The warm weather has emerged, and we're turning up the air conditioning. If you are in the market for a new machine, here are five that really work to cool you down when the mercury rises.
Best quietest: Hammacher Schlemmer The Quietest 6,000-BTU Window Air Conditioner
QuietestVia hammacher.com
Hammacher Schlemmer may be known for their outrageous (and expensive) gizmos and gadgets, novelties and new inventions, but who knew they are in the A/C biz too? The Quietest6,000-BTU Window Air Conditioner is not only affordable, but as quiet as a mouse… or a rain shower, as they put it. This A/C is super-quiet thanks to the buffer system around the compressor which absorbs vibration and muffles sound. With three speeds and four cooling modes, this A/C is perfect for even the hottest of days. It also works as a dehumidifier and energy-efficient fan. Cool off in quiet with an A/C that is the 'strong but silent' type.
Cost: $299.95
Best portable: Della 10,000-BTU Portable Air Conditioner Cooling Fan
PortableVia onebigoutlet.com
Not all A/Cs are meant for window placement, and portable machines are super-versatile and useful for moving around and transporting. Della's 10,000-BTU Portable Air Conditioner Cooling Fan is the perfect portable for covering up to 350 square feet with 2-way air direction for balanced cooling throughout the room. The remote control allows for convenience and the LED display is modern and easy-to-use. This A/C is designed for energy efficiency and comes with an exhaust hose and window venting kit. Portable and practical, Della is a cool choice when the temperature starts to rise.
Cost: $199.99
Best for pets: Cozy Winters Dog House Air Conditioner AC Unit
Great for petsVia cozywinters.com
Don't let those "dog days" of summer cause Fido to lose his cool. Even pets need to be comfortable, so consider Cozy Winters Dog House Air Conditioner AC Unitfor man's best friend. The 120-volt thermostatically-controlled air conditioner gets cool quickly and dehumidifies too, creating an atmosphere your dog will appreciate. The A/C is small, lightweight, and portable, just plug it in and mount to the dog house. It is safe for pets and the environment. Summer can be sweltering, so make sure your companion stays cool. Talk about a pampered pet!
Cost: $349.00
Best for all seasons: Compact Appliance 12,000-BTU Heat/Cool Window Air Conditioner
All-seasonsVia lowes.com
Why not make the most of your air conditioner by purchasing one that will warm you up come winter too? Compact Appliance 12,000-BTU Heat/Cool Window Air Conditioner offers the best of both worlds, keeping you comfy no matter the weather. The heating and cooling power will cover 550 square feet for coziness or coolness that is always the perfect temp. Full of nifty features like a 24-hour timer, a filter alarm, and an energy-saver mode, this A/C is high-tech and well-designed. The sleek remote control adds even more convenience, and the slide-in window design makes the unit simple to install. Seasonal and sensible!
Cost: $469.42
Best for big spaces: Arctic King 25,000-BTU Remote Control Window Air Conditioner
Big spaces Via walmart.com
Cool off up to a whopping 1,500 square feet with the Artic King 25,000-BTU Remote Control Window Air Conditioner. With three fan speeds and multiple cooling settings, this mega-A/C is made for comfort and plenty of coverage. No matter where you are in the room, Artic King's strong cooling power will keep you feeling comfortable, and the remote control means you can stay seated and sweat-free. Go big and stay home!
Cost: $399.00
