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Consumer Reports: Here are the best central and window AC units

Window air conditioners are a great way to cool your home on hot days. However, it is important to size the unit correctly.

Posted 2023-07-13T00:01:13+00:00 - Updated 2023-07-17T16:14:37+00:00

Consumer Report's best air conditioners to keep you cool this summer

Keely Arthur

, WRAL consumer reporter

Weather experts are predicting another scorcher of a summer for many parts of North America.

With many of us still reeling from winter heating costs, now is the time to make sure your air conditioning is running as efficiently as possible. Consumer Reports reveals some simple summer do-it-yourself [DIY] tips, plus which A/Cs score the best from its latest round of tests.

Performance matters when it comes to window A/Cs. Before you buy, it’s important to size up your space. An A/C that’s too small will be underpowered and will never keep up on those hot days.

However, if you go too large, it might cycle too quickly and not dry out the air, leaving your space a little humid.

The LG LW6023IVSM for $380 earns top scores for cooling rooms under 250 square feet in less than 15 minutes.

For medium-sized rooms, the Midea U-shaped MAW08V1QWT for $379 is a great option.

For larger rooms, consider the Frigidaire Gallery GHWQ103WC1 for $465.

What about central A/C? Consumer Reports has survey data from thousands of its members that shows how reliable certain brands are and how satisfied members are with those brands.

Several brands stand out in the survey for reliability and owner satisfaction, including American Standard, Armstrong, Bryant, Carrier, Ducane, Lennox and Trane.

However, even the best A/C can struggle to keep cool when outside temps soar. To save energy and money, Consumer Reports has some tips:

Use the weather stripping and the foam panels that are supplied with the unit.
About once a month remove the filter, vacuum it gently, and then wash it with soap and water. When your central A/C filter needs to be replaced, the Filtrete MPR 1900 Filter for $23 fits most HVAC systems.
Enlist the help of a ceiling fan. It allows you to raise your A/C by a couple of degrees and still feel just as cool.

If you’re wondering whether a portable air conditioner is the way to go, CR says it’s often pricier and isn’t as efficient compared with window A/Cs. However, for some people, it’s the only option.