I Tested And Reviewed 10 Best 12000 Btu Portable Air Conditioner (2023)

4 YEAR UPDATE 2022:

I have been using this portable AC unit for 4 years now, and it has been a reliable and efficient cooling solution for me. Even when it's not summer, I utilize the built-in fan for airflow and white noise while working or sleeping. During the scorching summer months, the unit provides a blast of cool air in my home office, allowing me to work comfortably. Additionally, when I want to relax outside of my office, I can rely on my central air system, saving a significant amount of money on my electric bill. This portable AC unit is a must-buy for anyone looking for affordable AC relief. I am so satisfied with its performance that I will definitely purchase a new one if and when this unit eventually breaks down, although I don't foresee that happening anytime soon.

ORIGINAL REVIEW:

With the central air in my house being out of order and the exorbitant cost of fixing it, I decided to invest in this portable air conditioner. I have only been using it for a few days, but it has already proven to be a lifesaver. In sweltering temperatures as high as 110°F, this AC unit cools down my room within minutes. To conserve energy, I set it to turn off after an hour. While it may not cool down my entire living room, it is perfect for my post-work relaxation in my room. The only downsides are the less-than-helpful instruction manual for installation (though YouTube tutorials can be helpful in this regard) and the somewhat loud noise it produces. However, the benefits far outweigh these minor inconveniences, and I would still give it a 5-star rating. I will update my review if any issues arise, but for now, I highly recommend this unit for beating the summer heat.

UPDATE 08/19/18:

After using this portable air conditioner for a couple of months, I can confidently say that it has been a lifesaver. Despite consistently hot temperatures ranging from 99°F to 107°F this summer, I have not once felt the heat indoors. This purchase has been well worth it and is an excellent investment for future summers.

UPDATE 05/17/21:

It has now been 3 years since I bought this portable air conditioner, and I can confidently say that it is one of the best investments I have made. With temperatures reaching as high as 119°F in my area, this AC unit has been a lifesaver. I have no regrets about purchasing it, and if this unit ever fails, I will not hesitate to buy a new one. However, based on its current performance, I do not anticipate it breaking down anytime soon.

I am extremely impressed with this portable air conditioner. It has proven to be a reliable and efficient cooling solution for my home. Unlike some other reviews suggest, this unit does indeed cool down the air effectively. It is not just a fan blowing room temperature air.

The setup process was quite straightforward and took me only four minutes for the second unit I set up. The exhaust vent does feel warm, but this is because it efficiently pumps hot air out of the room. As for the noise level, it is comparable to a wall air conditioner. While it is not completely silent, it is not overly loud either.

I did not require the metal screws since it fitted perfectly into my window well. The display on the unit is bright enough to be easily seen on a white machine. If it were any darker, people would complain about it not being readable. It is important to note that there are some complaints about this machine that I find to be baseless and unfounded.

In my personal experience, I am extremely satisfied with this unit. I have large casement windows and was in desperate need of an air conditioning solution for my summer home in a humid and warm area of upper Michigan peninsula. I found a great solution by having a framed Lexan window made by a glass maker. The Lexan window perfectly fits my screen and has a vent hole for the connection and hose. Though it was a bit costly at $125, the benefits are worth it. The Lexan material is unbreakable, clear, and does not conduct heat or UV rays.

I highly recommend this portable air conditioner for anyone with casement windows who is unsure of what to do. The 14,000 size unit I purchased effectively cools my entire bottom floor with ease, eliminating any humidity. We only require air conditioning about two days a week, as we usually keep our windows open. I am also a fan of the Vremi brand, as their products are quiet, sleek, and have easy-to-clean filters. I also own a Vremi dehumidifier for my RV, which I love, as it effectively combats the high humidity in the Great Lakes area.

I have been using this portable air conditioner for about a week now, and I am extremely pleased with its performance. One concern I saw in a review was about water leakage, but I have not experienced this issue. I attached the drain hose and directed it into a container, which may be why I haven't encountered any leaks. However, I did notice that the drain hose came folded up and kinked shut in places. I simply used a blow dryer to heat it up and reshape it, which solved the problem.

I purchased this unit due to the scorching temperatures we have been experiencing, with over two months of 100-degree-plus days. This portable air conditioner has significantly reduced the strain on my main AC unit. Now, my main unit can shut off more frequently because this portable unit effectively cools the house. Overall, I am highly satisfied with this purchase and would recommend it to anyone in need of a reliable and efficient cooling solution.

