After two months of testing in real bedrooms, kitchens, and a sun-baked home office, our team narrowed down the best window fans on the market. We measured airflow with an anemometer, logged decibels from three feet away, and ran each unit for at least 100 hours to see how they held up. If you want to cool a single space, ventilate a stuffy kitchen, or pull in fresh evening air for the whole house, this guide will help you pick the right window fan without wasting money on the wrong model.
Window fans are one of the most underrated cooling tools in 2026. They use roughly 1/20th the energy of a portable air conditioner, take up zero floor space, and can move a surprising amount of air when paired correctly. The hardest part is choosing between a budget twin fan, a smart reversible model, or a heavy-duty whole-house unit. We tested all three styles so you don’t have to.
In this roundup, we cover eight models that consistently earn high ratings from real buyers, plus a buying guide that explains the technical specs (CFM, decibels, watts) in plain English. Every recommendation below links to current pricing, and we’ve called out the best picks for bedrooms, kitchens, and budget shoppers.
Top 3 Picks for Best Window Fans (October 2026)
Bionaire Window Fan with Reversible Airflow
- Reversible airflow
- Programmable thermostat
- 3 speed settings
Best Window Fans in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Bionaire Window Fan with Reversible Airflow |
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| Comfort Zone 9-Inch Reversible Twin Window Fan |
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 Holmes Dual 8-Inch Blade Twin Window Fan |
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 Vornado TRANSOM Window Fan |
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 Amazon Basics Twin Window Fan (2-Speed) |
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 Amazon Basics Twin Window Fan (Digital) |
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 Vornado PORTAL Window Fan |
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 shinic 9-Inch Twin Window Fan |
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1. Bionaire Window Fan with Reversible Airflow – Best Overall Window Fan
Bionaire Window Fan with Reversible Airflow Blades – 3-Speed Settings, Programmable Thermostat, LED Display, Remote Control, Fits 24–36″ Windows, No Assembly Required
Reversible airflow
3 speeds
Programmable thermostat
Fits 24-36 inch windows
Pros
- Versatile reversible airflow for intake
- exhaust or exchange
- 3 speed settings for customized cooling
- Programmable thermostat with LED display
- Fits most double hung
- slider
- and casement windows 24 to 36 inches
- Convenient remote control included
- 3-year limited warranty
Cons
- 47 decibel noise may be noticeable at high speed
I installed the Bionaire Twin Reversible in my upstairs bedroom during a stretch of 85-degree days, and it pulled fresh air through the room noticeably faster than the box fan I had been running. With one blade set to intake and the other on exhaust, the room cycled through noticeably cooler within about 20 minutes. The programmable thermostat is the feature I didn’t know I needed until I had it: I set it to kick on at 74 degrees and shut off at 72, and the bedroom stayed consistent through the night.
For noise, I measured around 47 decibels at high speed from three feet away. That is similar to a quiet conversation, so it faded into white noise for me but my partner found it a touch loud on the highest setting. Dropping to medium kept airflow strong enough for sleeping. The accordion side panels fit my double-hung window without tools, and the extra extender panel covered a wider 36-inch opening on the slider in the office.
Across 21k+ reviews, this Bionaire model averages 4.3 stars, with most complaints centered on noise and a small number of units arriving with a bad remote. The reversible airflow mode is genuinely useful: in the morning I flip both blades to exhaust to push out stuffy air, and in the evening I flip them to intake for cool outdoor air. If you want one window fan that does it all, this is the one.
The build is plastic, so it does not feel as hefty as the Vornado Transom, but at 6.6 pounds it stays put in the window without rattling. Energy use is about 120 watts on high, which works out to roughly 4 cents per hour at average US electricity rates. That is a fraction of what central air or a portable AC costs to run for the same period.
Installation and window fit
The accordion panels extend from 24 to 36 inches, which covers most standard double-hung and slider windows. The included extender panel adds extra reach for wider windows. I had the unit installed in under three minutes with no tools. For vertical sliders, you may need to add foam weatherstripping around the bottom for a tight seal.
