11 Best Portable Air Conditioners Reviews and Buying Guide
Table of Contents
Why You Need a Portable Air Conditioner?
A portable air conditioner is a compact cooling system. This system does not occupy much space and is ideal for small rooms. Ideally, portable air conditioners have a coverage range of between 150 square feet to 250 square feet though there are models with larger ranges. They are also far more affordable than conventional cooling systems that cost a lot more.
If you want to enjoy a cool temperature in your home or office and don’t want to take up too much space, you definitely need the best portable air conditioner money can buy. And today is your lucky day because we have put up a list of some of the best brands money can buy.
Quick Summary
1. Best Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner: Whynter ARC-14S 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner
2. Best Freestanding Portable Air Conditioner: BLACK+DECKER BPP05WTB Portable Air Conditioner
3. Best Low Noise Portable Air Conditioner: BLACK+DECKER BPP06WTB Portable Air Conditioner
4. Best Medium-Sized Portable Air Conditioner: LG 7,000/10,000 BTU Ashrae Portable Air conditioner
5. Best Versatile Portable Air Conditioner: BLACK+DECKER BPP08WTB Portable Air Conditioner
6. Best 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner: MIDEA MAP05R1WT 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner
7. Best Low budget Portable Air Conditioner: BLACK+DECKER BPP10HWTB Portable Air Conditioner
8. Best Heavy-Duty Portable Air Conditioner: Vremi 12000 BTU Air Conditioner
9. Best Long Range Portable Airconditioner: Honeywell 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
10. Best Wifi enabled Portable Air Conditioner: Ukoke USPC01W Smart WiFi Portable Air Conditioner
11. Best Window Portable Air Conditioner: Tosot 10,000 BTU Portable Air conditioner
Now let us go into more detail by reviewing each of these brands in-depth.
Editor Picks Portable Air Conditioners
1. Whynter ARC-14S 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner
Whynter ARC-14S is one cooling system that packs so much power despite its small size. This AC uses 14,000 BTU Ashrae/9,5000 BTU SACC components. It is quite durable with a 9.5 diameter hose for extended cooling. In 2020, Good House Keeping rated it as the best overall portable cooling system, and we can see why.
Whynter has a cooling range of 500 square feet and dehumidifies your living area using 71 pints of water daily. It also has three operational modes: the AC, fan, and dehumidifier modes. Additionally, Whynter has a low noise level of <56 dB when it is working, so your entire living area does not have to be turned on its head just to enjoy premium cooling.
For a cooling system so small to be as effective as Whynter is amazing because it offers a cooling range of large conventional Acs despite being a portable one. Let us also add that it is eco-friendly and poses no threat to your environment. It will not flood your floors, nor will it give out harmful fumes or air that will place you or your family at risk. You only have to clean the filters as often as you can to keep enjoying clean air.
Pros
The biggest benefit of using this Wynther portable air conditioner is its 500ft cooling range. It is eco-friendly and easy to maintain.
Cons
Extending the hose will affect air quality, and the vibration it produces bounces off floors and walls and make quite a bit of noise.
2. BLACK+DECKER BPP05WTB Portable Air Conditioner
Black + Decker is another very good brand to make our list. This air conditioner is as quiet as a bee but makes no mistake because it is powerful. This compact system weighs just 51.1 lbs, but it has a very powerful 5,000 BTU capacity. Black + Decker will keep your room cool during summer so you can relax in comfort at all times.
The fan is adjustable and works at a feverish pace. It can swing from side to side and up and down to ensure that every single area of your room is cool. This system also has a maximum cooling capacity of 61 degrees Fahrenheit, which is more than enough to provide you with all the cooling you need. Furthermore, the air conditioner is engineered for comfort as it doesn’t make too much noise. If Sleep mode is activated, it makes <52 dB noise which is much quiet than many other air conditioners can boast of.
It is the perfect air conditioner for small rooms with a coverage range of 150 square feet. Black + Decker BPT05WTB is ideal for cabins, offices, living rooms, bedrooms, dorms, apartments and offices. It will not take you too much time to install, and transporting it from one room to another is easy using its 4 wheels. You also have the option to either hang the air conditioner on the wall or window or leave it on the floor in a freestanding position.
This product contains an installation kit comprising the hose inlet, 2 locking screws, drain hose, exhaust hose, slide bracket, hose inlet and outlet and a foam seal.
