Strategies for Staying Cool: AC Units and Heat Pumps Explained

Summers are getting hotter. First, staff writer Thom Dunn shares expert strategies to keep your home cool, including the features you’ll want to look for in a window AC unit and a simple hack for your ceiling fan that will help beat the heat. Then, we learn all about what heat pumps have to do with keeping cool from senior staff writer Liam McCabe. Plus, everything you need to know about the Midea U recall.

Products we recommend: 

• The best budget window AC: Frigidaire FHWW084TE1
• Weatherizing gear: Frost King Silicone Weatherseal and Frost King Extra Wide Heavy Duty Door Sweep
• Blackout cellular shades: Select Blinds Classic Cordless Blackout Shade
• The best vortex fan: Vornado 630 Medium Air Circulator

More about the Midea U recall

• Midea Is Voluntarily Recalling Our Favorite Air Conditioner. Here’s What You Should Know.
• A diagram for checking if your Midea U air condition has mold growing inside

Additional reading: 

• The 6 Best Air Conditioners of 2025
• The 6 Best Portable Air Conditioners of 2025
• The Best Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner
• With Air Conditioners, Bigger Could Actually Be Worse
• It’s Actually Okay to Run the AC All Day, Even If You’re Not Home
• 7 Times a Portable Air Conditioner Actually Makes Sense Over a Window AC
• A Heat Pump Might Be Right for Your Home—Here’s What to Know
• How to Find a Competent Heat Pump Installer
• How to Keep Your Home Cool

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Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast