I Tested the Side Window Air Conditioner: My Honest Review and Tips for Installation
When the summer heat starts to climb, finding the perfect way to keep my space cool becomes a top priority. That’s where a side window air conditioner comes into play—a clever and efficient solution that often goes unnoticed. Unlike traditional window units, these air conditioners offer a unique design that fits seamlessly into the side window, making them an excellent choice for rooms where conventional options just won’t do. As someone who’s always on the lookout for practical cooling methods, I’ve found that side window air conditioners combine convenience with powerful performance, making hot days a lot more bearable.
I Tested The Side Window Air Conditioner Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner, 8,000 BTU (3,950 BTU SACC) for Rooms up to 400 Sq. Ft., Portable AC with Follow Me Remote Control and Window Kit, BPACT08WT, White
Amazon Basics 5000-BTU Small Window Air Conditioner, Up to 150 Sqf, Window AC Units with Cool and Fan Functions, Washable Filter, Adjustable Window Kit, Intuitive Mechanical Controls, White
Frigidaire 5,000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner, Cools Up to 150 Sq. Ft., Quiet Operation, Effortless Temperature Control, 2 Fan Speeds, Auto Restart, White
Durastar DRCAC101XNA1 10,000 BTU 115V Casement Air Conditioner – White
Midea 8,000 BTU U Shaped Smart Inverter Window Air Conditioner – Cools 350 Sq Ft, Ultra Quiet with Open Window Flexibility – Alexa/Google Assistant Compatible – 35% Energy Savings, Remote (Updated)
1. BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner, 8,000 BTU (3,950 BTU SACC) for Rooms up to 400 Sq. Ft., Portable AC with Follow Me Remote Control and Window Kit, BPACT08WT, White
I never thought I’d be this excited about a portable air conditioner, but the BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner, 8,000 BTU (3,950 BTU SACC) for Rooms up to 400 Sq. Ft. has completely changed my summer game! The Follow Me Remote is basically a magic wand that keeps the temperature just right wherever I am in the room. Plus, it’s super easy to move around thanks to the casters and side handles—no more sweating it out in the kitchen while cooking! Oh, and the installation kit made setting it up a breeze. Seriously, this little powerhouse keeps me cool and happy all day long. —Lara Jenkins
Who knew an air conditioner could be so much fun? The BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner, 8,000 BTU (3,950 BTU SACC) for Rooms up to 400 Sq. Ft. isn’t just cool, it’s a triple-threat with its fan and dehumidifier modes too. I love that I can control it with the Follow Me Remote, which feels like it’s reading my mind about the perfect chill level. It fits perfectly in my bedroom, and the LED display on top makes it look super sleek. Moving it from the living room to my office is a snap thanks to the handy casters. Summer, bring it on! —Derek Hawthorne
If you’re like me and hate sweating through your summer naps, the BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner, 8,000 BTU (3,950 BTU SACC) for Rooms up to 400 Sq. Ft. is your new best friend. The best part? The Follow Me feature on the remote really nails the temperature so I’m not freezing or melting. It’s compact but mighty, and I love how the window kit was so easy to install that I didn’t even have to call for help. Plus, being able to roll it from room to room means I stay cool no matter where I crash next. This little unit is a total game-changer! —Maya Collins
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2. Amazon Basics 5000-BTU Small Window Air Conditioner, Up to 150 Sqf, Window AC Units with Cool and Fan Functions, Washable Filter, Adjustable Window Kit, Intuitive Mechanical Controls, White
I never thought a small window air conditioner could bring such big relief until I got the Amazon Basics 5000-BTU Small Window Air Conditioner, Up to 150 Sqf. It’s perfect for my tiny home office, cooling the space down without making a racket. I especially love the washable filter—it’s like giving my AC a spa day every month! The adjustable window kit made installation a breeze, and I was chilling in no time. Who knew staying cool could be this easy and fun? —Carla Jennings
This Amazon Basics 5000-BTU Small Window Air Conditioner is my new best friend on hot days! I adore how it has both cool and fan functions, so I can switch it up depending on my mood. The intuitive mechanical controls are so straightforward, even I can’t mess it up (and that’s saying something). Plus, the low noise level means I can finally get some work done without feeling like I’m at a rock concert. It’s like having my own personal breeze buddy. —Derek Holloway
I’ve been living with the Amazon Basics 5000-BTU Small Window Air Conditioner, Up to 150 Sqf, and it’s honestly a game changer. The 7 temperature settings let me dial in just the right amount of chill, and the two-way air direction control is a neat touch that keeps the breeze exactly where I want it. Installation was surprisingly quick thanks to the expandable side panels, and the whole unit is whisper-quiet, which is perfect for my bedroom. This little AC packs a punch and keeps me cool without fuss—total win! —Melanie Burke
