As Toronto’s summers heat up, Ideal Heating & Air Conditioning knows that staying cool indoors becomes a priority for many homeowners, particularly those living in condos or older homes. While there are several air conditioning options available, one common solution is the window air conditioner. But how does it measure up against other air conditioning systems, such as central AC or ductless mini-split systems? In this post, we’ll break down the pros and cons of window AC units, particularly in condos and older homes, and compare them with other AC solutions to help you make an informed decision.
1) What Are Window Air Conditioners?
2) The Pros of Window Air Conditioners in Toronto
3) The Cons of Window Air Conditioners in Toronto
4) How Do Window AC Units Compare to Other AC Solutions from Ideal Heating?
Keep reading to learn more about air conditioning service in Toronto or contact us. We’d be happy to provide you with more professional advice, including a free consultation!
In this blog, we’ll compare a window air conditioner (left) to other popular AC solutions like the ductless mini-split (centre) and central air (right).
Is a Window Air Conditioner Right for My Home?
1) What Are Window Air Conditioners?
Above is a close-up of a modern window air conditioner. (Image Source: Airam Dato-on)
Window air conditioners are compact, self-contained cooling systems designed to cool a single room. Installed directly into a window (or sometimes a specially designed wall opening), they work by pulling warm air from inside, cooling it through a built-in refrigeration cycle, and blowing the cooled air back into the room while venting heat outside. Because they require no ductwork and minimal installation, window units have long been a go-to solution for renters, condo owners, and anyone living in homes with limited space or older infrastructure.
Traditionally, window AC units were known for being bulky, noisy, and inefficient — but that’s changed significantly in recent years.
Modern Improvements in Window AC Technology
Today’s window air conditioners have seen major upgrades in terms of design, performance, and energy efficiency. Here are some key improvements:
Sleeker Designs
Manufacturers now offer low-profile, minimalist models that blend more easily with modern interiors. Some units are even designed to fit in narrower or vertical windows, making them ideal for Toronto condos with unique layouts or window styles.Better Energy Efficiency
Many new window units meet ENERGY STAR® standards, meaning they use significantly less electricity than older models. Features like inverter technology help them cool more efficiently by adjusting compressor speed rather than cycling on and off.Quieter Operation
Modern units run much quieter than their older counterparts. Some premium models even include “quiet mode” or sound-dampening technology — a big plus in condos and smaller homes where noise easily travels.Smart Features
Some newer window ACs come equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control the unit via smartphone apps, smart thermostats, or voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant. This adds convenience and helps optimize cooling based on your schedule.Improved Air Quality
Many models now include multi-stage filtration to remove allergens, dust, and odors, which is beneficial in older Toronto homes where indoor air quality can be a concern.Eco-Friendly Refrigerants
Manufacturers are moving away from older refrigerants toward more environmentally friendly options that are compliant with new Canadian energy and climate regulations.
It’s clear that window air conditioners are no longer the clunky, inefficient machines they used to be. For many Toronto residents — especially in condos or older homes where space and infrastructure are limited — a modern window AC can still be a viable and attractive solution. That being said, read on to learn about why another option might be best for you.
2) The Pros of Window Air Conditioners in Toronto
✔ Pros of Window Air Conditioners
- Affordable and simple to install
- Ideal for renters or temporary setups
- Effective for cooling small or single rooms
- Portable — easy to remove and relocate
- Modern units are quieter and more energy efficient
In this section, we’ll look at the pros of installing a window air conditioner. In the following section, we’ll point out some of the cons of installing one. We’ll then outline some other cooling options you may want to consider.
Let’s start by reviewing the main advantages of installing a window air conditioner:
- Affordable & Easy to Install
Window AC units are relatively inexpensive compared to central air conditioning systems. They’re also easy to install, making them a great option for renters in Toronto who need temporary cooling solutions without altering their living space.
- Portable
These units are portable, so if you move to a different apartment or home, you can take the AC with you. This is especially appealing in Toronto condos, where air conditioning is not always provided.
- Good for Small Spaces
If you live in a small condo or studio apartment, a window air conditioner can effectively cool individual rooms without the need for complex ductwork or larger systems.
- Energy-Efficient for Small Areas
When sized properly, window AC units are efficient for smaller rooms and can be more energy-efficient than trying to cool larger spaces with a central air system.
3) The Cons of Window Air Conditioners in Toronto
✖ Cons of Window Air Conditioners
- Only cools one room at a time
- Can be noisy during operation
- Blocks natural light and window views
- Shorter lifespan compared to central or ductless systems
- May not comply with condo board or building regulations
To be fair, now we’ll look at some disadvantages of window air conditioners:
- Limited Cooling Power
Window AC units are designed to cool only a small area at a time. If you live in a larger condo or older home with multiple rooms, a single window unit may not provide enough cooling.
