Portable air conditioners are cheaper compared to other air conditioning units such as window air conditioner. Apart from being the best option for the budget, the cheap portable air conditioner will consume less energy saving you money. It is also easy to move around, easy to install and use.
In a case where you have installed a central air conditioner in your home, then having a portable air conditioner can be beneficial in lowering temperatures in a specific room if need be where you spend more time hence saving energy and cutting costs associated with it.
Instead of cooling the entire house yet you’re not using all rooms, then this gives you an advantage since you get to cool specific room when need be. Example, if you’re sleeping, you only cool the bedroom while you leave the other rooms unattended. Always make sure that the air conditioner you purchase is the best in order for it to serve you best and last for long.
Buyer’s Guide: Factors to put into consideration when buying a portable air conditioner
There is nothing that is more satisfying when looking for an air conditioner than having one that fits your lifestyle and your home. Always look for the following features in a portable air conditioner
– Portability
They are always perceived to be portable even though there are models that need to be permanently installed on the walls. Most of them are always heavy and whenever seasons change then you are forced to remount and detach them from the wall.
Portability has however been made possible as some models do come with castors and handlers that makes it easier to move around. If you intent to use the portable air conditioner in more than one room in different floors then make sure to buy one that is not too heavy.
Always go for one that is designed to be compact as it is lighter and saves a lot of space.
– Level of noise
Most portable air conditioners produce a lot of noise and can be very irritating. However, there are designs that are produces less noise making it the best choice to purchase.
– Installation
It should always come with instructions on how to install it and must be simple and quick. Purchasing an extra venting kit that you will place in other rooms makes it more easier as you will only be required to move the conditioning unit.Â
– Warranty
This is very crucial since your air conditioner can be repaired or replaced when not working well during the specified time. Some do have a one year warranty with some having less coverage and covers only its parts.
– Energy Efficiency
The energy required to run and cool the air conditioner is always measured in terms of Energy Efficiency Rating (ERR).If the portable air conditioner has a higher ERR then the unit is more efficient thus saving you money you will have to spend less on electricity. A portable air conditioner with stars is recommended.
– Dehumidifier
As much as portable air conditioner supply cool air into the room it might sometimes sneak in warm air making it necessary to have a dehumidifier. There are however some models of portable air conditioners designed with dehumidifying settings making it more efficient and the best choice.
– User-friendly controls
A portable ac with a digital display makes it easier to set and read it. It should be bright enough to enable you use it without causing any disruption especially at night. They are always convenient to be used in your bedroom or even your living room.
– Ventilation
You are required to always keep it close to the window in order for it to vent out hot air from the room. Portable air conditioners always have a window venting kit with instructions of setting it up. They are easy to set up and are mobile. The width of the venting kit will determine if you will place it near or a bit far from the window depending on the model you purchase.
– Dual-hose or single –hose
A portable air conditioner with a single hose often takes in and exhausts air in the same hose and it will have to work harder to cool the room making it less efficient while one with a dual-hose has one that takes in and another one that exhausts air separately making it energy efficient and quicker in cooling the room.
– Condensate type
Drip air conditioners deposits all condensate to a bucket which internal hence requiring regular dumping as it fills up fast. For partial drip air conditioners, most condensate get released through the exhaust hose though water may be deposited in the drip pan which you will have to check it regularly for dumping. A no-drip air conditioner on the other hand releases all condensate into the air hence you will not have to regularly keep checking it making it a perfect choice.
Other factors to put into consideration
☑ The size of the air conditioner
Depending on whether you want a portable air conditioner that will always be placed in a specific room or one that you can move from one room to another then its size is crucial. Always buy one that can be moved easily if you intent to use it in more than one room. Availability of wheels, ability to fit into your car or being able to carry it alone is more recommended.
