Tired of bulky window AC units blocking your view or taking up precious floor space? A keystone through the wall air conditioner might just be the perfect solution for keeping your home cool and comfortable. These clever units fit snugly into your wall, offering powerful cooling (and often heating!) without sacrificing aesthetics or functionality. They’re designed for permanent installation, providing a sleek, integrated look that traditional window units can’t match.
Keystone is a well-known brand in the home comfort world, offering a range of reliable and efficient through-the-wall AC units. But with several models available, how do you pick the right one for your space? Don’t sweat it! We’ve done the heavy lifting and rounded up five of the best Keystone through the wall air conditioner models, helping you find your ideal climate control companion.
Let’s dive into our top picks!
1. Keystone 12,000 BTU Wall Mounted Air Conditioner with Supplemental Heat
This versatile Keystone unit isn’t just about cooling; it’s a true year-round comfort provider. With a robust 12,000 BTU cooling capacity and an additional 10,600 BTU supplemental heating capacity, it’s designed to keep rooms up to 550 sq. ft. feeling just right, no matter the season. Its space-saving design ensures your windows remain clear, and the included interior trim kit makes installation look seamless. It’s truly a powerhouse for medium-sized living areas.
Key Features:
– 12,000 BTU cooling capacity / 10,600 BTU supplemental heating capacity
– Suitable for rooms up to 550 Sq.Ft.
– Multiple modes: cooling, supplemental heating, dehumidification, and fan
– Supplemental heating operates between 23 and 76 degrees Fahrenheit
– Space-saving wall-mounted design
– Easy installation with interior trim kit
– Requires a special 230-volt/20-amp electrical outlet
– Smart remote control with room temperature sensing
– Energy Saver and Sleep modes for reduced energy consumption
Pros:
– Provides both cooling and supplemental heating for year-round comfort
– High cooling capacity for larger rooms
– Smart remote offers accurate temperature control
– Energy-efficient modes help save on electricity bills
– Integrated design keeps windows clear and floor space open
Cons:
– Requires a dedicated 230-volt/20-amp electrical outlet, which may necessitate professional installation
– Supplemental heating is not designed as a primary heat source
– Can be a significant initial investment compared to window units
User Impressions:
Users frequently praise this unit for its powerful and consistent cooling, appreciating the added benefit of supplemental heat during cooler months. The smart remote control is a definite highlight, making it easy to maintain the perfect temperature from anywhere in the room. Many have found it to be a reliable and energy-efficient choice for their apartments and master bedrooms.
2. Keystone 10,000 BTU Through the Wall Air Conditioner and Dehumidifier (115V)
Looking for powerful cooling without the need for a special electrical setup? This Keystone 10,000 BTU through the wall air conditioner is an excellent choice for smaller to medium-sized rooms up to 450 sq. ft., running on a standard 115-volt outlet. It’s packed with features designed for maximum comfort, including multiple cooling modes, fan speeds, and 4-way adjustable air louvers. Plus, its built-in dehumidifier keeps your space feeling less muggy.
Key Features:
– 10,000 BTU cooling capacity
– Ideal for spaces up to 450 Sq.Ft.
– Features 3 cooling modes, 3 fan speeds, and a programmable timer
– 4-way adjustable air louvers for customized airflow
– Built-in dehumidification system removes 2.3 pints of moisture per hour
– Space-saving through-the-wall design
– Easy installation with universal interior trim kit
– Operates on standard 115-volt power
– Smart remote control with room temperature sensing
– Energy Saver and Sleep modes for powerful cooling on a budget
Pros:
– Compatible with standard 115V outlets, simplifying installation
– Effective dehumidification function improves overall comfort
– Programmable timer and smart remote offer convenient control
– Adjustable louvers allow for precise airflow direction
– Energy-saving features help manage utility costs
Cons:
– Does not offer supplemental heating
– 10,000 BTU might be insufficient for very large open-plan spaces
– Through-the-wall installation still requires cutting a hole if not replacing an existing unit
User Impressions:
Customers love the convenience of this 115V model, often highlighting its strong cooling performance and effective dehumidification. The smart remote and flexible airflow options are frequently mentioned as standout features, making it a favorite for bedrooms and home offices where keeping comfortable is key. Its easy setup process is also a big plus.
