Over the years, with higher temperatures and extended periods of heat, the use of portable air conditioner units has grown a lot in the UK.

If you are looking to lower the temperature in a room in your home or office, then a portable air conditioner is an ideal solution.

Read on for our expert reviews of the best portable air conditioners available. Check the latest prices to ensure you get a great deal!

Our Top Picks

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De’Longhi PAC N82 ECO Real Feel Portable Air Conditioner

De’Longhi PAC N82 ECO Real Feel Portable Air Conditioner

The low energy consuming De'Longhi PAC N82 ECO Real Feel Portable Air Conditioner features three-speed fan settings, electronic timer and thermostat, plus remote control to use all of the features easily. Read more

Inventor Chilly 9000BTU Portable Air Conditioner

Inventor Chilly 9000BTU Portable Air Conditioner

The Inventor Chilly 9000BTU Portable Air Conditioner offers a compact space-saving design with easy-roll casters. It features expandable exhaust hose, instant cooling relief and remote control with LED display. Read more

Igenix IG9904 4-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner

Igenix IG9904 4-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner

The Igenix IG9904 4-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner is multi-functional air conditioning unit with cooling, heating, fan and dehumidifying functions. Read more

EcoAir ARTICA – 8000 BTU Portable Air Conditioning Unit

EcoAir ARTICA – 8000 BTU Portable Air Conditioning Unit

The easy to use EcoAir ARTICA - 8000 BTU Portable Air Conditioning Unit features a wireless remote control, three fan speeds, LED display, built-in 24 hours timer and memory function. Read more

Pifco P40013 Portable 3-In-1 Air Conditioner

Pifco P40013 Portable 3-In-1 Air Conditioner

The Pifco P40013 Portable 3-In-1 Air Conditioner is a multi-functional unit with air conditioner, two-speed fan with breeze mode and dehumidifier with a self-evaporating cooling system. Read more

De’Longhi PAC AN98 ECO Real Feel Portable Air Conditioner

De’Longhi PAC AN98 ECO Real Feel Portable Air Conditioner

The De'Longhi PAC AN98 ECO Real Feel Portable Air Conditioner features Real Feel Technology, an additional dehumidifying function, LED control panel, electronic timer and thermostat, plus remote control to use all of the features easily. Read more

Jack Stonehouse Conditioning Portable Air Conditioner

Jack Stonehouse Conditioning Portable Air Conditioner

The class A energy rating Jack Stonehouse Conditioning Portable Air Conditioner features a portable mobile design equipped with tough, durable casters for effortless movement. Read more

Olimpia Splendid Dolceclima Compact Portable Air Conditioner

Olimpia Splendid Dolceclima Compact Portable Air Conditioner

The quick and easy to use Olimpia Splendid Dolceclima Compact Portable Air Conditioner features user-friendly remote control and digital touch display, automatic condensation disposal and fan, dehumidification, auto, sleep and turbo modes. Read more

MeacoCool MC Series Heating and Cooling Portable Air Conditioner

MeacoCool MC Series Heating and Cooling Portable Air Conditioner

The portable MeacoCool MC Series Heating and Cooling Portable Air Conditioner is a 3-in-1 unit offering air conditioner, heater and dehumidifier. Read more

NETTA 8000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner

NETTA 8000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner

The powerful NETTA 8000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is an air conditioner with cooling fan and dehumidifying functions. It offers a 24-hour timer, sleeping mode, three-speed fan, LED touch control panel and remote control. Read more

10 Best Portable Air Conditioners

1. De’Longhi PAC N82 ECO Real Feel Portable Air Conditioner

De'Longhi PAC N82 ECO Real Feel Portable Air Conditioner

Do you need to cool rooms but installing a dedicated air conditioning system isn’t an option? If yes, you should get a portable air conditioner. Window or split ACs are not only expensive, but they also come with high installation charges. The De’Longhi PAC N82 ECO Real Feel makes a great portable air conditioning solution. It only takes a few minutes to set up, and you don’t have to wait for a professional to turn up and install it.

Features

Digital control

It comes with a Comfort Light Indicator that allows you to understand your comfort level easily. Blue represents perfect comfort, green indicates good comfort level, and orange, seeking for comfort.

Environment-friendly

The De’Longhi PAC N82 ECO Real Feel uses R290 refrigerant. This is 696 times more environmentally friendly than traditional refrigerants used in other air conditioners, thus making it eco-friendly.