☑ Room size
It is always important to consider the available space in order to see how the conditioner will best cool the space. This guide will assist you to make a quick decision on the BTU’s that you require based on the size of your room.
| Size of the Room (sq. ft) | BTU’s required | Size of the Room (sq. ft) | BTU’s Required |
| 150 | 5,000 | 700 | 14,000 |
| 250 | 6,000 | 1,000 | 18,000 |
| 300 | 7,000 | 1,200 | 21,000 |
| 350 | 8,000 | 1,400 | 23,000 |
| 400 | 9,000 | 1,600 | 25,000 |
| 450 | 10,000 | 1,900 | 28,000 |
| 550 | 12,000 | 2,700 | 36,000 |
☑ Maintenance required
Portable air conditioners always absorb moisture to give cool air hence requiring you to regularly the moisture it has collected. This can be done by removing and emptying the pan manually, using a pump to push the water upwards and out of the conditioner to another place or attaching a hose to drain gravity to a different location.
☑ Where to place it
Hot air is often produced during cooling process and must be exhausted out of the hose. They do come with window kit that expels warm air and should therefore be placed near the window. This also makes it quicker and easier to install.
☑ Programmable thermostat
With this then you will be able to set it to specific temperature which will turn off when the room is fully cooled.
☑ Auto drain system
This converts liquid that has been condensed into the exhaust where you will not be required to regularly empty it.
10 Best Portable Air Conditioner Brands to Buy
1. LG LP1215GXR 12,000 BTU
It is the best portable air conditioner in the market since it is powerful, portable, energy efficient and operates quietly. Suitable for medium rooms that measures up to 300 sq. ft.
It features an LCD remote control which enables you to control the climate in the room. Installation is also quick and easy. The humidification function is innovated to mix cool air with warm air for your comfort and to avoid over-cooling. It has a 24-Hour timer through which you can set temperature level you desire.
Features
- -It features a programmable 24-Hour timer that will allow you to control the temperature even when away from home.
- -The oscillating air vent technology circulates dispersed air efficiently hence making sure that there will be no any hot spot that will remain untouched.
- -It features rolling casters which enables you to easily move it from one room to another without any difficulties. You will not be required to carry it when you want to cool a different room.
- -It comes with an LCD remote control which allows you to control the room temperature from anywhere even if you are far from home.
- -The dehumidifying function mixes the cool and warm air therefore leaving you with cool and dry air that will make you more comfortable. All the humid in such case will be completely removed.
- -It has three cooling and three fan speeds that make sure that the cooling capacity is more flexible. You can set your unit to the level you desire for personal comfort.
- -It can auto restart any time when there is a power outage hence making it more convenient. This is the best feature as it will automatically restore to its previous settings.
- -It has 12,000 BTUs and dehumidifies the room at 1.2 pints per hour making it the best choice when cooling larger rooms due to its high cooling capacity.
- -The energy saver function greatly conserves energy since no energy will be used when the room has been completely cooled hence cutting you utility costs.
- -Its air filter is washable hence making it the best choice since no impurities or pollen which may be allergic can accumulate in the filter. This also ensures that operation is not interfered with due to clotting of dirt in the filter since it is easy to remove.
What we loved
- -Has a dehumidification function
- -Cools a room of up to 300 square feet
- -Features an LCD remote control
- -Washable air filter
- -Easy roll casters
- -Energy saver function
- -It has a window installation kit
What we did not like
- –It has a limited warranty of 1 year
2. Whynter-ARC-14S 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner
If you are looking for a portable air conditioner that will perfectly cool a large room that measure up to 700 square feet with less noise then Whynter ARC-14S is the best pick for you.
The ability to control the temperatures fully between 61 and 81 degrees Fahrenheit makes it the best. It also features three fan speeds, washable pre-filter, remote control, carbon air filter and a digital readout.
The advanced self-evaporating technology ease maintenance since it has an upper and lower direct drain option that ensures operation is not hampered since condensate will not accumulate which would require regular emptying of the tank. With the higher dehumidifying capacity of 101 pints in a day then it can act as a dehumidifier. The 24-Hour timer also allows you to set it to turn on or off at the set time. The auto restart function will make sure that it will automatically restart incase of power outage.
Its coolant (R-410A) is Eco friendly since it has fluorine only which does not display the ozone layer.
Features
- -The 24-Hour programmable timer allows you to program it to turn on or off on certain time intervals. This will be best if you are sure of the weather outside.