3. Keystone 14,000 BTU 230V Wall Mounted Air Conditioner & Dehumidifier
When you need serious cooling power for a larger area, this 14,000 BTU Keystone wall mounted air conditioner steps up to the plate. Designed to efficiently cool expansive rooms up to 700 sq. ft., it’s perfect for open-plan living areas, garages, or large master bedrooms. Like its smaller siblings, it boasts advanced comfort features, including robust dehumidification, multiple modes, and intelligent controls, all while maintaining a sleek, space-saving profile.
Key Features:
– 14,000 BTU cooling capacity
– Ideal for large rooms up to 700 Sq.Ft.
– 3 cooling modes, 3 fan speeds, and a programmable timer
– 4-way adjustable air louvers
– Removes 2.9 pints of moisture from the air per hour (dehumidification)
– Space-saving wall-mounted design with universal interior trim kit
– Requires a special 230-volt/20-amp electrical outlet
– Smart remote control with room temperature sensing
– Energy Saver and Sleep modes for efficient operation
Pros:
– High cooling capacity for very large spaces
– Excellent dehumidification capabilities
– Smart remote and programmable timer enhance user convenience
– Modern, unobtrusive design maintains your view and floor space
– Energy-efficient modes help reduce running costs
Cons:
– Requires a dedicated 230-volt/20-amp electrical outlet, potentially requiring professional electrical work
– No heating function, purely a cooling and dehumidifying unit
– Higher initial cost due to increased power and features
User Impressions:
Reviewers consistently praise this unit for its incredible cooling power, noting how quickly it transforms hot, stuffy rooms into comfortable oases. The strong dehumidification is a huge bonus, especially in humid climates. Users also appreciate the quiet operation and the intuitive smart remote, making it a top choice for large living spaces.
4. Keystone 10,000 BTU Through the Wall Air Conditioner and Dehumidifier (230V)
This keystone through the wall air conditioner delivers powerful 10,000 BTU cooling for spaces up to 450 sq. ft., similar to its 115V counterpart, but operates on a 230-volt circuit. This higher voltage can sometimes mean more consistent and efficient performance, especially in areas with fluctuating power. It features the same great comfort options like multiple cooling modes, fan speeds, and an effective dehumidification system, all packaged in a convenient space-saving design.
Key Features:
– 10,000 BTU cooling capacity
– Ideal for spaces up to 450 Sq.Ft.
– Features 3 cooling modes, 3 fan speeds, and a programmable timer
– 4-way adjustable air louvers for customized airflow
– Built-in dehumidification system removes 2.3 pints of moisture per hour
– Space-saving through-the-wall design
– Easy installation with universal interior trim kit
– Requires a special 230-volt electrical outlet
– Smart remote with room temperature sensing
– Energy Saver and Sleep modes for powerful cooling on a budget
Pros:
– Robust cooling power for medium-sized rooms
– Higher voltage operation can lead to more stable performance
– Excellent dehumidification capability enhances comfort
– User-friendly smart remote and programmable timer
– Energy-saving modes to help manage electricity consumption
Cons:
– Requires a dedicated 230-volt electrical outlet, which might need professional electrical installation
– No heating capabilities, purely for cooling and dehumidifying
– Installation requires a wall opening, which can be involved for new setups
User Impressions:
Customers often opt for this 230V model when they have the electrical capacity, citing its reliable and strong cooling performance. They appreciate the consistency and how effectively it tackles humidity. The smart features, especially the remote’s ability to sense room temperature, make it a favorite for hassle-free climate control.
5. Keystone 8,000 BTU Wall Mounted Air Conditioner and Dehumidifier
For smaller rooms or those with specific cooling needs, the 8,000 BTU Keystone wall mounted air conditioner is an ideal choice. It’s designed to efficiently cool spaces up to 350 sq. ft., such as small bedrooms, studies, or home offices. Despite its compact size, it doesn’t skimp on features, offering powerful cooling, effective dehumidification, and intelligent controls like a smart remote and energy-saving modes. It’s a fantastic entry-level option for through-the-wall AC units.
Key Features:
– 8,000 BTU cooling capacity
– Perfect for small-medium sized living spaces up to 350 Sq.Ft.
