Finding the best heat pump and air conditioner units can significantly improve your home’s comfort while optimizing energy use year-round. This guide reviews top-rated portable and window unit models offering heating and cooling capabilities, smart controls, and energy-efficient operations suitable for various room sizes. Below is a comparison table summarizing key features of selected products to help you choose the ideal system for your space.
| Product | Cooling Capacity | Heating Capacity | Smart Features | Room Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER Portable AC & Heater | 14,000 BTU ASHRAE / 10,200 BTU SACC | 12,000 BTU | Wi-Fi & Voice Control | Up to 700 sq. ft. |
| Midea 12,000 BTU Smart Window AC & Heat | 12,000 BTU | Supplemental Heat Pump | Smart App & Voice Control | Up to 550 sq. ft. |
| Whynter Portable 14,000 BTU AC & Heater | 14,000 BTU | 14,000 BTU | Auto Drain Dehumidifier | Up to 500 sq. ft. |
| Amazon Basics Portable AC with Heat Pump | 13,000 BTU ASHRAE / 10,000 BTU SACC | Heat Pump | Multiple Modes, Remote | Up to 550 sq. ft. |
| GE 8,000 BTU Smart Heat/Cool Window AC | 8,000 BTU | 8,000 BTU | Wi-Fi Smart Control | Up to 350 sq. ft. |
Content Navigation
- BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat
- Midea 12,000 BTU Smart Inverter Air Conditioner Window Unit
- Whynter Portable Air Conditioner 14,000 BTU & Heater
- Amazon Basics Portable AC with Heat Pump
- GE AWGP08WWA 8,000 BTU Smart Heat/Cool Window Air Conditioner
- Buying Guide for Heat Pump and Air Conditioner Units
BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat
The BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner combines four essential functions: cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and fan-only operation. With a cooling capacity rated at 14,000 BTU (ASHRAE) and heating at 12,000 BTU, it’s ideal for rooms up to 700 square feet. The unit’s compact size and portability make it perfect for bedrooms or living spaces where flexibility is desired.
This smart AC supports Wi-Fi connectivity with mobile app control compatible with iOS and Android devices, along with voice integration for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. These smart features allow for convenient operation whether at home or away. It provides consistent comfort in summer and winter, addressing varying climate needs effectively.
Midea 12,000 BTU Smart Inverter Air Conditioner Window Unit
The Midea 12,000 BTU Smart Inverter AC offers multi-seasonal comfort with cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and fan modes. Designed for rooms up to 550 sq. ft., it uses inverter technology to deliver energy-efficient temperature control with up to 35% energy savings compared to standard units.
This Energy Star certified model features electronic controls with five operation modes and an LED display. Its smart connectivity allows users to control the unit remotely via the SmartHome app and voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant. Note, the heat pump ceases operation below 41°F, which is common for many units of this type.
Whynter Portable Air Conditioner 14,000 BTU & Heater
Recognized by Good Housekeeping as a top portable air conditioner model, the Whynter 14,000 BTU dual hose system is suitable for spaces up to 500 square feet. It provides powerful cooling and heating with a quiet operation at 51 dBA, ideal for bedrooms. The system uses an eco-friendly R-32 refrigerant and is built with environmental considerations.
Key to this unit is its patented auto drain function that automatically expels condensate, eliminating the need for manual emptying. With a 71-pint daily dehumidifying capacity and 253 CFM airflow, it also helps maintain comfortable indoor humidity.
Amazon Basics Portable AC with Heat Pump
The Amazon Basics Portable Air Conditioner provides four functions: cooling, heating via heat pump, dehumidifying, and fan mode. It cools rooms up to 550 square feet with 13,000 BTU ASHRAE (10,000 BTU SACC) capacity. Its intelligent Auto mode regulates operation between cooling and fan functions to maintain desired temperatures efficiently.
This portable unit also includes auto-swing louvers for even air distribution, three fan speeds, and an energy-saving sleep mode. Remote control and multiple operating modes allow customized comfort year-round, making it a versatile option for home offices or guest rooms.
GE AWGP08WWA 8,000 BTU Smart Heat/Cool Window Air Conditioner
This GE 8,000 BTU Smart Heat/Cool Window AC is designed for medium-sized rooms up to 350 sq. ft. It uses advanced heat pump technology for twice the heating efficiency of traditional electric resistance systems, providing fast and energy-efficient warmth.
The unit offers both cooling and heating at 8,000 BTU and features Wi-Fi connectivity with the SmartHQ app for remote temperature control. It includes an easy install kit, making setup straightforward for year-round climate control.
Buying Guide for Heat Pump and Air Conditioner Units
Selecting the best heat pump and air conditioner for your home involves several important factors:
Cooling and Heating Capacities
Ensure the unit’s BTU rating matches your room size. Larger rooms require higher BTU capacities for effective temperature control. Portable units often cover smaller spaces whereas window and mini split units can serve medium to large areas.
Energy Efficiency
Look for models with Energy Star certification or inverter technology. These features reduce electricity costs and minimize environmental impact while maintaining consistent performance.
Smart Controls and Connectivity
Wi-Fi-enabled units with app support or voice control through Alexa and Google Assistant offer convenient remote operation. This can enhance user experience by adjusting settings from anywhere.
Portability Versus Installation
Portable AC units allow flexible placement without permanent mounting but need venting via window kits. Window units generally provide stronger cooling and heating yet require fixed installation.
Additional Functions
Consider if you want integrated dehumidifying, auto-drain features, multiple fan speeds, programmable timers, or sleep modes. These options contribute to customized comfort and ease of maintenance.
Operating Conditions and Climate
Check the operating temperature range for heat pumps, especially in colder climates. Some heat pumps may lose efficiency or disable heating below certain outdoor temperatures.
By assessing these factors in relation to your living space and climate needs, you can choose the most efficient and convenient heat pump and air conditioner combination to keep your home comfortable year-round.