10 Air Conditioners to Beat the Heat this Summer
The summer heat can be uncomfortable and unbearable. An air conditioner is the best way to cool things up in your home or office. About 84% of homes have air cons in the US alone. Buying an AC unit is a must if you want to endure the extra humid summer, and this will be your guide in choosing the best for your home.
Buying an AC unit is not a simple task. It takes some planning to do so. Size matters a lot with the type of air-con used, whether installing central air conditioners, window-mounted ACs, or portable types. A window-mounted or portable AC might be sufficient for the cooling needs of your home, office, bedroom, or children’s room.
Other factors to consider include energy efficiency, noise level, the SEER rating, and reliability, which are vital.
Before purchasing, consider the different air cons that suit your needs and budget.
A practical guide on the different types of air-conditioning units
1. Window-mounted air conditioners
The window-mounted air conditioning unit is relatively standard in many homes and offices. As the name suggests, it is mounted or located in a window opening, easy to assemble and install. In addition, a window type is a single-stage unit. You can find window-mounted air-conditioning units in different sizes and cost less than a central air conditioning system. Window types are easy to install and suitable for small spaces, turning warm air into a refreshing one. At times, the energy efficiency could be as low as one horsepower, which would not jack up your electricity bill.
2. Wall-mounted air conditioners that are either single split or multi-split air conditioners
These are the usual packaged central air-cons installed in homes and offices because they are the least expensive and could generate more energy savings in the long term. However, with this AC, careful planning is needed. With a central air conditioner, this unit will be fixed on your wall and need the assistance of installers.
Incidentally, the split systems consist of two units: the compressor placed outside and one kept inside your home. Some units offer cooling and heating functions covering one or multiple rooms. Either way, the split system is an intelligent way to add an air conditioning system to a limited number of rooms without opening up walls to install ductwork. Wall-mounted units have a more secure fit and are pleasant for your home’s interiors.
3. Portable air conditioning units
Central air conditioning systems are more cost-effective if you plan to cool the entire house and other spaces where you often dwell. However, if you are leasing or renting and wall-mounting ACs are prohibited, consider the portable conditioner for your home.
The portable air conditioner has built-in wheels, giving you the flexibility of moving the unit to different rooms. It has a tube to exhaust heat from a window or a small wall opening. However, some portable units are pricier than window types.
4. Ducted Air Conditioning Systems
And consequently, It is more expensive than other types but less costly than central air conditioning.
A central air conditioner features a single-stage unit. As a result, most central air conditioners are pricey as there are different types of central air-con units.
For any interiors, let’s look at this compilation of the best ACs that are budget-friendly, energy-efficient, and ergonomic.
Top 10 Air Conditioners for the Summer Heat
For any interiors, let’s look at this compilation of the best ACs that are budget-friendly, energy-efficient, and ergonomic.
Best Budget-Friendly Air-Conditioners
1. LG LW6019ER BTU Window Air Conditioner
- Best for rooms
- Price and Other Info
Product Description
The LG LW6019ER window AC unit and its unique cooling system stand out. With a 6,000 BTU rate, this sleekly-designed air conditioning unit can cool up to 250 sq. ft. Consequently, you can select from its three cooling fan speeds. It also features a 24-hour timer and energy-saving function.
Relax with the 4-way air fan direction and variable speed. Besides this, use the remote control to adjust the temperature. And in case of a power outage, this air conditioning equipment will power up with Auto Restart.
Specifications
- Type: Window
- Cooling capacity (BTU) 6,000
- Cooling area: 250 sq. ft.
- Other Features: 6,000 BTU, Energy Star certified
- Control method: Remote control
Pros
- Available in different sizes
- Digital controls with full-function remote
- Energy Star certified
Cons
- The installation kit is not clear
- Large models need 230 volts
2. LG LP1419IVSM Smart Dual Inverter Portable Air Conditioner
- Best for small rooms
- Price and Other Info
Product description
Say goodbye to warm air with the LG LP1419IVSM Smart Dual Inverter Portable Air Conditioner. In contrast to a central air conditioner and other air conditioning systems, LG’s exceptional inverter technology produces optimum cooling power and less noise. In addition, this unit offers a seasonal energy efficiency rating suitable for different climates.
