1000+ sq. ft. | 400-1000 sq. ft. | < 400 sq. ft. | 9K BTUs or lessWe will look at a few window heat pumps that are available in today's market:These reviews will consider the following important features of each model:But, first let's clear up a common misconception....Not all window air conditioners that also heat an area are called heat pumps.All window units cool by means of a refrigeration system, consisting of a compressor, refrigerant, and other components.But....window units that heat, do so largely by the following two methods:Because electric heat is expensive.Granted, the window unit with electric heat is usually cheaper to purchase.  But the window heat pump is generally less expensive to operate. So, which type of window unit should YOU purchase?This is not always a simple answer.  However, in general, if you live in a climate with mild winters (30 degrees Fahrenheit or higher), the window heat pump is usually less expensive in the long run.Most window heat pumps also have backup electric heat for very cold weather.  

Heat pumps do not operate well in heating mode during extremely cold periods (less than 30 degrees Fahrenheit).So if your winters drop below 30 degrees Fahrenheit for weeks (not months), generally the window heat pump is a better long term purchase.Now, let's address our first review topic: Usually window heat pumps are purchased based on the cooling capacity required.  Below you will find a summary of the available cooling ranges for each brand: Note: Btu/hr denotes the cooling capacity.  EER stands for "energy efficiency ratio", which is the cooling efficiency measurement that is used in the heat pump industry.  Watts gives the power consumption at each full operating load. In review of the above, we see: While a customer will typically select the window unit based on the cooling capacity, it is also important to pay attention to heating capacity.  This allows us to select the right size unit for installation in a colder climate and it gives us an efficiency by which to measure the heating side of the heat pump.

Note: Btu/hr denotes the heating capacity.  COP stands for "coefficient of performance", which is the heating efficiency measurement that is used in the heat pump industry.   In review of the above we see: Window heat pumps can also serve as dehumidifiers for treating moist air.  If dehumidification is a major concern for you, consider purchasing the unit with a larger dehumidification capacity. Each window heat pump is manufactured within standard constraints due to window sizes being quite universal.  In case your window is not within standard dimensions, here are a few of the sizes available (listed in inches and pounds): * Indicates this information is not available A very common question in relation to air conditioners of all kinds is:"How much cooling capacity do I need in order to sufficiently cool my room/house?"Below is a chart that is a GENERAL guide to cooling capacity required based upon the size of the room being cooled.  This applies toward a room that is sufficiently insulated and does not have significant amounts of outdoor air infiltration.

Depending on it's design, heat pumps can struggle to operate well in frigid temperatures.  carrier window air conditioners reviewsSo below we have summarized the low temperature operation limit.outside ac unit turns on then offMost heat pumps are supplemented with an alternate heat source (usually electric for window heat pumps) for heating operation in very cold weather.  how big is a 4 ton ac unitWhere you see the acronym "BUH", it stands for "back-up heat".  In this case, there is no minimum temperature operation limit.Is "BUH" the best window unit to purchase?  It may be necessary to purchase a BUH unit if you live in climates that can reach frigid temperatures.  However, if you live in an area that would never drop below the units minimum temperature.....why worry?

It must be noted the when a heat pump starts to use the backup electric heat, it can become very, very expensive. When purchasing a heat pump it is very important to be aware of the warranty.  This can be the difference between a very expensive repair or just an inexpensive inconvenience.Below is are the warranty policies of each manufacturer discussing above. Back to Heat Pump Types 12,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner with Heat and Remote The Frigidaire 12,000 Window-Mounted Room Air Conditioner is designed to cool up to 550 sq. ft. and keep large rooms comfortable. Features 3 different fan speeds, and 8 way air directions evenly distributes air throughout the room. Ready Select Controls allow you to select options at the touch of a button, while a full function remote control allows you to precisely control the temperature and fan speed from across the room. Designed to cool rooms 550 sq. ft. 12,000 BTU's quickly cools a room 8 way air direction ensures air is distributed evenly

Electronic controls let you easily select options and displays the set temperature Full function remote control and remote thermostat allow you to precisely control the temperature and fan speed from across the room Antibacterial filter reduces bacteria, room odors and other airborne particles for a cool, comfortable environment Quiet operation as low as 53 dBA (low) Effortless restart automatically resumes operating at its previous settings when power is restored to your unit Removes 3.8 pt. of water from the air per hour to keep your room comfortable Extra-long power cord/operates on low voltage conserving energy and saving money White finish with center controls Pleated quick mount installation kit 2 Is this unit a 115 or 220 unit? 2 Is this unit rated for 20 amps? 2 can it be used threw the wall 1 Is this a heat pump system?© 2016 Harrell King Heating & Air . Frigidaire 18,500-BTU 1050-sq ft 230-Volt Window Air Conditioner