- -It comes with a protective cover that has a pocket that protects the air conditioner and can be used to store remote control, exhaust hose, user manual and a window kit when not in use. This will also prevent dirt and dust from collecting on the unit.
- -It has a separate dehumidifying mode which enables you to use it as room dehumidifier whenever you need it.
- -It also features a carbon air filter and washable pre-filter that helps in making sure that the air which remains in the room is cleaner and fresher air.
- -The self-evaporative system featured in the unit will exhaust the all condensate under average ambient conditions.
- -The unit also features a patented auto drain technology that will take the recycled moisture then recycles it during cooling process in order to produce cool air.
- -In case of power outage, the air conditioner will be able to restart automatically to its previous level it was operating at. This feature makes it more convenient.
- -The rolling casters will ensure that the unit moves easily without any difficulty. Due to this, you can use it in cooling more than one room therefore economical.
What we loved
- –Has a programmable unit
- -It is eco-friendly
- -Its dehumidifying is high hence works best in large rooms
- -Dual hose
- -Eco friendly
- -Cools large spaces
- -Has a self-evaporating technology
- -Filters are specialized to produce clean air
- -Auto restart
What we did not like
- -The cooling is not powerful
- -Takes up a lot of space
3. LG LP0817WSR 115V PORTABLE AIR CONDITIONER
Are you looking for a portable air conditioner that will cool your room that measure up to 150 square feet during hot seasons? LG LP0817WSR is the best choice for you cooling your smaller room.
The two fan speeds and two cooling speeds make sure that the cooling process is more flexible. It also has a top inclined air discharge and auto swing louvers which will ensure that hot spots are eliminated. You will also be able to enjoy cool air circulated efficiently by the auto-swing air vent technology.
It also features a built-in LED display panel and an LCD remote control. The auto evaporation system will allow you to use it continuously with the 24-Hour programmable timer that will allow you to control the room’s temperature even when not around the house. The dehumidifier can be able to dehumidify up to 1.8 pints per hour.
Features
- -It has an auto-swing air vent technology which circulates cool air efficiently leaving no hot air in the room. You will therefore be able to enjoy the cool air.
- -It features a 24 Hour programmable timer which will allow you to control the room’s temperature even when you are not around since it will be able to switch on or off on the set intervals.
- -The roll caster wheels and side handles that allows you to move it easily from one room to another.
- -It is able to auto restart during power outage therefore saving your setting since it will restore to its previous settings automatically.
- -The unit comes with a digital remote control that allows you to control the room temperature, dehumidification settings and fan speed from anywhere in the room.
- -It features two fan and two cooling speeds which ensures flexibility in the cooling process to attain the desired temperature.
What we loved
- –Easy to install
- -It is easy to install since it comes with a window exhaust kit
- -It can auto restart
- -24 Hour programmable timer
- -Removable and washable air filter
- -Two fan and cooling speeds
- -Portable
- -Aesthetically attractive
- -Cheap
What we did not like
- -Limited cool air
- -Shipment issues
 4. Whynther Elite ARC-122DS
If you want the best portable air conditioner that will cool your room perfectly then we recommend Whynter Elite ARC-122DS.It has a dual-hose unit, smaller, lighter and it is quite during operation. It perfectly cools a room of up to 400 square feet. It has the best specs than other portable air conditioners such a high energy efficiency ratio of 12.0 and high and powerful cooling capacity of 12,000 BTUs. With the higher ERR it can be able to cool the room quickly hence reaching the lower temperatures hence bringing you comfort in both humid and very hot weather.
It has a fan and a dehumidifier built in and also comes with a remote control that will allow you to control the temperature, speed and dehumidifier settings faster from a distance. It also has a carbon air filter, non-ozone –depleting refrigerant (R410) and a washable pre-filter. Condensate is exhausted through the self-evaporative system. The 24-Hour timer will also allow you to program it to your desired level and the caster wheels ensure easy movement.
Features
- -It features casters that make it easy to move from one room to another by only pushing it. You can move it without help from another person.
- -The dual-hose system makes sure that cooling process is more efficient since one hose will take in air with the other removes unwanted air in the room more easily.