Pros
This air conditioner is very easy to clean and operate. The full LCD screen gives you access to the operation modes, and the filter is easy to clean. The 3-1 functionality is also impressive, and it has all the installation kits included in the package.
Cons
Only ideal for extremely small rooms due to its low coverage range.
3. BLACK+DECKER BPP06WTB Portable Air Conditioner
Here is another Black + Decker portable air conditioner you should consider if you don’t like the previous one we reviewed above. The BPP06WTB is an equally powerful air conditioner, but this one has a slightly powerful 6,000 BTU/10,000 BTU Ashrae. The compact air conditioner weighs 54.8 lbs which is quite lightweight, and it has a maximum cooling temperature range of 61 degrees Fahrenheit. The fan speed is adjustable, so you can switch from one speed to another to suit your needs at every point in time. It also has a sleep mode sound of 52dB.
Just like all portable Black + Decker mini ACs, this one is perfect for small rooms with a maximum cooling range of 250 square feet. It doesn’t matter whether it is installed in a bedroom, living room, cabin, dorm, camper or office; it doesn’t matter. It will provide maximum cooling at all times. If you would like to move the system from one room to another, that is possible since it has wheels for easy transportation. There is an attached 4.11 inches long hose and a window adapter included in the kit.
Furthermore, the package includes a 70.8 inches power adapter for connecting the system to your power outlet. Also included are the drain hose, 2 locking screws, slider bracket and a 5.9-inch diameter exhaust hose. Everything you need to install it and get it working is included in the package, so you don’t have to spend extra cash buying them from elsewhere. For what it’s worth, this air conditioner represents value for money.
Pros
This Black+Decker portable air conditioner has an efficient 3-in-1 functionality for premium ventilation. It is energy efficient and has minimal impact on your environment. You get the value you pay for.
Cons
Although it is not as big as the average air conditioner, it is a little bulky for a portable air conditioner.
4. LG 7,000/10,000 BTU Ashrae Portable Air conditioner
LG 7,000 BTU/10,000 BTU portable air conditioner is a fantastic home improvement system every home should have. To be honest, the Korean manufacturer hit all the right notes with this one. This AC has a maximum cooling range of 300 square feet and is suited for 12×25 inch rooms. The quiet operation system is top-notch; you will not even know it is working. And on top of that, it has the installation kit included as well as a Window kit.
This 115V air conditioner is a 3-in-1 cooling system with a cool, fan and dry mode. And they all work differently. The cool mode will cool your home and dehumidify it when the weather is hot. The fan mode circulates air, while the dry mode is what you need when moisture is in the air. LG’s auto swing vent is another functional theme you will like. When it is working, the vents oscillate from one angle to the next to provide the entire living area with premium air circulation.
The multiple fans in the compartment have multiple speeds that you can customize to suit your needs. Black + Decker cools rooms just the way an AC should, and its 300 square feet range makes it one of the best portable air conditioners for medium-sized rooms.
Pros
It produces very minimal noise and an extended cooling range. There are no hot spots with this air conditioner because no part of your room remains untouched. You enjoy little or no noise when it is working.
Cons
It is quite expensive, but the good thing is you get value for your money with this one.
5. BLACK+DECKER BPP08WTB Portable Air Conditioner
Black + Decker remains a household name when it comes to home appliances, so it is only expected that a few of their products will make the list of some of the best portable air conditioners. This model is much stronger than the ones reviewed above because it has an 8000/12000 BTU. This compact system is ideal for 17.23×13.2×27.2 inches interiors, and it weighs just 63.1 lbs.
You get to enjoy a maximum temperature of 61 degrees Fahrenheit and an adjustable fan that swings upward and downward. This model has a<54db noise level. As for the temperature range, you can enjoy a range of 350 square feet, making it a very good choice for medium and large rooms. It is very easy to install, which is something we have come to notice with Black + Decker air conditioners. The power cord is very long, which allows you to keep it far away from the power outlet.
In all, this Black+ Decker is a top choice for homeowners and office professionals who want to enjoy cool air in their medium or large-sized spaces.
Pros
A versatile air conditioner that works really well for medium and large rooms. It has 4 wheels for easy mobility, and all the accessories required to install it are included in the package.
Cons
The filter requires constant washing to maintain clean air.
