Staff Reporter Tech 05.28.2019 18:May PM EDT

Through the Wall Air Conditioner vs Window - Choose Smart

As you may know, the main difference between AC's is their location. Of course, a window air conditioner has been purposely built to be positioned through a variety of windows such as casement, vertical, and small windows. Whereas, a wall AC is often permanent as they have to be installed through the wall.

It's important to highlight that not all air conditioners are created equal.

When it comes to choosing which one is the best for your needs and for the space that it's available to you, it's essential that you know the differences and the options that are available. Hence, you will ensure that you're making the right decision.

While both types of AC's share the same goal, they have different aspects that you must consider. These individual units are capable of cooling down single rooms and can also be used for commercial needs. Below you will find an analysis of both air conditioners so you get a better understanding in order to choose smart.

Characteristics of window AC

It's worthy to mention that by purchasing the biggest air conditioner that you can find, won't necessarily mean that it will meet your needs. The reason for this is because a unit that has higher BTUs will perform less efficiently than a suitable unit. Furthermore, an oversized unit has the ability to cool the area according to the thermostat pre-set without dehumidifying the area first. So, you will feel uncomfortably cool.

When looking for such AC, you have to take into consideration several factors that are detrimental. For example, you have to look for:

BTUs - Th majority of them are sized according to the number of BTUs they remove from the area over a 1-hour time period.
Power - The good news is the fact that in the majority of cases, these air conditioners are designed to be energy-efficient. This means that your energy bill will not see significant spikes.
Speeds - In order to get the most for your money, you want the AC to be designed with minimal 2. A variety of speeds will ensure that you can use it throughout the day and night.

Tip: Remember, you will need 20 BTUs for each square foot of the area you want to be cooled.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Budget - Without a doubt, the upfront costs are significantly less than through the wall air conditioners. A small window will cost you around $100 while AC with larger BTUs is priced well above $500. Of course, at a higher price, you will get more features. Nonetheless, if you live in a smaller apartment a model with 5,000 to 10,000 BTU will be enough. As long as you know how to budget properly, you can easily afford such unit.
Installation - The main advantages of them are the fact that they're easy to install as they come with everything you need to get started. This means that you don't have to invest further into the product. In addition to this, even without professional help, you will be able to mount the AC within 10 minutes. Equally important, many of these units have anti-theft protection which means that you will feel secure in your home as it prevents intruders from coming into your home.
Ideal for Renters - If you're looking for a temporary solution, these units are your best choice. The transferable cooling units are ideal for those that rent homes as they can be removed or moved. Thus, wherever you go, the unit can come with. Furthermore, through the wall air conditioner is permanent as you have to dig holes, whereas, these units can be easily adjusted according to your own specific needs.

Characteristics of through the wall AC

These units will fit tightly into your wall as it uses the wall sleeve. It will exhaust heat and humidity from the environment to the outside. Furthermore, many people all over the world choose these units because they're simply out of the way and attract less attention to itself. As you may have seen, many businesses use these units as they have a low-profile design but they're highly efficient at removing hot and stale air.

Similarly, to window air conditioners, you have to consider different features when purchasing in order to make a smart decision for your needs. Thus, when purchasing you have to look for:

Air Coverage - These units also have BTUs. However, when considering them you have to consider how many people are in the cooled down area. As a rule of thumb, for an additional person beyond 2 people, you have added an additional 600 BTUs.
Features - As these units are a permanent choice, you have to look at the features it comes with. This will also ensure that you get the most for your money.
Energy Star Rated - This certification proves the fact that the unit uses far less energy than the majority of the models that are currently on the market.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Space - These units are space-efficient as they free up the window views and the floor space. As they get attached to the wall through the mounting sleeve, you will enjoy a modern and seamless look. Equally important, it doesn't let the air pass through. This is something you don't see with the window units.

Maintenance - If you don't have time on your agenda to maintain every appliance that's in your home, you will love these units. The reason for this is because they require little to no maintenance. Unlike the window units, the water gathered from the humidity in the air will drain to the exterior without intervention from your behalf.

As they're a permanent solution, the only worry you have is the installation process. Of course, if you want to ensure the longevity of the product, you want to consider cleaning the louvers every 3 months.