Nonetheless, these ac systems give 40% more energy savings*. For more savings, go on sleep mode to conserve energy. What’s more, you can quickly move the compact size air conditioner to another area soon.
Specifications
- Type: Portable
- Cooling capacity (BTU) 14,000
- Cooling area: 500 sq. ft.
- Noise level: lo decibel as lows as 44dB*
- Other Features: 1370 Watts, Dual Inverter Compressor, SmartThinQ
- Control method: Remote control
Pros
- Compact
- Good cooling power
- Mobile – can quickly transfer to another area
Cons
- Bulky
3. GE Mechanical Air Conditioner
- Best for small rooms, studio apartments, and home offices
- Price and Other Info
Product Description
Give an incredible welcome to the budget buster, the GE Mechanical air con. In contrast to other air conditioning units, this AC is lightweight at 36 pounds. It packs a punch with adequate cooling features. Moreover, the new air conditioning system features ten settings; select one to cool you the way you want. You can also choose the automatic delay fan switch. Besides, the unit’s manual controls are easy for your desired temperature to circulate air.
Specifications
- Type: Window
- Cooling capacity (BTU) 5,000
- Cooling area: 150 sq. ft.
- Noise level: low noise
- Other Features: variable cooling speed, 2-way air direction, with manual controls
- Control method: Touch
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy-to-use controls
Cons
- Not energy-friendly, no SEER rating
Energy-Efficient Air-Conditioners
4. Midea 12,000 BTU EasyCool Window Air Conditioner
- Best for bedrooms, home offices, and other living spaces
- Price and Other Info
Product Description
Another excellent AC unit is the Midea EasyCool Window AC unit with its 3-in-1 comfort feature. The AC unit’s air ducts emit chilled air for your relaxation.
The low noise does not compromise its cooling function with a variable speed unit. Being Energy Star certified has its advantages. Thus, you’ll get 35% more energy-saving than other units. Your monthly energy bills will cost less. Furthermore, Midea comes in different sizes to suit your needs and room requirements.
Specifications
- Type: Window
- Cooling capacity (BTU) 12,000
- Cooling area: 350 sq. ft.
- Noise level: Low Noise
- Other Features: Energy Star certified
Pros
- Energy Star certified
- Quiet operation
Cons
- You can’t switch off the display light.
5. Emerson Quiet Kool 12000 BTU Window Air Conditioner (EARC12RSE1H)
- Best for living rooms, bedrooms, home offices, and other areas
- Price and other Info
Product Description
Make way for the Emerson Quiet Kool 12000 BTU window air-con. Emerson’s unique cooling system has two air exhaust vents with a variable speed of three fans. Furthermore, you can choose from its 8-way cooling settings. And because it is easy to install, this smart AC is wifi-connected and voice-control enabled. In like manner, program the temperature, and monitor your unit through a smartphone app.
Specifications
- Type: Window
- Cooling capacity (BTU) 12,000
- Cooling area: 550 sq. ft.
- Noise level: 52 dB*
- Other Features: Wifi connection, Google Assistant, Alexa, Energy Star certified
Pros
- Energy-efficient
- Top-quality cooling performance
Cons
- Costly than other air-con units
Best Air-Conditioners for Rooms and Small Spaces
6. LG 5,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner
Price and other Info
Product Description
Sweat no more. Get refreshed with the cool air from the LG5,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner. LG’s air conditioning system has many fan speeds. Thus, the total cooling output for these AC units is extraordinary. With a remote, you can adjust the temperature too. Moreover, this air con produces low noise. And because installing the unit is easy, there is no need for a concrete slab to support it further.
Specifications
- Best for medium rooms, home offices
- Type: Window
- Cooling capacity (BTU) 5,000
- Cooling area: 250 sq. ft.
- Noise level: lo decibel as lows as 50 Db*
- Other Features: 2 cooling speeds, 2-way air direction, with manual controls
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to install
- Easy-to-use controls
Cons
- Need to clean filter every 30 days
7. Frigidaire FFRE053WAE Window Air Conditioner
- Best for small rooms, home offices
- Amazon’s Choice
- Price and other Info
Product Description
Enjoy more relaxed days ahead with the Frigidaire FFRE053WAE Window Air Conditioner. Without a doubt, this unit is a good buy. Frigidaire’s air variable speed unit is remarkable, giving off cooled air in your home. Moreover, this air conditioning system has a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) score of 12. With the AC system’s high SEER rating, efficiency and savings go hand in hand. Consequently, the cooling system is compact and lightweight. You can manage the unit’s control settings, and setting the 24-hour timer is easy.
