Quiet through-the-wall air conditioners are essential for maintaining a comfortable home environment, especially in bedrooms or home offices where noise can be disruptive. Choosing a model that balances cooling power with minimal noise ensures a peaceful living space, allowing you to relax, work, and sleep without distraction. This buying guide highlights some of the best options available, focusing on their noise performance, features, and overall value.
Best Quiet Through-the-Wall Air Conditioners
Finding the perfect balance of cooling power and quiet operation can be tricky. Here's a breakdown of some top contenders to help you make an informed decision.
Midea 8,000 BTU U Shaped Smart Inverter Window Air Conditioner
- ULTRA QUIET - The U-shape design of Midea U Smart Inverter air conditioner uses your window to block noise outside. The highly-efficient inverter system warrants ultra-low noise and vibration, 9x quieter than traditional units with operation as low as 32 dBA. Cooling Watts : 710W, Rated Cooling Amps (AHAM) : 8.78.Airflow (CFM) Roomside (hi low) : 215/150. Refrigerant : R32.
- MORE THAN 35% ENERGY SAVINGS - With the advanced DC Inverter technology, Midea U window air conditioner achieves over 35% energy savings compared to other traditional units. It is the first window AC to obtain the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient Certification.
- SMART CONTROL - Midea U Smart Inverter air conditioner is Wi-Fi enabled and can be controlled from anywhere using the SmartHome app on iOS or Android. You can also use voice commands throughout your house, office, or apartment using Alexa or Google Assistant devices.
- FLEXIBLE WINDOW OPENING - The U-shaped design allows your window to open, bringing fresh air into your home and maintaining more of your view when the window air conditioner is installed. When the window is closed, the Anti-Theft Mechanism locks the window for added safety.
- ROBUST INSTALLATION - Install the included quick-snap bracket, set the air conditioner on the bracket, and secure the sidearms. Then you are all done and ready to enjoy. Available for single-hung or double-hung windows with width 22"-36", minimal height at 13.75".
- Specified Noise Level: 42 dB
The Midea U-shaped air conditioner stands out for its innovative design that significantly reduces noise. The U-shape allows the window to act as a barrier, blocking much of the compressor noise outside. Many users report its exceptionally quiet operation, comparing it to a medium fan.
This model also boasts impressive energy efficiency, smart home integration via Alexa and Google Assistant, and the unique ability to still open your window while the unit is installed. While some find installation straightforward, others have reported difficulties. Overall, the Midea U-shaped AC is a top choice for those prioritizing quietness and smart features.
OLMO 8,000 btu 115V Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner
- Olmo Through-the-wall air conditioner & heater (cooling & heating) (SKU: OW-P08HS115WF) with 8,000 BTU/h Cooling capacity, 4200 BTU/h Heating capacity – Perfect for residential/commercial/hotel use
- This system is designed for 115V,1Ph,60Hz, charged with R-32 refrigerant, please verify if you have a right receptacle before placing the order.
- wall sleeve is not included in the listing and has to be purchased additionally.
- This Heating and Cooling Through-the-wall unit can be controlled using standard digital push button control panel with LED display, included remote controller, or a compatible wireless smartphone device.
- Specified Noise Level: 52 dB
The OLMO 8,000 BTU through-the-wall air conditioner offers both cooling and heating capabilities. While it's reported to be quiet and efficient, with one reviewer mentioning it cools a 650 sq ft apartment effectively, its specified noise level of 52 dB is higher than some other models listed. This model also includes smart kit integration.
Users have found the unit easy to install and good value for the price. However, be aware that the wall sleeve is not included. It's a solid option for those needing both heating and cooling in a single unit and it may not be the absolute quietest option available.
Frigidaire 5,000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner
- Effortless Cooling: Achieve optimal comfort with customizable temperature settings and two fan speeds; Effortless Temperature Control helps to maintain your preset temperatures for consistent comfort
- Easy Maintenance: Keep your air conditioner running efficiently with the easy-to-clean washable filter, designed to capture dust from the air for long-lasting performance
- Undisturbed Comfort: Experience a peaceful home environment with a quiet performance at 52 dBA – ideal for bedrooms or small spaces up to 250 sq. ft.
