Through-the-Wall vs. Window ACs Why Samantha Chose a GE Built-In Unit

Introduction: My Window vs. Wall AC Dilemma

A couple of summers ago, I was standing in the aisle of a home appliance store staring at two options: a stack of window ACs and a single display model of a through-the-wall unit. The window ACs were cheaper and came in every size imaginable. The through-the-wall unit, especially the GE 12,000 BTU Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner with Electric Heat (AJEM12DWJ), looked sleek and permanent—but it carried a higher price tag and seemed intimidating to install.

Like many homeowners, I had to decide: do I want quick comfort now with a window AC, or a more permanent solution with a wall AC?

After weeks of research, talking to contractors, and running my electric bills through “what if” scenarios, I chose the GE built-in unit. And honestly? I haven’t looked back.

In this guide, I’ll break down everything I learned while comparing window vs. through-the-wall ACs, with real-world experience to show why I ended up going with a built-in system.


The Basics – What’s the Difference Between Window and Wall ACs?

Let’s start simple. Both types of units cool your home by pulling warm air from inside, removing the heat, and pushing cooled air back out. The key difference is where and how they’re installed.

  • Window ACs sit in a window frame. Part of the unit is inside, and the back portion sticks out the window to release hot air outside.

  • Through-the-wall ACs are installed inside a hole cut through an exterior wall. The unit slides into a wall sleeve and vents hot air directly outdoors.

Quick pros and cons:

  • Window ACs
    ✅ Cheap upfront cost
    ✅ Easy to install/remove (DIY friendly)
    ❌ Blocks window space and natural light
    ❌ Often noisier and less efficient

  • Through-the-wall ACs
    ✅ Permanent, long-term solution
    ✅ Doesn’t block window space
    ✅ Quieter, more efficient
    ❌ Higher upfront and installation cost
    ❌ Requires a wall sleeve and possibly a contractor

When I looked at these lists, it was clear: window ACs are short-term fixes, wall ACs are long-term investments.


Cooling Performance and Efficiency

Here’s where I noticed the biggest difference.

  • Window units: They’re decent for cooling small rooms, but they often leak air around the frame. On hot afternoons, I could feel warm air creeping in through the gaps.

  • Wall units: Installed flush in a sleeve, they’re sealed better and maintain more stable airflow.

The GE AJEM12DWJ has a solid CEER (Combined Energy Efficiency Ratio), which translates into lower monthly bills. Because it uses 208/230V power, it doesn’t struggle like some smaller 115V window units.

👉 In my old apartment, my 10,000 BTU window AC cooled my bedroom but left hot spots. With my GE 12,000 BTU wall unit, my 500 sq ft living room cools evenly in 15 minutes—even on 90°F days.


Noise Levels and Comfort

If you’ve ever tried to sleep next to a humming window AC, you know the struggle.

  • Window ACs rest on the window sill and vibrate against the frame. Over time, the rattle only gets worse.

  • Wall ACs are supported by the wall sleeve and insulated by drywall. The sound is a low, steady hum rather than a mechanical buzz.

👉 With my old window AC, I used to shut it off at night because it rattled so badly. Now, my GE wall unit runs quietly in the background—I barely notice it while watching TV or sleeping.


Aesthetics and Space Considerations

This was a huge factor for me.

  • A window AC blocks sunlight and makes a room look cluttered from both inside and outside. My big picture window went from “open and airy” to “half-covered by a clunky box.”

  • A wall AC sits flush in the wall. It doesn’t block your view, and from the outside, it looks intentional—like it belongs there.

👉 I chose the GE wall unit partly because I didn’t want to lose my natural light. Now I can enjoy my full window view, and my living room feels brighter and more open.


Durability and Lifespan

When you look beyond the sticker price, this is where wall ACs start paying for themselves.

  • Window ACs usually last 5–7 years with regular use. They’re cheaper but often need replacing sooner.

  • Through-the-wall ACs can last 10–15 years if properly maintained.

That means you might replace two or three window units in the time it takes to retire one wall AC.

👉 For me, this was a no-brainer. I didn’t want to haul heavy window units up and down every season or budget for replacements every 5 years.


Installation – DIY vs. Professional

Here’s where the decision can scare people off: installation.

  • Window AC:

    • Plug-and-play.

    • You can install it yourself in 30 minutes.

  • Wall AC:

    • Requires a wall sleeve.

    • Often involves cutting into drywall and exterior siding.

    • May require professional help.

For my GE 12,000 BTU wall unit, I hired a contractor to cut and frame the wall opening (cost about $450). I handled the trim and sealing myself. Yes, it cost more than a window unit, but now it’s permanent, stable, and sealed tight against weather.

👉 If you’re handy and already have a sleeve in place, you could DIY. But if it’s your first wall AC, hiring a pro is worth it.


When to Choose a Window AC

Window units still have their place. They make sense if:

  • You’re a renter and can’t alter the property.

  • You’re on a tight budget (units often start under $300).

  • You need seasonal or temporary cooling.

  • Your space is small (under 400 sq ft).

I used window ACs for years in rentals, and they worked fine. But once I became a homeowner, I wanted something better.


When to Choose a Through-the-Wall AC

Through-the-wall units are better if you:

  • Own your home and want a long-term solution.

  • Need to cool medium-sized spaces (450–700 sq ft).

  • Care about aesthetics and keeping your windows unobstructed.

  • Want a heating + cooling combo like the GE 12,000 BTU model.

  • Value quiet operation and efficiency.

👉 For me, it wasn’t just about cooling—it was about making my home feel finished. A wall AC looks intentional and works year-round.


Conclusion: Why I Chose GE

After living with both, here’s my verdict:

  • Window ACs are a great short-term fix. They’re cheap, easy, and perfect for renters or small rooms.

  • Through-the-wall ACs, like the GE AJEM12DWJ, are the better long-term investment. They’re quieter, more efficient, more durable, and they don’t take away from your window space.

I spent more upfront, but I gained:

  • A quieter living space.

  • Lower energy bills.

  • A cleaner, brighter room with unobstructed windows.

  • A unit that doubles as a heater in winter.

For me, that trade-off was absolutely worth it. If you’re a homeowner like me and you’re tired of window AC drawbacks, I can’t recommend a GE through-the-wall unit enough.


Infographic: Window vs. Wall ACs – Which One Fits Your Life?

Categories with checkmarks:

  • Performance → Wall AC ✅

  • Noise → Wall AC ✅

  • Cost → Window AC ✅

  • Ease of Install → Window AC ✅

  • Lifespan → Wall AC ✅

  • Aesthetics → Wall AC ✅

Visual: Samantha pointing to “Wall AC” with a caption: “That’s why I chose GE!”

In the next topic we will know more about: Installation Guide: What Samantha Learned Putting in Her GE 12,000 BTU Unit

Smart comfort by samantha

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