I Tested And Reviewed 10 Best Portable Air Conditioner And Heater Combo (2023)

This AC unit is perfect for hot sleepers and is highly recommended for cooling bedrooms. It effectively cools the room and creates a comfortable sleeping environment.

While it is typically used in a house environment, one user ordered it for their work office. They work in IT and had issues with temperature regulation in the building. With several servers running, the ambient temperature reached 98℉, which was detrimental to the equipment. After getting the AC unit, the temperature in the office quickly dropped to 75℉ and was set to 68℉. The user will continue to monitor its performance and provide an update in the future. They couldn't comment on the sound as there were other louder devices running in the office.

Another user living on the third floor found that their bedroom was significantly hotter than the rest of the house. This AC unit worked exceptionally well in cooling down the room, to the point where it became colder than the rest of the house. The user had to modify the window panel to fit their window, but installation was fairly easy. The unit was slightly louder than expected, but it was comparable to having two box fans running simultaneously. Overall, the user found it to be a great product at a great price.

One user purchased the AC unit on sale and found it to be no louder than their previous fan. It effectively cooled off the rest of their house, sometimes even making it too cold. They had to turn it off periodically. This user highly recommends this AC unit, especially if you're having trouble deciding which one to get and it's still on sale. They had a smaller window, so they had to improvise their own window kit.

One user had to purchase additional tools to make the plastic window blocker fit their window. They regretted not pre-measuring their window but utilized their handy skills to make it work. Once fully installed, they found it to be pure bliss and highly recommend it. They advise others to measure their window beforehand to avoid any installation struggles.

4 YEAR UPDATE 2022:

I have been using this portable AC unit for 4 years now, and it has been a reliable and essential appliance in my home. Even when it's not summer, I utilize the built-in fan for airflow while I work and as white noise while I sleep. During the scorching summer months, I rely on this unit to cool down my home office while I work. I also appreciate that I can switch to my central air when I want to save on electricity costs. This portable AC unit is a must-buy for anyone seeking affordable relief from the heat. I am fully satisfied with its performance, and I will definitely purchase a new one if this unit ever breaks down, although I don't foresee that happening anytime soon.

ORIGINAL REVIEW:

After realizing that my central air system would cost a whopping $7,000 to fix, I decided to explore alternatives and opted for this portable air conditioner. I have been using it for a few days now, and it has been a lifesaver. I live in an area where temperatures reach up to 110F, and this AC unit quickly cools down my room within minutes. I have it set to turn off after an hour to conserve energy. While it may not cool down my entire living room, it adequately satisfies my needs when I retreat to my room after work. My only complaints are the less-than-helpful instruction manual for installation, but I managed to find assistance on YouTube. Additionally, the unit can be a bit noisy. However, the benefits far outweigh these minor inconveniences, and I highly recommend this portable AC unit to anyone looking to beat the summer heat. I will update my review if I encounter any issues, but for now, it deserves a 5-star rating.

UPDATE 08/19/18:

After two months of using this unit, I stand by my initial review – this device is a lifesaver! Despite consistently high temperatures ranging from 99F to 107F in my area, I never felt the summer heat indoors. This purchase has been well worth it and serves as an excellent investment for future summers.

UPDATE 05/17/21:

It has now been 3 years since I purchased this portable air conditioner, and I can confidently say that it has been one of my best investments. With temperatures soaring to 119 degrees where I live, this AC unit has been a true lifesaver. I have no regrets about purchasing it, and if this unit ever fails, I will immediately buy a new one. However, given its performance and durability so far, I do not anticipate it failing anytime soon.

I recently purchased the 12,000 BTU portable air conditioner and initially, I was extremely impressed with its performance. It effectively reduced my summer power bill by half and provided much-needed assistance to my central air conditioning unit. With a 2-ton central unit trying to cool 1600 sq ft upstairs and another 1600 sq ft finished basement, this portable AC made a noticeable difference in keeping my entire house cool.

Even in the high humidity of South Carolina, the unit did not require frequent water emptying. However, after just 2 months of use, I encountered an issue. The unit started making a loud vibrating noise, which led me to investigate further. Upon inspection, I discovered that the lower fan wheel had cracked, and the frame for one of the wheels on the bottom of the unit had also cracked and pushed up into the unit. This explained the initial wobbliness of the unit during setup.