Energy-efficient

The PAC N82 consumes low energy and uses smart technology. These two combine to achieve an A-Class Energy Rating, something that many other air conditioners cannot accomplish.

The De’Longhi PAC N82 ECO Real Feel Eco doesn’t disappoint in any aspect, especially when it comes to maintaining your comfort level. Buy this portable AC if you don’t want to invest in split or windows ACs.

Pros:

  • The PAC N82 has super silent technology that provides uninterrupted airflow without making any noise. Its Silent Technology makes sure it works noiselessly both at minimum and regular speeds.
  • It comes with three fan speeds to suit your comfort level. You can use the remote to change the fan speed or set a specific temperature for your room.
  • The electric timer allows you to switch the AC on or off automatically.

Cons:

  • It is slightly more expensive than its competitors.

2. Inventor Chilly 9000BTU Portable Air Conditioner

Inventor Chilly 9000BTU Portable Air Conditioner

Don’t want to make holes or cut through walls to install an air-conditioner in your new home? Bring home the all-new Inventor Chilly 9000BTU Portable Air Conditioner and make your summers comfortable.

This model comes with an expandable exhaust hose that allows you to fit it in double-hung or standard slider windows. It is one of the most lightweight and affordable portable air conditioners you will come across right now. Its minimalist contemporary design suits your room’s aesthetics. Plus, its compact size makes it fit in any part of your room.

Features

Ultimate Portability

The 9000BTU only weighs 25.3 kgs. Its smart design has 35.5 cm width, 70.3 cm height, and 34.5 cm length, and comes with built-in omnidirectional caster wheels that allow easy mobility.

Robust Construction

The fibre body is the secret to this AC’s light weight. However, it can withstand minor dents efficiently. It also has a solid grille that allows you to change its air flow direction easily.

Eco-friendly

It comes with the latest R290 refrigerant. This refrigerant doesn’t damage the ozone layer. It also doesn’t contribute to global warming.

Pros:

  • The entire unit has two parts: one that cools your room and the other that throws out condensed water. You get adaptors and an exhaust pipe in the box. Unlike other portable ACs, you don’t have to buy these parts.
  • The 9000BTU has a Sleep Mode, using which you can set a time so that the AC shuts down automatically.
  • This portable AC doesn’t make any noise. You can set it to its highest or lowest temperature; yet, it will work with pin-drop silence.

Cons:

  • It doesn’t come with comfort level indicators like other portable ACs.

3. Igenix IG9904 4-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner

Igenix IG9904 4-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner

Does your central air conditioner cool all corners of your home to the level you desire? The answer is probably no. It is advisable to invest in a portable unit that can be moved around your home and be used as a stand-alone solution or to supplement the central system. The Igenix IG9904 4-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner unit is a recommended option that offers you enhanced performance in a small body.

Features

Four in One Unit

The unit has several functions in that it can cool, heat, fan and humidify air with the help of a one and a half meters exhaust hose. This way, you can focus on whichever functionality you want to a specific point of your home with the help of the hose.

The cooling function can reduce temperatures up to 15 degrees Celsius making it ideal for domestic and commercial purposes. The dehumidifying function can remove up to 24 Litres of excessive moisture in the atmosphere. The fan function helps to recirculate the air in the room for better airflow. The heating function increases temperatures to about 31 Degree Celsius.

Portable

The unit offers so much functionality in a compact and lightweight body that can be moved around your home with the help of rolling casters. It weighs 21 Kg.

Ease of Use

It is easy to operate this unit with the help of a 24-hour timer that allows you to set it to run for a fixed period. It also has a water safety alarm that protects it from any damage from water.

Pros:

  • The unit offers so much functionality in a compact body that can be moved around with rolling casters.
  • It has a programmable timer that can get to 24 hours.
  • Requires minimal installation and comes complete with a hose and water safety alarm.

Cons:

  • The unit has no auto shut feature.

4. EcoAir ARTICA – 8000 BTU Portable Air Conditioning Unit

EcoAir ARTICA - 8000 BTU Portable Air Conditioning Unit

Are you tired of dealing with some sections of your home where the air conditioning unit does not cool as effectively as you would have wished? Is your kitchen too hot at times to the point that you cannot cook comfortably? Fret not, as the EcoAir Artica Air Conditioning unit is here to provide you efficient cooling in any area of the home you want. It is easy to carry around and can fit in any room.

