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Mar 28, 2024 · Most Reliable Central Air-Conditioning Systems - Consumer Reports. These are the central AC brands most likely to keep you cool, according to thousands of CR members. By Mary H.J....
Mar 29, 2023 · Consumer Reports members can see the predicted reliability ratings for 23 brands of central air conditioners, based on data that members have shared about the AC units they bought and...
May 9, 2024 · Looking for the best air conditioner? Consumer Reports has honest ratings and reviews on air conditioners from the unbiased experts you can trust.
- Customer Service
- Total Cost
- Type of AC Units
- Extra Features
- Warranty
- Cooling Capabilities
- Noise
Good customer service makes a world of difference in any area of business, not just HVAC. But if you live in an area where having good AC is crucial to well-being and survival, it’s important that you’re able to get reliable help whenever you need it. Carefully read reviews when researching brands, ask for estimates from multiple companies, and don...
Air conditioning systems can be costly, and many factors affect the final price tag. A good installation contractor or brand representative should walk you through each point in detail and be able to offer a reasonable estimate for your location. Some of the cost-affecting variables include: house size, cooling capacity, how much of the house you w...
The type of AC unit you choose for your home affects the appliance’s costs and effectiveness. Four basic types exist, and each has various styles to choose from. 1. Window or portable air conditioners are smaller and less expensive than other air conditioners. However, they’re much less powerful and generally intended to keep a single or a couple o...
An air conditioning system with a lot of extra features is inevitably going to cost more. High-priced units often come with the bells and whistles attached, so it’s important to read the fine print to make sure you actually need or want everything that you’re paying for. While having a highly energy-efficient unit is ideal, you may not want it to a...
A hefty, long-term investment like an air conditioning system should always come with a warranty. Try to find a warranty offer that matches your needs and takes into account your location, especially the frequency with which you’ll be using your AC (remember, an air conditioner can break even when you’re not using it). Both workmanship warranties a...
The output BTU or cooling capability of your new air conditioner is critical. Our resident expert states, “Your home needs an air conditioning system that matches the needs of the house. Too small and it will have to work too hard to keep up—too large and it will cycle too often causing early wear.” Ensure the brand of air conditioner you choose of...
Air conditioners are always improving in efficiency, reliability and noisiness. However, they’re not silent: The best air conditioner brands generally have noise levels of between 55 and 75 weighted decibels (dbA), with some as low as 51 and others as high as about 80. These noise levels are comparable to somewhere between an operating refrigerator...
Apr 17, 2024 · Consumer Reports has tested hundreds of them. Read about types, features, and other must-know topics in our Air Conditioner Buying Guide. Shopping for a window air conditioner?
May 9, 2024 · Here are Consumer Reports' picks of the best window air conditioners for small, medium, and large rooms. You don't have to spend a lot to get top-notch cooling. Ad-free.
Feb 20, 2024 · Best Portable Air Conditioners of 2024 - Consumer Reports. Portable ACs don't cool as well as window ACs, but they can still help keep you comfortable. By Mary H.J. Farrell and Allen...