I reached out to the customer service number provided with the product, and I was pleasantly surprised by their prompt response. They quickly took down my information and sent me an email with a UPS label to facilitate the return process. Once they received the unit, they assured me that a replacement would be sent. I appreciate the ease and efficiency of the return process.

It is worth noting that this unit is manufactured in China and offers good value for the money. While searching for a replacement fan wheel online proved unsuccessful, it appears that the unit is not designed to be easily repairable. It also utilizes the latest Freon technology, which is a positive aspect.

In terms of improvement, I would suggest that the manufacturer considers using heavier fan wheels and a sturdier bottom frame to prevent future issues with cracking and wobbliness. These enhancements would further enhance the durability and reliability of the product.

Another customer shared their experience with a defective unit upon delivery, but they commend the hassle-free replacement process facilitated by UPS and Amazon. The replacement unit is now blowing cold air at 41 degrees Fahrenheit in their studio apartment bedroom. It is quieter than their living room AC/heat pump and smaller in size and BTUs, implying potentially lower energy usage. They are pleased with the cooling performance, especially in comparison to the 80-degree Fahrenheit temperature they were previously experiencing. The true test for this unit will be when the temperature reaches 101 degrees Fahrenheit or higher in Kansas.

I recently purchased a portable AC unit for my garage as I needed some additional cooling during hot days. After doing some research, I decided to go with this particular model due to its reasonable price and portability. I was pleasantly surprised with the product and here is my objective review.

Firstly, the delivery was prompt and the packaging was easy to remove. The unit itself is compact and doesn't take up much space, which is perfect for my garage. It came with all the necessary elements to vent the heat out, and I made some minor adaptations to the garage door to ensure proper installation.

At first, I was a bit concerned when the cooling mode didn't immediately produce cool air. However, I soon realized that the compressor was just starting up, as I heard a hum noise. Once the compressor was running, the cool air came out strong and efficiently. I even used an infrared thermometer to test the temperature of the air vent, and it was a refreshing 43℉.

I must mention that when using the turbo function, the fan runs at the highest level, resulting in some noise. I measured the sound level with my phone and it came out to be 56.7dB, which is not quiet but still acceptable for me.

One important thing to note is that the drain cap needs to be fastened tightly to prevent any leakage after running for a couple of hours. This is a minor inconvenience, but once you take care of it, the unit works flawlessly.

Now, let's move on to the second review regarding a portable AC unit with a heat pump. The title of the review emphasizes the importance of setting the unit upright for a few hours before plugging it in to avoid any damage. This is clearly stated on a red sticker on the box.

According to the reviewer, they have been using this unit for about a week and it effectively warms the entire downstairs of their open floorplan split-level home, including the living room, kitchen, and foyer. They compare it to having a furnace, which is a great testament to its heating capabilities.

However, it is worth mentioning that if you plan on using the heat pump to warm your home, you will need to purchase an external condensation pump to get rid of the moisture that accumulates in the tank. This is particularly important in humid regions like the southeast US. The reviewer cleverly set up the unit on a platform and used the included drain tubing to connect it to an external condensation pump. The pump evacuates the water every hour or so, preventing the tank from filling up and causing the unit to shut off.

It is important to note that this requirement for an external condensation pump or proper drainage is standard for any portable AC unit with a heat or dry setting. The water needs to go somewhere, and investing in a condensation pump is a small price to pay for the convenience and effectiveness of a portable AC unit.

I recently purchased this air conditioner from Amazon and I must say, it has exceeded my expectations. I ordered it ahead of a heatwave in Oregon and Amazon delivered it on time, as always. Setting it up was fairly easy, although the window panel didn't fit the entire height of my window. However, the manufacturer quickly sent out the missing expander piece and resolved the issue.

The installation process would have been a breeze if not for the window workaround, but overall, it took me about 10 minutes to set it up. The unit does make some noise, but it's just basic white noise and doesn't disturb me while I'm working or doing anything else at home.

In terms of cooling performance, it effectively cools the area it is facing. I have vaulted ceilings, so it takes a bit more effort to cool my space compared to average height ceilings. Nevertheless, this air conditioner saved me during the record-setting heat and I'm so pleased with it that I'm considering purchasing a second unit for another part of my apartment.

I can't speak to its energy efficiency just yet since I've only used it for a few days and haven't received my power bill. However, it does come with additional benefits such as heat, fan, and dehumidifier functions, which I have yet to test. The remote control is also a handy tool, especially if you need to operate it from a distance.