– 3 cooling modes, 3 fan speeds, and a programmable timer
– 4-way adjustable air louvers for directed airflow
– Removes 2.1 pints of moisture from the air per hour (dehumidification)
– Space-saving through-the-wall design with universal interior trim kit
– Smart remote control with room temperature sensing
– Energy Saver and Sleep modes for efficient operation
Pros:
– Perfectly sized for smaller rooms, ensuring efficient cooling without overkill
– Excellent dehumidification for improved air quality
– Smart remote provides convenient and accurate temperature management
– Energy-efficient modes help reduce utility bills
– Maintains window views and frees up floor space
Cons:
– Lower BTU capacity means it’s not suitable for larger rooms
– Does not offer any heating capabilities
– Still requires a dedicated wall opening for installation
User Impressions:
Users with smaller rooms rave about this 8,000 BTU unit, highlighting its quiet operation and surprisingly powerful cooling for its size. The smart remote is a consistent favorite, ensuring comfort wherever they are in the room. Many appreciate how it keeps their private spaces perfectly temperate without being a burden on their energy bill.
Why Choose a Keystone Through-the-Wall AC?
Choosing a Keystone through the wall air conditioner offers several distinct advantages over traditional window units or portable ACs:
- Aesthetics and View: They fit flush with your wall, keeping your windows clear and your views unobstructed.
- Permanent Solution: Designed for long-term integration, offering a cleaner look and potentially better insulation than window units.
- Security: Unlike window units, through-the-wall units don’t create an easy access point for intruders.
- Convenience: Many models come with smart features like remote controls, programmable timers, and energy-saving modes, making climate control effortless.
- Dual Functionality: Some models offer supplemental heating, providing year-round comfort from a single unit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is a Keystone through the wall air conditioner?
A: A Keystone through the wall air conditioner is an air conditioning unit designed to be permanently installed into an opening cut directly into an exterior wall. Unlike window units, they don’t block your window and offer a more integrated, aesthetic, and secure cooling solution.
Q2: How do I know what BTU size I need for my room?
A: BTU (British Thermal Unit) measures cooling power. A general guideline is to allow 20 BTUs per square foot.
* 100-250 sq. ft. room: 5,000-6,000 BTUs
* 250-350 sq. ft. room: 7,000-8,000 BTUs
* 350-450 sq. ft. room: 9,000-10,000 BTUs
* 450-550 sq. ft. room: 12,000 BTUs
* 550-700 sq. ft. room: 14,000 BTUs
Always consider factors like ceiling height, sunlight exposure, and the number of people in the room.
Q3: Is installation complicated for a through-the-wall AC?
A: Installing a through-the-wall AC involves cutting an opening in your wall and potentially dealing with electrical wiring (especially for 230V units). While many come with installation kits, it’s often a job best left to a professional contractor or HVAC technician to ensure proper sealing, structural integrity, and electrical safety.
Q4: Can a Keystone through the wall air conditioner replace my home’s central AC?
A: A single through-the-wall unit is generally not powerful enough to cool an entire house like a central AC system. They are designed for zoning or cooling individual rooms or specific areas effectively. However, multiple units strategically placed can provide effective cooling in homes without central air.
Q5: What’s the difference between a 115V and 230V unit?
A: The voltage refers to the electrical power requirement. 115V units plug into standard household outlets, making them easier to install where existing outlets are available. 230V units require a dedicated, higher-voltage circuit, which often needs professional electrical installation. 230V units typically offer more powerful cooling for their size and can sometimes be more energy-efficient for heavy use.
Q6: Do these units come with heating?
A: Some Keystone through-the-wall models, like the 12,000 BTU unit we reviewed, include supplemental heating capabilities. It’s important to note that this is usually supplemental heat, meaning it’s not intended as the primary heating source for your home, but rather as an extra boost for comfort during milder cold periods.
Q7: How can I make my through-the-wall AC more energy-efficient?
A: Utilize the unit’s “Energy Saver” or “Sleep” modes. Set the thermostat to a reasonable temperature (e.g., 78°F in summer). Keep doors and windows closed when the AC is running. Ensure the filter is clean and consider sealing any drafts around the unit’s wall sleeve.
Conclusion
Choosing the right keystone through the wall air conditioner can dramatically improve your home comfort and reclaim your window space. Whether you need a powerful 14,000 BTU unit for a sprawling living room or a compact 8,000 BTU model for a cozy bedroom, Keystone offers a reliable, feature-rich solution. By considering your room size, electrical capabilities, and desired features like supplemental heat or advanced dehumidification, you’re sure to find a through-the-wall AC that perfectly fits your needs. Say goodbye to unsightly window units and hello to sleek, efficient cooling!