Portable Air Conditioner FAQ - Portable AC Basics

1. What makes portable air conditioning so convenient? 

Many have used portable air conditioners to cool homes and offices, but these units are so versatile and convenient that they can also be used for other smaller enclosed spaces. For example, workshops, garages, recreational vehicles, and boats are a good place to use a portable air conditioner. You can even use one for supplemental cooling in a server room! They can be rolled from room to room or between work areas, making them the ideal tool for satisfying temporary cooling needs.

To use these units, two things must be available: a power supply that is suited to the required energy usage and a way to vent the hot air that is generated from the motor. If there is a space that is not covered by central air conditioning or cannot accommodate a permanent installation, a portable unit can often be situated in a corner or along a wall so that fresh, cool air can target just the spot where it is needed!

2. How do portable air conditioners work?

A portable air conditioner uses Freon to cool air which is then fanned back into a room. It does require ventilation for the motor, and it uses an adjustable length hose to duct the air away from the room that is being cooled. The hose itself is similar in size to a standard clothes dryer hose (about five inches across. The optimal arrangement would have the heated air exhaust directly outdoors, but depending on the situation it might be possible to vent the hot air into an attic, above a drop ceiling, or even into another room. During the cooling process, condensation is created. Most units must be drained of the water that is collected, either by emptying a reservoir or by installing and running a continuous drain hose. However, some units do have the technology to evaporate the condensation and exhaust it along with the hot air.

3. How do I know which size is right for my application?

First, you should measure the size of the room that you are considering air conditioning for. Multiply the width of the room by the length, and that will give you the basic square footage. Most estimates for the capacity of the air conditioner are based on standard ten foot ceilings and standard sized windows which have either draperies, blinds, or some other covering. If the room that you are looking to cool will have electronics, numerous windows, poor insulation, or lots of people in it, you will have to factor that into your calculations.

Generally, a 12,000 BTU room air conditioner will cover 350 to 425 square feet, while an 8,000 BTU unit is suitable for 150 to 200 square feet. The most powerful units range from 14,000 to 16,000 BTU and will cover up to 525 square feet, but note that these units do usually require a power supply that can conduct more power than a standard household outlet - see the product description for specific details.

We generally recommend that you select an air conditioner that is slightly more powerful than your adjusted calculations - if the unit meets your needs on the low or medium setting, then you have the option of using the high setting if you need quick cooling or if the temperatures unexpectedly soar.

4. What other useful qualities do portable air conditioners have?

When selecting a portable air conditioner, you will have several options. Some units feature a remote control for convenience, some offer auto-evaporative technology to handle the condensation, and others have the ability to function as a heater or dehumidifier, independent from the cooling function. A portable air conditioner that offers heating during the winter, or fan-only options (when temperature adjustment is not needed), can be used all year for comfort! Check for other features like programmable timers, adjustable thermostats, and built-in air purification features to maximize overall experience.

As even the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy highlights, it's possible to have energy efficient cooling.  A portable air conditioner is an excellent and energy-saving choice for cooling. New, energy-efficient units can even be up to 50% more efficient than some older, central air systems! Finding the right portable air conditioner is not a difficult process, and our customer service representatives are always happy to discuss the best fit for your needs!

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