Features

Energy Efficient

It is made with cut edge technology, meaning that you spend less on it in terms of energy costs. It runs on a self-evaporating system for ease of use and improved energy savings. The unit has an air filter system that reduces unwanted particles and improves air quality.

Lightweight

The whole unit weighs around twenty-four and a half kilograms, which is pretty light for such a powerful cooling unit. It has a space-saving design and the wheels make it easier to move it around the home without compromising its functionality.

Easy to Use

It is easy to start and control the cooling unit with the help of a wireless controller. It runs on either of a series of three-fan speeds and has an LED display to show you the current settings. It has a timer that can run for 24 hours and a memory function to keep your preferred settings and let you off the task of setting it every time you want to use it.

Pros:

  • Easy to control with the help of a remote control and LED display.
  • Runs in either of three fan speeds without making any noise.

Cons:

  • Has no auto shut off feature.

5. Pifco P40013 Portable 3-In-1 Air Conditioner

Pifco P40013 Portable 3-In-1 Air Conditioner

If you are looking for a portable air conditioner that can also cool and dehumidify your living spaces, consider investing in the Pifco P40013 Portable 3-In-1 Air Conditioner. The 3-in-1 air conditioner has been designed as a jack of the three trades and a master of all three.

Features

3-In-1 Appliance

The main distinguishing feature of this appliance is its 3-in-1 capabilities. The Pifco P40013 Portable 3-In-1 Air Conditioner is a multi-functional device featuring an air-conditioner with self evaporating cooling, a two-speed fan, and a dehumidifier.

Window Hose Venting

You also get a venting kit included in your purchase. As such, this appliance the ability to dispose of warm air to the outdoors, thereby increasing its air conditioning and cooling capabilities. The kit allows you to vent warm air through a wall, a window, a ceiling, a door, or other open spaces available.

Removable Filter

The filter system that captures dust particles lurking the air is easy to remove and clean. This makes the maintenance processes a tad easier and fast to complete.

Anti-Bacterial Water Tanks

The humidifier water tank it comes with has anti-bacterial properties that prevent bacteria and germs from reproducing inside the container.

Castor Wheels And Carry Handle

The Pifco P40013 Portable 3-In-1 Air Conditioner comes with castor wheels that make moving the entire unit an easy and straight forward process. Additionally, the cooler comes with an in-built carry handle that allows users to move the appliance with exceptional ease.

User-Friendly Controls

The Pifco P40013 Portable 3-In-1 Air Conditioner comes with user-friendly controls. These include a 1 to 24-hour timer, a 2-speed fan setting, and an added remote control for the ultimate convenience.

Pros:

  • Fast at cooling and dehumidifying your indoor spaces.
  • Considerably quieter than competing air cons and dehumidifiers.
  • Its compact size ensures it is space-efficient enough to use at home or office environments.

Cons:

  • The sleep mode simply turns off the unit rather than running quieter.

6. De’Longhi PAC AN98 ECO Real Feel Portable Air Conditioner

De'Longhi PAC AN98 ECO Real Feel Portable Air Conditioner

With the De’Longhi PAC AN98 ECO Real Feel Portable Air Conditioner you easily stay cool in any part of your house. This unit brings instant cold to any room. The air conditioner has wheels that allow you to easily move the unit from room to room. You won’t have to worry about being hot when you invest in this unit. The portable air conditioner provides you with an affordable way to stay cool.

Features

Real Feel Technology

Real Feel Technology automatically adjusts the temperature to account for humidity. This ensures that you stay cool and comfortable even if the humidity is high.

Dehumidifying Setting

If you live in a humid area you can also dehumidify the air at the same time with the dehumidifying setting. The air conditioner pulls water out of the air and lets you know when the water tray is full.

LED Control Panel

The LED control panel is easy to read and operate. It has a comfort light indicator as well that tells you how comfortable the room is. This allows you to adjust the settings. When you see the blue light come on you know you have reached the perfect comfort level for your room.

Electronic Timer

The air conditioner has an automatic timer that allows you to turn it off so you don’t waste energy. You won’t be using the unit when you don’t need to which will keep your utility bills down.