- Effortless Convenience: Benefit from the Auto Restart feature, which automatically restores the unit's previous settings once power is restored to the window air conditioner
- Hassle-Free Operation: The extra-long three-prong power cord eliminates the need for extension cords, while the adjustable side panels easily extend to best fit your window, ensuring a secure installation with optimal efficiency and airflow
- Specified Noise Level: 52 dB
The Frigidaire 5,000 BTU model is a budget-friendly option for small spaces. While Frigidaire advertises a quiet operation at 52 dBA, user reviews are mixed regarding its noise level. Some find it quieter than older models, while others consider it loud.
It offers basic features like adjustable temperature settings, two fan speeds, and an auto-restart function. While generally considered easy to install, reviews are mixed on its cooling performance and durability. It's a suitable choice if you're on a tight budget and need basic cooling for a small room, but be prepared for potentially louder operation than some other models.
OLMO 12,000 btu 115V Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner
- Olmo Through-the-wall air conditioner (cooling only) (SKU: OW-P12AC115WF) with 12,000 BTU/h Cooling capacity– Perfect for residential/commercial/hotel use
- This system is designed for 115V,1Ph,60Hz, charged with R-32 refrigerant, please verify if you have a right receptacle before placing the order.
- Wall sleeve comes included!
- This Cooling only through the wall system can be controlled using standard digital push button control panel with LED display, included remote controller, or a compatible wireless smartphone device.
- Specified Noise Level: 55.3 dB
The OLMO 12,000 BTU through-the-wall air conditioner is designed for cooling larger spaces and includes a wall sleeve. While it has positive feedback for functionality, some users have reported that it doesn't get cold enough.
With a specified noise level of 55.3 dB, it's not the quietest option on this list. Customers have complained about the noise the a/c makes. It could be a suitable option if you need more cooling power and the noise isn't a primary concern.
Whirlpool 12,000 BTU Through the Wall Air Conditioner
- Exceptional Cooling: This powerful, 12,000 BTU wall mounted ac unit is best for spaces up to 550 square feet with an attached, 5.9-ft LCDI 3-prong plug that will fit any 115V electrical outlet
- A/C Wall Cooling Flexibility: With 8-way directional louvers, 3 fan speeds, 4 operation modes, and a temperature setting range of 62-86 degrees, you can customize your wall ac cooling to fit your specific needs
- Universal Fit Size: With dimensions of 20.3” D x 24.2” W x 14.5” H, this ac wall unit fits into sleeves 24.5”-27” wide and comes with a trim kit and rear grille to finish off the look
- Convenient Functions: The Eco and Sleep functions save you money throughout the day and night while keeping you cool while the programmable 24-hour timer allows you to cool on your schedule
- Easy Remove Filter: The wall air conditioner features a quick-access filter for easy cleaning so you can simply pull the front handle on the wall unit ac, wipe the filter clean, and push back into the wall unit air conditioner
- Specified Noise Level: 56 dB
The Whirlpool 12,000 BTU through-the-wall air conditioner offers cooling for spaces up to 550 sq. ft., with features like a dehumidifier, remote control, and 24-hour timer. However, customer reviews present a mixed picture.
While some users find it quiet, others describe it as "ridiculously loud." There are also concerns about its lifespan and cooling performance. It may be worth considering if you need a well-known brand and can tolerate potential noise, but be aware of the mixed reviews regarding its reliability.
Keystone 10,000 BTU Through the Wall Air Conditioner and Dehumidifier
- Reliable Through the Wall Air Conditioner: The powerful 10,000 BTU through the wall ac unit is what you need to efficiently cool your apartment, bedroom, bathroom, or any small to medium sized living space up to 450 Sq.Ft.
