Through-the-Wall AC with Electric Heat vs. Heat Pump: Which Is Right for Your Climate?

If you're in the market for a home comfort system and considering the GE 12,000 BTU Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner with Electric Heat (Model AJEQ12DWJ), you're probably wondering how it compares to a heat pump. Both systems offer cooling and heating capabilities, but they serve very different purposes depending on your climate, home layout, and long-term energy goals.

This guide breaks down the key differences between through-the-wall ACs with electric heat and heat pumps to help you choose the best solution for your space—especially if you live in a variable climate.

❄️ Cooling: Comparable Performance for Smaller Spaces

Both through-the-wall ACs like the GE AJEQ12DWJ and heat pumps provide efficient cooling. In fact, many wall units are designed with the same refrigerant-cycle technology used in ductless or central systems.

📌 Key Cooling Similarities

• BTU-based sizing: Both systems are rated by BTU, so 12,000 BTUs means roughly 450–550 sq. ft. of cooling.

• Dehumidification: Each type removes moisture as it cools, improving indoor air comfort.

• Thermostat control: Both can be set to specific temperatures with programmable options.

🧊 GE AJEQ12DWJ Cooling Specs

• 12,000 BTUs cooling capacity

• Dry mode for dehumidification

• Adjustable fan speeds and louver direction

For small to medium-sized rooms, cooling performance between a through-the-wall AC and heat pump is nearly identical.

🔥 Heating: Electric Resistance vs. Heat Transfer

Here’s where things diverge.

🌡️ Electric Heat (GE AJEQ12DWJ)

This unit uses electric resistance heating, which passes electric current through coils to generate warmth. It’s simple and fast, but not energy-efficient.

Pros:

• Instant heat on demand

• Low upfront cost

• Easy to maintain

Cons:

• Expensive to run in cold climates

• Not suitable as a whole-home heating system

🌬️ Heat Pumps

Heat pumps move heat from outside to inside (or vice versa) using refrigerant. In mild to moderate climates, this is much more efficient than electric resistance.

Pros:

• Up to 3x more efficient than electric heat

• Can act as your primary heating system

• Lower long-term energy costs

Cons:

• Higher initial cost

• Efficiency drops below 25°F (unless cold-climate rated)

🧠 Conclusion: Choose Based on Climate

• Mild to warm winters (e.g., California, Southeast): Electric heat in the GE unit may be sufficient.

• Colder climates (e.g., Midwest, Northeast): A heat pump is a better long-term investment.

Read more from the Department of Energy on Electric Resistance Heating and Heat Pump Efficiency.

🏡 Installation: Simplicity vs. Complexity

🛠️ GE Through-the-Wall Unit

• Easier install: Cut wall opening, insert unit + sleeve, connect 208/230V circuit.

• No ductwork needed

• Works well in retrofits or single rooms

🧰 Heat Pump System

• Requires outdoor condenser + indoor air handler

• Often needs a professional HVAC technician

• May involve ductless mini-split or full ducted system

For DIYers or those on a tight budget, wall units win on simplicity.

⚡ Energy Efficiency & Operating Costs

🔌 Through-the-Wall Units with Electric Heat

• Typically 9.5–10.5 EER for cooling

• Heating efficiency is low (100% electric = high cost)

💨 Heat Pumps

• Up to 20+ SEER2 for cooling

• COP (Coefficient of Performance) of 2.5–3.5 for heating

• May qualify for federal tax credits and utility rebates

See the latest incentive programs via:

• Energy Star Rebate Finder

• DSIRE Incentives Database

💵 Cost Comparison

Category	GE AJEQ12DWJ	Heat Pump (Ductless Split)
Unit Cost	$750–$900	$2,500–$4,000
Installation	$200–$400 (DIY possible)	$2,000–$3,500 (pro install)
Energy Use	High in winter	Low year-round
Maintenance	Simple filters	May require annual service

Upfront savings go to the wall unit, but long-term savings go to the heat pump.

🌎 Environmental Impact

Heat pumps use less electricity overall, making them a better choice for reducing your carbon footprint.

• The GE AJEQ12DWJ uses R-410A refrigerant (being phased out in favor of more eco-friendly options).

• Many modern heat pumps are moving to R-32 or R-454B, which have lower GWP (Global Warming Potential).

Learn more about refrigerants from the EPA’s Refrigerant Transition Program.

✅ Use Case Scenarios

Best for the GE AJEQ12DWJ:

• Single room or studio cooling/heating

• Budget-conscious buyers

• Locations with mild winters

• Supplemental heat, not whole-home

Best for Heat Pumps:

• Year-round climate control

• Whole-home or multi-room setups

• Regions with variable seasonal temps

• Green-minded homeowners

👨🔧 What Mark Recommends

Mark, our go-to home systems advisor, often sees homeowners who overestimate their heating needs. If your winters are short and your main concern is cooling with occasional heat, the GE AJEQ12DWJ is a smart buy. However, if you’re replacing an old furnace or want long-term efficiency, step up to a heat pump.

🔗 Verified External Resources

1. Energy.gov – Electric Resistance Heating

2. Energy.gov – Heat Pump Systems

3. Energy Star Rebate Finder

4. DSIREUSA – Incentives Database

5. EPA SNAP Refrigerant Regulations

6. Carrier Heat Pump Comparison Guide

🏁 Final Thoughts

Choosing between a through-the-wall AC with electric heat and a heat pump depends heavily on where you live, how much space you’re heating/cooling, and your long-term energy goals.

For small spaces, easy installation, and moderate heating, the GE AJEQ12DWJ is hard to beat. For larger areas, colder climates, or high energy savings, a modern heat pump is likely the smarter investment.

In the next topic we will know more about: Installing a GE 12,000 BTU Through-the-Wall Unit: What Homeowners Should Know