Air Conditioner Buying Tips from GE Appliances
Which is Right for Me?
Wall Air Conditioners
Designed to be built into the wall, these GE Air Conditioners do not have the side or top vents that are typical for window air conditioners. Built-in units offer a better weather barrier than standard window air conditioners and keep windows free of obstructions.
Window Air Conditioners
Window AC units are portable, and are not installed into the structure of the home or building. GE window air conditioners are designed to fit traditional-style windows and come with our EZ-mount installation.
Before You Buy
Measure the square footage of the room or rooms to be cooled. If an exact match of cooling capacity is not possible, it is preferable to select a unit which is slightly undersize in BTUs, rather than oversize.
If the area to be cooled includes a kitchen, add an additional 4000 BTU/hr.
When sizing larger living areas, it is usually better to use at least two air conditioners rather than one large unit. Doing so offers better air distribution which reduces the likelihood of hot and cold spots.
What are BTUs?
The cooling capacity of window air conditioners is measured in British Thermal Units or BTUs. The air BTU rating refers to the cooling power of the product. It is critical that the capacity of a room air conditioner be the right size for the room being cooled. An improperly-sized air conditioner can result in a cold, clammy environment or an inadequately cooled room.
What size GE room air conditioner is right for you?
| Room Size* | Cooling Capacity |
|---|---|
| 100–150 Sq. Ft. | 5,050–5,250 BTU |
| 150–250 Sq. Ft. | 6,000–6,300 BTU |
| 300–400 Sq. Ft. | 8,000–8,900 BTU |
| 400–450 Sq. Ft. | 9,900–10,500 BTU |
| 450–550 Sq. Ft. | 11,600–12,000 BTU |
| 550–700 Sq. Ft. | 13,700–14,300 BTU |
| 700–1,050 Sq. Ft. | 17,600–18,450 BTU |
| 1,200–1,600 Sq. Ft. | 22,900–25,200 BTU |
* Based on an 8-ft. ceiling height. Size requirements will vary based on other factors.