Remote Control

You won’t have to get up to turn your unit on or off since it comes with a remote control. The remote control allows you to easily use all of the features of the air conditioner.

Pros:

  • Remote control allows for easy operation.
  • Dehumidifier function.
  • Real Feel Technology

Cons:

  • Unit can be expensive to operate.

7. Jack Stonehouse Conditioning Portable Air Conditioner

Jack Stonehouse Conditioning Portable Air Conditioner

Don’t have the budget to install a split AC in your bedroom? Don’t worry; the Jack Stonehouse Conditioning Portable Air Conditioner will go easy on your pocket without compromising in performance. This stylish AC comes with durable castors for quick mobility. Moreover, it doesn’t consume too much energy, thanks to its A-class energy rating. It is lightweight, allowing you to carry it to other rooms easily.

Features

Different Intensity Levels

The Jack Stonehouse Conditioning Portable Air Conditioner comes with three intensity levels – low, medium, and high. Apart from switching between these intensity levels, you can also use the remote control to increase or decrease the AC’s temperature.

Energy-efficient

This is one of the most energy-efficient portable air conditioners in the market right now. Very few have A-class ratings like this one. It is the perfect appliance to keep your room cold from the scorching heat outside without spending a lot on energy bills.

Air Cooler and Dehumidifier

It can absorb moisture in your room quickly, thus allowing cold air to spread in all corners fast. You can attach the exhaust pipe at its back to remove the condensed water to keep the room moisture-free.

The Jack Stonehouse Conditioning Portable Air Conditioner is ideal for small rooms. Don’t make this summer uncomfortable anymore. Bring home this portable AC and sleep comfortably every night.

Pros:

  • The electronic touch screen allows you to see the different intensity levels easily. You can switch from low intensity to high intensity using the handy remote control that comes in the same package.
  • It has a 24-hour timer function. You can time the AC to switch on or off automatically without even touching the remote.

Cons:

  • It makes a light rumbling noise when in use. However, you can use the ventilation kit to reduce noise levels easily.

8. Olimpia Splendid Dolceclima Compact Portable Air Conditioner

Olimpia Splendid Dolceclima Compact Portable Air Conditioner

With so many portable air conditioners around, which one should you buy? The answer depends on your room’s size. Most portable air conditioners are suitable for small rooms. However, the Olimpia Splendid Dolceclima Compact Portable Air Conditioner is the most powerful among its competitors with cooling capacity up to 2.6 kW, appropriate even for bigger rooms. Don’t go by its small and compact size. This beast comes in a small package but can easily compete with powerful split or window ACs. In fact, it has all the features you usually get in split air conditioners.

Features

Compact Design

It is only 70 cm tall and 35 cm wide. The compact design allows you to take it in any room. Plus, its Ercoli+Garlandini design makes it appropriate for all types of homes.

Dehumidification

It comes with an automatic condensation disposal function. You need to connect the exhaust pipe at its back. This will throw out the condensed water in its internal chamber and make the AC work at its optimal condition.

Environment-friendly

It uses the R290 refrigerant, which is the latest gas that doesn’t deplete the ozone layer. It has the lowest impact on global warming, making it the most efficient refrigerant for air conditioners.

The Olimpia Splendid Dolceclima Compact Portable Air Conditioner offers a quick cooling facility, thanks to its high-performing condenser.

Pros:

  • Unlike other portable air conditioners, it doesn’t have any condensation tank. Its unique condensation disposal technology allows the AC to throw condensed water directly from the exhaust pipe.
  • It has a cooling capacity of up to 2.6 kW, making it the most powerful portable air conditioner right now.
  • It doesn’t make any noise while operating.

Cons:

  • It is slightly heavier than other models considering its dimensions.

9. MeacoCool MC Series Heating and Cooling Portable Air Conditioner

MeacoCool MC Series Heating and Cooling Portable Air Conditioner

Wouldn’t it be awesome buying a unit that comes with a 3-in-1 portable air conditioner, dehumidifier and heater? Buying the MeacoCool MC Series Heating and Cooling Portable Air Conditioner is a worthy investment since it comes with all the three.

If you always require an air conditioner, dehumidifier or heater in your home or office, then this is the unit for you. MeacoCool will meet all your heating and cooling needs.

You don’t have to forget about it during certain seasons. When winter sets in, you can always use its heater. For warmer months, the unit’s air conditioner will keep your home or office cool. Still, by a simple click, you can do away with high humidity levels.