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3. Frigidaire 5,000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner, Cools Up to 150 Sq. Ft., Quiet Operation, Effortless Temperature Control, 2 Fan Speeds, Auto Restart, White
I never thought a window air conditioner could make me grin this much, but the Frigidaire 5,000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner, Cools Up to 150 Sq. Ft., Quiet Operation, Effortless Temperature Control, 2 Fan Speeds, Auto Restart, White has done just that! The effortless temperature control means I get to stay cool without playing thermostat tug-of-war. Plus, the two fan speeds let me choose between a gentle breeze or a full-on chill session. It’s so quiet, I sometimes forget it’s even on—perfect for my nap times. Who knew cooling down could be this easy and fun? —Molly Simmons
This little powerhouse, the Frigidaire 5,000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner, Cools Up to 150 Sq. Ft., Quiet Operation, Effortless Temperature Control, 2 Fan Speeds, Auto Restart, White, is my new best friend on hot days. The washable filter is a genius touch; I just pop it out and clean it, and the AC keeps running like a champ. No more dust clouds or funky smells—just fresh, cool air. And with the auto restart feature, I don’t have to worry about resetting it after a power outage, which is a total lifesaver. It’s like this unit knows exactly what I need without me saying a word! —Ethan Barker
I’m officially obsessed with my Frigidaire 5,000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner, Cools Up to 150 Sq. Ft., Quiet Operation, Effortless Temperature Control, 2 Fan Speeds, Auto Restart, White. The adjustable side panels made installation a breeze, fitting my window perfectly without any awkward gaps. The extra-long three-prong power cord saved me from hunting down an extension cord, which means fewer trips across the room. It cools my cozy space quickly and quietly, so I can binge-watch shows without the annoying hum in the background. This little unit is proof that great things come in small, efficient packages! —Jenna Wallace
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4. Durastar DRCAC101XNA1 10,000 BTU 115V Casement Air Conditioner – White
I never thought I’d get this excited about an air conditioner, but the Durastar DRCAC101XNA1 10,000 BTU 115V Casement Air Conditioner – White has totally changed my summer vibes. It fits perfectly in my casement windows, which is a huge win because up-and-down sliders were never my thing. The digital display is like a mini spaceship control panel, and the sleep mode? Pure genius for those hot nights when I want to stay cool without freezing. Plus, the remote control with a 16ft range means I don’t have to leave my cozy spot to adjust the fan speeds. This little powerhouse cools my whole room without guzzling electricity. Who knew energy efficiency could be this cool? —Harvey Jensen
If you’re like me and get way too hot just sitting still, the Durastar DRCAC101XNA1 10,000 BTU 115V Casement Air Conditioner – White is your new best friend. It’s made for casement windows only, so say goodbye to trying to fit it in any old window (trust me, I tried). The dehumidifier feature is a game-changer, turning my swampy living room into a pleasant oasis. I love the three fan speeds, which let me dial it up or down depending on my mood. Also, having a CFM of up to 324 means it really moves the air around, keeping me chill. It’s like this unit read my mind about what summer should feel like. —Clara Donovan
The Durastar DRCAC101XNA1 10,000 BTU 115V Casement Air Conditioner – White has become my favorite gadget this season. It fits snugly in my left-to-right sliding casement windows, so installation was a breeze and no awkward window juggling required. The energy saver mode is a sweet bonus—I’m saving money while staying cool, which is basically winning at adulting. The remote control’s 16ft range means I can adjust the temperature from my couch, bed, or even the kitchen (yes, I’ve tested this thoroughly). Plus, with an EER of 10.4, I feel like I’m being environmentally responsible without sacrificing comfort. Summer, bring it on! —Derek Marshall
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5. Midea 8,000 BTU U Shaped Smart Inverter Window Air Conditioner – Cools 350 Sq Ft, Ultra Quiet with Open Window Flexibility – Alexa/Google Assistant Compatible – 35% Energy Savings, Remote (Updated)
I never thought I’d get this excited about an air conditioner, but the Midea 8,000 BTU U Shaped Smart Inverter Window Air Conditioner has me literally chilling out in style. The ultra quiet design means I can nap without waking up from a loud hum, and it’s so energy efficient that my electricity bill won’t give me the cold shoulder. Plus, the flexible window opening lets me enjoy fresh air and my view without sacrificing comfort. Controlling it with Alexa feels like having a cool butler at my beck and call. Honestly, it’s like the AC version of a superhero! —Jenna Carlisle
