When summer heat waves hit or winter chills set in, a reliable air conditioner isn’t just a luxury – it’s a necessity. For many homes, apartments, or commercial spaces, a through-the-wall air conditioner offers a fantastic, space-saving solution compared to bulky window units or complex central systems. These units blend seamlessly into your decor, keeping your windows clear and your floors free. And when it comes to performance, the Keystone 12000 BTU through the wall air conditioner is a name that often comes up, known for its powerful cooling and heating capabilities.
In this comprehensive guide, we’re diving deep into the world of through-the-wall AC units. We’ll explore some top-tier models, focusing on the highly sought-after 12,000 BTU range, including several excellent Keystone options and a few other strong contenders. Whether you need year-round climate control, energy-saving features, or smart home integration, we’ve got you covered. Let’s find the perfect wall AC unit to keep your space comfortable all year long!
Our Top Picks: Keystone 12000 BTU Through the Wall Air Conditioners & More
Let’s break down the best through-the-wall air conditioners available right now.
1. Keystone 12,000 BTU Wall Mounted Air Conditioner with Supplemental Heat
This Keystone unit is a true all-season champion, offering both robust cooling and supplemental heating. It’s perfect for those who need consistent climate control without sacrificing window space. The integrated smart remote ensures your comfort is always a priority, precisely measuring the room temperature to optimize performance. This unit requires a specific 230-volt/20-amp electrical outlet, so it’s essential to check your setup before purchase.
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Key Features:
- 12,000 BTU cooling / 10,600 BTU supplemental heating capacity
- Cools and heats rooms up to 550 Sq.Ft.
- Features cooling, heating, dehumidification, and fan modes
- Supplemental heating for temperatures between 23 and 76 degrees
- Space-saving design, keeps windows clear
- Smart remote control with LCD screen for accurate temperature sensing
- Energy Saver and Sleep modes for reduced electricity consumption
- Requires 230-volt/20-amp electrical outlet
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Pros:
- Provides year-round comfort with both cooling and heating
- Accurate temperature control via smart remote
- Excellent for medium to large rooms
- Energy-efficient operation modes
- Easy installation with interior trim kit
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Cons:
- Supplemental heat is not a primary heat source
- Requires a specific 230V/20A electrical outlet
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User Impressions: Customers frequently praise its powerful performance and the convenience of having both cooling and heating in one unit. The smart remote is a big hit for maintaining precise room temperature. Some users note the importance of having the correct electrical setup.
2. Keystone 12,000 BTU Wall Air Conditioner with Dehumidifier
Another excellent choice from Keystone, this model combines powerful cooling with effective dehumidification and supplemental heating. It’s designed for year-round comfort in spaces up to 550 sq. ft., making it ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices. The thoughtful space-saving design and smart remote control underscore Keystone’s commitment to user convenience and optimal climate control.
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Key Features:
- 12,000 BTU cooling / 10,600 BTU supplemental heating capacity
- Suitable for rooms up to 550 Sq.Ft.
- Offers cooling, heating, dehumidification, and fan functions
- Supplemental heating for a wide temperature range (23-76 degrees)
- Space-saving wall-mounted design
- Smart remote control with temperature sensing
- Energy Saver and Sleep modes for efficiency
- Standard universal interior trim kit for easy installation
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Pros:
- Versatile 4-in-1 functionality
- Effective dehumidification improves air quality
- Convenient smart remote with accurate readings
- Good for energy conscious users
- Maintains clear window views
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Cons:
- Supplemental heat isn’t designed as a primary heat source
- Requires appropriate electrical outlet for performance
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User Impressions: Reviewers love the comprehensive functionality, especially the dehumidifier which makes humid days much more bearable. The unit is considered reliable and efficient, providing consistent comfort.
3. Keystone 12,000 BTU Wall Mounted AC Unit and Dehumidifier (Cooling Only Focus)
If your primary need is robust cooling and humidity control, this Keystone 12000 BTU through the wall air conditioner is a stellar choice. It focuses on delivering maximum cooling comfort for spaces up to 550 sq. ft., featuring multiple fan speeds and cooling modes. The built-in dehumidifier actively removes moisture, making your space feel much more pleasant, even on sticky days.
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Key Features:
- Powerful 12,000 BTU cooling capacity
- Efficiently cools rooms up to 550 Sq.Ft.
- 3 cooling modes, 3 fan speeds, and 4-way adjustable air louvers
- Removes 2.5 pints of moisture per hour with built-in dehumidifier
- Programmable timer for customized operation
- Space-saving wall unit design
- Smart remote control for accurate temperature readings
- Energy Saver and Sleep modes for budget-friendly cooling
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Pros:
- Excellent cooling power and air circulation options
- Strong dehumidification capabilities
- Programmable timer adds convenience
- Smart remote ensures optimal comfort
- Helps reduce electricity bills
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Cons:
- Lacks supplemental heating (cooling-focused)
- Installation requires a specific wall sleeve (often sold separately)
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User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by this unit’s cooling power and its ability to significantly reduce humidity. Many appreciate the flexible control options and the energy-saving features. It’s often highlighted as a great value for effective cooling.