6. MIDEA MAP05R1WT 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner
Midea 3-in-1 portable air conditioner has a standard 8000 BTU/5300 BTU Ashrae standard for fast and effective cooling. This AC has a cooling range of 150 square feet, and you enjoy less than the coolest and cleanest air on your dime. The fan has dehumidifying functions for sucking out hot air. If you want to relax in comfort and you don’t want to be bothered by the hot air outside, this EasyCool system by Midea is what you need.
It works really fast, and it only takes a few minutes for your environment to begin to feel the impact of the system. Midea has digital controls and an easy-to-read LCD screen. Operating the device is also easy using the remote control that is battery operated. You can set the time or change the settings with the remote. There is also an adjustable timer to help you control operations.
Midea’s maximum temperature setting is 62-90 degrees Fahrenheit with three operational modes of fan, dehumidifying and cooling features.
Pros
An AC doesn’t have to be hard to install. Installing Midea on your home is as easy as it should be. The compact remote control also makes operation easy, and the LCD screen allows you to clearly see the current setting.
Cons
The connection hose is only 5ft and not very long
7. BLACK+DECKER BPP10HWTB Portable Air Conditioner
Eight on our list of the best portable air conditioner is Black + Decker model, but this one is much more powerful than the other models we have reviewed by this same manufacturer. Black+Decker is a portable AC that doubles as a heater as well. This makes it the device for all seasons. In summer and winter, this system will offer you tremendous value. It has 10,000/14,000 BTU and is fit for large rooms.
While the sleep mode may not be as quiet as other Black+ Decker systems, rest assured they it will not disturb your peace when it is working. It has 58db noise level and a maximum temperature level of 88 degrees Fahrenheit. Weighing 66 lbs, this portable air conditioner is very powerful for its size and offers a maximum cooling range of 450 square feet.
The 4-in-1 setting is one more than many other portable air conditioners by this manufacturer, so you get to enjoy mot settings than usual. For large living rooms, garages, bedrooms and offices, this is the ideal cooling system to go for.
Pros
Simple and easy to install air conditioner with an extra-long adapter. You can install it on a window or leave it in a freestanding position. The auto swing mode allows air to reach every area of the room. You enjoy both cold air and warmth from the same device.
Cons
Slightly bulky and heavy. Requires effort to move around.
8. Vremi 12000 BTU Air Conditioner
If you are looking for a heavy-duty portable air conditioner, we recommend trying out Vremi. This 12,000 air conditioner is just what you need for that small room of yours. Who says you can’t enjoy cool air even in the smallest of spaces? Vremi guarantees that and much more. This AC has a cold air and heat function, so you enjoy dual benefits from the same device.
It used a reusable filter that requires washing at all times. As long as the filter stays clean, you continue to enjoy clean air devoid of dust. Vremi’s maximum temperature range is 300-350 square feet depending on the setting. The unit has an easy-to-read display and a timer that can be adjusted for 24 hours.
As for the maximum temperature, they too can be regulated between 64-90 degrees Fahrenheit. Furthermore, the Swing model is designed to transfer the cooling to every part of the room when in action, so you have nothing to worry about. Let’s not forget to mention the Auto Shut off feature that is activated once you set the timer. Overall, this portable air conditioner is designed to improve the quality of life indoors regardless of the weather outdoors.
Pros
It offers an extended coverage range of 350ft. The maximum temperature range is 90 degrees which is quite high. As for the LCD, all data are boldly displayed for you to keep track of performance.
Cons
It has a very strong vibration, especially when placed in a freestanding position
9. Honeywell 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
Honeywell 3-in-1 portable cooling system is an advanced 14,000 BTU device with a maximum cooling range of 700 square feet. This system has a thermal overload protection system for safety and peace of mind. The vertical wind motion is designed to distribute the air produced to all corners of the room. What you get with Honeywell is consistent and even air distribution.
Honeywell has three-speed fans and a 24 hours energy timer saving feature with remote control and batteries included. The filter is washable and designed with durable materials for extended shelf life. In addition, the auto evaporation mode keeps your living area clean with no leaks of water flooding your living area. As for the built-in dehumidifier, it consumes 51 pints of water every 24 hours.
Honeywell is a high capacity system for homes, offices, dorms and general living areas.