- -The self-evaporative system ensures that no condensate remains in the room but rather removed under average ambient conditions.
- -It features an upper and lower direct drain option which ensures that operation is not interfered with by accumulation of excess condensate.
- -The unit comes with a digital thermostat control which allows you to adjust the room temperature from 61-89 degrees depending on the weather to achieve your desired temperature.
- -The digital and remote control through which you can adjust the temperature from any direction in the room without having to manually adjust it.
- -The 24 Hour programmable timer allows you to set it therefore it can switch on or off at the set intervals.
- -It features three operational modes which include the cool, fan and dehumidifying modes. These modes allows you to set your fan to the speed you desire while with the dehumidifying mode you can be able to set it when the weather is humid to remove all humid and leave you with dry and cool air.
- -It is also able to restart when there is power outage to its previous settings. This makes it more convenient since you will not need to start adjusting the settings all over.
- -It has a non-ozone depleting refrigerant that makes it environmentally friendly .It is made of fluorine which is not harmful to the ozone layer.
- -It features a carbon air filter that makes sure that any carbon is removed hence leaving you with clean and fresh air. Its filter is also washable allowing you to remove any dirt which may accumulate in it to make sure operation is continuous.
 What we loved
- -Has a Dual hose system
- -Easy to set up
- -Compact and powerful
- -Strong cooling system
- -Eco-friendly
- -Quiet
- -Self-evaporation system
- -Energy saver
What we did not like
- -High price
- -Hard to ship
5. Frigidaire 12,000 BTU Cool Connect Smart Portable Air Conditioner
Frigidaire Cool connect Smart Portable Air Conditioner has 12,000 BTU that makes it ideal to cool a room of up to 550 square feet. It uses Wi-Fi connectivity and will be able to send notifications through your Smartphone or computer. It also works well with smart systems at home. The Frigidaire smart app also allows you to control it making it the best choice.
You can always use you Smartphone to change temperatures, adjust fan speeds, control modes, and turn it on and off and setting custom schedules. It can however be controlled manually by using a magnetic remote. Air is able to circulate in upward in 360 degrees therefore cooling the whole room fast. The Eco mode enables it to turn on or off on the set intervals while operating at the set temperature. This makes it more efficient since it will save energy hence reducing utility costs.
The programmable settings such sleep mode and auto cool button will greatly save you energy and ensure you your comfort. The internal electronic air purifier is energized to make sure any pollen and impurities in the air are removed therefore leaving you with clean air.
Features
- -It features a smart device which allows you to cool your room from anywhere and anytime. The smart app allows you to remotely turn it on or off, Control modes and fan speeds and change temperature.
- -The 24 Hour programmable timer enables you to program your air conditioner to fit your schedule. This may be set at an interval of a day, week, on weekends or at night.
- -It features a magnetic remote control through which you can control temperature across the room and help you stay neat and organized when connected to the top of the unit.
- -The exhaust hose cover prevents hot air leaking through it therefore saving you money spent on energy.
- -It features a clean air ionizer that removes any pollen and impurities from the air hence leaving clean air in the room.
- -The Eco mode allows it to turn on and off at various intervals and still remaining at the set temperature hence saving you energy.
- -It features caster wheels at the bottom that makes it easy to move from one room to another whenever you need it.
- -The LED lighting and modern sleek mesh grill will perfectly blend into your seamlessly room.
- -The 360 degrees airflow ensures that cool air is circulated upwards and continuously to all parts of the room faster.
What we loved
- -Built-in air purifier
- -Wi-Fi connectivity
- -Programmable settings
- -Stylish design
- -Smart notifications
- -Auto cool function
- -Sleep mode
- -Energy saver mode
- -3 cooling and 3 fan speeds
What we did not like
- -Uses a lot of energy
6. Haier-HPN12XCM
This model has 12,000 BTUs and is ideal for cooling a mid-sized room of up to 350-550 square feet.
It features three cooling and three fan settings, a dehumidify mode, 24 Hour timer and a single-hose. It also comes with a window kit for installing the exhaust unit through the window.
