If you have been looking for a reliable brand that you can trust to regulate your home climate, then you are in luck because we have reviewed several energy-efficient options to help you choose the best 8,000 BTU air conditioner for your space.
We researched 20 top products and compared their individual features, buyer ratings, and user experiences to come up with our recommendations. Our list outlines the best six window and portable air conditioners with a BTU capacity of 8,000. What impressed us about the versatile BLACK+DECKER BPACT08WT is its 3-in-1 functionality, mobility, substantial coverage, and convenient auto water evaporation. Our Editor’s Choice also comes with a remote control and all the accessories you need for installation.
In this review, we will discuss the most important features we considered when researching the top models. We factored in both portable and window units to provide you with more installation options. Next, we evaluated the BTU capacity and the coverage area to identify models that would effectively cool a spacious area. We also kept the dimensions in mind for convenient and space-saving setup.
More features: 24-hour timer; caster wheels
The BLACK+DECKER BPACT08WT comes with a comprehensive installation kit consisting of an air exhaust hose, hose inlet/outlet adapters, window casement, water drain hose with maximum length of 4 feet and 11 inches, and a manual guide.
This best rated 8,000 BTU portable air conditioner is designed to be mounted on double hung or sliding windows to function as a fan only, a dehumidifier and an air conditioner.
It also features Sleep mode, a 24 hour on/off timer, and coverage of up to 300 square feet.
A full function remote control, washable and reusable filter that easily slides out for cleaning, and castor wheels and integrated handles for convenient maneuverability and transport make this product user-friendly.
The manufacturer advises buyers to factor in three minutes of delay before the compressor can start operating.
Buyers are impressed by the energy efficiency, the speed of cooling, ease of assembly, and the four-way vented airflow outlet.
Complaints include the bulky hose, the bright display which cannot be dimmed or turned off at night, and the loud noise which is approximately 75 decibels on high setting.
More features: 6-way air flow; low power start-up
The FRIGIDAIRE Mini-Compact Air Conditioner has a high EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating of 12.0 and dehumidification performance of up to 1.7 pints per hour. You can control the amount and direction of airflow with three speed settings and six-way air circulation by the fans, making this product the best rated 8,000 BTU window air conditioner by Amazon and verified buyers.
The Energy Star rated model with low power start-up is equipped to cover areas of up to 350 square feet. It also resumes operation using the previous settings that had been set before a power outage.
This is a window unit which expels hot air and condensate water outside without needing a drain or exhaust hose. Users like the inclusion of the thermostat in the remote control and the multiple settings that allows them to customize the start time and duration of operation as well as the level of humidity by adjusting the output and direction of airflow to their preference. Some even report cooling an entire 1-br apartment with it.
The minimum temperature you can set is 62 degrees Fahrenheit. Please note that the temperature you have set is the one displayed on the unit whereas the remote control displays the ambient temperature.
Although FRIGIDAIRE Mini-Compact Air Conditioner comes with extra foam panels that are fitted on the accordion extensions on either side of the unit to insulate against noise, the major complaint from customers is the noise produced by this product. This can be annoying when it is running on Eco mode at night because the noise will wake you up as the unit cycles on and off.
More features: smart remote control; Energy-Star rated
The TOSOT 8,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner and the FRIGIDAIRE Mini-Compact Air Conditioner share a number of features: a thermostat on the remote control, multiple adjustable settings for airflow and approval by Energy Star.
When you activate the iFeel function on the smart remote control, a sensor detects and transmits the ambient temperature reading to the unit after every 10 minutes. Based on this and the set temperature, the air conditioner will adjust accordingly to achieve your desired climate.
You can make air blow at different angles by pressing a button on the remote to swing the swiveling upper panel up and down, or let the horizontal louvers cool your room in two different directions.
The UL-listed product works as a fan, air conditioner, and dehumidifier. With coverage of up to 350 square feet and variable modes for Auto, Sleep, Cool and Energy-saving options, this is one of the best rated 8,000 BTU air conditioners on Amazon.
Owners like the modern aesthetics of the sleek white panels, the touchscreen panel, and the sweep feature. The front display light cannot be dimmed but you can turn it off at night. A number of buyers have found the performance of this unit better than the one by models with higher BTU capacity.
Unlike the FRIGIDAIRE Mini-Compact Air Conditioner, the remote control for our Upgrade Pick does not display the current temperature. It only transmits it to the unit. Another thing that needs improvement is the instructions which are unclear, especially for the remote control.
