The upward direction that the air blows is perfect! My desk is right by the side of the unit---I'm very comfortable sitting next to it all day and all the papers on my desk stay put! It is also so quiet that I've had to check to see if it is on a few times. I had help with installation but it was a breeze. I love all the options the for changing the temperature, too. The 6000 BTU model is more than enough to cool my entire living room (250 sq ft with 12 foot ceilings)