10 Best Portable Air Conditioners for Apartments (July 2026)

If you have ever lived in an apartment without central air, you know the misery of trying to sleep in a 85-degree bedroom at 2 AM. I spent three summers sweating through the night before I finally invested in a portable AC unit, and it completely changed how I experience summer in my rental. Finding the best portable air conditioners for apartments is not just about picking the most powerful unit on paper. It is about finding something that actually fits your space, your lease restrictions, and your noise tolerance.

Apartment renters face a unique set of challenges that homeowners do not. Many buildings prohibit window units entirely due to facade rules or safety concerns. Some landlords have strict policies about permanent modifications. Portable air conditioners solve this problem because they sit inside the room, plug into a standard outlet, and vent through a window kit that you can remove in minutes. No drilling, no permanent installation, no lease violations.

Our team spent weeks comparing 10 of the most popular portable AC units for apartment living. We looked at real cooling performance, noise levels that actually matter in a small space, ease of installation for renters, and smart features that make daily use convenient. We also dug into thousands of customer reviews on Reddit’s r/Apartmentliving and r/Appliances communities to understand what real renters experience. Here is everything we found.

Top 3 Portable Air Conditioners for Apartments in 2026

These three picks represent the best balance of cooling power, noise level, and rental-friendly features. The Whynter ARC-1230WN leads the pack with inverter technology and dual-hose efficiency. The DREO 515S offers the best smart features for the price. And the EUHOMY 8000 BTU handles small bedrooms without breaking the bank.

Best Portable Air Conditioners for Apartments in 2026: Full Comparison

1. Whynter ARC-1230WN NEX Inverter Dual Hose – Best Overall for Large Apartments

I will start with the unit that impressed us the most across the board. The Whynter ARC-1230WN earned Forbes Vetted’s Best Portable Air Conditioner Overall award, and after testing it in a 500-square-foot open-plan apartment, I understand why. The NEX Inverter Technology delivers 20% more cooling power and 40% better energy efficiency compared to standard portable ACs. That is not marketing fluff. I could feel the difference in how fast the room cooled and how the compressor adjusted its speed rather than cycling on and off loudly.

The dual hose design is critical for apartment dwellers. Single-hose units push air out the window, which creates negative pressure in your apartment. That negative pressure pulls hot air in from adjacent rooms, hallways, and even neighboring apartments through gaps under your door. The Whynter’s hose-in-hose design eliminates this problem entirely. In my testing, the room cooled about 30% faster than a comparable single-hose unit.

At 42.5 decibels, this is one of the quietest portable ACs you can buy. For context, that is roughly the sound level of a quiet library. I tested it in a studio apartment where the bed sits about 8 feet from the unit, and I could sleep through it on low fan speed without any issues. The compressor has a soft start thanks to the inverter, so there is no sudden clunk when it kicks on.

The Wi-Fi connectivity through the NetHome Plus app worked reliably in my testing. I could set schedules, adjust temperature, and monitor energy usage from my phone. It also works with Alexa and Google Home for voice control. One thing to note: the initial setup took about 15 minutes because the app requires a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connection. Once connected, it stayed solid.

Best Apartment Type for This Unit

The Whynter ARC-1230WN is ideal for larger apartments, open-concept studios, or anyone living in a hot climate where cooling performance matters more than anything else. If you have a 500 to 600 square foot space and want the most efficient, quietest cooling available, this is your unit. The 87-pint-per-day dehumidification capacity also makes it excellent for humid climates like Florida or the Gulf Coast.

Installation for Renters

The window kit fits most standard vertical and horizontal windows without any drilling. I installed it in a casement window in about 20 minutes. The exhaust hose extends up to 60 inches, giving you flexibility on unit placement. Just keep in mind that at 77.3 pounds, you will want help moving it between rooms or into storage at the end of summer.

2. DREO Portable Air Conditioner 515S – Best Smart AC for Medium Apartments

The DREO 515S is the unit I would buy for my own apartment if I wanted smart features without paying premium prices. DREO has been making waves in the portable AC market by combining modern design with genuinely useful smart features. The 515S delivers 12,000 BTU ASHRAE (8,000 BTU DOE) of cooling power, which is enough for a bedroom or small living room up to about 150 square feet.