After much deliberation, we finally decided to invest in this unit and it has proven to be one of the best decisions we've made. We regret not getting it sooner! The scorching hot days were made bearable in our home, thanks to this AC unit. We used it to cool down half of our house, and even had another unit in the back to ensure the entire place stayed refreshingly cool. Surprisingly, our energy bill hasn't been affected at all.

This sleek-looking AC unit is not only aesthetically pleasing but also delivers on its promise of functionality. With its easy setup, we were able to start enjoying its cooling effects in no time. It effectively cools the room and pushes the hot air outside with the included hose. In fact, compared to other models of the same price, it offers more BTUs and features, making it a great choice for those who need to cool larger spaces.

The unit operates quietly, similar to a normal fan, which is a pleasant surprise. It is located in our living room, where we also have our TV, and the noise level is minimal, allowing us to enjoy our entertainment without any disturbances. The remote control is a convenient feature, although we hardly find the need to use it as we simply set the desired temperature and let the unit do its thing.

The only regret we have is not opting for the unit that offers both heating and cooling. It would have been fantastic to have the option to use it during the colder months as well. However, despite this minor setback, we couldn't be happier with our purchase. This model has exceeded our expectations and we highly recommend it.

Another reviewer mentions living in a small NYC apartment with limited window space, and we can relate to that struggle. However, this portable AC unit has provided them with a solution. It is incredibly effective at cooling their apartment and operates quietly, allowing them to enjoy a comfortable living space without any disturbances.

The slim design of the unit's sleeve is worth mentioning, as it allows the user to maintain almost their entire window view even when the AC is on. This is a huge plus for those who value their city view and don't want a bulky AC unit obstructing it. The convenience of being able to easily remove the hose and regain the full window view when the AC is not in use is a game-changer.

I recently purchased this portable AC unit for my kid's bedroom in our old house that lacks air vents. Before hooking up the exhaust hose, I ran it for a while to test its performance. I was pleased to find that it was blowing super cold air, so I completed the installation as per the quick start guide. Over the past few days, it has effectively cooled the bedroom, and I am considering buying a second one for my office. The only minor drawback is that the air levers need to be opened manually, unlike my window AC, but it's not a significant issue. Overall, I highly recommend this product for its complete package, fast delivery, sleek design, and efficient cooling capabilities. The clear instructions and easy installation were additional positives. While it may not be completely silent, the sleep mode helps reduce noise. Compared to my other portable AC unit, it is quieter and more efficient. Great job, TOSOT!

This portable AC unit has a small and cute design that serves its purpose well in the Los Angeles area. Initially, I faced some difficulty as the unit would stop and I couldn't turn it back on. However, I later discovered that the unit has a temperature sensor that stops it once it reaches the desired temperature to save energy. Additionally, it has a 3-minute delay when turning on or off to prolong the condenser's lifespan. In cooling mode, it won't turn on again until the temperature rises or if you set a lower temperature. Alternatively, you can switch to dry mode, which acts as a dehumidifier but creates more water. The unit also has a fan mode that circulates air within the room. While it is slightly noisy, it is not as loud as other units. I use it in my bedroom in Los Angeles, and it cools the room quickly and effectively. The unit automatically evaporates water, eliminating the need for manual dumping. However, please note that I live in a low-humidity area. Overall, I was initially concerned, but I am now satisfied with the unit's performance and quality. I hope it lasts a long time, even though I only plan to use it for about a month each year.

After my 20-year-old wall unit broke down, I decided to try out this portable AC unit before the summer heat arrives. I've been using it for over a week now, and I must say, it works great. Even though it's not hot yet, I've been using it for air circulation in my living room, and it provides a decent amount of airflow. The noise level is also tolerable, which is a plus for me. I had a Black and Decker portable unit before, so I'm okay with a little noise as long as it cools down the room effectively. I also tested the cooling mode, and when the compressor is on, the cold air that comes out is powerful and cools down the room quickly. Considering the price, this AC unit seems like a great value for the money, and I'm hopeful that it will help me get through the summer.

I've had this AC unit for about a week now, and I absolutely love it! The installation process was quick and easy. I placed it in my bedroom, and it easily cools the room. The fan is strong, and the air it blows is ice cold. I believe it could even cool a small living area. One of the features I appreciate is the ability to set the fan speed to high or low and also set the desired temperature, so it automatically shuts off when reached. This is a convenient feature to have. Additionally, it can be used as a fan, AC, or dehumidifier, although I haven't tried the dehumidifier option yet. The unit came with a hose and window attachment, which were also easy to install. However, I was supposed to receive a remote with it, but unfortunately, it was missing or misplaced during the unboxing process.

