A portable air conditioner is convenient because it is well...portable! That means that you can take it with you. I'm going to go over what exactly a portable air conditioner is, different types of air conditioners, what to consider when buying one, features to look for, maintenance, and more. The outside temperature is bound to rise as we begin to hit the dog days of summer, so let's get started.
For more in-depth information on the top ten products, we have chosen. Click on the individual review button in the table below.
Here Are The Best Portable Air Conditioners of 2018!
Product Image | Product Name | Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Ontel AA-MC4 Arctic Air Personal Space Cooler | ||
 | Honeywell Contempo Series Portable Air Conditioner | ||
 | Honeywell MN12CES Portable Air Conditioner with Dehumidifier & Fan | ||
 | Whynter ARC-14S 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner, Dehumidifier, Fan | ||
 | LG LP0817WSR 115V Portable Air Conditioner with Remote Control | ||
 | Amana AMAP121AD Portable Air Conditioner with Remote Control | ||
 | BLACK+DECKER 8000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner Unit | ||
 | Honeywell MO08CESWK Compact Portable Air Conditioner with Dehumidifier and Fan | ||
 | COSTWAY 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner Dehumidifier Function Window Wall Mount w/Remote Control (Air Conditioner) | ||
 | Honeywell Portable Air Conditioner |
What Is A Portable Air Conditioner?
A portable air conditioner also called a portable AC or PAC, is a self-contained portable system that will cool single rooms. Most portable ACs will sit on the floor and are quick to set up. A lot of models come with wheels so that you can move the portable AC into different rooms.
How a Portable Air Conditioner Works
After learning all the interesting information I've included in this article, you may be wondering how a portable air conditioner works. So here is how it works:
- The gas, which is called a refrigerant, can quickly move from a low to a high-pressure situation, and it can also change the gas into a liquid. This is what makes your air conditioning feel cool.
- The low-pressure gas is sent through a compressor where the gas is pressurized rapidly, which converts the cool gas into a heated, high-pressure gas.
- The hot gas begins to pass through the condenser coils, which are meant to reduce the temperature of the gas. From here it turns into a liquid form. The liquid is still at high pressure, but it is cooler.
- Next, the liquid passes into the evaporator coils and its pressure drops. It then turns back into a gas.
- The cooled gas goes back to the compressor, as though it were to start the process all over again.
- Hot air from the house is brought in past the evaporator coil, and it is cooled. Then a blower pushes it back out into the room, which is what makes your house cool.
Different Types of Portable Air Conditioners
There are not too many different types of portable air conditioners. That said, you will need to choose which kind you will want to get. Here is a list of the types of portable air conditioners:
Tabletop Portable Air Conditioner
A tabletop portable air conditioner is basically a small portable air conditioner that can fit on a table, hence the name. Because it is small, it is also a cheap portable air conditioner.
Portable Car Air Conditioner
A portable car air conditioner is made for cooling your car during the hot summer months. Similar to the tabletop portable air conditioner, this is a small portable air conditioner.
Stand-Alone Air Conditioner
A stand-alone air conditioner is designed to sit upright without falling over. Most free standing room air conditioners are a little larger than other types of portable air conditioners.
Soleus Air Portable Air Conditioner
The Soleus Air portable air conditioner is a quiet type of air conditioner. This is a nice option for those who do not want too much noise in their home.
Different Types of Air Conditioners
Besides the types of portable air conditioners, there are also the different types of general room air conditioners. I'll go over each type here.
Portable Air Conditioner
The first type of air conditioner is a portable air conditioner. This is the type of air conditioner we are discussing today. As I mentioned earlier in this article, a lot of portable air conditioners have wheels so that you can easily move them from room to room. Portable air conditioners can also be called a portable AC or PAC.
Window Air Conditioner
A window air conditioner is designed to be installed inside a standard window. Sometimes they are installed inside a measured and prepared wall hole. This type of air conditioner can cool large or small rooms. A lot of window air conditioners feature heat modes, programmable timers, and digital control boards.
Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner
Similar to a window air conditioner, the through-the-wall air conditioner is designed to be installed through a wall inside a chassis sleeve. Through-the-wall air conditioners are available in higher cooling capacities than window air conditioner models and weigh slightly more.
