Choosing a combined air conditioner and heater can simplify year-round comfort. Below is a selection of versatile units—from window inverters and portable AC/heaters to ductless mini splits—suitable for different room sizes and installation preferences.
| Product | Type | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Midea 8,000 BTU Smart Inverter Window Unit | Window AC With Heat | Up To 350 Sq. Ft. |
| Uhome 12,000 BTU Portable AC With Heater | Portable AC/Heater | Up To 400 Sq. Ft. |
| Whynter 14,000 BTU Portable Dual Hose | Portable Dual-Hose AC/Heater | Up To 500 Sq. Ft. |
| LG 18,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner With Heat | Window AC With Heat (230/208V) | Up To 1,000 Sq. Ft. |
| COSTWAY 12,000 BTU Mini Split Wall-Mounted Unit | Ductless Mini Split Heat Pump | Up To 750 Sq. Ft. |
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Midea 8,000 BTU Smart Inverter Window Unit
This window air conditioner with heat uses inverter technology to provide cooling, dehumidifying, and supplemental heating. It is rated for rooms up to 350 sq. ft. and includes multi-mode operation (Heat, Auto, Cool, Dry, Fan) and three fan speeds.
- Key Features: Variable-speed inverter for up to 35% energy savings versus standard units, Energy Star rated, washable front filter.
- Controls: LED display, remote control, app compatibility, and voice control with Alexa/Google Assistant.
- Heat Performance: Heat pump function operates when outside temperatures are above 41°F; suitable as supplemental heat.
Best Suited For: Rooms where a space-saving window installation is preferred and users want smart controls plus energy efficiency.
Uhome 12,000 BTU Portable AC With Heater
This 4-in-1 portable unit combines cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and fan-only modes. It claims a coverage up to 400 sq. ft., a self-evaporating system to reduce water tray maintenance, and noise levels around 52 dB.
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- Key Features: 12,000 BTU cooling and heating, 3 fan speeds, 24-hour programmable timer, LED display, remote control, included window kit.
- Dehumidification: High moisture removal capacity listed (91 pints/day), useful in humid climates or during cooling seasons.
- Mobility: Portable design with exhaust kit for window venting; suitable where permanent installation is not possible.
Best Suited For: Renters or rooms where temporary or movable climate control is needed without building modifications.
Whynter 14,000 BTU Portable Dual Hose
The Whynter ARC-14SH is a dual-hose portable air conditioner with heat and a strong dehumidifying function. It is AHAM/ASHRAE-rated for effective cooling of spaces up to 500 sq. ft.
- Key Features: Dual-hose design for improved efficiency, patented auto-drain function, built-in dehumidifier (up to 71 pints/day), 430 m3/h airflow.
- Noise And Power: Operates at about 51 dBA on low speed; designed for larger rooms where quieter operation is preferred.
- Recognition: Awarded recognition for performance and reliability in portable AC category.
Best Suited For: Larger rooms where efficient portable cooling and dehumidification are priorities and where window venting is acceptable.
LG 18,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner With Heat
This larger-capacity window AC/heater is designed for bigger spaces, with a rated coverage up to 1,000 sq. ft. It offers basic digital controls, remote operation, and multi-directional airflow.
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- Key Features: 18,000 BTU capacity, supplemental heat option, 2-speed fan for cooling and heating, 24-hour timer, washable filter.
- Power Requirements: Requires a 230/208V dedicated plug (NEMA 6-20), important for installation planning.
- Usability: Four-way air deflection and filter light reminder for maintenance convenience.
Best Suited For: Larger rooms or apartments where high cooling and supplemental heating capacity are needed and a 230/208V outlet is available.
COSTWAY 12,000 BTU Mini Split Wall-Mounted Unit
This ductless mini split offers inverter technology and a heat pump for year-round comfort with a rated coverage up to 750 sq. ft. It is marketed as energy efficient with multiple modes and quiet operation.
- Key Features: Inverter compressor, five operating modes (auto, cool, dry, heat, fan), sleep and ECO modes, remote control, pre-charged for installation.
- Energy & Noise: Inverter control reduces on/off cycling, which can improve energy use and extend compressor life; low-noise indoor unit operation.