More features: LED display; Sleep mode
The MIDEA MAW08R1BWT is an 8,000 BTU window air conditioner that can effectively cool rooms with coverage of up to 350 square feet. It functions as a fan, air conditioning, and dehumidifier so you can customize the output to your climate needs.
The unit features Sleep mode activated with a button to adjust the temperature as you sleep for a comfortable atmosphere in the bedroom. It also includes energy-saving options in form of a 24-hour timer that allows you to schedule the operation to your preferred time, and EcoSave mode that cycles the unit on and shuts it off automatically when the target temperature is reached. You can set a minimum temperature of 62℉ and a maximum of 90℉.
On the front is a panel with an LED display and digital controls for the timer and various operation modes such as Sleep and EcoSave. Alternatively, you can use the included remote control to select the same settings from a distance.
This is the model that generates 53 decibels and 57.7 decibels when operating on the lowest and highest setting respectively. For perspective’s sake, a normal conversation has a noise rating of approximately 60 decibels.
The window unit comes with a user manual and all the mounting accessories, with the exception of a screwdriver. Some windows may also require pilot holes.
This is a low-maintenance BTU window air conditioner which features a washable filter and cleaning reminder, and self-evaporative system. The water also drains from the back if you tilt the unit.
Users also like the fast and quiet operation and ease of use. However, some customers received damaged units. It is also quite heavy at 54 pounds.
More features: 2-speed fan; 60-pint/day dehumidification performance
The SHINCO SPF1-08C produces approximately 52 decibels of sound at its lowest settings, providing one of the best quiet 8,000 BTU air conditioners with dehumidification performance of 60 pints in 24 hours. However, several customers beg to differ about the noise level, which they find disruptive when sleeping or watching TV.
The portable unit is designed to cool up to 200 square feet of space such as bedrooms, offices, RVs, campers, and cabins. To improve mobility, this product comes with caster wheels and a built-in handle. You will also receive a window kit, an exhaust hose with length of 10.6 to 59 inches, and a washable filter that slides out easily for quick cleaning.
The affordable unit features Cool, Dehumidify, and Fan modes, Sleep mode, and a 24-hour timer.
You can adjust the fan speed to two different settings by using a remote control from across the room or set the target temperature by pressing the touchscreen controls on the digital LED display. Some owners are entertained by the musical chimes that play whenever you operate the remote control.
The SHINCO SPF1-08C cools consistently, sets up easily and saves you time and effort by utilizing self-evaporative technology to reduce the amount of condensate collected for drainage.
A downside of this air conditioner is that the fan keeps running even after the desired temperature is reached.
More features: LED display panel; LCD remote control
The LG LP0818WNR features an LED display panel and an LCD remote control that allows you to operate it from afar. It has a coverage area of up to 200 square feet and extracts moisture at a rate of 1.27 kg per hour. The air conditioner has a CFM rating of 230.
The air vents swivel and swing to distribute cool air fast instead of blowing it towards only one spot. Owners also like the self-evaporating mechanism that has some running it for six months in humid rooms without needing to empty the condensate.
Some buyers noticed a rattling sound each time they connected the hose to the unit or the hose kept dislodging. Others had malfunctioning compressors, which broke down after a while and stopped releasing cool air. Buyers who faced these issues have also complained about LG’s poor customer service.
This 8,000 BTU portable air conditioner consumes 60 watts when operating on low fan speed, but goes up to wattage of 1080 when running in maximum cooling mode. It is not an energy-efficient model, and some users have complained that the power trips when the compressor is on.
As well as the unit, you will also receive a window kit, exhaust hose, and self-adhesive seal tape.
There are a number of key features that make the best rated 8,000 BTU air conditioners with high performance, longevity, and efficient energy. We will discuss these factors as well as the most ideal places to install such models. In the FAQ section at the end of this buying guide, you will learn more about noise levels and changing filters.
An 8,000 BTU air conditioner is best for spaces that are 300 to 400 square feet. These could include mid-sized rooms like a master bedroom or spaces that regularly have a number of people such as a playroom.
You can generally purchase the best rated 8,000 air conditioners at less than $300 although some pricier models with more advanced featured could cost twice as much.
Versatile products like the MIDEA MAW08R1BWT and the SHINCO SPF1-08C which work as an air conditioner, a dehumidifier, and a fan are suitable for rooms with moderate humidity levels. The condensate is recycled back as cool air, collected in a reservoir, or drained outside.