4. Keystone 12,000 BTU Wall Mounted AC Unit and Dehumidifier (Enhanced Comfort)
This Keystone model, quite similar to the previous one in its core features, truly excels in providing enhanced cooling comfort and air quality for up to 550 sq. ft. Its robust 12,000 BTU cooling power is complemented by precise control options like 4-way adjustable louvers and a programmable timer. It’s designed to deliver efficient, customizable relief from heat and humidity, making it a reliable addition to any home.
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Key Features:
- Reliable 12,000 BTU cooling for spaces up to 550 Sq.Ft.
- Multiple cooling modes, fan speeds, and 4-way adjustable louvers
- Integrated dehumidifier removes 2.5 pints/hour
- Programmable timer for scheduling operation
- Smart remote control with real-time room temperature sensing
- Energy Saver and Sleep modes for cost-effective cooling
- Space-saving through-the-wall installation
- Universal interior trim kit for straightforward setup
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Pros:
- High-efficiency cooling and excellent humidity removal
- Customizable airflow direction and operating schedules
- Smart remote enhances user control and accuracy
- Contributes to lower energy bills
- Maintains a clean aesthetic by not blocking windows
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Cons:
- Primarily a cooling and dehumidifying unit, no heating
- Professional installation might be preferred for wall cutouts
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User Impressions: This unit receives high marks for its consistent cooling and effective dehumidification. Users particularly enjoy the ease of customizing settings with the remote and the noticeable difference in comfort it brings to their living spaces. It’s seen as a solid, dependable cooling solution.
5. Durastar DRTAC121XNA1 12,000 BTU 115V Through the Wall Air Conditioner
While not a Keystone, the Durastar DRTAC121XNA1 offers a powerful 12,000 BTU cooling experience for rooms up to 550 sq. ft. This 115V unit is a straightforward yet effective option for those seeking dependable cooling. It comes with essential features like a remote control, sleep mode, and a 24-hour timer, making it a convenient choice for maintaining comfort without breaking the bank.
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Key Features:
- 12,000 BTU cooling capacity
- Covers areas between 450-550 square feet
- Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) of 10.5
- Includes remote control
- 115V/60Hz input voltage
- Temperature range: 62°F – 86°F
- Sleep mode, 24-hour timer, and Energy Saver feature
- Control panel with digital display
- Compatible with Durastar wall air conditioner sleeve (sold separately)
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Pros:
- Strong cooling power for its class
- Good energy efficiency with EER 10.5
- User-friendly digital display and remote control
- Sleep and Energy Saver modes for comfort and savings
- Standard voltage makes it easier for some installations
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Cons:
- Wall sleeve must be purchased separately
- No heating function
- Not a Keystone unit, if brand loyalty is a factor
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User Impressions: Customers find this Durastar unit to be a reliable and efficient cooler. The 115V operation is a plus for those without 230V outlets. Users appreciate the simplicity of its controls and its effective cooling performance.
6. Keystone 10,000 BTU Through the Wall Air Conditioner and Dehumidifier
Even though our focus is often on the powerful Keystone 12000 BTU through the wall air conditioner, this 10,000 BTU model is an excellent option for slightly smaller spaces, up to 450 sq. ft. It still delivers robust cooling and a significant dehumidification capability, removing 2.3 pints of moisture per hour. With a space-saving design and a smart remote, it embodies Keystone’s commitment to comfort and efficiency.
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Key Features:
- 10,000 BTU cooling capacity
- Ideal for rooms up to 450 Sq.Ft.
- 3 cooling modes, 3 fan speeds, and 4-way adjustable louvers
- Removes 2.3 pints of moisture per hour (dehumidifier)
- Programmable timer for flexible operation
- Space-saving through-the-wall design
- Smart remote control with temperature sensing
- Energy Saver and Sleep modes to conserve energy
- Requires 230V electrical connection
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Pros:
- Efficient cooling and dehumidification for mid-sized rooms
- Highly customizable comfort settings
- Smart remote ensures accurate temperature management
- Cost-effective operation with energy-saving modes
- Maintains clear window views
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Cons:
- Lower BTU than the 12,000 BTU models, less suitable for larger rooms
- Requires 230V outlet, which might not be standard in all homes
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User Impressions: Many users find this 10,000 BTU unit to be perfectly adequate for bedrooms and small living areas. They appreciate its quiet operation and the dual functionality of cooling and dehumidifying. It’s often recommended for those who don’t need the full power of a 12,000 BTU unit but still want quality.
