The most important AC factors to consider are performance, noise, and efficiency. On especially hot days (hello, 100°F+), portable AC units play an important role in ensuring the safety of the elderly, those who are immunocompromised, and also children and pets. But most are better at directing air toward one side or the other. Instead, it’s the ideal choice for small bedrooms, apartments, or other tiny areas that don’t need so many BTUs. A leading-edge research firm focused on digital transformation. But don’t compare portable and window air conditioners by that measurement alone. We think an AC's performance, noise, and efficiency are far more important in one's buying decision, and in our experience, the AC's smart connectivity doesn't always behave properly. The GE 8,000 BTU Smart Window Air Conditioner is your best bet for rooms between 300 and 350 square feet in size with its low-decibel output, outstanding cooling, and easy installation. To get the most from your window air conditioner it must be properly installed. To answer this, it is important to understand the difference between price and value. Some have fan arms that swivel. It's a known issue for some users, and they did not have a timeline for when it would be fixed. I place a thermometer on the opposite end of the room.
The LG performed the best in our cooling tests, dropping the temperature in a 650-square-foot room by 3.3 degrees in one hour. They provide instant cooling, can easily be moved from room to room, and come with multiple features: remote control, timer, auto shut-off, oscillating design, integrated heater, built-in Wi-Fi and more. We decided not to include it this time around because we believe there are better options at this price, and it runs relatively loudly.
Window units range in price from $150 to $500, and in Btu from 5,000 to 14,000. Some have fans that oscillate. We added the Midea U after testing as the best window air conditioner for efficiency.
It has three cooling modes, including one that cools, another that dehumidifies, and one that pushes air around with its fan. Such a drastic difference in BTUs will correlate to a difference in cooling ability.
We looked at several window air conditioner models and brands while researching this guide. And, there were no obnoxious jarring sounds as we switched between cooling speeds, which makes it suitable for bedrooms and offices.
Then, I have the air conditioner run on high. The following missed the cut, but are worth looking into.
A trend you'll see in high-end window air conditioners is smart connectivity.
And if you’re concerned about air quality, it has a washable pre-filter and activated carbon air filter to keep your air fresh. Let’s face it: While there are clearly times when air conditioning performance means most, there are others when a good design trumps functionality. If you’re in the market for a portable air conditioner that comes with all the bells and whistles, consider the SereneLife SLPAC10.
Look for air-conditioner features that affect performance and efficiency. Although portable air conditioners are meant to be moved, there are times when you simply want to use them in one place.
It takes into consideration the energy consumption while a unit is in standby mode.
Cost: $150 to $250. The window air conditioners in our tests have cooling capacities ranging from 5,000 to 12,500 British thermal units (Btu). Install It Correctly
Cost: $350 to $600. Split ductless is more expensive than window or portable units (and professional installation is recommended) but less expensive than central air if you are cooling only a few rooms.