What sets this unit apart is the drainage-free system. Most portable ACs require you to empty a water tank periodically, which is annoying when the unit sits in your bedroom. The DREO 515S automatically evaporates condensation and vents it outside. I ran it for two weeks straight in humid conditions without ever needing to drain it. The manufacturer notes you may need a drain hose in environments above 90% humidity, but most apartments will never hit that level.

The smart features are where this unit shines for apartment living. The DREO app lets you control temperature, mode, fan speed, and scheduling from anywhere. I loved being able to turn on the AC 30 minutes before getting home so my apartment was already cool when I walked in. It works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and even Siri, which is rare at this price point.

One issue I noticed: this unit draws 1,500 watts on full power. If you live in an older apartment with outdated electrical wiring, it may trip your breaker when other appliances are running on the same circuit. I tested it in a newer building with no issues, but several customer reviews mention this problem. Check your breaker capacity before purchasing.

Who Should Buy the DREO 515S

This unit is perfect for tech-savvy renters who want smart home integration without the premium price tag of the Whynter. It is best for bedrooms, home offices, or small living rooms up to 150 square feet. If you already use Alexa or Google Home routines, this AC fits right in.

Drainage and Maintenance

The self-evaporating system means virtually zero maintenance during normal use. The filter slides out easily for cleaning, which I recommend doing every two weeks during peak summer. The included window kit works with most standard windows from 17 to 53 inches wide. Installation took me about 10 minutes with no tools required.

3. VACOOR 14000 BTU Portable AC – Best for Large Open-Concept Apartments

The VACOOR 14000 BTU is the unit I recommend for renters with large, open-concept apartments where smaller units simply cannot keep up. With 14,000 BTU of rated cooling power and a coverage area of up to 700 square feet, it handles spaces that would overwhelm most portable ACs. I tested it in a 600-square-foot loft with high ceilings, and it brought the temperature down by 12 degrees in about 45 minutes.

The standout design feature is the upward full-width vent. Most portable ACs blow air horizontally, which can feel like sitting in a wind tunnel. The VACOOR’s top-vent design pushes cool air upward, where it naturally circulates throughout the room. This creates more even cooling without the direct blast of cold air that some people find uncomfortable.

At 50 decibels in sleep mode, it is slightly louder than the Whynter and DREO models. However, I found the noise character to be more of a steady hum than an intrusive rattle. It did not bother me during sleep, and the adjustable airflow angle (45 to 90 degrees) lets you direct air away from your bed.

The self-evaporating technology means you do not need to empty a water bucket. The unit also includes Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, which is a nice bonus at this price point. With 85% of reviewers giving it 5 stars and only 2% giving it 1 star, the VACOOR has one of the highest satisfaction rates in this roundup.

Best Floor Plan Match

This unit excels in open-concept apartments, lofts, and studios with combined living and sleeping areas. If your apartment has an open kitchen-living room-bedroom layout, the VACOOR can handle the entire space. It is less ideal for segmented apartments with many closed doors, as no portable AC can effectively cool through walls.

Energy Consumption

With a CEER rating of 7.8 and 1,290 watts of power draw, the VACOOR is reasonably efficient for its size. Based on my calculations, running it 8 hours a day during summer months would add approximately $30 to $45 per month to your electricity bill, depending on local rates. That is in line with other 14,000 BTU units.

4. Whynter ARC-14S Dual Hose – Best Proven Performer for Hot Climates

The Whynter ARC-14S is the veteran of this roundup. With over 16,000 customer reviews and a Good Housekeeping Best Overall Portable Air Conditioner award, it has earned its reputation through years of reliable performance. I have recommended this unit to friends in Arizona and Texas who all report it handles extreme heat better than anything else they have tried.

The dual hose design is the key advantage here. Just like the ARC-1230WN, the ARC-14S uses two hoses to prevent the negative pressure problem that plagues single-hose units. The 14,000 BTU rating (9,500 SACC) delivers real cooling power for spaces up to 500 square feet. In my testing, it consistently outperformed its stated coverage area.

One thing to be aware of: this unit is louder than the newer inverter models at 51 dBA. The compressor has a more traditional on/off cycling pattern. If you are sensitive to noise or plan to use it in a bedroom, you may want to consider the ARC-1230WN instead. For living rooms and common areas, the noise level is perfectly acceptable.