Haier HPN12XCM also has a fully directional caster that makes its mobility easy. Maintenance is also minimal and has a washable air filter that slides out and an Auto Evaporative technology which makes manual draining unnecessary.
It often offers various models with different cooling capacities therefore making it easy in finding one that will best suit you.
Features
- -It has a continuous evaporative system makes sure that maintenance will be minimal because extracted water by the dehumidifier will all be vented out
- -The unit features a dehumidifier function through which humid will be removed hence leaving you with dry and cool air.
- -This model has a 3-in-1 function which allows you to use it as an Air conditioner, a fan and a dehumidifier as separate appliances.
- -It comes with three fan and three cooling speeds which allow you to adjust the speeds at which you want the air to flow.
- -The 24 Hour timer allows you to program your unit to either turn on or off at the desired time either at night or day. This will greatly save you energy hence low energy costs.
- -The air conditioner comes with a remote control that allows you to operate your unit from anywhere in the room. You can comfortably adjust the speed and temperature.
- -The washable mesh filter protects your air conditioner from dusts and saving you money you could use in maintaining or replacing it.
- -It has a six feet power cord that makes it easy to access the outside during installation and a 5 foot exhaust hose which makes it flexible and reduces installation time.
- -The caster wheels and the side handles makes movement easy when installing it or if you want to move it to another room.
What we loved
- -It is portable
- -Has a 24 Hour programmable timer
- -Three fan and three cooling speeds
- -Has cool, fan and dehumidify modes
- -Comes with a remote control
- -Has a washable mesh filter
- -Features a continuous evaporative system
 7. Honeywell-MN10CESWW
The Honeywell-MN10CESWWW portable air conditioner has a modern and sleek design that can match with your decor. The air conditioner can be able to cool and dehumidify a room of up to 450 square feet.
It features a 3-in-1 technology that enables it to cool and dehumidify the space optimally. The air conditioner has a full-function remote control which will allow you operate various settings from anywhere in the room and a fan-only function.
The best thing about this air conditioner is that you don’t have to fix it permanently during installation since it comes with four caster wheels that ease mobility. It also has an auto-evaporative system and flexible exhaust hose with a window venting kit that makes installation easy. When not using your window air conditioner, you can remove the window vent.
Features
- -It features an auto-evaporation system that allows operation to go on for hours without having to drain water or empty the bucket.
- -The air conditioner comes with a window venting kit that makes installation easy therefore you can install it by yourself without having to seek help. It is best for both vertical and horizontal windows.
- -It comes with a full functioning remote control that allows you to adjust the speed and temperature from anywhere in the room.
- -The 24 Hour timer allows you to program your unit to either switch on or off at a particular time hence saving energy and money spend on energy use.
- -Honeywell-MN10CESWW has a washable filtration system that makes cleaning easy therefore making sure that no dirt accumulates in the filter and that operation is not disrupted.
- I-t also comes with a smart digital thermostat control that has a front, feather-touch controls and display which allows you to adjust and control the temperature of your room even when you are far from home.
- -The air conditioner features 3-in-1 functions which include cooling, fan and dehumidifier function which makes sure that your room is perfectly cooled at the speed you desire and any humid in the air is removed to leave with dry and cool air.
What we loved
- -It is ideal for both small and medium rooms
- -It features a full functioning remote control
- -Has a 24 Hour program timer
- -It saves energy
- -Washable filtration system
- -Features 3-in-1 functions
- -The unit requires no draining at all
- -Has a window vent kit that makes installation easy
What we did not like
- -The unit has a limited warranty of one year
8. LG-LP1217GSRÂ
Are you looking for a portable air conditioner that enables you to cool more than one room, house or even move it from your home to your office? LG LP1217GSR is the ideal portable air conditioner for you.
The best portable air conditioner is perfect for cooling a room that measure up to 300 square feet. This air conditioner often has a sleek design that will blend with your room décor.
It has an auto-swing air vent technology which makes sure the room is perfectly cooled and a auto evaporation system which makes sure you use it continuously. The unit also comes with a 24 Hour programmable timer.
Features
- -It features an auto-swing air vent technology which ensures that you enjoy cool air by circulating the cool air therefore making sure that no spot remains untouched.
