Clean your window AC unit about every 60 days if it's in continuous use. If the unit doesn't serve as your heater, store it in the off season so dirt doesn't accumulate.

Many window units are less expensive than portable air conditioners, saving you money. Window air conditioners can generate significantly more cooling power per British thermal unit (BTU).

Two window air conditioners that look identical can vary significantly in cooling power. Just look at our top pick: The Midea U-Shaped AC has models rated at 8,000, 10,000 and 12,000 BTUs.

For both window and portable air conditioners, prices are all across the board. It depends quite a bit on the particular brand you choose, the BTU rating, and the square footage it's good for.

The Bionaire Twin Reversible Airflow Window Fan was nearly as powerful as our top pick, producing robust breezes up to 10 mph that could make a string dance from 24 feet away, about 8 feet farther ...

A window AC requires on average 500 to 1,440 watts to run, while a central unit uses upwards of 3,500 watts. If you only need to cool a small space, window ACs are much more cost effective than ...