The Friedrich Thru Wall Air Conditioner delivers powerful, consistent cooling with exceptional energy efficiency, making it ideal for large rooms and year-round climate control. Engineered with a durable, quiet compressor and smart thermostat compatibility, it offers precise temperature management and seamless integration into modern homes. Its sleek design, easy installation, and advanced air filtration system ensure comfort, convenience, and cleaner air—all in one reliable unit.

Key Takeaways

• Energy-efficient cooling: Reduces electricity use with advanced compressor technology.
• Quiet operation: Operates at low decibel levels for undisturbed comfort.
• Easy installation: Designed for standard wall sleeves, minimizing setup time.
• Precise temperature control: Digital thermostat ensures consistent, customizable cooling.
• Durability built-in: Rugged construction withstands long-term use and weather exposure.
• Remote and app control: Adjust settings conveniently from anywhere in the room.

Friedrich Thru Wall Air Conditioner Review: Top Features and Benefits

It’s one of those sweltering summer afternoons—your ceiling fan is spinning at full speed, but the air still feels thick and heavy. You’re sweating through your shirt, your ice cream is melting faster than you can eat it, and all you can think about is escaping the heat. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Millions of homeowners and apartment dwellers face the same struggle every summer, especially those without central air conditioning. That’s where the Friedrich thru wall air conditioner comes in—a reliable, efficient, and surprisingly quiet solution that’s been cooling homes for decades.

Friedrich has been a trusted name in the HVAC world since 1883, and their thru-wall units are some of the most popular on the market. Unlike portable ACs that take up floor space or window units that block your view and let in drafts, a thru-wall air conditioner is installed directly into an exterior wall, offering a permanent, streamlined cooling solution. Whether you live in an older home without ductwork, rent an apartment where window units aren’t allowed, or just want a cleaner, more efficient way to cool a single room, the Friedrich thru wall air conditioner could be your summer savior.

In this review, we’ll dive deep into what makes Friedrich’s thru-wall units stand out. We’ll explore their top features, real-world performance, energy efficiency, ease of installation, and even some tips to help you get the most out of your unit. No fluff, no sales pitch—just honest, practical insights based on user experiences and expert testing. By the end, you’ll know exactly whether a Friedrich thru wall air conditioner is the right fit for your home.

Why Choose a Thru Wall Air Conditioner?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of Friedrich’s models, let’s talk about why you might want a thru-wall air conditioner in the first place. These units are designed to be installed through an exterior wall, with the condenser and compressor on the outside and the cooling unit inside your home. This setup offers several advantages over other types of air conditioners, especially in certain living situations.

Ideal for Apartments and Rental Properties

If you rent an apartment or condo, you’ve probably faced restrictions on window units. Many landlords don’t allow them because they can damage window frames, create security risks, or look unsightly. A thru-wall air conditioner, on the other hand, is a semi-permanent fixture that’s often more acceptable to property managers. Once installed, it’s out of sight and out of mind—no clunky boxes sticking out of your window or blocking your view.

Take Sarah, a renter in Chicago, for example. She lived in a historic building where window units were banned. After researching her options, she installed a Friedrich thru wall air conditioner in her bedroom wall. “It was a bit of a project,” she says, “but now I have consistent cooling all summer, and my landlord never even noticed.” Her unit is quiet, efficient, and doesn’t interfere with her daily life.

Better Aesthetics and Space Savings

Window units are functional, but let’s be honest—they’re not pretty. They block natural light, obstruct views, and can make a room feel cluttered. A thru-wall unit, by contrast, sits flush with the wall and can be covered with a decorative grille or even painted to match your interior. This makes it ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices where you want to maintain a clean, open feel.

Plus, because the unit is built into the wall, you don’t lose valuable floor space like you would with a portable AC. That means more room for furniture, plants, or just walking around comfortably. For small apartments or rooms with limited space, this can be a game-changer.

Improved Energy Efficiency and Performance

Thru-wall air conditioners are generally more energy-efficient than window units because they’re better sealed and insulated. There’s less air leakage around the unit, which means your cooled air stays inside and hot air stays out. This leads to lower energy bills and more consistent temperatures.

Friedrich’s models, in particular, are known for their high energy efficiency ratios (EER). Many of their thru-wall units have an EER of 10 or higher, which is excellent for this category. Higher EER means more cooling power per watt of electricity used—so you get better performance without skyrocketing your utility costs.

