and fixing the accordion side panels and locking it with brackets or screws. A wide range of units have an installation kit consisting of side panel extensions, support brackets, window sash foam seal and screws. Make sure you apply all the available insulation foam to cover the holes around the AC, this will prevent hot air and insects entering and cold air escaping, making it more efficient. Since a 5000 BTU unit is fairly light (typically 35 to 45 lbs), most individuals can install it themselves with little assistance – although a second person to hold the window or help is useful to be safe. When you are on a higher floor or the window cannot be opened outside, a support bracket (which may be sold separately, in case it is not included) can be used to add additional support to the AC chassis. Lastly, make sure you have a close electrical outlet (these units operate on standard 115V household current) so you do not have to use an extension cord (heavy-duty extension cords are not recommended to be used with ACs due to safety reasons). Your new AC will be installed in a proper way that will make it safe and efficient.
Controls and Settings
The window ACs are either with mechanical controls or electronic controls and you may prefer one or the other depending on your intended usage of the unit. Mechanical controls have manual dials to adjust the thermostat level and fan speed. The pros are simplicity and reliability, there are less electronics that may break and the unit will come back with the same settings after a power outage without any user intervention. Mechanical units are however not precise (you set a range instead of a set temperature) and often do not have remote controls or sophisticated features. Conversely, electronic controls have a digital thermostat display in which you can specify a precise temperature (e.g. 72 F) and usually have a remote control. These models often have other modes such as the timer functions (to set on/off times), sleep mode (which slowly changes temperature at night to be comfortable) and energy saver mode (turning the fan on and off to save energy). Electronic controls enable you to set the controls across the room or take advantage of such features as a 24-hour on/off timer, so choose a model with electronic controls. Even some newer 5000 BTU models are becoming smart (Wi-Fi connectivity to control via smartphone), but it is more typical of the higher BTU models. Think about your requirements: in case the AC is to be put in a high place or in an inaccessible window, a remote will come in handy. Mechanical can be enough, if it is close to your desk or bed and you can easily turn a knob. Both will cool the room, but the electronic controls allow a greater degree of fine tuning and convenience than the mechanical units, which are simple work horses.
Type of Filter and Filter Maintenance
Almost all window air conditioners including 5000 BTU ones have a washable filter to capture dust, pollen and other debris in the air as it is cooled. The filter tends to be a mesh screen behind the front grille, which may be slid or popped out. This filter should be cleaned on a regular basis (usually once every 4 weeks in cases of heavy use) since a clogged filter will decrease the airflow and cause the AC to strain, which will make it less efficient and less able to cool. It is easy to clean, you can vacuum the dust off or rinse the filter with water and a mild detergent and allow it to dry thoroughly before inserting it back. On some units there is a filter check indicator light (on models with electronic controls) that will remind you to clean the filter after a specified number of operating hours. Other than the typical mesh filters, some may have an extra filter such as an activated carbon filter (odors) or an antimicrobial coating (mold) but these are found more frequently in larger or higher quality ACs. Overall, a reusable filter implies that you will not need to purchase new ones anymore, just clean it up. Also, as maintenance, make sure that the evaporator fins (behind the filter) and the condenser coils (rear of the unit) are not covered with heavy dust or dirt; they can be brushed or vacuumed when the unit is unplugged. When you take good care of your filters and clean them, your AC will work at the optimum level, and the air that will be blown into your room will be as clean as it can be.
Support and Warranty
A window air conditioner is something that you would want to use through several summers, therefore, take into consideration the warranty and the service provided by the manufacturer. The majority of the 5,000 BTU window ACs are sold with a standard 1-year limited warranty which covers both parts and labor. This implies that in case of anything that goes wrong because of defects (not abuse) in the first year, the manufacturer will either repair or replace the unit, usually free of charge. Other brands even provide an extended warranty on some parts, e.g. the sealed refrigeration system (compressor, condenser, evaporator) is normally covered by a longer warranty, e.g. 2 to 5 years. After buying a product, it is always advisable to register your product on the manufacturer site as this may enable any extended warranty on your product and any future service claims may be made simpler. Also, pay attention to the reputation of a manufacturer and customer service. The well-established brands such as Frigidaire, LG, GE, and Midea offer a wide network of services countrywide and responsive customer care. Value brands or newer brands (such as hOmeLabs or Amazon Basics) can have the warranty claims processed by shipping a new device, which can be quite convenient. Anyway, do not lose your purchase receipt and warranty papers. An extended warranty (which may be offered separately or by retailers) may offer additional security to you in case your AC will operate in harsh conditions or you intend to use it continuously. In general, the fact that you are covered by warranty may spare you unpleasant surprises and means that the company believes in its product.
Maintenance Tips
The correct care of your 5000 BTU window air conditioner will make it work efficiently and longer. Besides the frequent cleaning of the filters (see above), one can remember a couple of minor maintenance activities. To start with, check the condenser coils located at the back of the unit every now and then; in case they seem to be dirty or blocked with debris, clean them up carefully with a soft brush or even a coil cleaner spray (remember to switch off the unit when doing so). Cleaning these coils aids the AC to get rid of heat successfully. Second, inspect the drainage of condensation. Condensation is formed by window units which tend to drip out the back. Make sure the drain holes on the back bottom of the AC are free to drain water; blocked drain will cause water in the window or even cause the unit to turn off. Third, during the end of the cooling season, it is prudent to either take out the AC out of the window or cover it. In case you stay in the region where winters are cold, by taking out the AC and keeping it inside, you can avoid weather damages and heat loss through the window during winter. In case it is not possible to remove it, it is possible to cover the outside of the unit with something to protect it against snow and rain (many manufacturers offer custom-fit covers, or there are universal ones). Finally, as you initially install the AC every summer, do a small check-up: clean the filter, wipe the fan blades (in case it is accessible), and make sure that no critters or insects have decided to nest in it over the winter. A few minutes of maintenance will guarantee your window AC to offer efficient cooling performance every year and you will minimize the chances of breakdowns.
Conclusion
A window air conditioner with 5,000 BTU is a game changer to be comfortable in a small space without spending a fortune. These small units are simple to set up, cheap to operate and are efficient in cooling bedrooms, offices and small living quarters. This article has pointed out some of the best models on the market today each of which has its own advantages such as being very quiet, having the best energy efficiency or being the best value at the price. With the factors that we have listed in our buying guide (noise, efficiency, and controls), you can now be sure which window AC is right to your needs and preferences. All of our suggested 5000 BTU models are competent performers that with a little care will keep you cool in many summers to come. Cheers to effective cooling and the comfortable atmosphere of the home even in the hottest days!
