Air Conditioner Buying Guide
Posted on June 24, 2025 By Alison P.
You've put it off long enough: Summer is here, the temperature is climbing, and you can't go another day without air conditioning. Since technology has probably come a long way since you've last bought one, it's normal to feel a little overwhelmed by all the options available. We're here to give you an organized and convenient rundown of all the available types and styles, and by the time you're done reading, you'll have all the knowledge you need to find the best air conditioner to keep your home cool all summer long!
How Many BTUs Do I Need?
Before we start in on the types of air conditioners available, the first task is to determine the BTU level you're going to need. Grab a tape measure and take the dimensions of the space that needs cooling, then plug those measurements into our handy BTU calculator. You'll know the perfect power level for your space in seconds, and you'll be ready to begin your search.
Air Conditioner Styles
Window
The window AC is probably the first style that comes to mind when you think of an air conditioner. These are temporarily-installed models that can be used for the season and then removed once the cooler months arrive. You'll find models for standard double hung windows, as well as vertical sliding window models too. If you want to have the option of opening your window while your AC is installed, there are U-shaped models that are specifically designed to give you that flexibility.
Portable
Maybe you need to cool down a space but don't have a window large enough to accommodate a window model. Why not look into a portable AC? These have the benefit of being designed for easy mobility between rooms, and can be easily vented out of small windows. If you're looking to cool off a basement or attic, this may be the perfect solution.
Wall
A wall air conditioner is an excellent choice if you need cooling power for a large space. These models install permanently through a wall sleeve. They also come in higher BTU levels than window or portable models, with some operating at over 30,000 BTUs. When making your choice, be sure to double check to make sure you've got the right electrical outlet for your chosen BTU level.
Air Conditioners with Special Features
It's not every day you buy a new AC, so make sure you get everything you want out of your new addition. Here are some special features available on select AC models that may be worth prioritizing.
Smart Features
Living in the 21st century brings with it so many daily conveniences, and the smartphone is certainly at the top of the list. When you've got a smart air conditioner, you'll be able to use your smartphone to control it from anywhere with WiFi. What's more, many smart AC models can work with virtual assistants like Alexa. Power it off and on, set the temperature, engage the timer, and beyond - all with the power of your voice.
Quiet Operation
Remember how loud air conditioners were when you were a kid? Thankfully cooling technology has improved in leaps and bounds over the years, and most models are much quieter than they used to be, but there are specific types of air conditioners that are designed to be extra quiet. The variable-speed compressor on an inverter air conditioner are made with a compressor that adjusts to varied speeds based on the temperature of the room, rather than just being “on” or “off.” Other components like aerodynamic fan blades, sound-dampening bodies, and top-mounted blower motors work in tandem on quiet air conditioners to reduce operational noise without compromising performance.
Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a popular priority for new ACs, and there are plenty of models that can help you stay cool while keeping your power usage under control. As we mentioned earlier, an inverter air conditioner is made with a variable-speed compressor. This allows it to specifically tailor the amount of power necessary to cool the space, and in addition to being quiet, inverter ACs are also extremely efficient. An inverter AC is so energy-friendly, letting it run all day will usually use less power in the long run than turning it on and off as you come and go. Another good choice for efficiency is a smart AC. You adjust the temperature from anywhere, power it up when you're on your way home, and even monitor energy usage to learn the best practices for saving energy in your home.
Heating Function
Maybe your space could use a little help with heating in cold weather as well as cooling in warm weather. If this sounds like the solution you need in your home, units with all-in-one heating and air conditioning may be just the ticket. These styles of air conditioner are available in window, wall and portable styles, so you'll be able to get the versatility and the model you need.
Now that you've taken a deeper look at your air conditioner options, it's time to get out there and start your search for the perfect air conditioner to keep your home cool. Good luck in your search, and enjoy your summer!