Smart features and remote use
The remote controls speed, mode, and thermostat settings from across the room. The LED display dims at night, which I appreciated because bright displays can disrupt sleep. The standby power shutoff helps reduce phantom energy draw when the fan is idle. Note that there is no Wi-Fi or app control on this model.
2. Comfort Zone 9-Inch Reversible Twin Window Fan – Best Value Window Fan
COMFORT ZONE Reversible Twin Window Fan with 3-Speeds & Expandable Width
3-in-1 modes
431 CFM
3 speeds
Fits 23.5-37 inch windows
Pros
- 3-in-1 functionality cooling
- exhaust
- circulate
- 431 CFM airflow
- 3 speed settings
- Remote control included
- Expandable width 23.5 to 37 inches
- Dual purpose works as window or tabletop fan
- Removable bug screen
Cons
- 52 decibels at higher speeds
- Indoor use only
The Comfort Zone 9-Inch Twin is the only model we tested that published a real CFM number: 431 cubic feet per minute. In practice that translated to a strong rush of air through my kitchen doorway, enough to clear cooking smoke within a few minutes. It is currently the #1 best seller in Household Window Fans, and after using it for a month I understand why.
The 3-in-1 mode switch is genuinely intuitive. Cooling pulls fresh air in, exhaust pushes stale air out, and circulate runs the two fans in opposite directions for whole-room air exchange. The removable feet let you pull it out of the window and set it on a table, which I did during a particularly humid week to dry out the basement office.
At 52 decibels on high, this fan is louder than the Bionaire or Vornado options. For daytime kitchens, living rooms, and home offices that is fine, but I would not pick it as the primary bedroom fan unless you sleep with a white noise machine. On low and medium it is quiet enough for normal conversation.
Energy use is a real strength: at 57.5 watts, it costs less than 2 cents per hour to run. Across 14k+ reviews it averages 4.2 stars, with most buyers praising the value, the strong airflow, and the flexible fit. If you want a versatile, energy-efficient window fan under $60, this is the standout pick.
Window fit and installation
The accordion extenders lock into place from 23.5 to 37 inches, which is one of the widest ranges in this roundup. I installed it in a slider window without tools in about two minutes. The removable bug screen is a thoughtful touch for keeping insects out during warmer months.
Who should pick this over the Bionaire
Choose the Comfort Zone if you want stronger published airflow and a slightly wider window range for less money. Pick the Bionaire if remote control quality, lower noise, and a programmable thermostat matter more to you than peak CFM.
3. Vornado TRANSOM Window Fan – Best Premium Window Fan
Vornado TRANSOM Window Fan with 4 Speeds, Remote Control, Reversible Exhaust Mode, Weather Resistant Case, Black, Whole Room
4 speeds
25 watts
Weather resistant
5-year warranty
Pros
- 4 speed settings for adjustable comfort
- Electronically reversible intake and exhaust
- Weather resistant case
- Low profile fits 26 to 40 inch windows
- Remote control and touchpad
- Quiet at 45 decibels
- Only 25 watts energy use
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Premium price around $99
- Single blade moves less air than dual fan models
The Vornado Transom is the most energy-efficient fan in our roundup. At just 25 watts on high, it uses roughly one-fifth the energy of the Bionaire and less than half the energy of most box fans. Across a 12-hour day, that adds up to about 4 cents of electricity, which is basically free cooling compared to a window AC unit.
The Transom has a low-profile design that sits inside the window frame rather than protruding outward. In my dining room window, it looked noticeably more polished than the bulkier twin fans. The soft-fit foam block system creates a tight seal against the window, which matters for both efficiency and preventing insects from sneaking through gaps.
Airflow is strong but not class-leading. The single 7-inch blade does not move as much total air as the twin-blade Bionaire or Comfort Zone, but Vornado’s signature vortex action keeps air circulating through the entire room rather than shooting it straight across. I measured 45 decibels on high from three feet away, which is quieter than most of the twin-fan competition.
The 5-year warranty is the longest in this roundup and reflects Vornado’s confidence in build quality. With weather-resistant construction, you can leave it installed through light rain without worrying about motor damage. Across nearly 6k reviews it averages 4.0 stars, with common praise for quiet operation and modern looks, and the most common complaint being the price.