In addition to choosing the best quiet 8,000 BTU air conditioner, you will also need to consider other features such as the coverage area, dimensions, and the fan speeds.
8,000 BTU portable air conditioners vary from window air conditioners in the way they get rid of hot air, their installation, and their energy efficiency. The former uses an intake hose to draw air from outside into the room and an exhaust hose to expel hot air. This type that comes with a window kit can also exhaust air through a wall or ceiling.
8,000 BTU window air conditioners such as the FRIGIDAIRE Mini-Compact Air Conditioner and the TOSOT 8,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner are mounted on windows with most of their components outside. This allows them to vent air outside from the back of the unit while blowing cool air into the room from the front side. Condensate collected drains outside when you tilt the air conditioner backward. Window models are also more energy-efficient than portable products.
BTU refers to British Thermal Unit which indicates the cooling capacity of a specific air conditioner and is used as the standard unit of measurement. Models designed to cool large rooms have a higher BTU rating. For instance, areas measuring 300 to 350 square feet require an 8,000 BTU air conditioner while products with a BTU capacity of 5,000 would be ideal for rooms with a square footage of 100 to 150.
You may need to go for a slightly higher BTU capacity model if the room you will be cooling is exposed to direct sunlight, has other appliances that generate heat, is poorly insulated, or the space regularly has a lot of people in it. An open floor plan or a high ceiling would also need a product with a larger capacity. According to Energy Star, you should factor in 600 BTU per person.
The MIDEA MAW08R1BWT and the SHINCO SPF1-08C are among the best rated 8,000 BTU air conditioners that are multipurpose. Both of them can function as a fan, air conditioning, and dehumidifier. This provides great value because you can customize the type of cooling you need and extract moisture from a humid room. Another way you can customize airflow is by adjusting the fan speed. The FRIGIDAIRE Mini-Compact Air Conditioner features three variable speed settings. The best-rated 8,000 BTU window air conditioner also has operational modes for Auto, Sleep, Cool and Energy-saving options. In Sleep mode, the unit maintains the set temperature for optimal comfort. Auto mode uses sensors to detect the ambient temperature and adjusts operation accordingly to cool the room to the target temperature. Once the set temperature is achieved, the unit is automatically turned off until the climate changes.
Variable speed would also help you adjust to a quiet 8,000 BTU air conditioner on the lowest setting.
This is a key feature to consider in both portable and window types because you have to factor in the size of the window for fitting purposes and the addition of hoses for venting or drawing air. If you will be moving your 8,000 BTU portable air conditioner from one room to another, look for a product with integrated handles and caster wheels for convenient maneuverability and smooth mobility.
In the U.S., it is a standard requirement for all air conditioners to have a minimum EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating of 8.0. The FRIGIDAIRE Mini-Compact Air Conditioner, for instance, has a high EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating of 12.0 EER is derived by comparing BTU to wattage.
Additionally, the best 8,000 BTU window air conditioners are given Energy Star ratings. However, portable models do not have federal regulations that require them to be energy-efficient.
When considering the dimensions, you will also need to evaluate the weight of the unit so you can easily mount, maneuver or move the unit around. The best-rated 8,000 BTU portable air conditioners we have featured weigh a minimum of 50 pounds, but the handles and wheels enhance their portability.
8,000 BTU portable air conditioners come with intake and exhaust hoses. While you can extend these hoses, you need to confirm first that doing so will not void the warranty or make the unit overheat.
Another important thing you should know before buying these models is that Amazon does not accept air conditioners back because of health and safety reasons. This is why it is crucial to understand the warranty terms for your intended model so you can be assured of replacement or repairs for defective units.
Our top pick for the best 8,000 BTU portable air conditioner is the BLACK+DECKER BPACT08WT, which comes with a full installation kit for double-hung and sliding windows where it functions as a fan only, a dehumidifier and an air conditioner. The sizeable coverage of 300 square feet is also impressive for a portable model.
The FRIGIDAIRE Mini-Compact Air Conditioner won us with the high EER rating of 12.0 and dual displays of temperature on the unit and on the remote control, which features a thermostat. Other outstanding qualities include 6-way airflow and variable fan speed for greater control over the output.
Our third pick is the TOSOT 8,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner which is one of the best rated 8,000 BTU window air conditioners. It boasts of a smart remote control with iFeel function, a sleek design, and multiple operational modes.