- Noise
Window units are typically louder than other types of air conditioners, which can be disruptive in a Toronto condo where space is tight, and soundproofing may be limited.
- Aesthetics & Security Concerns
Window units can obstruct natural light and impact the exterior appearance of your home. Additionally, they can compromise security if not properly installed or secured in place.
- Maintenance & Lifespan
These AC units require regular maintenance, such as cleaning the filters and checking for leaks. They also tend to have a shorter lifespan compared to central air systems or ductless mini-splits.
While window air conditioners offer affordability and convenience, they’re not without drawbacks—especially in larger spaces, older Toronto homes with multiple rooms, or condos with strict building regulations. The limited cooling capacity, potential noise, and aesthetic downsides can make them feel more like a temporary fix than a long-term comfort solution. If you’re looking for quiet, consistent cooling throughout your home or want to preserve your windows and view, it may be worth exploring more permanent and efficient options like ductless mini-splits or central air systems.
4) How Do Window AC Units Compare to Other AC Solutions from Ideal Heating?
How the Main AC Types Stack Up: Key Benefits at a Glance
Window AC
- Affordable upfront cost
- Easy to install and remove
- Great for small rooms
- Ideal for renters
- Newer models are quieter and efficient
Ductless Mini-Split
- Zone-based cooling control
- No ductwork required
- Very quiet operation
- Energy efficient
- Sleek, modern wall units
Central AC
- Cools the entire home evenly
- Discrete, no visible units indoors
- Can increase home resale value
- Convenient thermostat control
- Works well with existing ducts
Portable AC
- No installation required
- Can be moved room to room
- Fits in rooms with tricky windows
- Good for temporary cooling
- Compact and easy to store
At Ideal Heating, we understand that cooling needs vary, especially in Toronto’s diverse range of housing types. Let’s take a look at how window AC units stack up against other popular air conditioning solutions.
Central Air Conditioning
Central AC is ideal for larger homes or multi-room spaces, ensuring consistent and comfortable cooling throughout your entire home. Unlike window units, central AC doesn’t obstruct your windows or disrupt the aesthetics of your living space. Central AC systems have fewer maintenance requirements than window units, especially if you already have ductwork installed.
On the flip side, central air conditioning is more costly to install and maintain. Installing a central air system can be expensive, especially in older homes without existing ductwork. And central AC systems use more energy compared to window units, particularly if you’re cooling a smaller space.
Ductless Mini-Split Systems
Ductless mini-splits are perfect for homes without existing ducts, offering room-by-room cooling and heating control. Unlike window AC units, mini-splits are very quiet, making them ideal for bedrooms and living rooms in Toronto condos. With no bulky units in windows, mini-splits are discreet and won’t obstruct your view or light either.
Keep in mind that while more affordable than central air, ductless mini-split systems typically have a higher upfront cost than window units. And, although the installation process is simpler than central AC, it does require drilling small holes in walls to install the interior units.
Click here to explore our ductless cooling options.
Portable Air Conditioners
Portable air conditioners are similar to window units but more flexible as they can be moved from room to room. They are convenient because no installation is required. You simply plug it in and it starts cooling.
Unfortunately, portable air conditioners have limited cooling power. Like window units, portable air conditioners are best suited for smaller spaces. These units may also be loud or disruptive to certain activities.
Conclusion
Whether you’re cooling a compact condo or a spacious older home, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution — but there is a right solution for your space, comfort, and lifestyle. While window AC units serve a purpose in smaller, temporary setups, many Toronto homeowners find better long-term comfort and efficiency with:
-
Central Air Conditioning
Ideal for whole-home cooling and seamless integration into existing ductwork -
Ductless Mini-Splits
Perfect for homes without ducts or where zone-by-zone control is preferred -
Portable AC Units
A short-term option when flexibility and plug-and-play cooling are essential
At Ideal Heating, we proudly install and recommend Bryant® air conditioning systems because they consistently deliver reliable performance, long-term durability, and energy-efficient technology. Bryant products are engineered for Canada’s climate and come backed by trusted warranties and Ideal Heating’s expert installation and support.
If you live in a Toronto condo or an older home, there are several factors to consider:
For small spaces: Window AC units or portable air conditioners may be the most cost-effective and easy-to-install solution.
For whole-home cooling: Central air conditioning from Ideal Heating is a more comprehensive solution, especially for larger homes or condos with existing ducts.
For quiet, efficient cooling: Ductless mini-split systems are perfect for those seeking energy-efficient, quiet, and flexible cooling without the need for ductwork.
Choosing the right air conditioning system for your home can be overwhelming, but Ideal Heating is here to help. We offer free consultations to assess your needs and recommend the best solution based on your space, preferences, and budget.
Book your free consultation today and let us help you stay cool this summer with the perfect AC system for your Toronto home.