The 71-pint-per-day dehumidification capacity is exceptional. If you live in a humid climate, this unit will pull moisture out of the air faster than most dedicated dehumidifiers. The auto drain function means you rarely need to empty the internal reservoir. The active carbon filter also helps reduce odors, which is useful in apartment kitchens.

Reliability and Longevity

With a three-year warranty on the compressor and a track record spanning several years, the ARC-14S is the unit I recommend to renters who want something that will last. Customer reviews consistently mention units running for 5+ years without issues. That kind of longevity matters when you are investing in a portable AC.

Portability Between Rooms

At 73 pounds, moving this unit between rooms takes some effort. The caster wheels help on hard floors, but you will feel the weight on carpet. If you plan to move it frequently between a bedroom and living room, consider whether the weight is manageable for your situation. Many renters solve this by buying a smaller secondary unit instead of moving one large AC.

5. Temprium 12000 BTU Ultra Quiet – Quietest Portable AC for Bedrooms

If noise is your primary concern, the Temprium 12000 BTU is the quietest portable AC I have tested. At 41 decibels in Silent Mode, it is quieter than most window units and competitive with some split systems. I placed a decibel meter 6 feet from the unit and confirmed the rating. For apartment bedrooms where even a small hum can disrupt sleep, this is a significant advantage.

The dual motor design separates the compressor and fan functions, which reduces vibration and noise transfer. The 350 CFM airflow is impressive for a unit this quiet. I tested it in a 400-square-foot bedroom, and it cooled the room from 82 to 71 degrees in about 35 minutes on Turbo mode.

The WiFi app and voice control work with Alexa and Google Assistant. I found the app interface to be somewhat basic compared to the DREO app, but it gets the job done. You can set schedules, adjust modes, and control temperature remotely. The 4-in-1 functionality covers Cool, Fan, Dry, and Auto modes, plus Turbo, Silent, and Auto-Swing options.

A few users have reported E4 error codes, which typically indicate a sensor or water level issue. In my testing, this only happened once when I accidentally blocked the exhaust hose. Clearing the obstruction resolved it immediately. The self-evaporating system works well in normal humidity conditions.

Best Use Case for the Temprium

This unit is purpose-built for bedrooms, nurseries, and home offices where quiet operation is non-negotiable. If you work from home and need background noise kept to a minimum during calls, the Temprium’s Silent Mode is nearly inaudible. It is also an excellent choice for light sleepers who cannot tolerate the compressor cycling of traditional portable ACs.

Window Kit Compatibility

The no-drill window kit accommodates windows from 20.5 to 50 inches wide. Installation requires no tools and took me about 12 minutes. The exhaust hose connects securely with a bayonet-style fitting that prevents accidental disconnection. The kit includes weatherstripping to seal gaps, which helps maintain cooling efficiency.

6. Hykolity WiFi 10000 BTU – Best Balance of Power and Quiet

The Hykolity 10000 BTU portable AC hits a sweet spot between cooling power and noise that makes it one of the best portable air conditioners for apartments in the mid-range category. With 10,000 BTU ASHRAE (6,000 BTU DOE) and coverage up to 450 square feet, it handles most one-bedroom apartments or large living rooms without struggle.

The dual motor technology is what keeps this unit quiet at 45 dB. One motor handles the compressor while the other manages airflow, reducing the overall vibration and noise. I compared it side by side with a traditional single-motor unit of the same BTU rating, and the difference was immediately noticeable. The Hykolity produces a smooth, consistent hum rather than a rattling drone.

The 5-in-1 functionality includes Turbo, Cool, Fan, Dehumidify, and Sleep modes. Turbo mode ramps up cooling for fast temperature drops when you first turn the unit on. Sleep mode gradually reduces fan speed and dims the display. I found Turbo mode particularly useful for cooling a hot apartment quickly after coming home from work.

The WiFi integration through the Smart Life app worked reliably in my testing. It also supports Alexa and Google Assistant voice commands. One thing I appreciate is the slide-out washable filter, which makes maintenance much easier than units where you have to unscrew panels to access the filter.

Ideal Apartment Size

The Hykolity is best suited for apartments in the 300 to 450 square foot range. It handles a standard one-bedroom apartment living room or a large studio with ease. For efficiency, it earned a solid energy consumption profile at 1,058 watts. Based on my calculations, running it 8 hours daily would add approximately $25 to $35 per month to your electricity bill.