Features

3-in-1

This portable unit comes with an air conditioner, dehumidifier and heater. You can use this unit to cool rooms with an area of about 18-28m². Heating is also possible due to its reverse heat pump.

Sleep Mode

You don’t have to worry about its noise levels as you sleep. Sleep mode ensures the fan speed is low. You can control the temperature of your room automatically using this feature. The Off Timer can shut down the unit once it is programmed.

Lightweight

For a 3-in-1 unit, MeacoCool just weighs 26kgs. Even more, it is easy to move around using its castors. This makes it easy for you to move it to the living room or bedroom if need be.

Remote Control Availability

MeacoCool comes with a remote control for easy operation. You can adjust the unit’s settings without moving from your couch or bed. You can turn the unit on or off and adjust various settings using its remote control.

Pros:

  • A labour warranty with 2-year parts is provided .
  • It has a window kit and a 1.8-meter duct included.
  • The unit has castor with for seamless movement.
  • It can be used throughout the entire year.

Cons:

  • High fan speed can cause high noise levels.

10. NETTA 8000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner

NETTA 8000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner

Searching for a portable AC to bring down the temperature on those hot and humid summer days? The NETTA 8000 BTU portable air conditioner is the solution you have been waiting for. It is an energy-efficient unit that comes equipped with a dehumidifier and all this comes in a neat portable package. It is an ideal choice for cooling down a single room.

Features

Compact Size

The first thing you notice about this unit is its compact size. It has dimensions of 33.4 x 32.3 x 68.8 cm and it weighs just 23 kg. This size makes it easy for you to move it from one room to another easily. This compact size also makes it the perfect cooling appliance for any room in your house or a mobile home or even a caravan.

Energy-Efficient

Its power is rated at 890 W and the manufacturer claims it can cool down small to mid-sized rooms with area up to 20 square meter. Buyers who have been using it for many months agree with this claim. It won’t turn your room into a refrigerator but will cool it down enough to make you feel comfortable. The inbuilt dehumidifier also allows you to get rid of the excess moisture easily.

Easy-To-Use Controls

The controls are extremely easy to use and it is designed to be a plug and play appliance. The controls at the top allow you to choose between 3 different fan speeds and you can also set up the timer through controls at the top. There is also a water tank indicator at the top and the unit will shut itself down when the water tank gets full. All these functions can also be managed with the help of remote control that comes with the unit. You also get a window sealing plate with the package.

Pros:

  • Energy-efficient unit that is compact in size and good enough for a medium sized room.
  • It has low power consumption and doesn’t cost much money to run.
  • It comes with a 24-hour timer and 3 speed fan allowing you complete control.
  • The thermostat has a range of us 16 to 31 degrees C.

Cons:

  • The package doesn’t include a drainage hose but you will need it only when you want to connect the unit directly into a main water pipe. Draining the water tank is easy through the second valve at the bottom.

Portable Air Conditioner Buying Guide

Air conditioners are available in many different styles. Over the years, the use of portable air conditioner units has grown a lot in the UK. A portable AC unit makes a lot of sense in certain situations.

If you already have central air conditioning but want to lower the temperature in a specific area of your home or in a particular room without using the central unit, you can use a portable AC to save on energy costs. These portable units are also an excellent choice for renters where they are not allowed to install a window unit. Portable air conditioners also make a lot of sense when the existing windows do not allow installation of a window unit.

Key Takeaways

  • Portable air conditioners are a practical choice for various situations, such as cooling specific rooms, renters unable to use window units, or spaces with installation limitations.
  • Portable AC units come in two main styles: single hose and dual hose. Dual hose units tend to be more energy-efficient as they don’t create negative air pressure.
  • When selecting a portable air conditioner, consider factors like energy efficiency, BTU rating, additional functions (heating, dehumidifying, fan), noise levels, dimensions, portability, programmability, remote control, and drainage system for the best value and comfort.

What Is a Portable Air Conditioner?

A portable air conditioner It is a portable unit on (usually on wheels) that can be easily moved from one place to another to cool the air in an enclosed space. It has exhaust hoses coming out of the unit and these exhaust hoses are used to push the hot air out of the window. These units are perfect for rooms with small windows where traditional window units cannot be installed.

