Best Air Conditioners
Best Portable AC for Garage
Best Overall Window AC
Best Overall Portable AC
Best Portable AC for RV
What is air conditioning anyway?
Air conditioning, colloquially known as AC, is that thing that salvages us all when the weather outside is warm. Typical households spend 13% of their annual utility spending on air conditioning.
For the most part, there are two types of air conditioning. Central air is the kind that disperses itself throughout a house or multiple rooms. Air conditioner units are portable units to install in rooms when central air is lacking. Many people don’t actually have central air, but that doesn’t mean they can’t stay cool. Air conditioner units are both cost efficient and an effective way to cool down.
What makes a great air conditioner unit
Type
There are a variety of different kinds of air conditioner units. The following are the most common:
- Window unit: These air conditioner units sit in your window, reducing humanity and pushing cool air around the room. This is the most cost effective option when it comes to air conditioner units.
- Portable unit: If your building doesn’t allow installation of a window unit, a portable air conditioner is your next best bet. Portable air conditioners typically need ventilation out a window as they operate.
- Split ductless unit: This kind of air conditioning is more expensive than the latter two options. It includes both an outdoor and indoor unit to mount on the wall and act via refrigerant tubing and electrical wiring.
Size
Before selecting your best air conditioner unit for your home, you need to make sure it’s the right size. Measure your window space and check the allowances of your building before purchasing.
Cooling power
Apart from its physical size, you need to make sure that it has the capacity to spread cool air around the entirety of your living space. Check the range of the air conditioner. Typically central air ranges from 1.5 to 5 ton units. Anything homes that require over 5 ton units probably need multiple air conditioner units.
Ease of Install
First take into consideration whether or not you want to hire an electrician to install your air conditioner unit. If you’ve installed a window air conditioner unit before, you know it can be as quick as a ten minute job. Other more complex units may require installation by the supplier. Some units only require a few simple steps so if you’re desperate to cool down, you might want to prioritize ease of use.
Best Portable AC for Garage
With rolling wheels for easy portability, you can pretty much bring this air conditioner unit with you wherever you need it.
Built in dehumidifier
If you’re prone to allergies or spend lots of time working in the garage where there are dust particles floating around, this is an ideal option. The portable unit reduces humidity levels and acts as a purifier. For an extra bit of icing on the cake, the unit has a low operating noise level.
Best Overall Window AC
This is pretty much the gold standard of window AC units and compared to other options it’s extremely affordable. There are seven easy-to-use controls suited to your liking. It is shockingly quiet, making it perfect for a small bedroom of up to 150 square feet. It has a Combined Energy Efficiency rate of 11.0 to reduce costs. The filter of the unit is washable so it should last you for a long time. The filter also removes foul room odors and some airborne particles.
Easy installation
In a mere matter of moments this AC unit will be up and running. All the accessories to mount the unit come in the one package.
Best Overall Portable AC
This standing, portable AC unit is ideal for small rooms up to 150 square feet, providing all-day AC. Probably one of the most simple AC units to install, all you have to do is attach the hose, stick it out the window, and plug the unit into an outlet. Control the temperature with an easy remote control and adjust the temperature for full 24-hour windows.
For the studio and small apartment dwellers
If you’re looking to beat the heat from a studio apartment in the city, this is an excellent option. Not only will you be cool, but the three-in-one functionality of the machine also fans and dehumidifies to ward off the city grit.
Best Portable AC for RV
TOSOT 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner Quiet
This air conditioner unit cools up to an impressive 300 square feet. It has drier air which feels cooler and it allows your AC to work as efficiently as possible. There is a 24-hour timer and a child lock, preventing any changes throughout the day.
Quiet as a mouse
The fan spins at a low, silent speed making it perfect to use while you sleep. Its peak sound level is 49 decibels, only as loud as light rainfall.
FAQs about the best air conditioning units
Are air conditioning units really worth the price?
Depending on how hot it is where you live, air conditioner units can make all the difference in your comfort at home. AC units can actually have a positive impact on those suffering with allergies or other health issues. They are also much cheaper than central air or other more advanced air conditioning options.
How do I size my AC unit?
An air unit that is too big will make you too cold and one that is too small will struggle to beat the heat. The rule of thumb to follow is this:
- For a living room, choose a unit that accommodates 100-300 square feet
- For a bedroom, choose a unit that accommodates 250-400 square feet
- For a living room or family room, choose a unit that accommodates 350-650 square feet
Is too much air conditioning a bad thing?
There’s always the risk of too much of a good thing. If your AC unit is too strong, it could cause a bit of dehydration or dryness to the skin. This is why it’s important to choose the right fit for your home.
How do I know what to set the AC to?
If you want to leave your AC on all day, set it higher than normal when you’re out to save energy. Ideally, you should never set your AC unit to below 70 degrees Fahrenheit.