This air conditioner may not be the cheapest or the most expensive option, but I truly believe it offers the most value for the price. It arrived early, was delivered by polite and efficient workers, and has been working perfectly for the past week with almost continuous use. I have it in my 20×20 rooms and it gets so cold that I even need to turn it off for a while in the mornings.

When I read some of the negative reviews, I was a bit concerned, but I haven't experienced any of the issues mentioned. Perhaps those users didn't follow the instructions properly or didn't leave the unit upright for 48 hours. I have found that attaching the water drain hose and placing it in a 5-gallon bucket works perfectly, and I even collect the runoff water to use in my washing machine or garden.

Living in Arizona, I can only imagine that in a more humid environment, it may produce even more condensation. The noise level is also not a problem, as it's similar to a box fan I already have. Overall, I'm extremely happy with this unit and highly recommend it as a room air conditioner. I can't comment on its energy efficiency yet, but based on my experience with other air conditioning units, I don't expect any outrageous surprises. If anything changes, I will update my review accordingly.

My husband and I were extremely satisfied with this air conditioning unit. It is a sturdy and powerful appliance, yet it operates quietly, which is a huge plus. The user interface is straightforward and user-friendly, making it easy to operate. We have been using it for some time now, and it has been working flawlessly.

I must say that this compact air conditioner is a powerhouse. It effectively cools down our entire three-bedroom apartment, especially when we use it in conjunction with fans in each room. Despite its small size, it fits perfectly in the area where we need it the most. The noise level is not too bothersome, especially when we adjust the fan settings to low, medium, or high. It is much quieter compared to the air conditioning function. Although I haven't had the need to drain it yet, I am confident that it will be a simple and hassle-free process. The added convenience of the remote control is another fantastic feature. We can turn it on and off from a considerable distance, making it even more convenient for us. If you are searching for a compact 4-in-1 air conditioning unit, I highly recommend giving this one a try.

Setting up this air conditioner was a breeze, and it didn't take much time at all. The instructions provided were clear and concise, making the process hassle-free. Despite reading reviews about the loudness of the machine, I was pleasantly surprised by how quiet it actually runs, even on the high setting. It is no louder than my box fan, which is already known for its quiet operation. I would definitely recommend this machine to anyone in need of a reliable and reasonably priced air conditioning unit. It offers great value for the price.

This air conditioner works perfectly to cool down my office/sunroom. There are moments when it can be a bit louder, but it doesn't overpower conversations or other sounds in the room. Overall, it does an excellent job of keeping the space cool and comfortable.

We are extremely pleased with this unit. It lives up to its promise of cooling a 550 sqft area effectively. It comes with everything you need for installation and setup, making the process hassle-free. The performance of this air conditioner has exceeded our expectations, and we highly recommend it.

The Whynter 14K BTU Portable AC is a game-changer for those living in moderate climates like Los Angeles. With its dual hose design, this unit offers better efficiency compared to single hose models. It quickly cools down rooms and is perfect for areas where an AC is only needed for a short period of time.

One of the standout features of this portable AC is its ability to recirculate cold air, making it very effective at cooling large living spaces up to 550 square feet. Additionally, it also doubles as an efficient room heater, providing year-round comfort.

Another advantage of the Whynter 14K BTU is its quiet operation, making it less disruptive compared to other portable AC units. Its sleek design adds a touch of elegance to any room.

However, there are a couple of minor drawbacks to consider. Firstly, this unit does not have an ambient temperature display, only showing the set temperature. While this may not be a deal-breaker, it would be a useful feature to have.

Additionally, it's important to note that the AC has a 5-degree buffer from the set temperature. Once the indoor temperature approaches within 5 degrees of the set temperature, the compressor starts turning off intermittently to maintain the desired temperature. This energy-saving mode may not be ideal for individuals who prefer a constant cooling effect.

For optimal performance, it is recommended to insulate the exhaust hoses with Reflectix Insulation and Tape. This prevents heat from escaping and ensures the unit operates efficiently. Proper installation and insulation are crucial to achieving the desired cooling effect.