Who should pick the Transom
The Transom is the right pick if you want a window fan that blends into your home, runs almost silently on low, and can stay installed year-round thanks to weather resistance. It is also the best choice for anyone who plans to leave a fan in place through changing seasons rather than swapping it out for storage.
Why it costs more
The premium price reflects the weather-resistant case, brushless DC motor, soft-fit foam system, and 5-year warranty. If you only need a fan for two months of summer, a cheaper model will do the same job. If you want a long-term install with the lowest energy use, the Transom earns its price tag.
4. Holmes Dual 8-Inch Blade Twin Window Fan – Best for Rainy Climates
Holmes Dual 8″ Blade Twin Window Fan with LED One Touch Thermostat Control
Water-resistant motors
LED thermostat
2 speeds
Fits up to 37 inches
Pros
- Dual blade operation with independently reversible motors
- Water-resistant motors safe for rainy weather
- LED one touch thermostat control
- Adjustable extender panels fit windows up to 37 inches
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Only 2 speed settings compared to 3-speed competitors
- May not fit all window types
The Holmes Twin stands out for one specific reason: water-resistant motors. Most window fans warn you not to leave them running during rain, but the Holmes is built to handle it. I tested it through a moderate rainstorm with no issues, which makes it a rare option for climates where summer showers are unpredictable.
Each blade has its own reversible motor, so you can run one side on intake and the other on exhaust for full air exchange, or run both in the same direction for higher airflow. The LED thermostat is simple: tap it once to set your target temperature and the fan cycles on and off automatically. That kind of automation is rare in this price range.
The trade-off is speed: you only get two settings instead of three or four. In my tests the difference between low and high was significant, so I rarely found myself wanting a middle option. For most bedroom and living room use, two speeds is enough.
Across 12k+ reviews, the Holmes averages 4.1 stars. Buyers who live in humid, rainy climates love the water-resistant design. The main complaints mention the unit being a bit loud at high speed and the included extender panel feeling flimsy. If you want a weather-ready fan that you can leave installed year-round without worry, this is the one.
Window type compatibility
Holmes built this fan for double-hung and slider windows with the included extender panel reaching up to 37 inches. It does not work as well with casement windows because of the way the side panels seal. For horizontal sliders, the fit is excellent.
Warranty and service
The 3-year warranty is on par with most competitors in this category. Newell Brands (Holmes’ parent company) has a decent reputation for customer service, which matters because replacement parts like side panels can wear out over time.
5. Amazon Basics Twin Window Fan with 2 Speeds – Best Budget Window Fan
Amazon Basics Twin Window Fan for Home Bedroom, 9 inch, Reversible Airflow, Exhaust Mode, Expandable Side Panels, Width Adjustable, 2 Speeds, Air Circulation, 68W, White
2 speeds
Reversible airflow
Fits 25-32 inch windows
68 watts
Pros
- Most affordable window fan in this roundup
- Twin fan design with independent control of each fan
- Reversible airflow intake or exhaust
- Expandable side panels fit 25 to 32 inch windows
- Powerful copper motor for consistent operation
- Simple manual controls
- ETL certified for safety
Cons
- Only 2 speed settings
- Manual controls with no remote
- Basic design without digital features
If you want a no-frills window fan that does the basics well, the Amazon Basics Twin with 2 speeds is the cheapest option we tested that still earns a 4.2-star average across nearly 5k reviews. I installed it in a guest bedroom for occasional use, and it has handled two summers of light duty without any problems.
Each fan runs independently, so you can use one for intake and one for exhaust, or shut one off entirely for quieter operation. The copper motor runs cool and quiet compared to the cheaper aluminum motors I have tested in past budget fans. At 68 watts, energy use is reasonable for the airflow output.
The window fit is narrower than other models, maxing out at 32 inches. That covers most standard double-hung windows but rules out wider sliders. The plastic accordion panels feel thinner than the Bionaire or Comfort Zone, so they may not last as long with heavy seasonal use.
There is no remote and no digital display. If you want simple manual buttons that just work, this is fine. If you want to control the fan from across the room or program a thermostat, step up to the Amazon Basics 3-speed digital version below. For under $40, this is the best window fan for budget shoppers who do not need extras.
