Finding an air conditioner with a built-in heater can keep your home comfortable year‑round without adding a separate unit. This guide compares five versatile cooling/heating ACs—window, portable, dual‑hose portable, and a ductless mini‑split—highlighting capacity, features, and suitability for different rooms.
| Product | Type | Approx. Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Midea 8,000 BTU Smart Inverter Window Unit | Window (Heat Pump) | Up To 350 Sq. Ft. |
| Uhome 12,000 BTU Portable AC With Heater | Portable (Single Hose) | Up To 400 Sq. Ft. |
| Whynter 14,000 BTU Dual‑Hose Portable AC | Portable (Dual Hose) | Up To 500 Sq. Ft. |
| LG 18,000 BTU Window AC With Heat | Window (High Capacity) | Up To 1,000 Sq. Ft. |
| COSTWAY 12,000 BTU Mini‑Split Heat Pump | Ductless Mini‑Split (Wall‑Mounted) | Up To 750 Sq. Ft. |
Midea 8,000 BTU Smart Inverter Window AC With Heat
This Midea window unit combines cooling, heating, and dehumidification for rooms up to 350 sq. ft. It uses variable-speed inverter technology for more stable temperatures and improved efficiency versus fixed-speed compressors.
Key features listed include 5 operation modes (Heat, Auto, Cool, Dry, Fan), a 24‑hour timer, and wireless control via the SmartHome app with voice compatibility for Alexa and Google Assistant. The unit is Energy Star certified and claims up to 35% energy savings compared to baseline standards.
Operational notes from the product features: the heat pump function works above about 41°F, making it suitable as supplemental heat in moderately cold conditions rather than primary heating in very low temperatures. The front-access washable filter simplifies maintenance.
Uhome 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner With Heater
The Uhome portable AC is a 4‑in‑1 unit offering cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and fan modes. Rated for spaces up to 400 sq. ft., it emphasizes quiet operation with reported noise down to 52 dB.
Highlighted features include a self‑evaporating system that reduces condensate management, an LED control panel, programmable 24‑hour timer, and three fan speeds. The listed airflow is 360 m³/hr and dehumidification capacity is up to 91 pints/day.
This portable model includes a window kit for exhaust and is intended for users who need a non‑permanent, movable solution that still provides heating and cooling in one footprint.
Whynter 14,000 BTU Dual‑Hose Portable AC & Heater
The Whynter ARC‑14SH is positioned as a high‑capacity portable solution with a dual‑hose design, which can improve efficiency and cooling speed in many settings by separating intake and exhaust airflow.
Product features include a patented auto drain function for condensate management, a 71 pint/day dehumidifying capacity, and airflow listed as 430 m³/h (253 CFM). The unit has been described as operating at around 51 dBA at low speed.
As noted in the listing, this model has received recognition in appliance reviews and is intended for larger spaces up to 500 sq. ft. The dual‑hose layout and auto drain make it practical for prolonged use where condensate and efficiency are concerns.
LG 18,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner With Heat
The LG window unit is a higher‑capacity AC/heater combo intended for large rooms and open floor plans, with cooling and supplemental heat modes. It requires a specific 230/208V plug (NEMA 6‑20) to operate, which reflects its higher power draw and capacity.
Features include 2 cooling and heating speeds, 4‑way air deflection, a digital control panel with remote, and a 24‑hour timer. A removable washable filter and installation kit are included for basic upkeep.
This unit is suitable where higher BTU output is needed and proper electrical supply is available. The multi‑directional venting supports more even distribution in larger spaces.
COSTWAY 12,000 BTU Mini‑Split Air Conditioner & Heater
This COSTWAY mini‑split combines an indoor wall‑mounted unit with an outdoor compressor and operates as a heat pump for year‑round comfort. The listing highlights inverter technology for quieter operation and improved energy efficiency.
Key listed features: 5 modes (auto, cool, dry, heat, fan), 4 fan speeds, sleep and ECO modes, iFEEL and turbo functions, and a programmable timer. The product is AHRI certified and designed to cool spaces up to 750 sq. ft.