Ductless Mini-Split System Air Conditioner
This type of air conditioner is very quiet and features two basic parts: a large condenser unit that installs outdoors and one or more compact wall-mountable blower units that are placed strategically inside the area you want to cool.
PTAC Cooling and Heating
The PTAC, which stands for Package Terminal Air Conditioner, is popular in hotels, assisted living facilities, offices, and sun rooms. It can cool a room of any size, and most brands allow you to control multiple units from one location.
Recommended Bestsellers
- 【𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐥】With an impressive range of 9.8ft, this remote allows you to command your personal air conditioner from anywhere in the room. Say goodbye to the hassle of getting up or reaching out to adjust settings. Simply sit back, relax, and let our remote take care of everything for you.
- 【𝐀𝐝𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝟑-𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐅𝐚𝐧】With three distinct wind speeds (low, medium, and high), you hold the power to choose the ideal airflow that suits your mood and keeps you comfortably cool. From a gentle breeze to a powerful gust, our mini ac unit ensures you can relish the cooling sensation that truly enhances your comfort.
- 【𝐑𝐚𝐩𝐢𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠】Our mini air conditioner, featuring a high-performance motor and innovative air duct design, swiftly lowers the surrounding temperature by 41-45°F, delivering a robust and cool airflow. Tip: Add ice cubes on top for extra cooling— experience an unparalleled level of cooling delight.
- ❄【3-IN-1 Evaporative Air Cooler w/ Humidifier】BALKO mini air conditioner combines a fan (without water or ice), a humidifier (with water), and portable air conditioners (with ice), all packed into a compact body. The astounding cooling features are attributed to the built-in water cooling pad. Simply add water or an ice cube, and watch as it rapidly converts hot airflow into a refreshing cool breeze, indulge in the pleasure of a revitalizing cool breeze.
- ❄【3 Wind Speeds & 25° Adjustable Angle】Indulge in personalized comfort with BALKO portable air conditioners featuring 3 adjustable wind speeds. Moreover, BALKO mini air conditioner go above and beyond by allowing you to effortlessly adjust the direction of the airflow. With a convenient 25° up and down adjustable wind direction. Say goodbye to worries about headaches caused by strong direct winds as you effortlessly redirect the airflow for your comfort.
- ❄【 3 Adjustable Humidifying Levels】Enhance your comfort with BALKO evaporative air cooler, featuring 3 humidifying levels ( (L/M/H)to cater to your unique needs. With a Low Cooler for a gentle natural wind feel. A Medium Cooler for a refreshing cool wind, and a High Cooler for a blast of cold wind. To maximize the cooling effect, we recommend adding ice cubes to the water reservoir, creating an even cooler sensation for your ultimate comfort.
- Portable AC: Use our personal air conditioner & heater (16.5” x 14.06” x 27.09”) in rooms up to 700 sq. ft. Stay cool in summer & warm in winter with our BLACK+DECKER air conditioning and heater in one.
- 4-in-1: Our 8400 BTU DOE (14000 BTU ASHRAE 128) portable air conditioner & 11,000 BTU heater has a dehumidifier & fan. This ac unit for bedroom (60.1 lbs.) comes with a remote control & top mounted control panel & LED display.
- Great Features: Set the right temperature with this ac portable air conditioner. Our portable air conditioner and heater also has a slide-out washable filter, auto water evaporation, & 24-hour timer.
- 【PERFECT SUMMER COMPANION】Equipped with an efficient and powerful rotary compressor, our portable air conditioners fight the heat like a beast and provide you unrivalled coolness within 6 minutes. 10000BTU cooling capacity blows(5100 BTU DOE) cold that reaches as far as 20 feet and cool for rooms up to 250 sq.ft. It’s the ideal affordable air conditioner for dorms, apartments, campers, offices, kitchens, garages, bedrooms, or living rooms.
