Window units block views and require installation. Central AC cools the whole house when you only need one room. Portable air conditioners offer a middle ground—real cooling power that moves where you need it.

These units sit on the floor, vent through a window kit, and can be moved room to room. They're not as efficient as window units, but they work in spaces where window ACs can't—casement windows, rental restrictions, or rooms without suitable windows.

Let's find the portable AC that'll keep you cool this summer.

How Portable ACs Work

The Basics

Portable ACs work like any air conditioner:

  1. Refrigerant absorbs heat from indoor air
  2. Compressor pumps refrigerant to condenser
  3. Hot air exhausts outside through hose
  4. Cool air blows into room

Single-Hose vs Dual-Hose

Single-hose: One hose exhausts hot air outside

  • Creates negative pressure (pulls warm air in)
  • Less efficient
  • Simpler setup
  • More common, cheaper

Dual-hose: Separate intake and exhaust hoses

  • No negative pressure
  • More efficient (up to 40% better)
  • More complex setup
  • Better for larger rooms
Dual-hose units are significantly more efficient. The extra setup complexity is worth it for regular use.

Top Portable Air Conditioners for 2026

Best Overall: Whynter ARC-14S

Dual-hose efficiency with excellent cooling.

  • BTU: 14,000 (DOE: 9,500)
  • Coverage: Up to 500 sq ft
  • Type: Dual-hose
  • Features: Dehumidifier (101 pints/day), 3 fan speeds, 24-hour timer
  • Noise: 56 dB
  • Price: ~$550

The dual-hose design makes this significantly more efficient than single-hose competitors. Excellent dehumidification too.

Best Value: Black+Decker BPACT14WT

Solid performance at competitive price.

  • BTU: 14,000 (DOE: 8,000)
  • Coverage: Up to 350 sq ft
  • Type: Single-hose
  • Features: 3-in-1 (AC, fan, dehumidifier), LED display, remote
  • Noise: 53 dB
  • Price: ~$450

Reliable cooling for medium rooms. The single-hose design is less efficient but simpler to set up.

Best for Small Rooms: Midea MAP08S1BWT

Compact unit for bedrooms and offices.

  • BTU: 8,000 (DOE: 5,300)
  • Coverage: Up to 200 sq ft
  • Type: Single-hose
  • Features: Smart app control, voice assistant compatible, self-evaporative
  • Noise: 52 dB
  • Price: ~$350

Smart features at a reasonable price. The smaller capacity is perfect for bedrooms without overkill.

Best Smart Features: LG LP1419IVSM

Inverter technology for efficient, quiet operation.

  • BTU: 14,000 (DOE: 10,000)
  • Coverage: Up to 500 sq ft
  • Type: Dual-hose capable
  • Features: Inverter compressor, ThinQ app, voice control
  • Noise: 44 dB (low)
  • Price: ~$700

The inverter compressor adjusts speed rather than cycling on/off, reducing noise and improving efficiency.

Best Budget: SereneLife SLPAC8

Affordable cooling for small spaces.

  • BTU: 8,000 (DOE: 5,000)
  • Coverage: Up to 200 sq ft
  • Type: Single-hose
  • Features: Dehumidifier, fan mode, remote control
  • Noise: 55 dB
  • Price: ~$300

Basic but functional. Good for occasional use or supplementing central AC.

Portable AC Comparison

AC UnitBTU (DOE)CoverageHoseNoisePrice
Whynter ARC-14S9,500500 sq ftDual56 dB$550
Black+Decker BPACT14WT8,000350 sq ftSingle53 dB$450
Midea MAP08S1BWT5,300200 sq ftSingle52 dB$350
LG LP1419IVSM10,000500 sq ftDual44 dB$700
SereneLife SLPAC85,000200 sq ftSingle55 dB$300

Understanding BTU Ratings

Old vs New (DOE) Ratings

In 2017, the DOE changed how portable AC capacity is measured:

  • Old (ASHRAE): Inflated numbers, still used in marketing
  • New (DOE): Realistic cooling capacity

A "14,000 BTU" unit might only deliver 8,000-10,000 DOE BTUs. Always check the DOE rating.

