Portable air conditioners are easy to move from room to room. (Courtesy of Walmart)

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Summer is heating up. While the sunshine is a treat for most Clevelanders, we rely on air conditioning to keep us comfortable at home. And with gas prices skyrocketing, we’re spending more time at home. For those without central AC, small units can be installed in windows, or portable units can be vented out the window. But how do you know what to buy?

We’re here to help with this online shopping guide below.

RELATED: 6 fans everyone needs for hot summer days

Start by recognizing the types of air conditioning units – window and portable vented, the latter of which can be wheeled from room to room. Then, factor how much cooling power you need for the size of the room. Appliance Connection has a simple BTU calculator you can use before browsing their air conditioner inventory. Before you order, be certain the size of the air conditioner or venting hose if going the portable route will fit the window you intend to use.

Finally, select the features you want such as timers, remote control and Bluetooth.

Now, start shopping -- before the best units are out of stock.

The saddle AC combines the benefits of a portable and window unit. It doesn't obscure the window view. (Courtesy of Walmart)

See more window air conditioners on Amazon

See window air conditioners on Wayfair

The Whynter unit has advance auto drain technology, which uses and recycles moisture collected during the cooling process to produce cool air. (Courtesy of Amazon)

Whynter 14,000 BTU, 500 sq. ft cooling area ($445, Amazon): Has a fan with activated carbon filter. Three operational modes include air conditioner, dehumidifier and fan.

Black + Decker 14,000 BTU, 500 sq. ft. cooling area ($449.00, originally $549.99, Wayfair): Includes a remote and a programmable timer.

Frigidaire 14,000 BTU, 500 sq. ft. cooling area with dehumidifier ($532.47, Home Depot): A supplemental heating function allows you to use this unit year-round.

GE 14,000 BTU, 500 sq. ft. cooling area with dehumidifier ($489.99, Appliances Connection): Features auto evaporation, digital LED controls and remote control.

Honeywell 14,000 BTU, 500 sq. ft. cooling area with dehumidifier ($629.99, Walmart): Offers a heating function as well.

See more portable air conditioners from Home Depot

See more portable air conditioners from Walmart

I am a commerce writer for cleveland.com. I help readers find the best deals on life’s necessities and indulgences. You can reach me at pwolfe@cleveland.com. Here’s a directory of my posts.

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