While installing a window AC unit is not a difficult task ... which is vented back outside. A built-in fan circulates the remaining chilled air into the room, cooling the indoor temperature.

A Gradient rep told CNET by email you won't need to hire a professional to help install it. The All-Weather 120V Window Heat Pump can be installed on your own. The unit has some nifty features.

Compared to a regular whole-house AC unit, this DIY approach has the advantage of anyone being able to just buy and install a window AC unit, whereas whole-house AC tends to require a licensed ...