Living in California, this mini AC unit is a must-have, especially during the summer. I use it in my guest room to avoid turning on the central AC for the entire house when it's not necessary. This mini AC works exceptionally well and quickly cools down the room. I'm highly satisfied with its performance.

Since I started working from home due to Covid-19, I needed an AC for my study this summer. I was skeptical about this small-sized AC unit, even though the instructions claimed it could cool down a room of 350 sq.ft. However, after giving it a try, I was pleasantly surprised by its performance. It effectively cools down my study, and unlike the window AC units in my house that require installation, this one is simple to adjust and fit into the window. There's no struggling to push it into place. The included remote allows me to adjust the temperature without leaving my chair, which is quite convenient. The plug also has a safety button, and the control interface looks neat and organized. This AC unit has truly helped me get through the summer while staying in my study and focusing on my job. I am grateful for its functionality and efficiency. Thank you!

I am extremely impressed with this air conditioning unit. The setup process was incredibly simple, thanks to the clear instructions provided. Additionally, I found the unit to be fairly quiet even when operating at its highest setting. Not only does it effectively cool the room, but it also helps with humidity control. Overall, I highly recommend this air conditioner.

One of the standout features of this unit is its ability to keep the room ice cold. I absolutely love the remote control, which adds convenience to the overall experience. Furthermore, the unit operates quietly, making it ideal for a peaceful and undisturbed environment. I am so satisfied with this air conditioner that I am planning to buy another one for my downstairs area.

Installation was a breeze as it can be easily installed in the window. The unit offers a variety of settings for optimal comfort levels, making it highly versatile. It does an excellent job of keeping my bedroom cool, and I couldn't be happier with its performance. The handles on the unit make it incredibly easy to move around, which was particularly useful when I had to transport it upstairs. In addition, the remote control adds convenience and further enhances the overall experience.

Compared to my previous window cooler, this unit works much better and is significantly quieter. It offers great value for its price, making it a fantastic deal. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone in need of a reliable and efficient air conditioning unit.

While this unit may not be as efficient as some low-profile window units, it still serves its purpose well. With a capacity of 5,000 BTU and running on 800 watts, it is suitable for a room in the front of the house. Despite not being a well-known brand, the unit is cheaper and still provides excellent performance. Although I would have loved a coupon and free shipping, the overall value of this unit makes it a worthwhile purchase.

I recently purchased this portable AC unit and I must say, it has exceeded all my expectations. As someone who has been considering buying a portable AC unit for years, I finally decided to go for it and I am so glad I did.

Living in apartments for the past five years, I have always struggled with hot bedrooms during the summer months. I've tried multiple fans and various methods to cool down the room, but nothing seemed to work effectively. This portable AC unit has completely solved that problem for me.

Before purchasing, I had concerns about noise and cost. Many reviews and people I knew complained about the noise that portable AC units typically produce, as the compressor cannot be isolated outside. Additionally, I didn't want to spend a fortune on a unit that was too powerful for my small bedroom. However, a standard window unit was not suitable for my casement windows, and casement window AC units were extremely expensive.

This portable AC unit has proven to be the perfect solution for my window situation and rental circumstances. It is surprisingly quiet, even quieter than the large wall unit in my living room. Even on the maximum setting, I can still have conversations, listen to music, and hear someone approaching the door without any disturbance. The remote control is user-friendly and convenient, allowing me to adjust the settings without disturbing my sleeping partner.

The cooling power of this unit is impressive. It quickly cools down the room, allowing me to switch from a light quilt to a regular comforter for a more comfortable sleep. The volume of cold air it blows is remarkable, creating the perfect temperature for a good night's rest.

Installation was a breeze. Although the unit is heavy, it comes with wheels, eliminating the need for lifting like a window unit. The provided quick guide packet with helpful pictures made the installation process straightforward and took me about an hour to complete. I chose not to cut the expansion panel for the window, as I plan to move in the near future. Instead, I taped two pieces together with clear packing tape, and it works perfectly fine. The foam strips that came with the unit ensure there are no gaps or concerns about my cat getting outside.

In terms of brand reputation, I was initially hesitant as I had no previous experience with this brand. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the product. It was well-packaged, nothing was missing or damaged, and the unit itself appears to be of high quality. The buttons on the unit and remote work well, and the power cord is thickly coated, giving a sense of durability.