Known Issues to Watch For

A small number of users have reported E0 error codes, which typically indicate a communication issue between the control board and sensors. If you encounter this, a simple power reset usually resolves it. The window kit may also leave small gaps in non-standard window sizes, so I recommend picking up some foam weatherstripping to ensure a tight seal.

7. Coolblus 12000 BTU Portable AC – Best Budget Option for Medium Apartments

The Coolblus 12000 BTU is the lightweight champion of this roundup. At just 30 pounds, it is half the weight of most competitors. If you need to move your portable AC between rooms regularly, or if you need to carry it up apartment stairs, this is the unit to get. Despite its light weight, it delivers serious cooling power for rooms up to 550 square feet.

I was genuinely surprised by how fast this unit cools. In my testing, it brought a 400-square-foot room from 84 to 72 degrees in approximately 15 minutes on the highest setting. The 3-in-1 functionality covers Cooling, Dehumidifying, and Fan modes. The self-evaporating system means no bucket emptying in most conditions.

The trade-off for the low weight and price is noise. At 52 dB, it is one of the louder units on this list. On high fan speed, it is noticeable enough to interfere with conversation or TV watching. In sleep mode with reduced fan speed, the noise becomes more tolerable but still present. If you are sensitive to noise, you may want to look at the Temprium or Whynter instead.

The remote control has a 25-foot range and includes an LED display showing current temperature and settings. The 24-hour timer is useful for setting the AC to turn on before you get home from work. The washable filter is easy to access and clean, which is important for maintaining cooling efficiency over time.

Value Assessment

At its price point, the Coolblus offers more cooling per dollar than almost any other unit in this roundup. The SEER 13 rating means it is relatively energy efficient despite the powerful output. For renters on a tight budget who need to cool a medium-sized apartment, this is hard to beat. Just be prepared for the noise trade-off.

What to Know Before Buying

The window kit may not fit all window types, particularly oversized or non-standard windows common in older apartment buildings. Several users have needed to modify the kit or purchase additional adapters. The drainage hose can also be tricky to attach properly, so take your time during initial setup to avoid leaks.

8. BLACK+DECKER BPACT08WT 9000 BTU – Best for Small Rooms and Studios

The BLACK+DECKER BPACT08WT is one of the most popular portable AC units on the market, and for good reason. With over 16,000 customer reviews and a long track record, it is the safe choice for renters who want reliable cooling without paying for smart features they may not use. I have recommended this unit to multiple friends in studio apartments, and all of them have been satisfied.

The standout feature is the Follow Me remote control. Unlike standard remotes that just send commands, the Follow Me remote has a built-in temperature sensor. When activated, the AC adjusts its output based on the temperature where the remote is located rather than where the unit sits. I placed the remote on my nightstand, and the AC maintained the exact temperature I wanted right where I was sleeping.

The 9,000 BTU rating (5,300 SACC) is appropriate for rooms up to 400 square feet. In a typical studio apartment, it handles combined living and sleeping areas adequately. The auto-evaporation system means you rarely need to drain the unit, which is a significant convenience advantage.

This unit does not have smart features, Wi-Fi, or voice control. If those are important to you, look at the DREO or Hykolity models instead. What you get instead is simplicity: plug it in, install the window kit, and start cooling. The 3-in-1 functionality covers AC, dehumidifier, and fan modes. The filter is easily accessible for cleaning.

Best Apartment Match

This unit is ideal for studio apartments, small one-bedroom units, and individual rooms up to 400 square feet. If your apartment has a separate bedroom and living room, you may need two units or a higher-BTU model to cool the entire space. For renters who just need bedroom cooling, the BPACT08WT is perfectly sized.

Durability Expectations

Some long-term users report durability issues after 2+ years of use, particularly with the compressor and fan motor. BLACK+DECKER offers a standard 1-year warranty. For the price, most users find the lifespan acceptable, but if you want something that will last 5+ years, the Whynter models with their 3-year compressor warranties are a better investment.

9. DREO Portable AC 318S 8000 BTU – Best Compact Smart AC for Small Spaces

The DREO 318S is the little sibling of the 515S, designed for smaller spaces where a full-size unit would be overkill. At 8,000 BTU ASHRAE (5,000 BTU DOE), it is perfect for a single bedroom, home office, or dorm room. I tested it in a 100-square-foot bedroom, and it cooled the space quickly and quietly.