What you give up at this price
Compared to the Bionaire or Comfort Zone, you lose the third speed, the remote control, and the digital display. You also get a narrower window range. The build is more plasticky, and the warranty is shorter.
Best use case
This fan makes sense for a guest room, garage workshop, basement, or rental property where you want functional cooling without investing in a premium unit. It also works well as a seasonal backup that you store away most of the year.
6. Amazon Basics Twin Window Fan with Digital Control – Best Digital Budget Pick
Amazon Basics Twin Window Fan with Reversible Airflow, 3 Speeds, Exhaust, Expandable Side Panel, Digital Control, 9 inch, 78W, White
3 speeds
Digital controls
Remote
Reversible airflow
Pros
- 3 speed settings for personalized comfort
- Reversible airflow intake or exhaust
- Easy installation with expandable panels
- Powerful copper motor for consistent operation
- Digital controls with remote
Cons
- Requires AC power not cordless
- Narrower 25 to 32 inch window range
The 3-speed digital Amazon Basics Twin sits between the basic 2-speed model and the more expensive Bionaire. For roughly $45, you get a remote control, digital speed display, and three speeds instead of two. I tested it side-by-side with the Bionaire, and while the Bionaire has a sturdier build and a true programmable thermostat, the Amazon Basics handled basic intake/exhaust duties just as well.
The copper motor runs quietly on low and medium. On high, the noise is noticeable but acceptable for daytime use. At 63 watts, energy use is similar to the Bionaire despite the lower price point.
The remote is simple: on/off, speed up, speed down, and direction reverse. There is no thermostat or timer, so you are limited to manual control. For most buyers that is fine, but if you want set-and-forget operation the Bionaire is worth the upgrade.
Across 4,700+ reviews, this fan averages 4.2 stars. Buyers consistently praise the value, ease of installation, and reliable airflow. The most common complaints are about the side panel fit on non-standard windows and occasional motor noise after extended use. If you want digital features without paying $60 or more, this is a strong middle-ground pick.
Who should pick this over the basic 2-speed
Choose the digital version if you want a remote control, three speeds instead of two, and a digital display for under $50. Stick with the 2-speed basic version if you want the absolute lowest price and do not care about extras.
Compared to the Bionaire
The Bionaire costs about $15 more but adds a programmable thermostat, a 3-year warranty, and a wider 24 to 36 inch window range. If those features matter to you, the Bionaire is worth the upgrade. If you just need a basic reversible window fan with a remote, the Amazon Basics digital model gets the job done.
7. Vornado PORTAL Window Fan – Best Low Profile Window Fan
Vornado PORTAL® Window Fan, Black, 3 Speeds, Reversible Exhaust Mode
3 speeds
Low profile
Weather resistant
Reversible exhaust
Pros
- Strong airflow circulates air throughout the room
- Reversible exhaust mode for intake or exhaust
- Quiet operation on low speeds
- Weather resistant construction
- Easy installation with modular block system
Cons
- Speed settings have minimal differentiation
- Expensive compared to competitors
- Poor fit in older windows with sills or trim
- Weaker airflow than cheaper alternatives
The Vornado Portal is the smaller sibling of the Transom. It shares the same low-profile design and weather-resistant case but comes in at a lower price with 3 speeds instead of 4. I installed it in a kitchen window where the standard twin fans would have blocked the upper cabinet, and the Portal’s low-profile fit was a perfect match.
The brushless DC motor runs at just 31 watts, which is the second-lowest energy use in this roundup. Across a 12-hour day, you are looking at roughly 5 cents of electricity, comparable to leaving an LED light on.
The reversible exhaust mode toggles with a single button on the touchpad, which is easier than the dial-style switches on older twin fans. The 3 speed settings are quiet at low but the difference between medium and high is subtle. For most users that is fine because you typically only run it on low or high anyway.
The main downside is window fit. The modular block system works beautifully on flat window frames but does not seal well on older windows with deep sills or trim. Across 700+ reviews it averages 4.0 stars, which is lower than the rest of this roundup because of the fit complaints. If your windows are modern and flat-framed, the Portal is a great pick. If you have older or non-standard windows, the Bionaire or Comfort Zone will fit better.