Specifications
- Type: Window
- Cooling capacity (BTU) 5,000
- Cooling area: 150 – 250 sq. ft.
- Noise level: low noise
- Other Features: Dust Filter, Energy Star certified
Pros
- Lightweight
- Extra-long power cord
Cons
- The noise level is louder than other units.
8. Haier Window Air Conditioner 5000 BTU
Product Description
Are you searching for the ideal AC unit to fit your room or studio apartment? Finally, the HAIER 5000 BTU Mechanical Window AC unit matches your needs. With two cooling modes, a condenser unit, variable speed of two fans, comfort is at its peak. Furthermore, you can choose its ten temperature settings to suit your needs. Installing this AC is a worry-free task. Because it comes with a fixed chassis, you can set it up in a double-hung window. And besides, there’s no need for a central air conditioning unit with a Haier air conditioning unit in your home.
Specifications
- Type: Window
- Cooling capacity (BTU) 5,000
- Cooling area: 150 sq. ft.
- Noise level: Low noise
- Other Features: Cooling System
Pros
- Easy to install
Best for small rooms and home offices
Cons
- Low – medium noise
Best Air Conditioner for Home
9. Keystone 8,000 BTU Wall Through Air Conditioner
Product Description
There is no need for central air conditioners with the presence of a multi-functional Keystone 8,000 BTU Through-The-Wall Air Conditioner. Undoubtedly, Keystone has a unique AC system that gives cooled air. With a full-function remote, controlling the temperature is accessible. For instance, you can select excellent to the fan’s variable speed or switch to energy saver mode. Energy usage is adequate with this air handling unit. You can subsequently switch to the unit’s heating function when colder months come. In addition, cleaning the air filter is hassle-free. Once cleaned, slide black the filter, ready to be used.
Specifications
- Type: Window
- Cooling capacity (BTU) 8,000
- Cooling area: 350 sq. ft.
- Noise level: Low noise
- Other Features: Cooling and Heating
Pros
- Cooling and heating function
- Best for bedrooms, dens, homes, home offices
Cons
- Installation is costly
10. Della 12,000 BTU Wifi Enabled Mini Split Air Conditioner
Product Description
Della 12,000 BTU Wifi enabled Mini Split AC unit is perfect for your home. Consequently, the ductless mini-split inverter system is power-packed with AHRI Certified and a SEER rating of 17. In addition, the unit has a condenser unit, heat pump, outdoor compressor, and dehumidification.
Either way, Della has variable speed units ideal for your cooling needs. This AC’s excellent features are durability, energy efficiency, and quiet cooling at 34dB*. Moreover, you can rely on the air conditioning system during colder months. It can provide an effective supplemental heating system too.
Specifications
- Type: Mini-Split
- Cooling capacity (BTU) 12,000
- Cooling area: 550 sq.ft.
- Noise level: 34dB*
- Other Features: Wifi-Enabled, Cooling, Heating, HVAC Equipment, Mini-Split System
Pros
- Cooling, heating, energy-efficient
- Best for homes, bedrooms, offices, and other living spaces
Cons
- Installation issue
Conclusion
May our guide help you choose from any of these air conditioners that fit the requirements of your room, apartment, or home office. Consequently, finding the ultimate cooling equipment should give you top value for your cooling needs. After all, you deserve an excellent backup for the sweltering summer heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easy to install a window air conditioner?
Installing a window-type central air conditioning system could be easy for some people. Others find it challenging. But having a companion while setting up your central air conditioner is ideal. Because some AC units are heavier and bulkier, you’d need an extra hand to help.
What maintenance does an AC unit need?
First, check on any debris surrounding your unit. It helps to replace or clean air filters regularly. Next, a clean and well-maintained air conditioning unit is guaranteed energy efficiency. Afterward, Look for any loose wires. Additionally, to avoid overheating, clean the condenser coils.
Depending on the size of your AC unit, remember to have it checked by an air conditioning
contractor to help optimize your unit’s performance.
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