7. OLMO TTW 12,000 btu 230V Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner & Heater
The OLMO TTW unit steps up as a comprehensive solution, offering both 12,000 BTU cooling and substantial heating capacity, making it perfect for year-round climate control in residential, commercial, or hotel settings. This 230V system is designed for powerful performance, using R-32 refrigerant, and offers versatile control options including a digital panel, remote, and even a smartphone app.
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Key Features:
- 12,000/11,700 BTU/h cooling capacity
- 10,600/8,600 BTU/h heating capacity
- Designed for 208/230V, 1Ph, 60Hz electrical systems
- Uses environmentally friendly R-32 refrigerant
- Control via digital push-button panel, remote controller, or smartphone app
- Ideal for residential, commercial, and hotel use
- Wall sleeve not included
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Pros:
- True heating and cooling functionality (not just supplemental)
- Smart control options including Wi-Fi connectivity
- Powerful performance for various applications
- Modern R-32 refrigerant for efficiency
- High capacity for both cooling and heating
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Cons:
- Wall sleeve must be purchased separately
- Requires 208/230V dedicated outlet
- Not a Keystone brand
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User Impressions: Users are impressed by the dual heating and cooling capabilities of the OLMO unit, highlighting its versatility. The Wi-Fi and smartphone control are frequently praised for convenience, allowing users to manage their climate remotely. Its robust performance in different settings is a recurring positive.
8. ROVSUN Smart 12000 BTU Through the Wall Air Conditioner with Heater
The ROVSUN Smart unit is a modern marvel, combining a powerful 12,000 BTU through-the-wall air conditioner with heating, dehumidifier, and fan functions. What truly makes it stand out is its smart home integration, allowing control via phone APP, Alexa, or Google Assistant. This unit offers ultimate convenience and comprehensive climate control for spaces up to 550 sq. ft., making it a great choice for tech-savvy users.
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Key Features:
- 12,000 BTU cooling / 10,600 BTU heating capacity
- 4-in-1 functions: AC, Heater, Dehumidifier, Fan
- Covers rooms up to 550 square feet
- LED display, 5 modes (Heat, Auto, Cool, Dry, Fan), 3 speeds
- 24-hour timer and ECO energy-saver mode
- Washable filter for easy maintenance
- WIFI-Enabled & Voice Control (Alexa/Google Assistant compatible)
- Fits standard 25.5” wide sleeve, comes with trim kit and back grille (sleeve not included)
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Pros:
- Full heating and cooling for year-round comfort
- Advanced smart home integration for ultimate convenience
- Energy-saving features and washable filter
- Easy installation with included trim kit
- Excellent coverage area
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Cons:
- Wall sleeve is not included and must be purchased separately
- Not a Keystone brand
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User Impressions: The smart features, especially Wi-Fi and voice control, are a major draw for users, who appreciate the ability to manage their AC from anywhere. Reviewers also laud its quick cooling and heating, as well as the quiet operation. The comprehensive functionality makes it a highly recommended choice.
9. Keystone 12,000 BTU Window Mounted Inverter Air Conditioner
While our primary focus is on through-the-wall units, this Keystone 12,000 BTU window-mounted inverter air conditioner is worth noting for its exceptional energy efficiency and advanced features, especially if a window installation is an option for you. It’s an Energy Star rated unit that provides powerful cooling for up to 550 sq. ft. and features inverter technology for precise temperature control and quiet operation, making it a highly effective cooling solution.
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Key Features:
- Energy Star rated 12,000 BTU cooling power
- Cools rooms up to 550 square feet
- Dehumidifies up to 1.85 pints per hour
- Inverter technology for efficient and precise temperature control
- FlashCool Function for rapid cooling
- Washable filter with clean filter alert
- Eco mode, Sleep mode, and 24-hour programmable timer
- 3 fan speeds
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Pros:
- Superior energy efficiency thanks to inverter technology and Energy Star rating
- Quiet operation compared to many traditional ACs
- Rapid cooling with FlashCool function
- Convenient features like filter alert and programmable timer
- Strong dehumidification
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Cons:
- This is a window-mounted unit, not a through-the-wall AC
- Blocks window view
- Installation differs from through-the-wall units
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User Impressions: Users consistently highlight the quiet operation and impressive energy savings of this inverter window unit. The FlashCool feature is popular for quickly beating the heat. While it’s a window unit, its performance and features often make it a top alternative for those considering powerful room cooling.