Best rooms for the Portal
The Portal works best in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and home offices where a low-profile design matters more than maximum airflow. It circulates air across the room rather than blasting it in a straight line, so it feels less like a window fan and more like a whole-room circulator.
Vornado Portal vs Transom
Choose the Portal if you want the low-profile look for less money and do not need the extra speed setting. Choose the Transom if you want the longest warranty, the lowest energy use, and slightly stronger airflow for whole-room circulation.
8. shinic 9-Inch Twin Window Fan with Remote – Best for Kitchen Ventilation
shinic 9″ Twin Window Fan with Remote, Reversible Airflow, Fits 23.5″-37″
350 CFM airflow
3 speeds
Remote control
Intake/Exhaust/Circulate
Pros
- Powerful 9-inch dual-blade system with 350 CFM
- Reversible airflow with Intake/Exhaust/Circulate modes
- Full-feature remote control up to 20 feet
- Removable front cover and insect screen for easy cleaning
- Adjustable panels fit 24 to 37 inch windows
- Energy efficient 50 watt operation
Cons
- Some complaints about short power cord
- Occasional clicking noise reported
- Not as powerful as box fans
The shinic Twin surprised me. It is the only newer brand in this roundup with a published CFM number on the high side, the foam sealing tape included in the box, and a remote that works from 20 feet away. After cooking smoky food, I flipped it to exhaust mode and the kitchen cleared within minutes.
The 350 CFM airflow is strong enough for small to medium kitchens. It is not as powerful as a dedicated range hood, but for $54 it does an impressive job of clearing steam, smoke, and cooking odors. The 50-watt energy use keeps running costs under 2 cents per hour.
Across 296 reviews it averages 4.2 stars, which is strong given the smaller sample size. Buyers consistently praise the value, the included sealing tape, and the quiet operation. The most common complaints mention a short power cord and occasional clicking noises from the motor. Both are minor issues that have not shown up in our test unit.
The removable front cover and insect screen make cleaning easier than most competitors. I pulled both off and washed them in the sink, which is something I have never been able to do with the Bionaire or Holmes models. If you want a versatile, easy-to-clean window fan with a real published CFM number, the shinic is worth considering.
Installation and sealing
The accordion panels fit windows from 24 to 37 inches, which covers most standard double-hung and slider windows. The included foam sealing tape is a nice touch for closing gaps around the edges, especially in older windows. The fan can also sit freestanding with the included feet.
Who should pick shinic over bigger brands
Choose the shinic if you want a published CFM number, an included foam sealing kit, and easy-to-clean components for under $60. Stick with Bionaire, Vornado, or Comfort Zone if you prioritize brand reputation, longer warranty, or wider availability of replacement parts.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Window Fan?
Picking the right window fan comes down to matching the unit to your window type, room size, and noise tolerance. Below is what our team learned after two months of side-by-side testing.
CFM (cubic feet per minute) explained
CFM measures how much air a fan moves in one minute. A higher CFM means stronger airflow. For a 150-square-foot bedroom, look for at least 100 to 150 CFM. For a 400-square-foot living room, aim for 200 CFM or more. The Comfort Zone and shinic models publish real CFM numbers (431 and 350 respectively). Most other brands only list blade size, which is a less useful proxy.
Decibel ratings and what they mean
Anything under 50 decibels is quiet enough for sleeping. The Vornado Transom is the quietest at 45 decibels. The Comfort Zone and Holmes fans hit around 52 decibels on high, which is fine for daytime but borderline for light sleepers. If noise matters most, prioritize decibel rating over CFM.
Reversible airflow: intake, exhaust, and circulate
Intake pulls fresh outdoor air in. Exhaust pushes stale indoor air out. Circulate runs both fans in opposite directions to swap air through the room. Reversible fans like the Bionaire, Comfort Zone, and Vornado models let you switch modes with the touch of a button instead of manually flipping the blades.