Mini‑splits require professional installation of the outdoor and indoor components but offer zoned temperature control, quieter indoor operation, and greater efficiency compared with many window or portable units.
Buying Guide: How To Choose An Air Conditioner With Heater
Match Capacity To Room Size
BTU rating correlates with the area a unit can cool or heat. Choose a capacity suited to the room’s square footage, ceiling height, insulation, and sun exposure. Oversized units cool quickly but may short‑cycle, reducing dehumidification; undersized units run continuously and may not maintain set temperatures.
Understand Heater Type: Heat Pump Vs Electric Resistance
Heat Pump systems move heat between indoors and outdoors and are more energy‑efficient for mild to moderate cold. Many window units and mini‑splits use heat pumps. Note heat pump performance can decline below certain outdoor temperatures (product listings often note a threshold such as ~41°F).
Electric Resistance heaters produce heat by electrical resistance (often inside portable units) and can provide reliable warmth in colder climates but typically use more electricity than heat pumps at moderate temperatures.
Consider Installation And Electrical Requirements
Window units and portable ACs are generally DIY‑installable. Mini‑splits and some high‑capacity window units may require professional installation and specific electrical circuits (for example, 230/208V or dedicated breakers).
Check the product’s required plug type and amperage before purchasing to ensure compatibility with your home’s wiring and breakers.
Choose Between Portable, Window, Or Mini‑Split
- Portable Units: Flexible, easy to move, include window exhaust kits. Single‑hose models are simpler but can draw conditioned air from the room; dual‑hose models improve efficiency and performance in many cases.
- Window Units: Often more efficient for a fixed location and typically quieter indoors. Heat pump window models can provide economical supplemental heat.
- Mini‑Splits: Higher upfront cost and installation, but offer better efficiency, quiet operation, and zoned control without taking up window space.
Examine Energy Efficiency And Certifications
Look for Energy Star certification, inverter technology, and SEER/ EER ratings when available. Inverter compressors adjust speed to meet load, reducing energy use and improving comfort by minimizing temperature swings.
Assess Dehumidification And Airflow
Humidity control affects comfort significantly. Dehumidification capacity (pints/day) and airflow (CFM or m³/hr) indicate how effectively a unit will remove moisture and circulate air. For humid climates, higher dehumidification helps reduce stickiness and mold risk.
Noise Levels And Sleep Modes
Check listed decibel levels (dB) if quiet operation matters. Many units list noise at low speed. Additional features like sleep mode and reduced display brightness can improve nighttime comfort.
Controls, Smart Features, And Convenience
Remote controls, programmable timers, app integration, and voice assistant support add convenience. Consider whether you need Wi‑Fi control or simple physical controls and a remote.
Maintenance And Filter Access
Look for front‑accessible, washable filters and clear instructions on condensate handling. Units with auto‑drain or self‑evaporating systems reduce manual emptying needs.
Climate And Operational Limits
For colder regions, confirm the heat mode operating temperature range. Heat pumps are efficient above certain outdoor temperatures but may need a backup heat source in freezing conditions.
Durability, Warranty, And Support
Review warranty lengths and coverage, brand reputation, and availability of customer support and replacement parts. For mini‑splits, verify installer support and refrigerant handling practices.
Compare Cost To Operate And Long‑Term Value
Evaluate running costs based on efficiency ratings, expected runtime, and local electricity rates. Units with inverter compressors and higher energy ratings usually cost less to run over time despite higher initial cost.
Practical Comparison Tips
- For a temporary or rental situation, a portable unit with a window kit is convenient and relocatable.
- If you want a discreet, efficient year‑round solution for a primary living area, consider a mini‑split.
- A window heat pumpoffers a balance of installation simplicity and seasonal efficiency for single rooms.
- Choose dual‑hose portable models when efficiency and rapid conditioning are priorities in larger rooms.