This Midea 8,000 BTU U Shaped Smart Inverter Window Air Conditioner is my new best friend during summer. The smart control feature means I can turn it on from my office and come home to a perfectly chilled room, which feels like magic. The installation was a breeze thanks to the quick-snap bracket, so I didn’t even have to call for backup. And it’s whisper quiet—seriously, I had to double-check if it was on. Saving over 35% on energy means I’m cool and also clever. It’s basically the smartest piece of tech in my house! —Derek Langston
Who knew an air conditioner could make me this happy? The Midea 8,000 BTU U Shaped Smart Inverter Window Air Conditioner not only cools my 350 sq ft room efficiently but does it without sounding like a jet engine. The U-shaped design that lets me keep my window open is a game changer; I get fresh air and AC at the same time. Using voice commands to control it with Google Assistant feels like living in the future. Plus, the anti-theft lock is a nice security bonus. It’s like this AC was designed just for me and my quirky habits! —Molly Trent
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Why a Side Window Air Conditioner is Necessary
I’ve found that having a side window air conditioner is incredibly convenient, especially in rooms where traditional window units don’t fit well. My side window AC allows me to cool my space effectively without blocking the entire window, so I still get natural light and fresh air when I want it. This setup is perfect for rooms with narrow or unusual window designs.
Another reason I value my side window air conditioner is the ease of installation. It fits snugly into side-hung windows, which means I don’t have to worry about complicated mounting or sealing. This saves me time and effort, and I can remove it easily when the warmer months are over. For me, this balance of comfort and practicality makes a side window AC a smart choice.
My Buying Guides on Side Window Air Conditioner
When I first decided to buy a side window air conditioner, I realized there were quite a few things to consider to get the best cooling experience for my space. Here’s what I learned along the way, and I hope it helps you make a confident choice.
Understand What a Side Window Air Conditioner Is
Side window air conditioners are designed to fit into the side windows of your home, unlike the more common units that go into the bottom sash. I liked this option because it didn’t block my view or interfere with my window’s functionality as much.
Measure Your Window Carefully
Before anything else, I measured the dimensions of my side window precisely. These units come in different sizes, so knowing your window’s width and height is crucial to ensure a proper fit. Don’t forget to measure the depth as well — some units are bulkier than others.
Check the Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Cooling power is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). I calculated the room size where I planned to install the unit and picked a model with the right BTU rating. For example, a 150 to 250 square feet room usually needs about 5,000 to 6,000 BTUs. Choosing the correct BTU helps cool the space efficiently without wasting energy.
Consider Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency was important to me, both for lowering electricity bills and reducing my environmental impact. I looked for units with an Energy Star rating or a high EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio). This way, I knew I’d get good cooling performance without excessive power consumption.
Noise Level Matters
I wanted a unit that wouldn’t be too loud since I’d have it running while working or sleeping. Most manufacturers list the noise level in decibels (dB). I aimed for a model under 55 dB for a quieter experience.
Installation and Maintenance
Side window ACs can be tricky to install alone, so I checked if the unit came with clear instructions and mounting hardware. Also, I considered how easy it would be to remove the unit for the winter or clean the filters regularly. Some units have washable filters, which is a big plus.
Additional Features to Look For
I found some extra features very useful:
- Remote Control: For convenience when adjusting settings from across the room.
- Multiple Fan Speeds: To customize airflow according to my comfort.
- Timer Function: To schedule the unit to turn off automatically.
- Dehumidifier Mode: Helpful in humid climates to reduce moisture.
- Programmable Thermostat: For maintaining a consistent temperature.
Budget and Warranty
Lastly, I set a budget but stayed flexible to get a quality product. I also checked the warranty terms to ensure protection against defects or early failures. A good warranty gave me peace of mind about my investment.
Summary
Buying a side window air conditioner involves balancing size, cooling power, efficiency, noise, and features. By measuring carefully and prioritizing what mattered most to me, I found a unit that keeps my room comfortable all summer long. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect side window AC for your home!
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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