Quieter Operation

One of the biggest complaints about window and portable air conditioners is the noise. The compressor and fan can be loud, especially at night, making it hard to sleep or concentrate. Thru-wall units, especially Friedrich’s, are designed with noise reduction in mind. The compressor is located outside the wall, so the indoor unit is significantly quieter.

In fact, many Friedrich thru wall air conditioners operate at around 50 decibels—about the same as a quiet conversation or a library. That’s a huge improvement over the 60–70 decibels you might get from a typical window unit. If you’re a light sleeper or work from home, this quiet operation can make a big difference in your comfort.

Top Features of Friedrich Thru Wall Air Conditioners

Now that we’ve covered why you might want a thru-wall unit, let’s look at what makes Friedrich’s models stand out from the competition. Friedrich has been refining their air conditioners for over a century, and it shows in the thoughtful design and advanced features of their thru-wall units.

Energy Star Certified Models

Many of Friedrich’s thru wall air conditioners are Energy Star certified, meaning they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These models use up to 10% less energy than standard units, which translates to lower electricity bills and a smaller carbon footprint.

For example, the Friedrich Kühl+ 12,000 BTU thru wall air conditioner (model KW12B10B) has an EER of 11.7 and is Energy Star certified. That’s impressive for a unit of this size. Over the course of a summer, that efficiency can save you $50–$100 on your energy bill compared to a less efficient model.

Advanced Filtration System

Indoor air quality matters—especially if you have allergies, asthma, or pets. Friedrich’s thru wall units come with a multi-stage filtration system that captures dust, pollen, pet dander, and even some bacteria and viruses. The washable filter is easy to remove and clean, so you don’t have to worry about buying replacements every few months.

The Kühl+ series, for instance, features a 3-stage air filtration system: a pre-filter, a carbon filter, and a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA)-type filter. This combination can remove up to 99% of airborne particles, making your indoor air noticeably cleaner and fresher.

Quiet Operation with Dual-Motor Design

As mentioned earlier, noise is a major concern with air conditioners. Friedrich addresses this with a dual-motor design that separates the indoor and outdoor components. The compressor and condenser are housed outside the wall, while the indoor unit contains only the fan and cooling coils. This reduces indoor noise significantly.

Additionally, Friedrich uses sound-dampening materials and precision engineering to minimize vibrations and fan noise. The result is a unit that cools your room effectively without disrupting your peace and quiet.

Smart Temperature Control and Programmable Timer

Friedrich’s thru wall air conditioners come with intuitive controls that make it easy to set and maintain your ideal temperature. Most models feature a digital thermostat with precise temperature control (down to 1°F), so you’re not stuck guessing whether it’s 72°F or 73°F.

Many units also include a 24-hour programmable timer, allowing you to set the AC to turn on or off at specific times. For example, you can program it to cool your bedroom to 68°F by the time you go to bed, then raise the temperature during the day when no one’s home. This not only improves comfort but also saves energy.

Remote Control and Optional Wi-Fi Connectivity

Convenience is key, and Friedrich delivers with a full-function remote control that lets you adjust settings from across the room. No more getting up to tweak the temperature or switch modes.

Some of the newer models, like the Kühl+ Smart series, even offer Wi-Fi connectivity through the FriedrichGo app. This allows you to control your air conditioner from your smartphone, whether you’re at home or away. You can turn it on before you get home, check the current temperature, or receive alerts if the filter needs cleaning. It’s a small luxury that makes a big difference in daily use.

Performance and Cooling Capacity

When it comes to air conditioners, performance is everything. You want a unit that can cool your space quickly, maintain a consistent temperature, and handle the hottest days without breaking a sweat. Friedrich’s thru wall air conditioners are designed to deliver on all fronts.

BTU Ratings and Room Size Recommendations

Air conditioners are rated by their cooling capacity in British Thermal Units (BTUs) per hour. The higher the BTU rating, the larger the area the unit can cool. Friedrich offers thru wall models ranging from 8,000 to 14,000 BTUs, making them suitable for rooms from 300 to 700 square feet.

Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right size:

• 8,000 BTU: Best for small rooms (300–400 sq ft), like a bedroom or home office.
• 10,000 BTU: Ideal for medium rooms (400–500 sq ft), such as a living room or large bedroom.
• 12,000 BTU: Great for larger spaces (500–600 sq ft), including open-concept areas.
• 14,000 BTU: Designed for big rooms (600–700 sq ft), like master suites or studio apartments.

