If your home does not have a central AC system, there are three different types of air conditioning units you should consider for cooling your home.

Window AC Units

• Usually easy to install into any standard, double-hung window.
• Offers multiple cooling options (from low to high).
• Less expensive than other AC options.
• Higher-end models may include timers or remote controls.

Window AC units work very well for smaller houses or apartments, or for extra rooms that you may have added onto your house. You must consider the size of the room you wish to cool, as well as any other special requirements you might have for your air conditioner, before deciding whether a window unit AC is right for you.

Built-In or Wall AC Unit

• These types of units offer more options (and often include a heat pump), but also consume more energy.
• Installation for built-in units is much more difficult than with standard window units.
• Built-in units are also generally more expensive than window units.

Built-in units are a good option for those that don't wish to take up window space or are in need of a heating/cooling system. Installation is fairly complicated and may require two people.

Portable AC Unit

• Units may be moved from room to room or space to space depending upon your needs.
• Allow for total flexibility.
• No installation required.

These portable units are a good solution for those that have changing cooling needs. For instance, if you have a guest bedroom that is normally empty, but have some friends coming into town, you may want to consider a portable unit. After the room is no longer occupied, you can move the air conditioning unit into a space where you can better make us of it.