Edgestar Extreme Cool AP12000S

The Edgestar Extreme Cool AP12000S receives more reviews than any other portable air conditioner, and most owners report they are satisfied. It has a fairly standard feature set, including a remote control, dehumidifier and digital thermostat, but it skips the timer seen on more expensive models. Unlike many portable air conditioners, there's no need to drain the unit; it exhausts water outdoors through the air pipe. Owners posting comments to online retailers say this model is an unusually good value and durably constructed, but some say it is too heavy to move from room to room and it is too loud. This model provides 12,000 Btu of cooling power -- enough for up to about 400 square feet. If you are cooling a smaller room, the Edgestar Koldfront PAC8000S (*Est. $290) is about the right size for a typical bedroom and also receives good reviews.

At Buzzillions.com, more than 130 owner reviews for this model are available, along with nearly 100 for the version that includes a space heater. Nextag.com also lists the model with the heater, but there are no comments, only an overall rating. This unit is not covered in professional reviews.