- Maximum Comfort: Featuring 3 cooling modes, 3 fan speeds, 4-way adjustable air louvers and a programmable timer; Aside from cooling, 2.3 pints of moisture from the air is removed every hour with the built-in dehumidification system
- Space Saving: Keep your window view and floor space with this through wall air conditioner 115v; Easy installation with universal interior trim kit
- Smart Remote Control: The remote takes the temperature of the room you are in, displays it on the LCD screen and sends a signal to your ac wall unit every 3 minutes for accurate cooling
- Powerful Cooling on a Budget: Our High Efficiency thru the wall ac will give your electric bill a break by using the 'Energy Saver' or Sleep' mode; These features automatically program your unit to use less energy
- Specified Noise Level: 57.4 dB
The Keystone 10,000 BTU through-the-wall air conditioner offers a balance of cooling and dehumidification for medium-sized rooms. User reviews are mixed regarding its noise level, with some finding it moderately quiet, while others describe it as extremely noisy.
Temperature control and value for money also receive mixed feedback. The unit is easy to install for some, though the instructions are criticized by others. Given the inconsistent feedback on noise and performance, consider this option cautiously.
Midea MAW12HV1CWT EasyCool Smart Inverter Air Conditioner Window Unit with Heat, 12,000 BTU
- Multi-Season Comfort - This Midea 12000 BTU air conditioner is better than standard ac units. It will beat the heat in summer with powerful cooling and dehumidification and keep you warm through the fall with supplemental heat. Best for large rooms up to 550 square feet. NOTE: heat pump function will not work if outside temp is 41°F or below..Control Type : Electronic.
- Easy To Use – This air conditioner and heat unit comes with an LED display, 5 Modes (Heat, Auto, Cool, Dry, Fan), 3 speed settings (Auto/H/M/L), 24-hr Timer, and ECO energy saver. The Swing button adjusts the louvers up/down to direct the airflow. Control your wifi enabled window ac with heat unit from anywhere with the SmartHome App, or with your voice via Alexa and Google Assistant. All functions can be set via the control panel, remote control, and app or voice assistant.
- Save Energy Being Cool – Save on energy costs and enjoy ultimate comfort with this energy star certified unit. This energy efficient air conditioner unit is engineered with variable-speed inverter technology that will quickly cool your bedroom or apartment space while using considerably less electricity; up to 35% energy savings compared to the Energy Conservation Standard. Cooling 12,000 BTUs, CEER 13.3, 115V, UL listed, Automatic Shutoff and Defrost Control. Washable filter is easily accessed from front panel for regular cleaning to maintain peak performance.
- Ultra Low Noise Performance – This ac window unit operates at a noise level as low as 45 dBA. It’s such a quiet air conditioner that you will barely notice it, even when it’s on high. Enjoy your Zoom call, watch your favorite TV show, have a conversation. This ac unit for bedroom also creates just the right amount of white noise so you can get some rest.
- Install Specs – This window air conditioner is designed to fit double hung windows with opening widths of 24 to 38.5 inches. Lower sash must open sufficiently to allow a clear vertical opening of 14.5 inches. AC window unit measures 19.41"W x 22.17"D x 13.9"H. Included components: 12000 btu window air conditioner, remote control, installation kit. This ac heater combo window unit is as a close as you can get to a mini split a/c. You may like it so much you just might buy two!
- Specified Noise Level: 58 dB
The Midea EasyCool Smart Inverter offers both cooling and heating and is designed for larger rooms. While Midea advertises a low noise level of 45 dBA, reviews suggest it's not consistently quiet for all users.
This model includes smart features, energy-saving modes, and is generally considered easy to install. However, cooling performance can be inconsistent, and build quality receives mixed reviews. If you need a combination of heating and cooling with smart features, this might be a reasonable choice, but be prepared for potential noise and durability issues.
