Air conditioners are modern marvels that provide cooling air circulation around the home, office, or commercial space. 12,000 BTU AC units are above the standard 5,000 BTU units, and can cool large spaces of up to 800 sqft. Before committing to a specific unit, however, it is important to assess the type of air conditioner, its space requirements, energy efficiency, and other factors.
Factors to Consider Before Buying an Air Conditioner
Type of Air Conditioner
The type of air conditioner matters as different units are installed differently. Portable air conditioners are easy to install without any special tools, as are window air conditioners, and floor-mounted units. Ductless mini-split systems, however, will require professional installations, but make use of available wall space instead of floor space.
Price
The price of a 12,000 BTU air conditioner varies depending on the type of air conditioner. Window air conditioners and portable units are generally more affordable, at around $200 to $800 per unit. Inverters, mini split ductless systems, and other units are more expensive, at around $500 and above excluding installation fees.
Space Requirements
Depending on the type of air conditioner, you will need adequate space around your unit. The air conditioner will require 1-3 feet of space clearance around its vents for proper air circulation.
Energy Efficiency
Inverter units are more energy efficient than non-inverter units due to their different motors. Energy star models, units with eco mode, and smart units tend to lessen energy consumption as well, which will lessen the operational costs of the air conditioner in the long run.
Best 12000 BTU AC Units
1. Midea 12,000 BTU U-Shaped Smart Inverter Window Air Conditioner
The Midea U-shaped Smart Inverter Window Air Conditioner operates with a remote control, has various fan speeds for comfort, up to 35% energy savings, wi-fi enabled, and can work with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This air conditioner is best for studio-type apartments, and provides the best value-for-money compared to units of similar cooling capacity.
2. MRCOOL - DIY-12-HP-115B25 DIY 12k BTU 22 SEER Ductless Heat Pump Split System 3rd Generation - Energy Star
The MRCOOL Ductless Heat Pump Split System is ideal for small spaces, and is easy to install without the need for professional services. The unit is remote control operated, and has an energy star rating with 22 SEER. This air conditioner tends to be on the expensive side, but is said to last for decades, and has good customer support for installations.
3. SereneLife SLPAC12.5 Portable Air Conditioner Compact Home AC Cooling Unit with Built-in Dehumidifier & Fan Modes, Quiet Operation, Includes Window Mount Kit, 12,000 BTU
For an air conditioner on a budget, the SereneLife 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a great option. Built to cool small to medium-sized rooms, this portable unit is easy to install and dismantle, making it perfect for rented spaces.
4. GE Window Air Conditioner 12000 BTU
This window air conditioner produced by GE has an easy-to-operate access panel in addition to its remote control. Wi-fi enabled, it comes with its own smartphone app that you can set up an account with, and can be operated with a click of a button. It is also energy efficient, easy to install, and space-saving.
5. Senville LETO Series Mini Split Air Conditioner Heat Pump, 12000 BTU
This mini split system can operate with Amazon Alexa, and comes with various settings and fan speeds for your cooling comfort. Designed for homes, the unit provides up to 40% energy savings, and has built-in heat pump, dehumidifier, and fan.
Here's a summary of our recommendation:
If 12,000 BTU Air Conditioners are not for you, then you can also check other BTU options below:
- 5,000 BTU
- 6,000 BTU
- 8,000 BTU
- 9,000 BTU
- 10,000 BTU
- 14,000 BTU
- 15,000 BTU
- 18,000 BTU
- 20,000 BTU
- 24,000 BTU
- 30,000 BTU
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