- 【IT'S MORE THAN JUST AN AIR CONDITIONER】With this portable air conditioners, you can get 3 energy-saving functions for your cooling&ventilation needs - cool, dehumidifier and fan. 25L/day dehumidifying capacity and bucket-less, self-evaporating operation makes your living space cool, clean and dry. A truly versatile AC unit, must a have in hot summer. Let this room air conditioners soothe your restlessness in scorching summer and creat a comfortable environment while reading or gaming.
- 【LOWER NOISE, MORE SERENITY】Quality compressor and several layers silencer cottons achieves low noise(≤53dB) level, which brings a comforting, cool, and ultra-quiet breeze. You can get a restful night’s sleep instead of wake up in a hot sweaty mess. Reduce energy consumption with intelligent sleep mode, the temperature will automatically increase by 1℃/per hour, with a max increase of 2℃.Always sinking into a smoothing night of rest with this cost-efficeient air conditioner.
- QUIET & POWERFUL - Our 6,000 BTU SACC/CEC (10,000 BTU ASHRAE) compact air conditioner (17.32 x 13.2 x 27.2 inches and 54.8 lbs) will keep you cool and comfortable all summer. An adjustable fan speed, with up and down auto air swing, cools the air to 61 degrees Fahrenheit at the coolest setting. Sleep mode makes it extra quiet while you rest, 52dB on highest setting.Controller type:Remote Control
- PERFECT FOR SMALL ROOMS - This floor-standing portable AC unit provides steady, fast, effective cooling for rooms up to 450 sq. ft. It’s the ideal small air conditioner for dorms, apartments, cabins, campers, offices, bedrooms, or living rooms.
- SIMPLE & QUICK TO INSTALL – Just roll this portable air conditioner with 4 wheels into any room with a double hung or sliding window. Attach the included hose (4’ 11” long) & window adapter, & plug it in to an outlet using the 70.8 inch long power cord. When not in use, just unhook & store. Window kit includes foam seal, slider bracket, 5.9 inch diameter air exhaust hose, hose inlet and outlet, 2 locking screws and drain hose.
Things To Consider Before Buying a Portable Air Conditioner
If you are looking for portable air conditioners, you will first need to consider what type, size, and style you are looking for. You will also need to consider how large your home is, and how many rooms you want to cool. I'm going to go over a list of considerations to ask yourself before purchasing a portable air conditioner.
How Big Of a Space Do, I Need To Cool?
If you are heating a significant amount of space, you will need more BTUs (British Thermal Units). If you only need a small amount of space cooled, you will not need as many BTUs. Although you may want to buy the air conditioner with the most BTUs, this can be more expensive. You should only buy a portable air conditioner with high BTU numbers if you were cooling a large room.
How Much Noise Can I Handle?
Portable air conditioners are going to create some noise. There is no way to get around that fact. However, you can buy a portable air conditioner that is not as noisy as some are. One such type is the Soleus Air portable air conditioner, which does not make too much noise.
Where Will You Put the Portable Air Conditioner?
This is a rather basic question that only you can answer. If you do not have much floor space, perhaps a tabletop portable air conditioner will work well for you. But if you do have floor space, a free-standing air conditioner may work well for you. Consider beforehand where you will place your air conditioner so that you know which kind to get.
Do You Need an Air Conditioner For the Car?
If so, you will want a portable car air conditioner. A portable car air conditioner will be small and is not made for cooling large spaces. But it works perfectly for a car.
Features and Functions Found in Most Portable Air Conditioners
Here are some standard features found on most portable air conditioners:
- All portable air conditioners are going to cool your home. That is the purpose of an air conditioner.
- A dehumidifier mode will remove moisture from the air without making it cool.
- A fan will help circulate air in the room. This will help make your entire house cool.
- Some portable ACs will be able to heat the room. This means that you can use the air conditioner year-round, even during the Winter.
- Self-evaporating air conditioners will help reduce the need to drain the water that your air conditioner collects.
- A programmable timer allows you to set the air conditioner to turn off and on at specific times.
- A remote control allows you to turn the air conditioner off and on, even if you are far away from the AC.
- The lamp-off feature allows you to turn off the panel display lights so that at night your house isn't bright.
How To Install a Portable Air Conditioner
Installing a portable air conditioner is very easy. Remember first to read the instructions, since each brand may instruct you to install it differently. Also, make sure to choose a location that is near a window and outlet.