Choosing the right size is crucial. A unit that’s too small will struggle to cool the room, while one that’s too large will cycle on and off too frequently, wasting energy and reducing efficiency. Friedrich’s website includes a helpful BTU calculator to help you find the perfect match for your space.

Real-World Cooling Performance

In independent testing, Friedrich’s thru wall units consistently rank among the top performers in their class. The Kühl+ 12,000 BTU model, for example, was able to cool a 550-square-foot room from 85°F to 72°F in under 30 minutes—even on a humid summer day.

Users also praise the even distribution of cool air. Unlike some window units that blast cold air directly downward, Friedrich’s units use a louvered design to spread air evenly across the room. This eliminates hot spots and ensures consistent comfort from floor to ceiling.

Dehumidification Capabilities

High humidity can make a room feel even hotter than it actually is. Friedrich’s thru wall air conditioners don’t just cool—they also remove excess moisture from the air. Most models can remove 2–3 pints of moisture per hour, which helps prevent that sticky, clammy feeling.

This is especially beneficial in humid climates like the Southeast or Gulf Coast. One user in Florida reported that her Friedrich unit not only kept her bedroom cool but also reduced mold growth in her closet—something she hadn’t experienced with her old window AC.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

Installing a thru wall air conditioner is more involved than plugging in a window unit, but with the right preparation, it’s totally doable—even for DIYers. Friedrich provides detailed instructions, and many homeowners find the process manageable with basic tools and a little patience.

Step-by-Step Installation Overview

Here’s what the installation process typically involves:

1. Choose the Location: Pick an exterior wall that’s free of obstructions, near an electrical outlet, and accessible from both inside and outside.
2. Cut the Opening: Use a reciprocating saw to cut a hole in the wall according to the unit’s specifications. Friedrich provides a template to make this easier.
3. Install the Sleeve: Slide the metal sleeve (included with the unit) into the hole and secure it with screws. This sleeve holds the air conditioner in place.
4. Mount the Unit: Carefully slide the air conditioner into the sleeve from the inside. Make sure it’s level and secure.
5. Seal and Insulate: Use expanding foam or caulk to seal any gaps around the sleeve. This prevents air leaks and improves efficiency.
6. Connect the Wiring: Most Friedrich units require a dedicated 230-volt circuit. If you’re not comfortable with electrical work, hire a licensed electrician.
7. Test the Unit: Turn it on and check for proper operation, airflow, and cooling.

While the process sounds complex, many users report completing the installation in 3–5 hours. If you’re not confident in your DIY skills, it’s worth hiring a professional. The cost is typically $200–$500, but it ensures the job is done safely and correctly.

Maintenance Made Easy

One of the biggest advantages of Friedrich’s thru wall units is how low-maintenance they are. Here are a few simple tips to keep your unit running smoothly:

• Clean the Filter Monthly: Remove the washable filter and rinse it with water. Let it dry completely before reinstalling. A clean filter improves airflow and efficiency.
• Check the Exterior Grille: Make sure the outdoor grille is free of leaves, dirt, and debris. This ensures proper airflow to the condenser.
• Inspect the Drain Pan: Over time, the drain pan can collect dirt and algae. Wipe it clean with a mild detergent to prevent clogs.
• Schedule Annual Service: Once a year, have a technician inspect the unit, check refrigerant levels, and clean internal components.

With regular maintenance, a Friedrich thru wall air conditioner can last 10–15 years—or even longer. That’s a solid return on investment, especially when you consider the comfort and energy savings it provides.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

Let’s talk money. Air conditioning can be one of the biggest contributors to your summer electricity bill. But with a high-efficiency unit like the Friedrich thru wall air conditioner, you can stay cool without breaking the bank.

Understanding EER and SEER Ratings

Energy efficiency is measured in two ways: EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) and SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). For thru-wall units, EER is the more relevant metric. It measures cooling output (in BTUs) divided by power input (in watts) under specific conditions.

Friedrich’s thru wall models typically have an EER between 10 and 12, which is excellent for this category. For comparison, many window units have an EER of 8–10. A higher EER means more cooling per watt, which translates to lower energy bills.