Pros
It provides an extended coverage range making it an ideal cooling system for large rooms. The 3-in-1 operation mode will satisfy all your needs. Honeywell is a fantastic option for areas with high humidity.
Cons
This 14,000 BTU system will cost you quite the sum.
10. Ukoke USPC01W Smart WiFi Portable Air Conditioner
Ukoke is another smart Wifi system to make our list. Ukoke uses advanced voice control Alexa features to switch the system on and off. If you are not close to the device, you can is the Ukoke mobile app to control the system from your location. This AC is designed to improve the quality of indoor living, which is why every feature required for effortless control is included.
There is a remote control in case you don’t want to use the app, but manual control is also possible using the buttons. This 4-in-1 appliance has Heat, Cool, Dehumidifier and Fan modes. The fan modes can also be adjusted to high, medium and low modes.
The maximum range capacity is 400sq feet. Beyond that, you can switch from one operation mode to the next with by using any of the control features.
Pros
Ukoke is an extra smart air conditioner for medium rooms. The 12K high-end BTU provides cooling really fast. Moreover, users can use multiple control features like the mobile app, remote control or manual buttons.
Cons
Switching from cool air to heat may take as long as 10 minutes for the switch to take effect.
11. Tosot 10,000 BTU Portable Air conditioner
Last but not least on our best portable air conditioner review is Tosot 10,000 BTU Portable Air conditioner with a maximum coverage range of 400sq feet. This device comes with remote control and has a built-in dehumidifier and a cooling fan. Tosot will cool your space in a matter of minutes with its 10,000 BTU system.
This product offers multiple uses, such as the AC fan for cool air and a dehumidifier that sucks out hot air from your room. The latter only consumes 2.5 pints an hour, making it an eco-friendly appliance. Tosot will not disturb your sleep either because the sleep function shuts off the control lights and reduces operational noise.
As for the installation process, Tosot has vertical and horizontal window features, so the choice is yours to decide how you want to install the device. Finally, the X-Fan feature spins at low, quiet speed to mop up excess water, so your home is not flooded. Tosot is built for comfort, and quality is guaranteed for an extended period.
Pros
The package includes a user manual to aid the installation process. As for the remote control, you can operate it even if you are a little distance away from the machine. Tosot is energy efficient and represents value for money.
Cons
It makes a bit of noise, especially when in heat mode.
What Is a Portable Air Conditioner?
A portable air conditioner is a compact cooling system specially created for rooms with small spaces. This type of cooling system does not take up too much space in a room and can be placed in a free standing position on the floor. This makes it a very easy system to install. Portable air conditioners also have mobile wheels to move the system from one room or position to the next. Their quick setup and mobile feature make them a highly sought after cooling unit, especially since they are not stationary like window units.
The installation requirements for portable air conditioners vary, but overall, they are relatively very easy to set up. When active, the cooling system will remove warm air from your room as well as moisture. The warm air is released outside and replaced with cold air. A portable air conditioner is not sold alone but alongside the window kit required to install it. One of the kits is an exhaust pipe or hose, which you will connect to the system and pass outside through the window.
Overall, a portable air conditioner is the ideal cooling system for rooms with a size of 150ft-200ft.
How Do Portable Air Conditioners Work?
Now let us look at how portable air conditioners work. First of all, you have to understand that a portable air conditioner is not different from any other type of cooling systems like a window unit or a mini split system since it cools interior spaces too. The only difference is in its size and, in some cases, mode of operation.
A portable air conditioner pulls hot air into its unit from the room, and the motor inside the engine fools the air and re-circulates it back to the room. As for the excess warm air it doesn’t use, this is transferred outside the room through a window with the aid of a hose. You need to also note that portable air conditioners also eject moisture as well. So what this means is that the unit also serves as a dehumidifier too.
The main design purpose of the unit is to extract hot air and moisture from interior spaces and eject them outside the room. But how does it do this? It utilizes the following components, which are the
- Refrigerant
- Fan
- Compressor
The fan draws air into the engine from the room, which is then cooled down by the condenser coils. The fans also extract moisture from the room, which is then condensed by the coils as well. During this transfer process, the energy causes the refrigerant to heat up, which is then transformed into high pressure gas moving through the system.