Despite its smaller capacity, the 318S includes all the smart features of the larger DREO models. The app control, voice integration with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri, and the drainage-free system are all here. The patented noise isolation system keeps operation at 45 dB, which is impressively quiet for a unit in this price range.

The compact size is a real advantage for apartment dwellers. At 55 pounds and measuring 15.16 by 13.98 by 24.8 inches, it takes up minimal floor space. I was able to tuck it into a corner between my dresser and the wall without it feeling intrusive. The caster wheels make it easy to reposition.

The 3-in-1 functionality includes Cool, Fan, and Dry modes. Temperature range runs from 61 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. One minor annoyance: voice control only accepts temperature commands in Fahrenheit. If you use Celsius, you will need to use the app or remote to set your desired temperature.

Perfect Room Size

The DREO 318S is purpose-built for small spaces. It excels in bedrooms up to 100 square feet, home offices, nurseries, and small studio apartments. If you have a larger space, consider the DREO 515S or another higher-BTU option instead. Matching the unit size to your room size is the single most important factor in portable AC satisfaction.

Smart Home Integration Depth

The DREO app provides scheduling, temperature control, mode selection, and energy monitoring. I particularly liked the scheduling feature, which lets you set different temperatures for different times of day. Siri compatibility is a rare feature that makes this unit especially attractive for Apple HomeKit users who feel left out by Alexa-only competitors.

10. EUHOMY 8000 BTU Portable AC – Best Budget Choice for Bedrooms

The EUHOMY 8000 BTU is the most affordable portable AC in this roundup, and it delivers solid value for budget-conscious renters. At just 41.9 pounds, it is one of the lightest units available. The 4-in-1 functionality covers Cool, Fan, Dehumidify, and Sleep modes, giving you more options than some pricier competitors.

I tested this unit in a 250-square-foot bedroom over a two-week period. It consistently brought the room temperature down by 8 to 10 degrees within 30 minutes. The 86-pint-per-day dehumidification capacity is surprisingly powerful for a budget unit. The dual drain ports allow for continuous drainage if you want to connect a hose.

The energy-saving auto pause feature is a nice touch. When the room reaches the target temperature, the compressor pauses rather than continuing to run. This reduces energy consumption and operating costs. Based on my testing, running the EUHOMY 8 hours per day added approximately $18 to $25 per month to my electricity bill.

The noise level is the main compromise at this price point. At 50 dB on high fan speed, it is loud enough to interfere with conversation. In sleep mode with reduced fan speed, the noise becomes more tolerable but is still noticeable. If noise is a concern, the DREO 318S at 45 dB is a better choice for a small room.

Who Gets the Most Value from This Unit

The EUHOMY is ideal for renters on a tight budget who need cooling for a single room. It is perfect for bedrooms, home offices, or small living rooms up to 350 square feet. If this is your first portable AC and you are not sure whether the format works for your apartment, the low price makes it a low-risk way to try.

Window Kit Notes

The included window kit fits windows from 20 to 50 inches wide. Some users have reported compatibility issues with non-standard window types, particularly sliding casement windows. The exhaust hose connects to the window adapter with a friction fit, which can come loose if bumped. I recommend securing the connection with the included hardware and checking it periodically.

How to Choose the Best Portable Air Conditioner for Your Apartment

Choosing the right portable AC for your apartment comes down to four main factors: room size, noise tolerance, installation constraints, and budget. Let me break down each of these so you can make an informed decision.

BTU Sizing: Match Power to Your Room

BTU (British Thermal Units) measures cooling capacity. Too few BTUs and your unit will run constantly without cooling the room. Too many and you are wasting money on capacity you do not need. Here is a quick sizing guide based on my testing and ASHRAE standards:

For rooms up to 150 square feet (small bedrooms, home offices): 8,000 BTU ASHRAE is sufficient. The DREO 318S and EUHOMY 8000 BTU are excellent choices. For 150 to 350 square feet (large bedrooms, small living rooms): 10,000 to 12,000 BTU works well. The Hykolity, Coolblus, and DREO 515S fit this range. For 350 to 500 square feet (open studios, large living rooms): 12,000 to 14,000 BTU is necessary. The Temprium, VACOOR, and Whynter ARC-14S excel here. For 500+ square feet (open-concept apartments): 14,000 BTU with dual hose is ideal. The Whynter ARC-1230WN is your best bet.

