Differences Between Through Wall Air Conditioners Vs Window Air Conditioners

Through Wall Air Conditioner Vs Window Air Conditioner

As each summer seems to be hotter than the last, it’s a good idea to invest in a quality air conditioner to keep you cool in the warmer weather. But choosing the right air conditioner can be a confusing and difficult decision if you’ve never done it before. With so many models and types to choose from, you wouldn’t be alone in simply putting off the decision for as long as you can.

That’s why we’ve put together this article to tell you all about two of the most popular types of air conditioner units. Through wall and window air conditioners are found in homes, hotels, and offices all over the world and are known for their reliable quality. Choosing between them comes down to personal taste and preference and there are important features found in both which should be addressed.

What is the difference between a through the wall and window air conditioner?

Wall and window air conditioners work on the same principle – they retrieve air and pass it through refrigerators and coils, creating a continuous flow of cool air. While these types of air conditioners work in a similar way, there are some key differences that set them apart. The differences can relate to performance, aesthetics, and special features. One thing to keep in mind when choosing an air conditioner is BTUs. This acronym (meaning British Thermal Unit) is used to describe the energy required to alter the room temperature based on square footage. It’s important to find just the right BTU range so your AC unit works at optimum condition. A low BTU range won’t efficiently cool down a large room while a BTU range that’s too high will cause the machine to overwork and may shorten the device’s lifespan.

Identifying the differences between these devices is easy when you know a bit more about each type. So, let’s take a closer look at the specific features of wall and window air conditioners.

Through Wall Air Conditioner

The through wall air conditioner (or simply, wall air conditioner) works as the name suggests. The device must be installed through an exterior wall so that one end faces outside (retrieving air) and the other faces inside (passing out cool air). These are usually placed beneath a window frame as this is typically the most convenient place, however, they can be installed almost anywhere you’d like. Wall air conditioners typically come with a BTU range between 7,000 to 15,000, making it ideal for rooms of 300 to 800 sq. ft.

Advantages – Of course the main advantage of the through wall air conditioner is that it saves space as it simply replaces a section of the wall. This makes it a solid long-term investment for most households. Most of these AC units come in a standard size, meaning they’re easy to replace without requiring any further house work.

Disadvantages – Due to the relatively small BTU range, wall air conditioners typically aren’t suited to larger rooms. The installation process also requires some substantial work so it might not be ideal if you need an AC unit immediately.

Window Air Conditioners

Window air conditioners do essentially the same job as wall air conditioners, but their installation is quite different. Instead of removing an area of the wall, window air conditioners can be easily installed in an open window space, making it ideal for DIY aficionados. The installation doesn’t require specialist tools or equipment and is therefore a popular choice for a quick cooling solution. The BTU range on window air conditioners varies drastically between 5,000 and 36,000 depending on the model is suited for rooms with an area of 150 to 2,700 sq. ft.

Advantages – It goes without saying that the quick and easy installation is a huge advantage of the window AC unit. This makes it ideal for renters who don’t have permission to permanently change a wall or for property owners who want the option of moving the device. Likewise, the potential BTU range of these devices makes it suitable for cooling any sized room. With its easy installation and portability, the window air conditioner is more affordable than many other AC types on the market.

Disadvantages – The main issue people tend to have with the window air conditioner is that it takes up valuable window space and subsequently blocks your view. Because of this, it’s also seen as less aesthetically pleasing and could detract from your decor.

Should you consider other air conditioners?

There are so many types of air conditioners on the market that could suit your home if a wall or window air conditioner doesn’t seem right. If you’re looking for something that cools multiple rooms, all at individual temperatures, then a mini-split air conditioner may be a better choice for you. Ultimately, choosing an AC unit depends on your needs and preferences. Now you know some of the many features and differences between AC units so you can make an informed and confident choice.