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Purchasing Tips

  • Room air conditioners are eligible in all categories, which includes window units (with louvered sides), through-the-wall units (without louvered sides), casement models, casement slider models, reverse (heating) cycle window units and reverse cycle through-the-wall units.
  • Note the voltage. The standard household receptacle has a connection for a 115-volt branch unit circuit. Large room units rated at 115 volts may require a dedicated circuit. Room units rated a 230 volts may require a special circuit.
  • Select the unit with the highest Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) for greater savings. The EER is the cooling capacity in BTUs divided by the watts.
  • Look for a unit whose filter slides out easily for regular cleaning. Clean filters help keep your unit in good working condition.
  • Check the yellow EnergyGuide label. This label helps you determine how much energy it takes to operate the model, compare the energy use of similar models, and estimate annual operating costs. View a sample label PDF (74KB)
  • Consider a unit with controls. Controls such as a digital readout for the thermostat setting, and a built-in timer help you adjust your unit to use less energy.