Top Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner Brands Compared: LG vs. GE vs. Friedrich
Intro — Three Names Homeowners Can Trust
If you’ve been shopping for a through-the-wall AC, three brands keep showing up: LG, GE, and Friedrich. They’ve each earned loyal followings for reliability and design, but they aren’t identical.
After installing and servicing hundreds of units, I can tell you where each shines—and where they fall short. Here’s the straight talk.
1. LG — Quiet Efficiency for Everyday Comfort
If you want something sleek, quiet, and efficient, LG is tough to beat.
Highlights
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Whisper-quiet: Around 53 dB on low—quieter than normal conversation.
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Energy Star models: Most exceed CEER 10.5.
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Precise controls: Digital thermostats and 24-hour timers.
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Good humidity control: Dry Mode keeps air comfortable without overcooling.
Example Model
LG LT0816CER 8,000 BTU Energy Star
• For rooms up to 330 sq. ft. • CEER 10.7 • 53–59 dB noise range • Fits standard 26-inch sleeves
Pros
✅ Extremely quiet
✅ Energy-efficient
✅ Modern controls
✅ Easy installation
Cons
⚠️ Cooling-only models dominate
⚠️ Slightly higher price per BTU
Jake’s take: “LG units are like a Honda Civic—dependable, quiet, and low maintenance.”
2. GE — Durable Workhorse with Heating Options
For reliability and dual-season performance, GE is a long-time favorite.
Highlights
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Cooling + electric heat: Great for mild winters.
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Heavy-duty frames: Steel construction for longevity.
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Universal fit: Compatible with most 26-inch sleeves.
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Easy parts access: Nationwide availability.
Example Model
GE AJEQ12DWJ 12,000 BTU with Electric Heat
• Cools & heats up to 550 sq. ft. • CEER 10.6 • 208/230 V • Durable steel chassis
Pros
✅ Year-round comfort
✅ Tough construction
✅ Strong airflow
✅ Easy to service
Cons
⚠️ Slightly louder (56–61 dB)
⚠️ Some models need a 230 V circuit
Jake’s take: “GE units are built like tools — not toys. They run hard for years if you treat them right.”
3. Friedrich — Premium Performance and Longevity
When a customer asks for something to last 15 years or more, I point to Friedrich.
Highlights
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Commercial-grade build: Metal chassis and sealed motors.
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QuietMaster Tech: Sound-dampening reduces noise by 25%.
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Wi-Fi smart control: Select models work with Alexa and Google.
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Tight temperature control: Holds steady within 2 °F.
Example Model
Friedrich Uni-Fit UCT10A10A 10,000 BTU Energy Star
• CEER 10.7 • Smart Wi-Fi app • Fits 24.5-inch sleeve • Adapter kits for retrofits
Pros
✅ Ultra-quiet and durable
✅ Smart home integration
✅ Excellent air distribution
✅ Ideal for retrofits
Cons
⚠️ Highest price tag
⚠️ Slightly heavier installation
Jake’s take: “Friedrich is the Cadillac of wall units—built to run quietly for decades.”
4. Quick Comparison
| Feature | LG | GE | Friedrich |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $$ | $$–$$$ | $$$ |
| BTU Range | 6k–12k | 8k–18k | 8k–14k |
| Noise | 53–59 dB | 56–61 dB | 50–58 dB |
| Heating | Limited | Electric Heat | Optional Heat Pump |
| Efficiency (CEER) | 10.5–11.3 | 10.0–10.7 | 10.5–11.0 |
| Smart Controls | Some | No | Yes |
| Best For | Quiet rooms | Year-round use | Premium installs |
5. Installation & Compatibility
Most LG, GE, and Friedrich models fit standard 26-inch sleeves.
Still, measure before you buy:
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LG: Best with LG or Friedrich Uni-Fit sleeves.
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GE: Works with Amana WS900 and GE RAB46A.
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Friedrich: Needs adapter kits for older GE/LG sleeves.
👉 See Through-the-Wall AC Accessories at The Furnace Outlet
6. Noise & Comfort Levels
If you’re sensitive to sound:
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LG is quietest for bedrooms.
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Friedrich runs nearly silent in larger spaces.
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GE moves more air but adds a slight hum.
Friedrich’s QuietMaster insulation really does cut vibration. In side-by-side tests, it’s about 3–4 dB quieter than GE models.
7. Maintenance & Lifespan
Keep filters clean monthly and vacuum coils each season—these three brands reward basic care with decades of service.
| Brand | Expected Life | Ease of Maintenance | Parts Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| LG | 10–12 yrs | Very easy | Online support |
| GE | 12–15 yrs | Moderate | Widely available |
| Friedrich | 15+ yrs | Simple access panels | Excellent support |
8. Energy Efficiency & Costs
Here’s what you can expect to pay and save:
| Brand | 8 k BTU Avg Price | 12 k BTU Avg Price | CEER | Est. Yearly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LG | $550–650 | $700–800 | 10.7 | ≈ $95 |
| GE | $650–850 | $850–1,000 | 10.6 | ≈ $100 |
| Friedrich | $800–1,100 | $1,100–1,300 | 10.8 | ≈ $92 |
Even though Friedrich costs more up front, its low energy use and long lifespan often make it the best value over time.
Jake’s Tip: “Don’t just compare price tags—compare how much you’ll spend to run the thing for ten years.”
9. Heating Performance Matters Too
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GE: Most reliable for electric heat output; great for mild climates.
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Friedrich: Select models use heat pump tech for better efficiency.
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LG: Primarily cooling, with some models offering fan-only winter circulation.
If you want true four-season comfort without extra equipment, GE or Friedrich are your go-tos.
10. Customer Experience & Warranty
| Brand | Typical Warranty | Customer Support | DIY Friendliness |
|---|---|---|---|
| LG | 1 yr parts/labor | Responsive online | Excellent |
| GE | 1 yr parts + 5 yrs sealed system | Strong phone support | Good |
| Friedrich | 1 yr labor + 5 yrs parts | Top-rated service | Pro or DIY |
Friedrich earns points for robust customer support and long warranties on sealed systems. GE also stands out for easy parts ordering.
11. Best Fits by Home Type
| Home Type | Best Brand | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Apartments & Bedrooms | LG | Quiet & efficient |
| Basements or Garages | GE | Strong airflow + heat |
| Home Offices | LG or Friedrich | Low noise for focus |
| Vacation Rentals | Friedrich | Durable and Wi-Fi control |
| Long-Term Residences | GE or Friedrich | Long service life |
12. Jake’s Recommendations
If you’re still deciding:
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On a budget: Go with LG.
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Need heating too: Pick GE.
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Want top tier: Buy Friedrich.
All three brands are solid; it’s about matching your lifestyle and space.
Jake’s rule: “The best AC isn’t the most powerful—it’s the one that fits your home and runs quiet every day without you thinking about it.”
13. Bottom Line
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LG: Quiet, efficient, ideal for smaller rooms.
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GE: Rugged, versatile, handles heating too.
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Friedrich: Premium, whisper-quiet, built for the long haul.
Whichever you choose, install it with a proper wall sleeve (like the Amana WS900), seal it tight, and you’ll have steady, quiet comfort for years.
Explore These Brands at The Furnace Outlet:
👉 Through-the-Wall Air Conditioners Collection
Author: Jake Lawson
“I’ve watched these brands work through countless summers. If you choose one that fits your space and maintain it right, it’ll take care of you for a decade or more.”
In the next blog we will learn more about Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Through-the-Wall AC Running Like New
