Optimize Your AC

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 FHWW084TE1Weatherizing gear: Frost King Silicone Weatherseal and Frost King Extra Wide Heavy Duty Door SweepBlackout cellular shades: Select Blinds Classic Cordless Blackout ShadeThe 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 2025The 6 Best Portable Air Conditioners of 2025The Best Ductless Mini Split Air ConditionerWith Air Conditioners, Bigger Could Actually Be WorseIt’s Actually Okay to Run the AC All Day, Even If You’re Not Home7 Times a Portable Air Conditioner Actually Makes Sense Over a Window ACA Heat Pump Might Be Right for Your Home—Here’s What to KnowHow to Find a Competent Heat Pump InstallerHow to Keep Your Home Cool

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

 

The Wirecutter Show is a podcast offering expert advice on everyday products that will make your life better. Each week, co-hosts Christine Cyr Clisset and Caira Blackwell, alongside producer Rosie Guerin, speak with Wirecutter’s best-in-class journalists and other expert guests for actionable advice, surprising life hacks, and delightful product discoveries. From which stand-mixer will last you a lifetime, to the best way to travel with pets, to figuring out if your smart lock is spying on you, The Wirecutter Show gives you straightforward solutions based on years of rigorous and independent product testing by more than 140 Wirecutter journalists.

• No. of episodes: 58
• Latest episode: 2025-06-18
• Education Society & Culture How To

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