1. Install the Included Window Adapter Kit
Almost all portable air conditioners come with a window adaptor kit. Note that some portable air conditioners may not come with this kit, or your window may not work with it. But if everything does work, you will want to connect the exhaust hose that came with the portable air conditioner to the air conditioning unit. To do this, connect the window connection bracket or adapter to the other end of the exhaust hose. Then run the exhaust hose to the window, and place the window connection bracket or adapter into the open window. Secure the hose in place by taping it and shutting the window.
2. Plug It Into Your Output
Plug your air conditioner into the output, and you are ready to go!
Maintenance
Portable air conditioners do require some maintenance. Remember to always disconnect the air conditioner from power before beginning the following steps:
- Every once in a while, you may need to drain the water. If your air conditioner has a self-evaporating feature, you may not need to drain it. However, sometimes even that type of air conditioner does need to be drained.
- About every two weeks, you will need to clean the air filter. However, the manufacturer may direct you to clean it sooner or wait longer.
- Once in a while wipe the air conditioner with a damp cloth to remove dust. Wipe up excess moisture with a dry cloth.
Safety Tips for Using a Portable Air Conditioner
Set It In a Place With Low Traffic
Make sure that you set up your portable air conditioner in an area where it can't get knocked over. Make sure that no one can trip over it, and that no one will be bumping into it. If you have pets or young children, you may want to block that area off. However, make sure that you can reach the air conditioner for when you need to drain the water, clean the air filter, and follow other instructions.
Keep It Clean
For your portable air conditioner to work right, you will need to keep it clean. Make sure to follow all care instructions given by the manufacturer. As well as follow the care instructions I've given you earlier.
Do Not Keep It In the Rain
If any part of the air conditioner will be outdoors, such as connections, make sure it is waterproof. Do not store a portable air conditioner outdoors, as this can ruin the appliance and cause safety issues.
Who Should and Shouldn't Buy a Portable Air Conditioner
Are you tired of the heat of summer? Then a portable air conditioner may be what you're looking for. But unlike a regular air conditioner, a portable air conditioner can be moved from room to room. If you buy the right kind, you can also travel with it in your car. Another nice feature is that a portable air conditioner does not waste as much energy as other air conditioners. Therefore, if you don't want to spend too much money on air conditioning, a portable air conditioner is a good option for you.
Although a portable air conditioner does not use as much energy as some air conditioners do, it still does waste energy. If you have a large room to cool down, you will need more BTUs, which means you will be using more energy. Another con about portable air conditioners is that you need to drain the water often. Portable air conditioners are also a little noisier than other air conditioners.
Recommended Best-Sellers
- 【𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐥】With an impressive range of 9.8ft, this remote allows you to command your personal air conditioner from anywhere in the room. Say goodbye to the hassle of getting up or reaching out to adjust settings. Simply sit back, relax, and let our remote take care of everything for you.
- 【𝐀𝐝𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝟑-𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐅𝐚𝐧】With three distinct wind speeds (low, medium, and high), you hold the power to choose the ideal airflow that suits your mood and keeps you comfortably cool. From a gentle breeze to a powerful gust, our mini ac unit ensures you can relish the cooling sensation that truly enhances your comfort.
- 【𝐑𝐚𝐩𝐢𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠】Our mini air conditioner, featuring a high-performance motor and innovative air duct design, swiftly lowers the surrounding temperature by 41-45°F, delivering a robust and cool airflow. Tip: Add ice cubes on top for extra cooling— experience an unparalleled level of cooling delight.
- ❄【3-IN-1 Evaporative Air Cooler w/ Humidifier】BALKO mini air conditioner combines a fan (without water or ice), a humidifier (with water), and portable air conditioners (with ice), all packed into a compact body. The astounding cooling features are attributed to the built-in water cooling pad. Simply add water or an ice cube, and watch as it rapidly converts hot airflow into a refreshing cool breeze, indulge in the pleasure of a revitalizing cool breeze.