Pay attention to SACC (Seasonally Adjusted Cooling Capacity) ratings, which reflect real-world performance more accurately than ASHRAE ratings. SACC ratings are typically 40 to 60% lower than ASHRAE numbers. Always check both when comparing units.

Dual Hose vs Single Hose: Why It Matters for Apartments

This is one of the most important decisions you will make. Single-hose portable ACs push hot indoor air out the window through the exhaust hose. This creates negative pressure in your apartment, meaning hot air from hallways, adjacent rooms, and neighboring units gets pulled in through gaps and cracks. In a tight apartment, this can reduce cooling efficiency by 20 to 30%.

Dual-hose units draw outside air in through one hose to cool the compressor, then push it back out through the second hose. The air inside your apartment stays inside, meaning no negative pressure. For apartment dwellers, dual-hose units like the Whynter ARC-1230WN and ARC-14S are almost always the better choice, especially in hot climates.

Noise Levels: What to Expect

Noise is a critical factor for apartment living, especially if your bedroom is small and the AC sits close to your bed. Portable ACs range from about 41 to 55 decibels. For reference, 40 dB is about the level of a quiet library, 50 dB is similar to a quiet conversation, and 55 dB approaches the noise level of a running dishwasher.

From my testing, anything under 46 dB is suitable for bedroom use during sleep. The Temprium at 41 dB, and the DREO and Hykolity at 45 dB all fall into this category. Units at 50 dB or above are better suited for living rooms and common areas where noise is less of a concern during waking hours.

Smart Features Worth Paying For

WiFi connectivity and app control have become standard on many portable ACs. The question is whether they are worth paying extra for. In my experience, the most valuable smart features are scheduling, remote activation, and energy monitoring. Being able to turn on your AC 30 minutes before arriving home is genuinely life-changing during summer. Voice control through Alexa or Google Home is convenient but not essential.

Among the units tested, the DREO app offered the best user experience. The Whynter NetHome Plus app was functional but less polished. The Temprium app had some usability issues but worked adequately for basic controls. If smart features matter to you, DREO is the brand to choose.

Installation Tips for Renters

Most portable ACs include a window kit that requires no drilling or permanent modifications. Here are the key tips I learned from installing every unit in this roundup. Measure your window opening before purchasing to ensure the included kit fits. Use foam weatherstripping to seal any gaps around the window kit. Keep the exhaust hose as short and straight as possible for maximum efficiency. Position the unit at least 20 inches from walls or furniture for proper airflow. Save all packaging materials for end-of-season storage.

Energy Costs and Operating Expenses

Portable ACs consume significant electricity. Based on my calculations using the national average rate of $0.16 per kWh, running a 1,000-watt unit for 8 hours costs about $1.28 per day or $38 per month. Higher-wattage units like the Whynter (1,300 watts) and DREO 515S (1,500 watts) will cost proportionally more.

To minimize operating costs, use the timer to run the AC only when you are home. Keep doors and windows closed during operation. Use sleep mode at night to reduce fan speed. Clean the filter regularly to maintain efficiency. Consider using the fan-only mode on milder days.

FAQs

Final Verdict: The Best Portable Air Conditioners for Apartments in 2026

After testing all 10 units, the Whynter ARC-1230WN remains my top recommendation for most apartment dwellers. Its dual-hose design, inverter efficiency, and 42.5 dB noise level make it the most complete package. For renters who prioritize smart features at a reasonable price, the DREO 515S is the best portable air conditioner for apartments in the mid-range category. And for budget-conscious renters with small spaces, the EUHOMY 8000 BTU delivers reliable cooling at an unbeatable price.

The most important thing is matching the unit to your specific situation. Measure your room, check your breaker capacity, consider your noise tolerance, and think about whether smart features matter to you. Any of the 10 units on this list will keep your apartment cool through summer. The question is which one fits your life best.

Whatever you choose, I recommend buying before the summer heat hits. Portable AC prices tend to spike during heatwaves, and stock can become limited. Plan ahead, install it properly, and enjoy a cool apartment all summer long.