10. GE 12,000 BTU 208/230 Volt Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner with SmartHQ
The GE 12,000 BTU through-the-wall air conditioner offers robust cooling and heating performance, coupled with modern smart home capabilities. With a strong EER and built-in WiFi via SmartHQ, this unit provides maximum comfort and ease of control from anywhere. It’s a powerful and efficient solution for year-round climate control, designed to integrate seamlessly into your smart home ecosystem.
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Key Features:
- 12,000/11,700 BTU/hr cooling capacity
- 10,600/8,600 BTU/hr heating capacity
- Energy Efficiency Rating (EER) of 10.5
- Built-in WiFi capacity, powered by SmartHQ
- Operates on 208/230 Volts, 60 Hertz (NEMA 6-20P/Right Angle LCDI plug type)
- Dimensions: 15.7″ H x 26.1″ W x 21.1″ D
- Requires additional purchase of GE Wall Case (RAB26/RAB46/RAB47/RAB48) for new installations
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Pros:
- Powerful cooling and heating for all seasons
- SmartHQ WiFi allows remote control and scheduling
- Good energy efficiency
- Reliable brand with proven performance
- Ideal for smart home integration
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Cons:
- Wall case/sleeve is a separate required purchase for new installations
- Specific electrical requirements (208/230V)
- Not a Keystone unit
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User Impressions: Reviewers are very pleased with the GE unit’s ability to quickly cool and heat rooms, along with the convenience of SmartHQ for remote control. Its robust build quality and consistent performance are often highlighted. Users appreciate the integration into their existing smart home setups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Choosing the right through-the-wall air conditioner can bring up a few questions. Here are some common ones to help you make an informed decision.
Q1: What does “BTU” mean, and how many do I need?
A: BTU stands for British Thermal Unit, and it measures the amount of energy required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. In air conditioners, BTU refers to the cooling (or heating) capacity. For a Keystone 12000 BTU through the wall air conditioner, it typically means it’s suitable for rooms between 450-550 square feet. Generally, you need about 20 BTUs per square foot of living space.
Q2: What’s the difference between a through-the-wall AC and a window AC?
A: A through-the-wall AC is permanently installed in an opening in your exterior wall, keeping your windows clear. A window AC unit, on the other hand, sits directly in a window opening, partially blocking the view and potentially impacting security. Through-the-wall units usually offer a cleaner, more integrated look.
Q3: Do through-the-wall AC units require a special electrical outlet?
A: Many powerful through-the-wall AC units, especially those with higher BTU ratings (like 12,000 BTU) or heating capabilities, require a 230-volt/20-amp or 208/230-volt dedicated electrical outlet. Standard wall outlets are typically 115-volt. Always check the product specifications to ensure your home’s electrical system can support the unit you choose.
Q4: What are LSI keywords and why are they important for SEO?
A: LSI (Latent Semantic Indexing) keywords are words and phrases that are semantically related to your main keyword. For “keystone 12000 btu through the wall air conditioner,” LSI keywords would include terms like “wall AC unit,” “BTU cooling,” “supplemental heat,” “energy efficiency,” and “smart control.” They help search engines understand the broader topic of your content, improving its relevance and ranking potential for various related queries, not just the exact main keyword.
Q5: Can I install a through-the-wall AC unit myself, or do I need a professional?
A: While some handy individuals might tackle the installation, cutting a hole in your exterior wall and ensuring proper sealing, structural integrity, and electrical connections can be complex. For new installations, it’s often recommended to hire a professional HVAC technician or contractor to ensure safety, efficiency, and adherence to building codes. Replacing an existing unit in an already-cut sleeve is generally easier.
Q6: What does “supplemental heat” mean in an AC unit?
A: Supplemental heat means the heating function is designed to assist your primary heating system or provide mild warmth during cooler periods, rather than being the sole heat source in very cold temperatures. Units with supplemental heat are usually effective when outside temperatures are moderately cool (e.g., between 23 and 76 degrees Fahrenheit) but won’t replace a furnace in freezing conditions.
Q7: How do Energy Saver and Sleep modes help save money?
A:
* Energy Saver Mode: This feature often cycles the fan on and off with the compressor. When the compressor stops cooling, the fan also turns off, instead of running continuously. This reduces energy consumption by preventing unnecessary fan operation when cooling isn’t actively needed.
* Sleep Mode: This mode typically increases the temperature setting by a few degrees over several hours while you sleep. Our bodies naturally cool down at night, so a slightly warmer room won’t compromise comfort, and the gradual temperature adjustment saves energy throughout the night.
Q8: What is an EER rating?
A: EER stands for Energy Efficiency Ratio. It measures an air conditioner’s cooling efficiency. A higher EER number indicates a more energy-efficient unit. For example, a unit with an EER of 10.5 is more efficient than one with an EER of 9.5. When comparing models, looking at the EER (and Energy Star rating) can help you choose a more cost-effective unit in the long run.