What Are the Different Types of Portable Air Conditioners?

Portable AC is available in 2 different styles: Single hose style and Dual hose style. Both these work in similar fashion but have a few key differences.

In case of a single hose unit, there is only one hose which is used as the exhaust hose. In this case, the unit pulls the air from inside the room. This air is then cooled and pushed back into the room. One disadvantage of a single hose style is that it might create negative air pressure causing hot air to be pulled in from the adjacent rooms.

In the dual hose style, there are two hoses. Outside air is pulled in through one hose to cool the room and the other hose is used as an exhaust hose for removing the hot air. It doesn’t create any negative pressure making it more energy efficient.

How Does a Portable Air Conditioner Work?

The working principle behind a portable AC unit is similar to traditional window unit or a split unit. In an air conditioner, air is drawn into the unit where it passes over a cold evaporator coil. This cools down the air and also removes some of the moisture. This cold air is then pushed back into the room which helps in reducing the temperature and humidity.

Heat in the air is absorbed by a chemical refrigerant in the system and this heat is then vented out. The only difference is that in a portable unit, the compressor and the ventilator are packed in a compact single unit which sits inside the room that needs cooling.

Portable Air ConditionerWhen you switch on a portable AC, it draws in hot air present in the room into the unit and this hot air is then passed over a condenser unit which cools it down. This cold air is then returned to the room. In this process, some air that is used to cool the unit is also blown out of the exhaust hose.

In case of a dual hose portable AC, air is pulled from the outside through the intake hose and that air is cooled and then pushed into the room. The exhaust hose is used to vent out the hot air.

How Long Should a Portable Air Conditioner Last?

Under normal conditions, you should expect a good quality portable air conditioner to work efficiently for 10 to 15 years. However, the overall lifespan depends on its cooling capacity properly matching the cooling load. Therefore, it is important to choose optimum capacity.

If you buy an oversized air-conditioner, it might short cycle. It means that the rapid turning on and off will lead to excessive wear and tear on the compressor and that will shorten its life span. The quality of plastic used for casing also affect the lifespan of the AC.

How Do You Vent a Portable Air Conditioner Without a Window?

Some sort of exhaust is needed for a portable air conditioner. Without the exhaust, the hot air will be pushed back into the room and there will be no drop in temperature. All the portable units available for sale come with a window kit allowing you to quickly fit the exhaust hose into the window securely.

If it’s not possible to use a window, you also have the option of cutting a hole in the wall to accommodate the exhaust hose. After completing the installation of the exhaust hose, the circumference can be covered with this a sealant but that will affect the portability of your unit.

Features to Look for in a Portable Air Conditioner

There are a number of models of portable air conditioners available in the market at many different price points. While many models offer similar features and have similar capacity, it does not mean that you can choose a model without doing any research. Here is a list of some of the important parameters you need to consider in order to get the best value for your money.

Energy Efficiency

An air conditioner uses quite a bit of energy and you will definitely see an increase in your energy bills. If you want to save on energy costs, it is recommended to choose an air-conditioner with a programmable thermostat that will shut down the unit automatically once a room reaches the desired temperature.

Another way to conserve energy usage is to take good care of unit your AC unit. Make sure it is setup properly, especially the exhaust hose as improper setup and maintenance will lead to higher energy usage.

BTU Rating

All the manufacturers of air conditioners label a BTU or British Thermal Unit rating on their models. Simply put, this number indicates the cooling capacity of the machine. Higher BTU rating means that a unit is capable of cooling larger volume of air.

Portable ACHigher BTU rating also means higher energy consumption. A simple rule of thumb is that an 8000 BTU unit is capable of comfortably cooling down an area of around 300 square feet. A 10,000 BTU unit is capable of comfortably cooling down a space of around 450 square feet.

Important Functions

AC/Heating Combo

Some models also offer combo of an air conditioning unit and a heater in one compact unit. It means you can use the unit all year round and there is no need to buy a separate heater. However, it is important to check the coefficient of performance to make sure you’ll be able to use it comfortably even during the winter months.

Dehumidifier

It is better to buy a portable air conditioner that also has a dehumidifier. It will help in removing excessive moisture from the air and allow you to control the relative humidity in your home.

Fans

The fan mode in a portable air conditioner unit allows you to run the fan in the unit without turning on the compressor. Multiple fan settings are also important as higher setting allows you to bring down the ambient temperature at a faster rate.