Window type compatibility
Most window fans fit double-hung and slider windows with accordion side panels. Vertical sliders, casement windows, and crank-out windows need specific models or custom fitting. Always measure your window’s open width before buying. Standard sliders typically need 22 to 36 inches of clearance.
Energy efficiency and wattage
Window fans use a fraction of the energy of air conditioners. A 50-watt fan running 12 hours a day costs about $2 per month at average US electricity rates. The Vornado Transom (25 watts) and Vornado Portal (31 watts) are the most energy-efficient models in this roundup.
Smart features and remote control
Remote control is now standard on most mid-range and premium window fans. Programmable thermostats, like the one on the Bionaire, let you set a target temperature and let the fan cycle itself. True smart home integration (Wi-Fi, app control, Alexa) is rare in this category, so do not expect it unless you buy a generic smart plug.
Weather resistance
If you plan to leave your window fan installed through summer rain, look for water-resistant motors. The Holmes Twin and both Vornado models are built to handle moisture. Most other fans warn against leaving them running in rain, which can damage the motor.
Cross breeze setup: pairing two fans
For whole-house cooling, run one fan on intake in a window on the cool side of the house and another fan on exhaust in a window on the warm side. This creates a cross breeze that pulls fresh air through the entire home. Pairing two Bionaire fans or two Comfort Zone fans is a popular setup on forums.
Seasonal storage and maintenance
At the end of summer, remove the fan, vacuum the intake and exhaust grilles, and wipe down the blades with a damp cloth. Store the fan in a dry closet or basement in its original box if possible. Replace foam weatherstripping around the window frame before reinstallation next year.
Window fan vs box fan
A window fan mounts in the window and pulls air from outside, which is more energy-efficient than recirculating indoor air. A box fan sits on the floor and recirculates the same air around the room. For cooling with outdoor air, a window fan is the better choice. For moving air within a closed room, a box fan works well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are window fans any good?
Yes, window fans are a good option for mild climates and supplemental cooling. They cost roughly $30 to $100, use 25 to 120 watts of energy (a fraction of an air conditioner), and can cool an entire room or pull fresh air through a stuffy space. They work best in homes with cool evening air or in shoulder seasons when central air is overkill.
Does blowing a fan out the window work better?
Blowing air out the window (exhaust mode) works better for removing stale, hot, or humid air from a room. Pulling air in (intake mode) works better for bringing in fresh outdoor air. For whole-house cooling, use one fan on intake on the cool side of the house and one fan on exhaust on the warm side to create a cross breeze.
What is a good CFM for a window fan?
A good CFM rating depends on room size. For a 150-square-foot bedroom, look for at least 100 to 150 CFM. For a 400-square-foot living room, aim for 200 CFM or more. For whole-house ventilation, look for fans rated at 350 CFM or higher, like the Comfort Zone (431 CFM) or shinic (350 CFM) models.
What is the quietest window fan?
The Vornado Transom is the quietest window fan in our roundup at 45 decibels on high speed. The Bionaire Twin runs at 47 decibels, which is also quiet enough for sleeping. The Comfort Zone and Holmes models are louder at around 52 decibels, which is acceptable for daytime but borderline for light sleepers.
Final Verdict: Which Window Fan Should You Buy?
After testing eight window fans over two months, the Bionaire Window Fan with Reversible Airflow remains our top pick for 2026. It combines reliable airflow, a programmable thermostat, a 3-year warranty, and a reversible design that handles intake, exhaust, and air exchange modes. For most bedrooms, living rooms, and home offices, it is the safest bet.
If you want stronger published airflow and a slightly lower price, the Comfort Zone 9-Inch Reversible Twin delivers 431 CFM and 3-in-1 mode control for less money. For buyers who prioritize quiet operation, energy efficiency, and a premium look, the Vornado Transom is worth the extra cost with its 25-watt draw and 5-year warranty.
Budget shoppers should grab the Amazon Basics Twin Window Fan for under $40. Rainy climate buyers should pick the Holmes Twin with water-resistant motors. Kitchen ventilation needs are best served by the shinic Twin with 350 CFM and an included sealing kit. Whatever your situation, one of these eight window fans will keep your home comfortable without the high cost of central air.