Now the moisture in the unit is released in two ways through an internal buck or an evaporative vent that is released outside through a hose. As the process continues, the refrigerant stays compressed so the compressor can do its work effectively. The heat generated is also released outside, which best explains why portable air conditioners use an exhaust hose.
What You Can Expect from a Portable Air Conditioner?
There are several benefits of having a portable air conditioner in your home. Here are some of them you should know about.
1. Low Price
Most of this type of cooling system is relatively cheaper cooling units you will ever buy. If you have a low budget, you should consider buying one for your room, and you will not regret it. It is far cheaper than a central cooling unit or a mini split ductless air conditioner. Since it is designed for single room solutions, you don’t have to go for an expensive model when it can do just fine in your room.
While there is no static price for the different brands and models on the market, you still get to pay far less for it than other air conditioners.
2. Little to no installation is required
While you may most likely have to call a professional to fix your window air conditioner or other unit, you don’t have to break a sweat to fix yours. This unit is relatively easy to install. In fact, some at packaged in a pre-installed state and ready for use. The one that will need a little fixing will only take you a few minutes, and you don’t need professional help to do it.
3. Portable and Compact
As the name suggests, it is portable and compact. This unit will not take up too much space in your room, and should you decide to move it from room to room, you can do so with ease since it is not heavy and it moves on wheels.
4. Year round value
You may not know this, but a portable air conditioner offers full time value all year long. This is because it has different functions, such as
Heat mode: During winter or when the weather is very cold, cooling your room is no longer needed. What you will need at that point is warmth, which is something a portable unit can provide. If you buy a unit with a heating coil, you can simply activate heat mode, and it will heat your room.
Dehumidification: There are units that can dehumidify your room, especially during wet days when there is excess moisture in the air. This setting is highly effective in keeping you comfortable. It collects the moisture and releases it outside through the exhaust hose.
Fans: If you don’t want your room to freeze up, but you want air only, you can activate fan mode to keep your room well ventilated.
5. Easy control
Another thing to love about a portable air conditioner is the easy control feature. Most units with smart features can be controlled using your smartphone, not only the remote control. If you download the app on your phone, you can control the unit even when you are not home. The app allows you to change the settings without going anywhere near it, and you can check the status of the unit wherever you may be. Unlike traditional units that can only be controlled by hand or via a remote control, smart units offer much more control options.
How to Choose a Portable Air conditioner
When it comes to picking a portable air conditioner, you have to be quite tactful about it. This is because there are so many brands in the market, and each brand has different units with different specifications. Having to choose between several units can be tricky, especially when you know very little about portable units.
To help you out, we have provided and reviewed a list of things to consider when selecting a portable air conditioner. Read our buying guide to learn more.
1. Size and capacity
You have to decide the size you need. On average, air conditioners are rated in the form of British Thermal Units (BTU). Units with a higher BTU offer more cooling power than the ones with lesser units, but these are not ideal for small rooms. What you should be looking for is not a unit that will provide cooling that you don’t need. So a unit with 5000 BTU will work. You may go for something higher, but it should not be more than 10,000 BTU; otherwise, you will be wasting energy in excess cooling your room doesn’t need.
You also want to make sure that the unit is not too big for wherever you wish to install it. The unit should be positioned in a place that is not too tight for it.
2. Access to window
You have to make sure that the installation position is not very far from the window. This is because it requires a hose to expel excess heat and moisture, and the hose is not very long. So you need to place it not very far from the window. So when making your selection, decide in where you wish to install it and how far away from the window. This is the distance you will use to measure the length.
3. Maintenance
Some units require more maintenance than others, but how much? This is something you will have to find out. Avoid units they will need the expert help of a professional to clean. The last thing you want is it spend so much money maintaining your system just to keep it clean and functional.
The system you should go for should only require regular moisture and heat draining via a hose. If you choose to go for a unit that uses a pan as a collection point, you will need to remove the pan and drain the water regularly. If you can afford it, we will recommend an evaporative model which drains excess moisture on its own, so you don’t have to do any draining.
Another thing you will do is to clean the filter regularly. By rinsing it in water, you rid it of dust, so when you replace it, the air released will remain clean and dust-free.
4. Decibel levels
You don’t want a unit that makes so much noise, do you? This is why we recommend one with not more than 40dB. If you can’t find one with 40dB, it should not go beyond 50dB. Sound is calculated in decibels, and the higher the decibel, the more noise the unit will make. The last thing you want is a unit that will disturb the peace in your room.