- Installation: Wall-mounted indoor unit with outdoor condenser—requires professional or experienced DIY installation and refrigerant line connection.
Best Suited For: Homeowners seeking permanent, efficient, and quieter multi-room comfort without full ductwork.
Buying Guide: Choosing The Right AC And Heater Combo
Selecting the appropriate combined air conditioner and heater requires matching unit capabilities to space, power, installation constraints, and user priorities. The sections below outline key considerations and comparison perspectives.
1. Type And Installation
Window Units: Fit standard windows and are relatively simple to install. Require an available window opening and may be limited by power outlet type.
Portable Units: Offer mobility and no permanent installation. Require a window exhaust kit and typically perform best in single rooms. Dual-hose models can be more efficient than single-hose designs.
Mini Splits: Require hole for refrigerant lines and professional installation for optimal performance. Offer higher efficiency and quieter indoor operation with zoned control.
2. Heating Capability And Temperature Range
Heat Pump/Heat Function: Many AC/heater combos use heat pump technology for heating. Check the minimum outdoor temperature for effective heat pump operation (e.g., some units need >41°F for heat pump mode).
Supplemental vs. Primary Heat: For cold climates, confirm whether the unit is intended as supplemental heat or primary heating. Window and portable units often provide supplemental warmth, while mini splits can serve as primary heat sources in moderate climates.
3. Capacity And Room Size
BTU Ratings: Match BTU capacity to room square footage. Higher BTUs suit larger rooms, but oversizing can cause short cycling. Use manufacturer coverage guidance as a baseline and consider ceiling height and insulation.
Airflow And Distribution: Look for multi-speed fans, swing louvers, and 4-way deflection to improve even distribution.
4. Efficiency And Energy Considerations
Energy Star And Inverter Technology: Energy Star certification and inverter compressors typically yield lower power consumption and steadier temperature control.
Electric Requirements: Verify voltage and plug type, especially for higher-capacity window units that may require 230/208V circuits.
5. Noise And Comfort
Decibel Ratings: Portable and window units list operational dB. If the unit will be used in bedrooms or offices, prioritize lower noise values and quieter operation modes.
Dehumidification And Air Quality: Built-in dehumidifiers and washable filters improve comfort in humid climates and reduce reliance on separate dehumidifiers.
6. Controls, Connectivity, And Features
Remote, Timer, And Modes: Standard conveniences include remote control, programmable timers, sleep mode, and multiple operating modes (auto, dry, fan, heat, cool).
Smart Connectivity: Wi-Fi enabled units allow app control and voice assistant integration for remote operation and scheduling.
7. Mobility, Maintenance, And Warranty
Portability: Consider caster wheels and weight for portable units. Window and mini split installations are stationary.
Maintenance: Check filter access and whether condensate handling is manual or auto-drain. Washable filters are economical; auto-evaporation or auto-drain features reduce maintenance.
Warranty And Support: Review manufacturer warranty for compressor, parts, and labor options. Reliable customer support can matter for install and long-term service.
8. Comparison Perspectives
Cost vs. Performance: Portable and window units generally cost less but may be less efficient than mini splits. Mini splits often deliver higher seasonal efficiency and quieter operation but require installation investment.
Flexibility vs. Permanence: Portable units are flexible and renter-friendly. Window units are semi-permanent but can be removed seasonally. Mini splits are permanent solutions best for long-term efficiency.
Climate Suitability: For consistently cold climates, prioritize systems rated for low outdoor temperatures or pair with supplemental heat. For hot, humid areas, prioritize dehumidification capacity and cooling power.
Use these considerations to compare the products above by matching capacity, installation requirements, efficiency, and features to your living situation and comfort priorities.
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
- Prioritize Quality Over Cost
The most critical factor in any HVAC project is the quality of the installation. Don’t compromise on contractor expertise just to save money. - Check for Rebates
Always research current rebates and incentives — they can significantly reduce your overall cost. - Compare Multiple Quotes
Request at least three estimates before making your choice. You can click here to get three free quotes from local professionals. These quotes include available rebates and tax credits and automatically exclude unqualified contractors. - Negotiate Smartly
Once you've chosen a contractor, use the proven strategies from our guide — How Homeowners Can Negotiate with HVAC Dealers — to get the best possible final price.