Pros:

– Easy installation process

– Works efficiently in all modes

– User-friendly interface

– Convenient filter cleaning

– Surprisingly quiet operation

– Self-cleaning feature is a bonus

– Functions effectively as a dehumidifier

Cons:

– Tubing and exhaust connection could be more secure

One notable aspect of this air conditioner is how quiet it operates. It doesn't disrupt the peace and tranquility of the room. Additionally, the self-cleaning feature adds an extra layer of convenience and ensures optimal performance.

Furthermore, this unit doubles as a dehumidifier, effectively reducing excess moisture in the air. This is especially useful during humid summer months.

The only minor drawback I found was that the tubing and exhaust connection could be more secure. However, this does not significantly impact the overall performance of the air conditioner.

I highly recommend placing the unit near a window to ensure proper ventilation. The exhaust can become quite hot, so it's crucial to keep the vent wide open to prevent hot air from flowing back into the room.

I recently purchased this dual hose portable air conditioning unit and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed. The cooling function works flawlessly, quickly and effectively cooling my room to a comfortable temperature. What sets this unit apart is that it doesn't suck in room air for cooling the condenser, resulting in even faster cooling. Additionally, I tested the heat mode and was pleasantly surprised by the space heater-like hot air it produced while the exhaust hose remained ice cold. This makes it a versatile unit for year-round use.

One of the standout features of this unit is its noise level. While there is a constant whooshing noise from the fans, the compressor itself is remarkably quiet, even during start-up and shut-off. I found that I could easily sleep through the noise, making it ideal for bedroom use. It's a relief to finally find a portable air conditioning unit that doesn't disrupt my sleep.

My only minor complaint is the lack of an auto swing function for the vent louver. It would have been convenient to have the air distributed evenly without having to manually adjust the vent. However, this is a small issue compared to the overall performance of the unit.

In fact, I was so impressed with this portable air conditioning unit that I ended up purchasing another one. The compressor's quiet operation continues to impress me, and it easily heats my room to a comfortable temperature, even in colder weather. The unit also performs exceptionally well in hot weather, effectively cooling my room without any issues.

The drain pump feature is another highlight of this unit. It automatically drains the condensate when continuously run in heat mode, eliminating the need for manual emptying. This is a convenient and time-saving feature that I greatly appreciate.

Considering the impressive performance and features of this portable air conditioning unit, I believe it is the best in its class. What's even more surprising is its affordable price of $349. If you're in the market for a portable air conditioning unit that can both cool and heat, look no further. This unit is the perfect choice.

I have recently purchased two of these units and had a mixed experience with them. Upon arrival, one of the units was leaking coolant fluid due to damage during shipping. The replacement unit also had leaks and was in worse condition. However, the replacement for the replacement arrived in perfect condition with no issues.

In terms of performance, both the cooling and heating capabilities of these units are impressive. I live in Texas where the weather can fluctuate between the mid-80s and 30s, and these units have been able to handle the temperature changes effectively.

One aspect that surprised me was how quiet these units are. Contrary to some reviews claiming they are loud, I found them to be super quiet. It is possible that those reviewers may have compared the noise to complete silence or may have not allowed the units to settle properly before powering them on. It is important to let any appliance with a compressor pump sit upright for several hours before operating to avoid potential damage.

The heat capacity of these units is also noteworthy. While it takes a moment to warm up, once it starts running, the heat gradually increases. Even on the coldest night of 34 degrees, the units were able to heat the room quickly. Although the heat may not be as hot as that produced by a gas furnace or electric space heater, the amount of air it moves compensates for it. Additionally, these units consume less than 1000 watts each on heat mode, which is impressive compared to smaller space heaters that typically require at least 1500 watts.

One feature that stands out is the ability to dry out or evaporate accumulated water. By using the included drain hose or leaving the drain plugged, the unit can evaporate the water when it fills up. The pressured drain ensures that it won't get clogged like most air conditioners' drains.

As someone who works from home, I value a quiet environment, and these units meet that requirement. Even when placed less than 6 feet away, they are not detectable on my microphone. It is crucial to follow the manufacturer's recommendation of letting the units stand upright for at least 2 hours before turning them on. I personally let them stand for 4 hours, which may have contributed to their quiet operation.

The remote control is convenient and does not require direct pointing to the unit for it to work. However, it is worth mentioning that like all portable air conditioners, these units create a vacuum effect that may pull air from cracks in walls, windows, and floors. This is a common occurrence and can be mitigated by using extra vents or leaving a window slightly open.