Don Vandervort, Head Homeboy, has written more than 30 DIY home improvement books, been a segment host on HGTV, served as MSN.com's home improvement expert and written countless magazine articles.
Today’s room air conditioners are quiet-operating marvels of design that can meet most any cooling demand, regardless of a room’s size or function. There are many energy-efficient models with a range of features, from digital thermostats to remote controls and variable fan speeds.
About one-quarter of American households have in-room air conditioners, and the numbers are increasing. Factors helping to drive their popularity include:
Affordability. Small models cost as little as $100. Large room air conditioners, with greater cooling capacities, can run to $700.
Efficiency. Many units have variable digital controls instead of the simple HIGH and LOW settings of earlier models. Units with energy saver switches provide further help in cutting down on utility costs.
Availability. Room air conditioners are sold at most big-box hardware stores, as well as at chain supermarkets, pharmacies, and department stores. Frigidaire, GE, Kenmore and LG are among the top-selling brands of room air conditioners.
Easy installation. Most window air conditioners come with easy-to-use installation kits. Free-standing portable ACs need minimal setup and can be moved from room to room.
Today’s room air conditioners are quiet-operating marvels of design that can meet most any cooling demand, regardless of a room’s size or function. There are many energy-efficient models with a range of features, from digital thermostats to remote controls and variable fan speeds.