LG 10,000 BTU Through the Wall Air Conditioner
- Energy Efficient R-32 Refrigerant: With an energy efficiency ratio (EER) of 10.7, this wall unit employs the most efficient refrigerant currently used in the industry
- Wall AC Installation: This 9,800 BTU wall mounted ac unit is suited for a through the wall installation; It is not properly vented for a standard window installation
- Confident Cooling: This ac wall unit features 3 cooling speeds and 3 pre-programmed modes meant to cool rooms up to 440 square feet using a turbo fan; Energy Saver mode keeps the fan running to circulate air but turns off the compressor when your desired room temperature is reached; Dry mode removes up to 2.9 pints of moisture per hour; 4-way air deflection gives you ultimate flexibility
- Easy Wall Air Conditioner Installation: A plastic, snap-together trim kit finishes the indoor installation, while a plastic mesh grille protects the unit
- Wall Unit Air Conditioner Features: A washable, reusable filter, insulation foam, and a remote control are included
- Specified Noise Level: 60 dB
The LG 10,000 BTU through-the-wall air conditioner offers cooling for medium-sized rooms. Its standout features include energy efficiency and easy installation. However, like other models, the noise level is a point of contention among users.
Some find it quiet, while others report loud operation. Quality and fit also receive mixed feedback. If energy efficiency and ease of installation are your priorities, and you're willing to take a chance on noise levels, this could be a suitable option.
Keystone 12,000 BTU Wall Air Conditioner with Dehumidifier and Supplemental Heat
- Reliable Cool and Supplemental Heat: Our powerful 12,000 BTU cooling capacity / 10,600 BTU supplemental heating capacity wall unit can efficiently provide comfort all year long for any small to medium sized room in your home up to 550 Sq.Ft.
- All in One: Enjoy cooling, supplemental heating, dehumidification, and fan circulation; Supplemental Heating mode is meant to be operated when temperatures outside are between 23 and 76 degrees; Mode is supplemental and NOT meant as primary heat source
- Space Saving Design: Keep your window view and floor space with this wall-mounted air conditioner; Easy installation with standard universal interior trim kit
- Smart Remote Control: The remote control takes the temperature of the room you are in, displays it on the LCD screen and sends a signal to your AC unit every 3 minutes for accurate cooling, no matter where you are in your home
- Energy Saving Comfort: Our wall AC will give your electric bill a break by using the 'Energy Saver' or Sleep' mode
- Specified Noise Level: 61.5 dB
The Keystone 12,000 BTU model provides both cooling and supplemental heat for medium-sized rooms. While it boasts reliable cooling and functionality, the primary concern is noise.
Multiple customers have noted that it is louder than expected. Given the consistent feedback about the noise, it's not the best choice if you prioritize quiet operation.
How to Choose Quiet Through-the-Wall Air Conditioners: A Complete Buying Guide
Through-the-wall air conditioners offer permanent cooling solutions without sacrificing window space. However, many units create disruptive noise that can affect sleep, work, and relaxation. This guide will help you understand what makes these units noisy and how to select the quietest options for your home.
What Makes Through-the-Wall Air Conditioners Noisy?
Several factors contribute to air conditioner noise levels. The compressor is typically the loudest component, creating vibrations as it pressurizes refrigerant. Fan motors generate noise when pushing air through the unit.
Loose components or poor installation can cause rattling sounds. Low-quality materials and construction also result in more operational noise. Units with insufficient insulation allow more internal mechanical sounds to escape.
How Through-the-Wall Air Conditioners Can Be Quieter
Manufacturers use several techniques to reduce noise. Insulated compressor blankets dampen the main source of noise. Vibration-isolating mounts prevent vibrations from transferring to the wall or sleeve.
Advanced fan blade designs move air more efficiently with less turbulence. Inverter technology allows the compressor to run at variable speeds rather than constantly turning on and off.
Multi-layer sound barriers within the unit's housing can significantly reduce overall noise transmission.
Understanding Air Conditioner Noise Levels
Air conditioner noise is measured in decibels (dB). For context, normal conversation typically registers around 60 dB, while a whisper is about 30 dB. Most through-the-wall air conditioners operate between 40-60 dB.