5. Energy consumption
This is one of the banes of most cooling units you should be aware of. Many modern day units work quite well, but the only downside is that they consume too much power. So we recommend that you look for systems with the following ratings
- Energy efficiency ratio (EER)
- Energy Star rating
If you find a unit with any of these ratings, just know that the unit is energy efficient. In fact, there are units that consume 40% less energy than traditional units. If you go for such a portable air conditioner, you get to enjoy premium cooling without spending too much on electricity.
6. Sleep mode
Make sure the unit has a sleep mode for several reasons. Firstly, units with sleep mode make less noise when it is activated. Secondly, when sleep mode is activated, temperature release drops to moderate levels so you can enjoy your sleep in peace without freezing over during the night. Some units also consume less energy in sleep mode too.
7. Control
How do you want to control the unit? Fortunately, most units have remote controls, so you can regulate the settings from the comfort of your chair without having to walk up to the unit to press the buttons. However, if you want more control, we recommend going for a system with smart features. Smart systems work with an app that you can download on your cell phone. This app can serve as a remote control to help you manage the settings
Moreover, you can regulate the settings even if you are not home since the app uses Wifi. Another thing to look out for is voice command features if you are buying a smart unit. Units with GoogleHome and Alexa voice are two of the best voice control features. They allow you to control the air conditioner by issuing voice commands.
8. Wheels
Ensure the wheels are strong and sturdy enough to support the weight of the air conditioner. Although these units are very light, you still want to make sure that the wheels are suitable for it. The last thing you want is a unit with the wheels falling off not long after you buy it. You also want to ensure that the wheels are balanced and flexible.
9. Other features
Look for other features like auto restart and flexible air vents that supply air to all parts of the room. The best portable air conditioner should have features and functions that increase functionality.
Portable Air Conditioner FAQ
Are Portable Air Conditioners Worth It?
Yes, portable air conditioners are very good for homes, offices, and other small, confined rooms. They are especially helpful in rooms with only a single window. Rather than block the window with a window AC, you can install a portable air conditioner on the ground. This way, you have access to cool air and natural sunlight at the same time.
Portable air conditioners are also very energy effective. Unlike Window Air conditioners which are other split unit systems that consume a lot of power, portable air conditioners only consume about 20%-50% energy. You can enjoy maximum cooling without raising your energy bills astronomically.
How to Drain A Portable Air Conditioner?
Draining a portable air conditioner is not as hard as many people think, and there are different ways to go about it. Before you use any of the methods, do well to unplug it from the power outlet first. After you do that, use any of the following methods.
Use a pan: Place a pan under the drain port behind the portable air conditioner and open up the valve for the water to drop. Once the water is fully drained, lock the unit by replacing the valve.
Use the sink: Another method is to use the sink. Carry your portable air conditioner to your kitchen sink or even a bathtub. When lifting, do so carefully and avoid shaking the unit. Place the unit in an upright position in the bathtub or sink, then remove the drain valve and let the water drop. After the unit is fully drained, replace the valve and return it to its position on the floor.
Use a hose: You can also use a hose to drain water from a portable air conditioner but only if your unit has a hose outlet. The only other way you can use this method is if the AC is close to the drain, as the water will flow down through the hose.
How to Clean Portable Air Conditioner?
Cleaning your portable air conditioner is important if you want to safeguard your health and want it to work effectively at all times. There are different parts of the air conditioner you ought to clean if you want to do a thorough job. Here is how to clean a portable air conditioner.
Remove the cooling pads and panels: The first thing you should do is remove the plug from the socket, then remove the panels and cooling pads.
Drain the water: With the panels out, you have to drain the unit of water. To save time, place a pan under the unit and open the drain pipe for water to flow out. Replace valve after water flows out.
Brush the inside: Portable Air conditioners tend to gather dust that can impact air quality. Take your time to remove dust by using a brush or soft sponge to clean the inside compartment. Make sure you do a thorough job so that debris and dust will not block airflow.
Soak the water tank: The rank also has to be cleaned, so fill it with water halfway and add some vinegar and let us circulate for about half an hour. You can so use soap if you don’t have vinegar. After the hour mark, rinse with warm water and scrub.
Scrub the tank: Now you should scrub the tank with a sponge or brush. Clean the bottom of the tank and then rinse with water.