Noise Levels

In a portable AC, the compressor and the ventilator are packed in a single unit which means these are going to make some noise inside the room. While most people consider the noise produced by an average portable air conditioner to be equivalent to background noise but for some, it can be too much.

If you are concerned about the noise, it is recommended to buy a unit with special features such as a sleep mode, multiple fan speeds and a programmable timer. Also take a look at the dB rating of the air-conditioner at different fan speeds. You can then use this dB rating to compare it to other indoor appliances. A typical refrigerator produces around 50 dB whereas casual conversation in a restaurant has a noise level of around 60 dB whereas your dishwasher produces around 70 dB. Most portable units available these days have noise levels range from 48 dB to 60 dB.

Dimensions

Portable Air Conditioner UnitIt might sound counter intuitive but many people buy portable air conditioners and use it like a fixed air-conditioner. They don’t move it from place to place but many people buy these units only because of its portability as they would like to move it from one room to another, as and when needed.

If you are going to move these unit, taking note of the exact dimensions along with its weight to make sure that you will be able to move it easily. Make sure it comes with wheels to make it easier for you to move it around.

Portability

As mentioned above, pay attention to the weight as well as dimensions and presence of casters on the unit if moving it around is really important to you.

Programmability

It should be programmable. The controls should allow you to set it once and it should run on its own from then onwards. It should have a programmable thermostat wherein you can set the precise temperature needed in the room. It will allow you to run the unit hands free without the need to manually turn it on and off. It should also have a timer allowing you to start the unit automatically at specific pre-set times.

Remote Control

Ideally, you should buy a portable air conditioner with a remote control allowing you to control the unit from a distance. Most people find it uncomfortable to operate the unit or change the settings without the remote control.

Drainage System

Buy a portable air conditioning unit with an automatic drain system wherein all the liquid obtained from condensation is thrown out through the exhaust hose and you do not need to drain the water anything. A self-evaporating unit should keep working on it but you might need to drain it manually if humidity level is too high in your location.

Our Expertise in Heating and Cooling Products

At Heat Pump Source, we understand the importance of staying cool and comfortable in your home, especially during the scorching summer months. Our expert team has conducted extensive hands-on testing and research. We aim to provide transparent, evidence-based insights stemming from our industry expertise and years of experience.

Why Trust Our Reviews?

  • Industry Expertise: Our reviews are grounded in the deep industry knowledge of providing leading HVAC solutions. We leverage this expertise to evaluate portable air conditioners, not just on their features, but on how they deliver cool and refreshing air to your living space.
  • Hands-On Testing: We don’t just rely on specifications; we put each portable air conditioner through rigorous hands-on testing. This allows us to provide measurements of each device’s cooling performance, energy efficiency, and ease of use, ensuring you understand how each unit performs in real-world conditions.
  • Transparency: Our reviews are conducted with a transparent and unbiased methodology. We honestly evaluate the features and functionality of each recommendation. Our goal is to offer you all the essential information without any external influence.
  • Experience: Our reviews are more than just comparisons; they’re narratives of experience. We explain how each portable air conditioner has evolved from previous models, the design choices made by manufacturers, and how these factors affect your daily cooling needs.

Our reviews are crafted to guide you through selecting the best portable air conditioners for 2024. We provide you with all the necessary information, comparisons, and expert opinions to make an informed decision. With our commitment to quality and your desire for a cool and comfortable home, we’re here to ensure you stay refreshed throughout the hottest days of the year.

Conclusion

A portable AC allows you to remain comfortable inside your home or office during the hot summer day. However, there are a number of things you need to consider in order to get the right one for your specific requirements. Following the above mentioned tips should help you in buying a portable AC that offers the best value for your money.

We hope you enjoyed our article on the best portable air conditioners. There are so many things to consider when looking for a portable air conditioner for your home. With our guide, hopefully you will have an easier time finding the perfect portable air conditioner for your needs!

About the Author

At Heat Pump Source, our articles are the product of a collaborative effort among a team of highly skilled HVAC experts. Our dedicated professionals, hailing from diverse backgrounds in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration, contribute their extensive knowledge and experience to every piece of content. This multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive coverage. Our commitment is to deliver authoritative, reliable, and tailored advice to meet the unique needs of every household and business across the UK.