--- title: "The Best Energy-Efficient Air Conditioners of 2026, Picks by Our Editors" description: "Keep your home cool—and avoid the shock of a high utility bill—with one of the best energy-efficient air conditioners. See our top picks." date: "2026-06-02" modified: "2026-06-02" authors: - name: "Mark Wolfe" job_title: "Staff Writer" link: "https://www.bobvila.com/authors/mark-wolfe/" - name: "Tony Carrick" job_title: "Contributing Writer" link: "https://www.bobvila.com/authors/tony-carrick/" url: "https://www.bobvila.com/reviews/best-energy-efficient-air-conditioner/" categories: - "Cooling" - "Heating & Cooling" - "HVAC" - "Interior" - "Major Systems" - "Reviews" tags: - "Commerce" - "Heat Wave Prep" - "MPR" --- # The Best Energy-Efficient Air Conditioners of 2026, Picks by Our Editors ![Person using remote for one of the Best Energy Efficient Air Conditioners]() *Photo: Deposit Photos* Home cooling accounts for nearly 20 percent of [household electricity consumption](), so an energy-efficient air conditioner could be a real money saver. High-efficiency appliances typically cost more than the cheapest options, but payback comes in the form of smaller power bills every month. Those in warmer climates and areas with higher electricity rates realize those savings even faster. Energy efficiency in window air conditioners starts with proper sizing: 15 to 20 BTUs per square foot of space. Deviating from that formula risks overworking the air conditioner in a space that is too big, or cooling the air before it is properly dehumidified if the appliance is too powerful. Next, check out units that feature inverter technology, display the Energy Star seal, and feature combined energy efficiency ratio (CEER) ratings of 12 or higher. We fell in love with the Windmill 8,000 BTU WhisperTech Window Air Conditioner, which is the right size for [cooling]() rooms from 250 to 533 square feet. It’s easy to install, looks great, and boasts a CEER 15 rating. ## - **Energy-efficient ACs save money.** They reduce electricity bills, especially in warm climates with high rates. - **Proper sizing is crucial.** Use 15-20 BTUs per square foot to avoid inefficiency. - **Windmill 8,000 BTU AC stands out.** Features CEER 15 rating, low noise, smart controls, and sleek design. - **Smart technology enhances convenience.** WiFi-ready with app and voice control options. **Bottom line:** Choosing the right energy-efficient air conditioner can significantly cut costs and improve home comfort, with top picks like the Windmill 8,000 BTU offering advanced features and modern design. ![Person opening the cover of one of the the Best Energy Efficient Air Conditioners]() *Photo: Deposit Photos* There’s more to an air conditioner than its [energy efficiency rating](), and the Windmill 8,000 BTU WhisperTech Air Conditioner has a lot to offer. It features a high-efficiency CEER 15 rating and low-noise operation, all made possible by state-of-the-art industry inverter technology. Plus, it has a sleek, modern appearance complemented by convenient smart controls. The Windmill window air conditioning unit exploded in popularity thanks in part to its unconventional appearance that looks great from inside or outside the home. The mesh vent cover gives it a clean-lined look, more like a built-in speaker than an AC window unit. It draws less visual attention than other air conditioner designs, but its 45-degree upward-facing supply vent cools rooms quickly and thoroughly. We also like that this unit is WiFi-ready, allowing for remote control via iOS or Android mobile app, or voice control with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa. Choose from three cooling modes (normal, eco, or fan) and three fan settings. As for installation, it could not be much easier. The installation kit is factory assembled in the box, with crystal clear instructions for quick setup in single-hung or double-hung windows. **Get the Windmill energy-efficient air conditioner at [**Lowe's**](),** [**The Home Depot**]()**,** []()**[**Best Bu**]()[]()[y](), or** [**Staples**]()**.** ## More Energy-Efficient Air Conditioners Worth Your Money Our top pick may not suit every reader’s needs, so we’ve listed more great options below. All of these air conditioning units include high-efficiency CEER 15 ratings. Most of them also come with smart technology for improved operating convenience. ## How We Chose the Best Energy-Efficient Air Conditioners Technology constantly changes and improves, so it is important to update efficiency standards from time to time. Before choosing products for this guide, we reviewed the most recent United States Department of Energy [room air conditioner criteria]() for Energy Star certification. We determined that CEER 15-rated models would qualify as “best” with regard to energy efficiency. We shopped for established brands with outstanding track records for quality and customer service. Since 8,000 BTU is the most popular window air conditioner size, our top recommendation would fall into that size range. We also wanted to include other available sizes, popular features, and designs to showcase the variety of energy-efficient options that are available. After vetting more than 30 air conditioners, we narrowed our list to the 5 in this guide. ## FAQs Understanding how to maintain and operate an air conditioner to get the most out of it is key to ensuring home energy efficiency during the summer months. Ahead, learn about the most efficient way to run a [window air conditioner]() and learn how upgrading your aging AC unit to a newer model can save you money. ## Author Mark Wolfe is a BobVila.com staff writer with an extensive background in the horticulture industry. Since 2020, he has contributed numerous gardening and home improvement articles, along with a variety of tool and product reviews.