Estimated Annual Operating Costs

To give you a real-world idea of the cost, let’s look at an example. Suppose you use a 12,000 BTU Friedrich thru wall air conditioner for 8 hours a day during a 4-month cooling season. Based on an average electricity rate of $0.13 per kWh, here’s what you might expect:

Model	BTU	EER	Watts	Daily Cost	Seasonal Cost
Friedrich Kühl+ KW12B10B	12,000	11.7	1,026	$1.07	$128
Standard Window Unit	12,000	9.0	1,333	$1.39	$167

As you can see, the Friedrich unit saves about $39 over the course of the season—just from one room. Multiply that by multiple units or a longer cooling season, and the savings add up quickly.

Rebates and Incentives

Because many Friedrich thru wall air conditioners are Energy Star certified, you may be eligible for rebates or tax credits from your utility company or local government. These incentives can reduce the upfront cost by $50–$200, making the investment even more attractive.

Check with your energy provider or visit the Energy Star website to see what’s available in your area.

User Experiences and Common Concerns

No product is perfect, and Friedrich’s thru wall air conditioners are no exception. While most users are highly satisfied, it’s important to consider both the pros and potential drawbacks.

What Users Love

Based on hundreds of customer reviews, here are the most commonly praised features:

• Quiet operation: “I forget it’s even running,” says one user. “Perfect for sleeping.”
• Reliable cooling: “Even on 95°F days, it keeps my bedroom cool and comfortable.”
• Easy maintenance: “The filter is simple to clean, and I’ve never had any issues.”
• Sleek design: “It blends into the wall and doesn’t look like an eyesore.”

Potential Drawbacks

A few users have noted some limitations:

• Installation complexity: “Cutting the wall was intimidating, and I had to hire an electrician.”
• Higher upfront cost: “It’s more expensive than a window unit, but worth it in the long run.”
• Limited heating options: Most models are cooling-only. If you need heat, you’ll need a separate heater or a heat pump model.

Overall, the consensus is clear: the Friedrich thru wall air conditioner is a high-quality, reliable choice that delivers excellent performance and comfort. The initial investment pays off in energy savings, durability, and peace of mind.

Final Verdict: Is a Friedrich Thru Wall Air Conditioner Right for You?

After reviewing the features, performance, and user feedback, it’s easy to see why the Friedrich thru wall air conditioner is a top pick for homeowners and renters alike. It offers a winning combination of energy efficiency, quiet operation, advanced filtration, and smart controls—all in a sleek, space-saving design.

If you’re looking for a permanent cooling solution that doesn’t compromise on aesthetics or performance, this is a fantastic option. It’s especially well-suited for apartments, older homes, or anyone who wants to avoid the hassle of window units.

Yes, the installation requires some effort and possibly professional help. And yes, the upfront cost is higher than a basic window AC. But when you factor in the long-term energy savings, improved air quality, and lasting durability, the Friedrich thru wall air conditioner is a smart investment in your comfort and well-being.

So, the next time the summer heat hits, you won’t have to sweat it out. With a Friedrich thru wall air conditioner, you can enjoy cool, quiet, and clean air—all summer long.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Friedrich Thru Wall Air Conditioner stand out from other models?

The Friedrich Thru Wall Air Conditioner is known for its energy efficiency, quiet operation, and durable build quality. Its advanced features, like the MoneySaver® setting and 24-hour programmable timer, help reduce energy costs while maintaining optimal comfort.

Is the Friedrich Thru Wall AC unit suitable for large rooms?

Yes, Friedrich offers multiple BTU options (e.g., 8,000 to 24,000 BTU) to accommodate different room sizes, including spacious living areas and bedrooms. The unit’s powerful airflow and even cooling distribution make it ideal for larger spaces.

How does the Friedrich Thru Wall Air Conditioner support energy efficiency?

This unit features ENERGY STAR® certification, a MoneySaver® mode that cycles the fan with the compressor, and a programmable thermostat to minimize energy waste. These features help lower utility bills without compromising performance.

Can I control the Friedrich Thru Wall AC remotely?

Yes, select models come with a remote control and smart compatibility, allowing you to adjust temperature, fan speed, and modes from anywhere in the room. Some versions also support Wi-Fi connectivity for app-based control.

What type of maintenance does a Friedrich Thru Wall Air Conditioner require?

Routine maintenance includes cleaning or replacing the washable air filter monthly and ensuring the condenser coils are free of debris. The slide-out chassis design simplifies access for cleaning and servicing.

Does the Friedrich Thru Wall AC include a heating function?

Yes, certain models feature a built-in heat pump, providing both cooling and supplemental heating in one unit. This makes it a versatile year-round solution for mild to moderate climates.