Air conditioners.(RATINGS)(Buyers guide)

Fine cooling performance is a given. Top-scoring models are also energy- efficient and relatively quiet. Remember that the more off-center your window, the more an air conditioner's airflow matters. All models tested include a remote control.

Guide to the Ratings

Overall score is based mainly on comfort, noise, and energy efficiency. Comfort is how well temperature and humidity are controlled at the low-cool setting. The best performers held temperatures to within 1 1/2 degrees of the set point. Noise at the low-cool setting combines an objective measurement of noise level using a decibel meter with a subjective assessment of noise quality (how annoying or grating the particular sounds were). Brownout gauges the unit's ability to run and restart during extreme heat and low voltage. Ease of use reflects control-panel layout, including the clarity of its markings, as well as how easy and intuitive the controls were to operate. Airflow left shows how well the louvers can direct air to the left of the unit when the user is facing it, most important if the air conditioner is installed in the corner of a room. Airflow right shows how well the louvers can direct air to the right of the unit when the user is facing it, most important if the air conditioner is installed in the corner of a room. Btu/hour represents the unit's cooling capacity, as supplied by the manufacturer (and as certified by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, unless otherwise noted in the Recommendations). Capacities range from 5,000 British thermal units per hour (enough for a modest-size bedroom) up to 12,500 Btu/hour (adequate for a large, sun-drenched room or even two connected rooms). EER represents the energy-efficiency rating as supplied by the manufacturer (and as certified by the AHAM, unless otherwise noted in the Recommendations). The higher a unit's EER, the lower its operating cost compared with other models of its size. Price is approximate retail.

Quick Picks

Best overall; all are CR Best Buys:

3 Frigidaire FAA067P7A (Lowe's), $150

6 GE ASM05LK, $180