We all look forward to summer when it‘s warm and the skies clear blue. Yet, the summer heat can get unnerving. Thanks to climate change, summers are getting hotter and hotter. When warmth turns to sweltering heat, your summer could get uncomfortable. That‘s why you need an air conditioner in perfect condition. While central and window air conditioners have their benefits, portable ACs offer flexibility and can provide powerful localized cooling exactly where and when you need it.
I‘ve tested and reviewed dozens of portable AC units to help find the best options to beat the summer heat this year. Based on BTU ratings, room size capabilities, special features, noise levels and portability, here are my top 6 recommendations:
1. Best Overall: LG LP1419IVSM 14,000 BTU Portable AC
BTU Rating: 14,000 BTUs
Room Size: Up to 700 sq ft
Features: WiFi enabled, works with Alexa/Google Assistant, auto evaporation system, 24 hour on/off timer
Noise Level: 44 dB
Portability: Gliding caster wheels, self-evaporating so no water drainage required
With the power to efficiently cool extra large rooms up to 700 square feet, the LG LP1419IVSM earns the top spot for best overall portable AC unit. This model packs a punch with 14,000 BTUs but manages to operate at a quiet 44 decibels. The built-in auto evaporation system eliminates the need to empty drain tanks making it even more convenient to roll into any room. Plus, with wi-fi connectivity and voice assistant compatibility, you can control the smart AC right from your phone.
While this LG model sits at the higher end of the price scale, it‘s energy efficient operation saves on electricity costs. And for cooling very large open concept living areas, the upfront investment pays for itself through years of reliably cool summers ahead.
2. Best Budget: Black + Decker BPACT14H 14,000 BTU Portable AC
BTU Rating: 14,000 BTU
Room Size: 700 sq ft
Features: Full function remote control, built-in timer, sleep mode
Noise Level: 56 dB
Portability: 30 kg with rolling casters
For budget-focused shoppers looking for a powerful AC on a value price point, you can count on the iconic Black + Decker brand. Don‘t let the lower cost fool you – the BPACT14H model still packs a hefty 14,000 BTUs to tackle large rooms up to 700 square feet. The straightforward manual controls and remote make operation easy. Just note that without dual hoses, this affordable AC is not Energy Star certified. However it does have handy built-in timers and sleep functionality to help save you electricity when possible. At just under $600, this portable workhorse hits the sweet spot of substantial cooling power and value.
3. Best Smart Portable AC: Frigidaire Gallery Cool Connect
BTU Rating: 13,000 BTU
Room Size: Up to 450 sq ft
Features: Built-in WiFi, app connectivity, multi-colored LED indicator lights
Noise Level: 57 dB
Portability: Rollable with built in caster wheels
Frigidaire‘s Gallery Cool Connect model brings high tech command to portable AC units. With integrated wi-fi connectivity and mobile app control, you can adjust modes, cooling levels, fan speeds and schedules straight from your smartphone – even when away from home! The useful color changing LED light bars display blue in cooling mode but switch to red if the mesh filters ever need cleaning so you can instantly monitor unit status and keep it in top shape. While it has 2 dBA higher operating noise than the LG winner, the smart Frigidaire still operates at an impressively quiet 57 dB. For savvy households who want cutting edge functionality from their portable cooling, this advanced Frigidaire AC takes convenience to the next level.
4. Best Lightweight: Honeywell MN Series
BTU Rating: 10,000 BTU
Room Size: 450 sq ft
Features: Dual filtration system, minimal noise level
Noise Level: 51 dB
Portability: Extra lightweight at just over 20 pounds!
While most portable ACs tip the scales around 80 to 100+ pounds, the creatively engineered Honeywell MN Series is less than half that weight at only 21 pounds! The secret lies in a specially designed compressor that eliminates the usual heavy copper tubing without sacrificing an ounce of cooling competence. And don‘t mistake its featherlight body for weakness – this innovative unit still chills sizable areas up to 450 square feet with 10,000 BTUs of refreshing power. It operates an almost silent 51 dB to let you rest easier on hot humid nights. Smartly placed handles make it simple to relocate its scant weight to any space needing crisp relief from rising temperatures. For bedrooms, offices and kitchens where heavy lifting is difficult, the lightweight Honeywell AC brings cool comfort with minimal manual exertion!
5. Best Evaporative Option: JHS Portable Evaporative Air Cooler
BTU Rating: N/A – 1060 CFM
Room Size: 100 – 300 sq ft
Features: Evaporative cooling technology uses 75% less energy, remote control operation, 7 hour timer, honeycomb cooling pads
Noise Level: 55 dB
Portability: Multi-directional wheels
While most portable options on this list are compressor based air conditioners, evaporative coolers provide an energy efficient alternative worth considering. The JHS Portable Evaporative Air Cooler uses water evaporation to naturally drop temperatures up to 30 degrees without chemical refrigerants. Set the built-in humidistat level and this innovative unit maintains a comfortably cool humidity ideal for homes in dry climates. It even boosts mood with an optional soothing night light. Operating at just 55 decibels, it works quietly to cut down electricity bills. So for eco-friendly homeowners who want to beat the summer swelter with minimal carbon footprint, the JHS Evaporative Cooler is a smart green solution.