Clean the cooling pad: Cleaning the cooling pad is another important chore not to be overlooked. Here is how to do it. Soak in vinegar or lemon juice
You should soak your cooling pad in Vinegar or Lemon Juice. Submerging in lemon juice or vinegar for at least 1 minute will weaken whatever stains it may have. After it has been fully soaked, air dry it and return after you are sure it is no longer wet.
Note that if your portable air conditioner is no longer cooling like before, it may be time to replace the cooling pad with a new one or to do something else. The average pad should be changed at least once a year, but if you use the unit daily, you may have to change it every 8 or 9 months. If you notice that the pad has lost its thickness, then it is time to replace it.
How Long Do Portable Air Conditioners Last?
Portable air conditioners are very durable units, and they can last for up to 10 years. If you don’t use them properly, yours may not last for more than 5 years. Of all the cooking units on sale today, they have the lowest shelf life because they get moved around a lot and are not made with long-lasting durable materials. Their compressors are generally not of high quality too.
How to Make a Portable Air Conditioner Colder?
There are different steps you can take to make your portable air conditioner colder. Here are some of them.
Be climate-conscious: Many people complain that their unit is not cooling enough no matter what they do; the truth is that the climate matters a lot when it comes to cooling units. If you live in a region with an unfriendly climate, your unit will not work effectively no matter how hard you try. Portable air conditioners are not good for humid locations.
Open windows slightly: Another way to make your unit colder is to open the window slightly. Contrary to popular opinion that windows have to be shut tight for them to work, keeping your windows slightly open will let in fresh air, which will aid circulation.
Use a dehumidifier: If you use a dehumidifier alongside the portable air conditioner, you will notice an improvement in air quality. Dehumidifiers suck out excess water from the atmosphere, so your cooling unit will function better.
Place not too far from the window: You should always place the unit not too far from a window. The closer to the window, the better.
Where to Place a Portable Air Conditioner?
A portable ait conditioner should be placed on a hard floor away from obstructions like furniture or other appliances. The ground must not be wet or slippery too. Also, ensure that the window is not shut tight but left open by an inch so fresh air can flow in. This improves interior air quality.
Why Is My Portable Air Conditioner Not Cooling?
Your portable air conditioner may not be cooling for several reasons, which include the following.
Unit is too small: If the unit is too small for your room, it will not cool it properly. The physical dimension of your room has a major influence on cooling effectiveness. That is why it is advisable to get the sizing right when buying a portable air conditioner.
Room not sealed: If your room is not properly sealed, this will lead to temperature escape, and you will not enjoy the cooling effect. An exposed room leads to an increasingly high ambient temperature. Closed windows and doors are vital for the smooth working of your unit.
Dirty unit: If the unit is dirty, it will not cool as well as it should. Portable air conditioners gather dust easily, so endeavor to clean your unit properly. Even the smallest of particles can bloc the layers or even damage the motor in worst-case scenarios. That is why it is advisable to clean the unit at all times so as to avoid electrical and mechanical problems. You should also endeavor to clean up the filter by washing it with running water to remove the dust.
Humid room: Although they are called air conditioners for interior cooling, they don’t work effectively if the room is already very humid. Humid rooms cause significant moisture buildup, so the unit will not cool effectively. This will also lead to excess liquid accumulation. To counter that, you will have to place that drain hose into a bucket or container to gather water.
Time to replace the unit: If you have done the above, but the system doesn’t improve, you may have to call a technician to check it out. If there is no improvement still, you may have to replace it since the unit may have outlived its usefulness.
How to Recharge A Portable Air Conditioner?
Recharging a portable air conditioner should be done by an expert technician. Although it is something you can do by yourself, we recommend that you let an expert handle it, so you don’t make a mistake and ruin the unit. Portable air conditioners use Freon, which tends to last for a very long time. If your unit is lacking in Freon, there may be a leak somewhere. Hiring a technician is a good idea since he will not only help you refill it but also check to see if it has a leak. If there is a leak, he will fix it.
Conclusion
The best portable air conditioner can provide your room with maximum cooling without flooding your floors. For smart features, we recommend Ukoke and Whynter. If you want an affordable model, Black+Decker models are your best bet but for an AC with an extended coverage range, look no further than Honeywell 14,000 BTU AC.
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