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5 Best Window Air Conditioners of 2023
Our pros tested these picks that keep even large rooms nice and cool.

For those of us who don't have central air conditioning, it is important to have a powerful air conditioner to keep you comfortable on those extremely hot summer days. But to avoid over-spending money on not only the initial investment but the electricity usage from running your new AC, you'll want to be sure you're investing in a unit that strikes the balance of quality and performance at the right price.
We've tested hundreds of different HVAC products, from portable air conditioners, evaporative coolers and cooling fans to humidifiers and dehumidifiers. Based on our testing, our pros found the very best window air conditioners on the market.
Our top picks:
The engineers and product experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute test window air conditioners yearly, using consistent testing and consumer feedback over a period of a couple months. We do both testing in-Lab and at home, so our engineers know exactly what keeps your home nice and cool year-round. When we test window ACs, our largest and most important consideration is that the AC can effectively cool down the space it says it can, so we measure fan speed and cooling capability. We also consider factors like loudness, ease of installation and removal and useful features like app connectivity.
While looking at our choices below, it is necessary to keep in mind that most window AC's have multiple sizes and BTUs to fit your needs and square footage. Scroll to the bottom of this article for more information on what to keep in mind when shopping for the best air conditioner and answers to some air conditioner FAQs. Once you find the window AC that's right for you, consult our guides on how to clean an air conditioner and using an AC unit when air quality is bad.
Rachel Rothman (she/her) is the chief technologist and executive technical director at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she oversees testing methodology, implementation and reporting for all GH Labs. She also manages GH’s growing research division and the analysis of applicants for the GH Seal and all other testing emblems. During her 15 years at Good Housekeeping, Rachel has had the opportunity to evaluate thousands of products, including toys and cars for GH’s annual awards programs and countless innovative breakthroughs in consumer tech and home improvement.
Having written thousands of product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations, Dan (he/him) brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his role as the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. A one-time roofer and a serial remodeler, Dan can often be found keeping house at his restored Brooklyn brownstone, where he lives with his wife and kids.
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