6. Most User-Friendly: SereneLife SLPAC10 10,000 BTU Unit
BTU Rating: 10,000 BTUs
Room Size: up to 350 sq ft
Features: Compact build with easy to use digital control panel, remote control, integrated dehumidifier, built-in caster wheels
Noise Level: 56 dB
Portability: Under 25 pounds
For households who want summer relief without complex controls, the easy-to-use SereneLife SLAC10 earns fan favorite status. Straightforward manual buttons make operation a breeze while the included remote ensures convenient command from anywhere in a room. Helpful digital temperature readouts confirm ideal cooling levels, and integrated humidistat preserves desired moisture balance. The dehumidification function prevents muggy environments that exacerbate hot spells while preserving air quality during seasonal shifts. Lightweight construction under 25 pounds with smooth rolling casters traverse tile, wood or carpets for simple maneuvering. With refreshing 10,000 BTU effectiveness, user-centered design and fuss-free maintenance, SereneLife makes beating the heat refreshingly foolproof!
Calculating Needed BTU Rating
Selecting a portable AC unit with adequate cooling strength for your room size is critical to ensure effectiveness during peak summer heat. Portable AC units use a BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating to indicate total cooling power.
As a basic room by room guide:
- 150 – 250 sq ft rooms: 6,000 to 8,000 BTU
- 250 – 400 sq ft rooms: 8,000 to 10,000 BTU
- 400 – 700 sq ft rooms: 10,000 to 14,000+ BTU
To calculate exact BTU requirements:
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Measure room dimensions in feet: width x length = total sq ft
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Multiply total sq ft by number based on room features:
- Standard room with average insulation: multiply by 15
- Well insulated room: multiply by 12
- Room with high ceilings or lots of windows/doors: multiply by 18
The final number is the minimum BTUs needed to effectively cool that specific space.
So for example, a standard living room is 20 ft wide x 25 ft long = 500 sq ft total. Multiply 500 sq ft by 15 to get 7500. This means a portable AC with at least 7500 BTUs will efficiently cool that average insulation living room. Upgrading to a 10,000+ BTU unit provides buffer for especially hot regions or extreme weather spikes.
Operating and Maintenance Tips
While portable ACs avoid the hassles of permanently installed units, they have a few unique maintenance needs for peak operation:
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Drain water tanks regularly: Portable ACs produce significant water condensation from cooling moist air. Emptying the reservoir tanks prevents overflow issues. Newer auto-evaporative units eliminate this task.
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Clean air filters monthly: Dusty filters lead to reduced airflow and efficiency. Fortunately portable units have easily removable mesh filters to rinse off gunk.
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Refrigerant top-offs: While sealed units rarely leak cold air, annual tech inspections ensure optimum refrigerant levels for maximum BTUs.
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Weatherproof for storage: These mobile workhorses stow away offseason. Use protective covers and avoid dropping below freezing temps to prevent winter weather corrosion.
Following this simple maintenance checklist keeps portable ACs in tip-top cooling condition year after year!
FAQs About Portable ACs
What are the main benefits of portable air conditioners?
The main perks are flexibility, ease of installation and targeted cooling power exactly when and where you need it most. Their compact size and caster wheels provide customizable relief without restricting layout options.
How hard is it to install a portable AC unit?
Not hard at all! No tools are needed for basic setup. Just wheel the unit to the desired spot, plug into a grounded electric outlet and attach the window exhaust kit. Adjust vent direction towards the hottest zones for immediate chilled air in under 10 minutes!
Which is more energy efficient – portable AC units or central air?
Compared watt for watt, permanently installed central air conditioners tend to use less electricity overall. However portables provide zoned cooling only where required instead of constantly chilling unused rooms. Turning them off when not occupied helps maximize energy savings.
Should I get a single or dual exhaust hose portable AC?
Dual hose models allow dedicated intake and outlet exhaust airflow for significantly higher efficiency. This avoids the efficiency loss from cool air escaping out a single hose‘s exhaust opening. Dual hose systems keep cooling power ultra concentrated inside rooms.
How often do I need to drain the water reservoir tanks?
Plan to check and empty the condensation collector tanks at least every 2 to 4 hours of running time. Newer auto-evaporative designs eliminate water drainage completely for maximum convenience.
I hope this comprehensive guide to the top portable AC units provides the details you need to keep cool this summer! Reach out with any other questions in the comments below.
