Podcast Summary: The Wirecutter Show – "Optimize Your AC"

Release Date: June 18, 2025
Host/Authors: Christine Cyr Clisset, Kyra Blackwell, Rosie Guerin
Guests: Tom Dunn (Staff Writer, Heating and Cooling), Liam McCabe (Senior Staff Writer, Heating and Cooling)

Introduction to the Episode

In the June 18, 2025 episode of The Wirecutter Show titled "Optimize Your AC," co-hosts Christine Cyr Clisset and Kyra Blackwell, alongside producer Rosie Guerin, delve into the intricacies of air conditioning systems. The episode aims to equip listeners with the knowledge to enhance home cooling efficiency, whether they rely on window units, portable ACs, central air, or are considering upgrading to heat pumps.

The Basics of Air Conditioning

Understanding How AC Works
Christine expresses curiosity about the mechanics of air conditioners, prompting Tom Dunn to explain the fundamental operations:

[02:27] Tom Dunn: "We have guides to window units and portable units and split units, which we're going to talk about in a little bit. But we also have a lot of coverage around how to keep your home cool even if you do not have AC."

Tom details the process:

[09:23] Tom Dunn: "So your AC, whether it's whatever kind it is, it's basically sucking in the air from the house, and then it drags it over a coil of cooled refrigerant... There's a fan that then takes the moisture and the hot air and blows it out the back, and then another fan that takes whatever's left and throws it back into the room."

Window vs. Portable AC Units
The discussion shifts to the differences between window and portable air conditioners:

[10:33] Tom Dunn: "What is the difference between a window unit and a portable unit?"

Tom explains that window units require a specific window type (hung windows) and are generally more efficient, while portable units offer flexibility but are less efficient due to their bulk and the way they expel hot air.

Advanced Features: Inverter Compressors

Inverter Compressors Explained
Rosie inquires about inverter compressors, a feature often recommended by Wirecutter:

[12:53] Rosie Guerin: "What is that and why is it important? And how does it actually make an AC more efficient?"

Tom elaborates:

[13:43] Tom Dunn: "It takes a lot more energy to start and get into motion. Whereas if you were already in motion, you keep going."

Inverter compressors adjust the cooling output to match the room's needs, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing noise compared to traditional on/off compressors.

Sizing Your AC Unit

Choosing the Right Size
Rosie shares her experience with an oversized AC unit:

[14:12] Rosie Guerin: "I know that AC units come in all these different sizes, but how do you know if you're getting the right size?"

Tom advises:

[15:21] Tom Dunn: "ACs are typically sized in BTUs... 8000 BTUs are usually recommended for rooms of like 250 to 350 square feet."

He cautions against opting for larger units than necessary, as they may not effectively remove humidity, leading to discomfort despite lower temperatures.

Energy Efficiency and Usage Strategies

Optimal Use of AC for Energy Savings
A pivotal moment in the discussion addresses the common belief about turning off AC when away:

[18:44] Rosie Guerin: "Do we need to be turning our AC off when we leave the house or the apartment to save energy?"

Tom challenges this notion:

[19:30] Tom Dunn: "No, not necessarily. You can actually save money by leaving your air conditioner on."

He explains that maintaining a steady temperature using an inverter model can be more energy-efficient than frequently turning the AC on and off.

Upgrading to Heat Pumps

Introduction to Heat Pumps
The conversation transitions to heat pumps with guest Liam McCabe, who explains their dual functionality in heating and cooling:

[22:54] Liam McCabe: "So in cooling mode, a heat pump works exactly the same way as an air conditioner... In heating mode, it works backwards."

Benefits and Considerations
Liam discusses the advantages of heat pumps, including energy efficiency and the potential for significant rebates and tax credits, although he notes the high upfront costs and the importance of proper installation:

[27:21] Liam McCabe: "Depending on who I talked to, they thought it was anywhere from 30 to 50% of heat pumps are installed so badly that it really has an effect on the comfort and the costs..."

Universal Tips for Keeping Your Home Cool

Weatherization
Tom emphasizes the importance of weatherizing to maintain a comfortable indoor environment:

[30:21] Tom Dunn: "Weatherization is so key. You can get like weatherizing strips you can line around your windows... Any of those little kinds of tiny cracks you can very, very easily fill in with weather strips or with caulk."

Using Shades and Fans
Christine and Tom discuss strategies such as using cellular shades to block heat and utilizing fans to circulate air efficiently:

[31:25] Christine Cyrclassette: "Certain shades are more effective at blocking out heat from outside."

Tom adds:

[32:08] Tom Dunn: "Fans also help to keep the cold air then circulating around the house, which makes it even better."

He advises on the dual functionality of ceiling fans in both summer and winter:

[33:21] Tom Dunn: "During the summertime, you want your fan to run counterclockwise... during the winter, you want to run your ceiling fan clockwise."

Addressing the Midea U AC Recall

Recall Details
In a critical update, Christine announces the recall of the Midea U air conditioner due to mold issues:

[34:25] Christine Cyrclassette: "After we recorded our interview with Tom, our favorite window AC, the Midea U was recalled..."

What to Do If Affected
Listeners owning the Midea U are advised to:

1. Inspect for Mold:

   [35:02] Christine Cyrclassette: "Use a flashlight or a headlamp to check inside the grill for mold."

2. Participate in the Recall:

   [35:23] Tom Dunn: "Midea buyers are eligible for either a prorated refund or a repair kit from Midea."

3. Prevent Future Mold Growth:

   [36:31] Christine Cyrclassette: "Run the fan to help everything dry out inside."

Closing Remarks and Takeaways

Key Insights for Listeners
The episode concludes with host reflections on the discussions:

• Christine: Emphasizes understanding humidity's role in comfort.
• Roseie: Plans to consider split AC units and leverage financial incentives.
• Tom: Highlights the importance of weatherization and informed decision-making.

Notable Quotes

• Tom Dunn on Inverter Compressors:

  "[13:43] 'It takes a lot more energy to start and get into motion. Whereas if you were already in motion, you keep going.'"

• Liam McCabe on Heat Pump Installation:

  "[27:21] 'Depending on who I talked to, they thought it was anywhere from 30 to 50% of heat pumps are installed so badly that it really has an effect...'"

• Tom Dunn on AC Sizing:

  "[15:21] 'ACs are typically sized in BTUs... 8000 BTUs are usually recommended for rooms of like 250 to 350 square feet.'"

Final Thoughts

"Optimize Your AC" serves as a comprehensive guide for homeowners seeking to enhance their home cooling systems. From understanding basic AC functions to navigating the complexities of heat pump installations and addressing recalls, the episode provides actionable insights backed by expert Wirecutter journalists. Whether you're a die-hard fan of window units or contemplating the switch to a more advanced heat pump system, this episode equips you with the knowledge to make informed decisions for a cooler, more comfortable home.

For more detailed guides and reviews, visit Wirecutter's Heating and Cooling Section.