- ❄【3 Wind Speeds & 25° Adjustable Angle】Indulge in personalized comfort with BALKO portable air conditioners featuring 3 adjustable wind speeds. Moreover, BALKO mini air conditioner go above and beyond by allowing you to effortlessly adjust the direction of the airflow. With a convenient 25° up and down adjustable wind direction. Say goodbye to worries about headaches caused by strong direct winds as you effortlessly redirect the airflow for your comfort.
- ❄【 3 Adjustable Humidifying Levels】Enhance your comfort with BALKO evaporative air cooler, featuring 3 humidifying levels ( (L/M/H)to cater to your unique needs. With a Low Cooler for a gentle natural wind feel. A Medium Cooler for a refreshing cool wind, and a High Cooler for a blast of cold wind. To maximize the cooling effect, we recommend adding ice cubes to the water reservoir, creating an even cooler sensation for your ultimate comfort.
- Portable AC: Use our personal air conditioner & heater (16.5” x 14.06” x 27.09”) in rooms up to 700 sq. ft. Stay cool in summer & warm in winter with our BLACK+DECKER air conditioning and heater in one.
- 4-in-1: Our 8400 BTU DOE (14000 BTU ASHRAE 128) portable air conditioner & 11,000 BTU heater has a dehumidifier & fan. This ac unit for bedroom (60.1 lbs.) comes with a remote control & top mounted control panel & LED display.
- Great Features: Set the right temperature with this ac portable air conditioner. Our portable air conditioner and heater also has a slide-out washable filter, auto water evaporation, & 24-hour timer.
- 【PERFECT SUMMER COMPANION】Equipped with an efficient and powerful rotary compressor, our portable air conditioners fight the heat like a beast and provide you unrivalled coolness within 6 minutes. 10000BTU cooling capacity blows(5100 BTU DOE) cold that reaches as far as 20 feet and cool for rooms up to 250 sq.ft. It’s the ideal affordable air conditioner for dorms, apartments, campers, offices, kitchens, garages, bedrooms, or living rooms.
- 【IT'S MORE THAN JUST AN AIR CONDITIONER】With this portable air conditioners, you can get 3 energy-saving functions for your cooling&ventilation needs - cool, dehumidifier and fan. 25L/day dehumidifying capacity and bucket-less, self-evaporating operation makes your living space cool, clean and dry. A truly versatile AC unit, must a have in hot summer. Let this room air conditioners soothe your restlessness in scorching summer and creat a comfortable environment while reading or gaming.
- 【LOWER NOISE, MORE SERENITY】Quality compressor and several layers silencer cottons achieves low noise(≤53dB) level, which brings a comforting, cool, and ultra-quiet breeze. You can get a restful night’s sleep instead of wake up in a hot sweaty mess. Reduce energy consumption with intelligent sleep mode, the temperature will automatically increase by 1℃/per hour, with a max increase of 2℃.Always sinking into a smoothing night of rest with this cost-efficeient air conditioner.
- QUIET & POWERFUL - Our 6,000 BTU SACC/CEC (10,000 BTU ASHRAE) compact air conditioner (17.32 x 13.2 x 27.2 inches and 54.8 lbs) will keep you cool and comfortable all summer. An adjustable fan speed, with up and down auto air swing, cools the air to 61 degrees Fahrenheit at the coolest setting. Sleep mode makes it extra quiet while you rest, 52dB on highest setting.Controller type:Remote Control
- PERFECT FOR SMALL ROOMS - This floor-standing portable AC unit provides steady, fast, effective cooling for rooms up to 450 sq. ft. It’s the ideal small air conditioner for dorms, apartments, cabins, campers, offices, bedrooms, or living rooms.
- SIMPLE & QUICK TO INSTALL – Just roll this portable air conditioner with 4 wheels into any room with a double hung or sliding window. Attach the included hose (4’ 11” long) & window adapter, & plug it in to an outlet using the 70.8 inch long power cord. When not in use, just unhook & store. Window kit includes foam seal, slider bracket, 5.9 inch diameter air exhaust hose, hose inlet and outlet, 2 locking screws and drain hose.
Conclusion
I hope that this guide has answered all the questions you may have had about portable air conditioners. Best of luck as you stay cool this summer and try to find the best air conditioner for you!
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