I recently purchased the WPAC Portable AC unit from Amazon and I must say that I am extremely satisfied with my purchase. Right from the moment I opened the box, I could tell that the unit was well-packaged and protected during shipping. The foam and extra space provided ensured that the unit arrived in perfect condition.

Upon unpacking the box, I noticed that the unit was slightly shorter than I had anticipated, but this was because the installation materials were well-organized inside. Despite its compact size, the unit felt sturdy and durable. The accompanying manual was concise and easy to understand, making the installation process a breeze.

Setting up the unit took only a few minutes, thanks to the minimal number of parts and the straightforward plug-and-play design. Although I haven't drilled a hole for the continuous drain yet, I appreciate that this option is available, especially considering the high humidity in my area during the summer and fall.

Using the provided remote control, I tested the AC and fan features of the WPAC8000. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly the unit cooled down my addon room. Within minutes, the room went from sweaty to comfortable, exceeding my expectations for such a small AC unit. Additionally, the unit operates quietly, creating a soft noise that doesn't disrupt the peaceful ambiance of the room.

Having previously experienced a malfunction with a different brand of portable air conditioner, I was initially cautious about choosing a new one. However, after extensive research, I decided to go with the WPAC unit, which not only arrived promptly but also had all the necessary components included. So far, it has performed exceptionally well and I am highly satisfied with my purchase.

I recently purchased two portable AC units, one for each floor of my 700 sq ft house, and I am extremely satisfied with my purchase. These units have proven to be a simple and effective solution for cooling my home quickly and quietly.

Installation was a breeze, taking only 15 minutes for each unit. Initially, I read the manual thoroughly to ensure proper installation, but I anticipate it will be even faster in subsequent years as I become more familiar with the process.

One feature that initially confused me was the water drainage system. However, I reached out to customer service for assistance, and I was impressed with their prompt response and ongoing support. They patiently explained that I needed to unscrew the cap on the back of the unit, as well as the rubber stopper, to drain any accumulated water. Their professionalism and willingness to help were truly commendable.

Another advantage of these portable AC units is their mobility. With wheels attached, it is effortless to move and store them during the winter months. Gone are the days of unsightly window units protruding from my home. I appreciate that my house remains cool without the musty odor associated with traditional window AC units, which used to trigger my allergies every year.

Furthermore, my husband, who is no longer able to carry heavy window units up and down the stairs, is relieved by my decision to invest in these portable units. Unlike our previous window units that accumulated mold in our damp basement, we can store these two AC units in their original boxes in a spare bedroom closet over the winter season.

The convenience and effectiveness of these two AC units have eliminated the need for the six window units we used to struggle with annually. Trust me when I say that this investment is worth it. I am even inclined to recommend these portable AC units as a backup plan for those with central AC, as they can be used during emergencies when central units fail on scorching summer days, and AC companies are inundated with service requests.

The Aigostar 12000 BTU model is a fantastic portable air conditioner that offers a range of useful features. One of the standout features is its ability to automatically stop when the desired temperature is reached, ensuring optimal comfort and energy efficiency. Additionally, the ability to control the unit remotely via Wi-Fi is a convenient feature that allows users to turn it on or off even when they are not at home.

The noise level of this unit is surprisingly low, especially on the high setting. This is a pleasant surprise considering the common perception that portable air conditioners tend to be noisy. Another noteworthy feature is the absence of a drain hose, which makes maintenance hassle-free.

In terms of energy consumption, the Aigostar 12000 BTU model is quite efficient, using only 1050 – 1230 watts depending on the setting and cycle phase. This is significantly less than what most smaller units consume.

The cooling performance of this air conditioner is impressive. It effectively cools a room, even in extreme temperatures such as those experienced in California. Users have reported that it easily cools a child's room upstairs and helps cool the entire upstairs area.

The app control functionality of this unit works seamlessly, allowing users to control it with ease. This is in contrast to some bigger brand names that have received negative reviews regarding their performance.

The price point of the Aigostar 12000 BTU model is another aspect that sets it apart. It is significantly more affordable than similar units from other brands. This affordability, combined with its excellent performance, makes it a worthwhile investment.

Although there may be a slight drawback in terms of noise level, it is important to note that this is a common characteristic of most portable air conditioners. Adjusting the TV volume slightly can easily overcome this minor inconvenience.