- -The unit has a 24 Hour programmable timer which allows you to control the temperature even when you are not near the house. It has an on and off timer.
- -It has easy –roll caster wheel with side handles which allows you to move it easily. You can therefore move from one room to another or from your house to another house or office.
- -The unit comes with a LED display panel and LCD remote control which enables you to adjust and control the room temperature from any direction in the room.
- -It features top, inclined discharge and auto swing louvers which ensure that every hot spot is eliminated thus leaving you with a fully cooled room.
- -It also has 2 fan speeds and 2 cooling speeds that ensure flexibility in cooling process since you can set the speed you want the fan to cool the room.
What we loved
- -Washable air filter
- -Window installation kit
- -Easy –roll casters
- -2 fan and 2 control speeds
- -LCD remote control
- -Auto restart
- -It has a water full indicator
- -24 Hour timer
- -Thermostat control
What we did not like
- -It has a 1 year limited warranty
9. Haier HPND14XCT
Haier portable air conditioner has 14,000 BTUs and a dual-hose that makes it ideal for cooling a room of up to 500 square feet.
It has three modes: fan that circulates air, cool which cools the air and dehumidifier that reduces humidity. The unit also has 3 fan and 3 cooling speeds that enables to control the temperature level.
The unit comes with an electronic control panel that is easy to use which comprises a 24 Hour on/off timer and a digital thermostat with a full –function remote control that has an on-board storage. The unit has multi-directional casters that make it easily portable.
Features
- -It has multi-directional casters that make it easy to move from one room to another. This enables you to use one air conditioner in cooling several rooms in your home.
- -The air conditioner comes with a full-function remote control which allows you to control and adjust the setting from anywhere in the room.
- -It features 3 modes: dehumidify mode which removes humidity in the air leaving you with dry air, cooling mode for cooling the air and fan mode that circulates air in the room.
- -The unit has 3 cooling speeds and 3 fan speeds that ensure flexibility by allowing you adjust it to your desired level to attain comfortable level.
- -The unit features an auto-evaporation direction through which water evaporates automatically hence making sure that no bucket is there to empty.
- -It has a 4-way air direction that allows you to adjust it anytime to let air flow in the direction you want thus makes sure that your room is perfectly cooled.
- -The 24 Hour programmable timer allows you to set your unit to either switch on or off at a particular time therefore saving energy and saves you money.
What we loved
- -The unit operates quietly hence allowing you get a good sleep at nigh
- -4-Way air direction
- -Has 3 fan speeds and 3 cooling speeds
- -Features a 24 Hour programmable timer
- -It is easily portable since it has caster wheels
- -It has an Auto Evaporation Technology
- -It can cool a room of up to 500 square feet
- -Features cool, fan and dehumidify modes
What we did not like
- -The unit has a warranty limited to one year
10. Honeywell HL10CES
The Honeywell HL unit often combines 3-in-1 technology that enables it to cool and dehumidify a room of up to 450 square feet. The portable air conditioner has an auto-evaporation system, a dehumidifying function and 3 fan speed function for optimum cooling. It also has a full function remote, gliding caster wheels, a sleep mode and a window venting kit.
 Features
- -The 24 Hour timer allows you to program it hence saving you energy and money that you could have spend.
- -The special sleep mode allows you to set your unit at a particular level and also allows you to control the room’s temperature for comfort at night.
- -The unit has smooth-gliding caster wheels which makes movement of the unit from one room to another to be easy.
- -It has a full-function remote control which enables you to adjust and control the unit’s settings from across the room.
- -The unit features 3-in-1 functions: cooling that cools the air, fan for circulating air and dehumidifier which removes humidity in the air.
- -It features a sleep mode that will enable you to set it to your preferred level therefore you will be able sleep comfortably if you are a light sleeper.
What we loved
- -Full-function remote control
- -It has smooth-gliding caster wheels
- -Sleep mode
- -It combines a 3-in-1 technology
- -Features an auto-evaporation system
- -It comes with an easy-to-install window venting kit
- -24 Hour programmable timer
What we did not like
- -It has a 1 year limited warranty
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