🧰 Introduction: Picking a Brand You Can Trust
Hey folks — Tony Marino here. If you’re in the market for a new through-the-wall air conditioner, one of the most common questions I hear is, “Which brand is the best?”
And I get it — nobody wants to sink money into an appliance that won’t last, underperforms, or requires constant repairs. Fortunately, there are a handful of trusted brands that have been around for decades and consistently deliver solid performance, energy savings, and good value.
In this article, I’ll walk you through:
✅ The top brands of through-the-wall ACs
✅ Key models you’ll see on the market
✅ Pros and cons of each
✅ What you can realistically expect in terms of performance, durability, energy use, and pricing
Let’s dive into the big names that make it easier to stay cool all summer long.
❄️ Goodman: Durable and Efficient Options
If you’ve been reading my other articles, you know I’m a fan of Goodman products — they’re a solid, workhorse brand that doesn’t cut corners.
🔵 Why Consider Goodman?
Goodman specializes in energy-efficient designs and durable components. Many of their newer units use eco-friendly refrigerants like R-32, which improves heat transfer and is better for the environment.
✅ Pros:
– Strong warranties
– Affordable price points
– Consistent performance and reliability
– R-32 refrigerant options
❌ Cons:
– Basic feature set — no flashy extras
– Availability can vary by region
💡 What to Expect:
You can expect a Goodman wall unit to last 10+ years with proper maintenance. They’re a no-frills option that will quietly do its job. For an overview of Goodman’s refrigerant options and efficiency ratings, check the AHRI refrigerant blog for updates on this eco-friendly refrigerant.
🧊 Friedrich: Premium Features and Ultra-Quiet Operation
If you want a top-notch, premium unit with more bells and whistles, Friedrich is a well-known name in the through-the-wall AC world.
🔵 Why Consider Friedrich?
Friedrich units are famous for quiet operation — perfect for bedrooms and living rooms — and they often come loaded with smart features like WiFi connectivity, remote monitoring, and programmable thermostats.
✅ Pros:
– Super-quiet
– Energy Star certified models
– Built-in WiFi on select models
– Durable and well-tested designs
❌ Cons:
– Premium price tag
– Slightly more complex installation due to advanced electronics
💡 What to Expect:
With a Friedrich unit, you’ll pay a bit more upfront but enjoy superior comfort, control, and durability. These are often chosen for commercial properties and luxury homes. Check out the ENERGY STAR AC page for more info on what efficiency ratings like Energy Star mean — Friedrich has many models that qualify.
🧊 LG: Smart Features Meet Sleek Design
LG has earned a reputation for modern appliances with user-friendly designs — their through-the-wall ACs are no exception.
🔵 Why Consider LG?
If you appreciate smart home features like voice commands, mobile app control, and energy-monitoring tools, LG is often a top choice. Plus, LG wall ACs tend to have modern styling that looks good in any room.
✅ Pros:
– Stylish designs
– Innovative tech like ThinQ app control
– Energy-saving inverter technology on some models
– Good availability through major retailers
❌ Cons:
– Slightly higher upfront cost
– Smart features may require setup time
💡 What to Expect:
An LG unit will suit tech-savvy homeowners who want to control their ACs on the go. LG ACs also tend to focus on sustainability — many use R-32 refrigerant for lower emissions. Check out this article from the EPA on refrigerants like R-32 to understand why that’s important.
🧊 GE: Budget-Friendly, Reliable Performance
If you want a no-fuss, affordable wall AC that just works, GE (General Electric) is an American classic.
🔵 Why Consider GE?
GE’s wall units hit the sweet spot between price and performance. They’re straightforward machines that come with standard features like adjustable fan speeds, auto-restart, and basic timers.
✅ Pros:
– Affordable pricing
– Easy to use and install
– Durable enough for years of daily use
– Widely available at most home improvement stores
❌ Cons:
– Fewer premium features
– No WiFi or smart-home compatibility
– Typically lower SEER/EER ratings than premium brands
💡 What to Expect:
With GE, you’re paying for solid basics. Don’t expect cutting-edge tech, but you will get dependable cooling at a fair price. If you’d like to read more about choosing the most energy-efficient unit for your space, check this article on AC efficiency from the U.S. Department of Energy.
🧊 Amana: Built to Last with Industrial-Grade Features
Amana might not be as flashy as LG or Friedrich, but they’re a go-to for long-term durability and straightforward design.
🔵 Why Consider Amana?
Amana wall ACs tend to focus on rugged designs that can stand up to commercial or heavy residential use. Many models come with washable filters, easy-access panels, and heavy-duty sleeves.
✅ Pros:
– Durable components that last
– Competitive pricing for the feature set
– Good warranty coverage
– Easy maintenance for long-term savings
❌ Cons:
– Slightly more basic aesthetic
– Louder fan on some models
💡 What to Expect:
If you want a workhorse that you can install and mostly forget, Amana is a top contender. These units may not have the most cutting-edge features, but they offer real value if you plan to stay in your home for years.
🧊 Mitsubishi and Daikin: Ductless Innovation Applied to Wall Units
While they’re mostly famous for ductless mini-split systems, Mitsubishi Electric and Daikin have also leveraged their engineering prowess into some high-performance wall units.
🔵 Why Consider Mitsubishi or Daikin?
If you value energy efficiency and whisper-quiet operation, you can’t do much better. Mitsubishi and Daikin units often exceed Energy Star requirements and come equipped with inverter technology for precision temperature control.
✅ Pros:
– Industry-leading efficiency
– Ultra-quiet fans and compressors
– Excellent climate control capabilities
– R-32 refrigerant in most new models
❌ Cons:
– Premium cost
– May require professional installation for optimal performance
💡 What to Expect:
A Mitsubishi or Daikin wall AC is an investment — these units cost more upfront but save you more in the long run. For more info on selecting super-efficient appliances, see this ENERGY STAR guide to efficient cooling.
🧰 What About Rebates and Incentives?
When you choose a top-brand unit with a high SEER or EER rating, you could qualify for local utility rebates. Be sure to check your utility company’s website or the DSIRE database of incentives before you buy — rebates can knock hundreds off your upfront cost.
And remember: Proper installation and regular maintenance are just as important as picking a good unit. A sloppy install or clogged filter will rob you of the efficiency you paid for.
🏠 Conclusion: Pick a Brand That Fits Your Needs
When it comes to choosing a through-the-wall air conditioner, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best unit for you depends on your:
✅ Budget
✅ Room size and layout
✅ Noise tolerance
✅ Feature preferences
✅ Efficiency goals
If you want a durable, straightforward AC, Goodman or Amana could be your go-to. If you want quiet, smart features, look at Friedrich or LG. And if you want the most advanced, most efficient designs, Mitsubishi or Daikin might be worth the investment.
And if you ever need help choosing — or want to shop a full selection of top wall AC models — browse our full selection of through-the-wall air conditioners at The Furnace Outlet. Our team can help you match the right unit to your home’s needs, so you’ll enjoy years of comfortable, affordable cooling.
✍️ About the Author
Tony Marino is an HVAC pro with 20+ years of hands-on experience helping homeowners and businesses stay comfortable. Known for his practical advice and clear, no-nonsense guidance, Tony loves demystifying HVAC choices so you can make informed, worry-free decisions.