Units rated below 50 dB are considered relatively quiet, while those under 45 dB are exceptionally quiet for this category. The quietest models on the market can operate as low as 42 dB on their lowest settings.
Remember that decibels use a logarithmic scale—a unit that's 10 dB louder sounds approximately twice as loud to human ears.
Key Features to Look for in Quiet Through-the-Wall Air Conditioners
Inverter Technology
Inverter compressors adjust their speed based on cooling needs rather than simply turning on and off. This continuous operation at lower speeds significantly reduces noise and improves energy efficiency.
Sound Insulation
Look for models advertising enhanced sound insulation or noise reduction technology. These units typically include additional padding around the compressor and improved housing design.
Fan Speeds and Sleep Mode
Multiple fan speeds allow you to operate the unit at lower, quieter settings when full power isn't needed. Sleep modes automatically adjust operation for nighttime use, often reducing noise while maintaining comfort.
BTU Rating Matched to Room Size
An appropriately sized unit won't need to work as hard to cool your space. For through-the-wall models, 8,000-12,000 BTUs typically cover 300-550 square feet effectively.
Energy Efficiency
Energy-efficient models often incorporate better components that create less noise. Look for Energy Star certification and higher Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings.
How to Choose the Right Quiet Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner
Assess Your Room Size
Measure your space carefully. An undersized unit will run constantly at high speed, creating more noise. An oversized unit will cycle on and off frequently, causing disruptive sound fluctuations.
Consider Your Noise Sensitivity
If the unit will be installed in a bedroom or home office, prioritize models with the lowest decibel ratings. For living areas where some background noise is acceptable, you might compromise for other features.
Evaluate Installation Requirements
Check wall thickness and electrical requirements before purchasing. Most through-the-wall units require a dedicated 115V or 220V circuit and a properly sized wall sleeve.
Compare Control Options
Remote controls allow you to adjust settings without getting close to the unit. Smart capabilities let you control the air conditioner from your phone and potentially integrate with home automation systems.
Check for Additional Features
Consider whether you need heating capabilities, dehumidification, air purification, or programmable timers. These features might justify slightly higher noise levels for some users.
Installation Tips to Minimize Noise
Proper Sleeve Installation
Ensure the wall sleeve is correctly sized and securely mounted. Any gaps between the sleeve and wall should be properly sealed to prevent vibration and air leaks.
Use Vibration Dampening Materials
Consider adding rubber gaskets or foam insulation between the unit and sleeve to reduce vibration transfer to your home's structure.
Maintain Clearance
Follow manufacturer guidelines for minimum clearances around the unit. Proper airflow reduces strain on the system and can lower operational noise.
Professional Installation
While DIY installation is possible, professional installation ensures correct positioning, secure mounting, and proper electrical connections—all factors that can affect noise levels.
Regular Maintenance
Keep filters clean and components dust-free. Accumulated dirt forces the unit to work harder, increasing noise and reducing efficiency.
Price Considerations and Value Assessment
Entry-Level Units ($150-$300)
Lower-priced units typically offer basic features and moderate noise reduction. These may be suitable for less noise-sensitive environments or temporary use.
Mid-Range Units ($300-$500)
These units often incorporate better noise insulation and more features like digital controls and programmable timers. They represent the best balance of value and quietness for most users.
Premium Units ($500-$700)
High-end models feature the best noise reduction technology, including inverter compressors, enhanced insulation, and premium materials. They also typically offer smart home integration and multi-functionality.
Final Considerations Before Purchase
Remember that the quietest through-the-wall air conditioner is one that's properly sized for your space. Consider seasonal usage patterns—a unit that runs occasionally may justify less investment in noise reduction.
Check warranty terms carefully, as quieter operation often correlates with better build quality and longer lifespan. Read user reviews focused specifically on noise levels rather than just overall satisfaction.
By carefully assessing your needs and using this guide to evaluate available features, you can find a through-the-wall air conditioner that keeps your space cool while maintaining a peaceful environment.