Sizing Guide (DOE BTUs)

Room SizeDOE BTUs Needed
150 sq ft5,000
200 sq ft6,000
300 sq ft8,000
400 sq ft10,000
500 sq ft12,000

Factors That Increase Needs

  • High ceilings (+10-20%)
  • Sunny exposure (+10%)
  • Kitchen use (+4,000 BTU)
  • Multiple occupants (+600 BTU each)
  • Poor insulation (+20-30%)

Portable AC vs Alternatives

Portable AC vs Window AC

FactorPortable ACWindow AC
EfficiencyLowerHigher
InstallationEasy, temporaryModerate, semi-permanent
MobilityCan move roomsFixed
NoiseLouder (inside)Quieter (compressor outside)
PriceHigherLower
Window typesMost typesDouble-hung mainly

Portable AC vs Mini Split

FactorPortable ACMini Split
EfficiencyLowVery high
InstallationDIYProfessional
Cost$300-700$1,500-4,000
PermanenceTemporaryPermanent
Cooling powerModerateExcellent
If you'll use AC regularly for years, a mini split is more cost-effective long-term. Portable ACs make sense for renters, occasional use, or supplemental cooling.

Installation Tips

Window Kit Setup

  1. Measure window opening
  2. Adjust kit panels to fit
  3. Secure panels in window frame
  4. Connect exhaust hose to unit and kit
  5. Seal gaps with foam tape

Optimizing Performance

  • Keep hose as short and straight as possible
  • Insulate hose if possible (reduces heat gain)
  • Seal window kit gaps completely
  • Keep unit away from walls (airflow)
  • Close doors to room being cooled

Common Mistakes

  • Hose too long or kinked
  • Gaps around window kit
  • Blocking air intake/output
  • Undersized unit for room
  • Running in poorly insulated space

Maintenance Requirements

Regular Maintenance

  • Weekly: Clean or replace air filter
  • Monthly: Check and clean exhaust hose
  • Seasonally: Deep clean unit, check for mold

Drainage Options

Portable ACs produce condensation. Options:

  • Self-evaporative: Exhausts moisture with hot air (best)
  • Manual drain: Empty tank periodically
  • Continuous drain: Hose to floor drain

End of Season

  1. Run fan-only mode to dry internal components
  2. Clean filters and exterior
  3. Store upright in dry location
  4. Cover to prevent dust accumulation

Energy Efficiency

Operating Costs

Portable ACs use significant electricity:

BTU (DOE)WattsCost/HourCost/Month*
5,000900W$0.11$65
8,0001,200W$0.14$85
10,0001,400W$0.17$100

At $0.12/kWh | *8 hours/day

Reducing Energy Use

  • Use timer to avoid running when away
  • Set thermostat to 78°F (not lower)
  • Use fan mode when possible
  • Improve room insulation
  • Close blinds during peak sun

Got Questions About Portable Air Conditioners? Let's Clear Things Up.

Are portable ACs worth it?

For specific situations, yes: renters who can't install window units, rooms with casement windows, or supplemental cooling. For primary cooling in owned homes, window units or mini splits are more efficient and cost-effective long-term.

Why is my portable AC not cooling well?

Common causes: undersized unit, exhaust hose too long/kinked, gaps in window seal, dirty filter, or room has too much heat gain. Ensure proper sizing and installation before assuming the unit is faulty.

How loud are portable air conditioners?

Typically 52-56 dB—comparable to a normal conversation. The compressor is inside the room (unlike window units), so they're noticeably louder. Inverter models like the LG LP1419IVSM are quieter (44 dB).

Do portable ACs need to be vented outside?

Yes, always. The exhaust hose removes hot air—without venting, you're just moving heat around the room. Never run a portable AC without proper exhaust venting.

Single-hose or dual-hose?

Dual-hose is significantly more efficient (up to 40% better). Single-hose creates negative pressure that pulls warm air into the room. For regular use, the extra setup of dual-hose is worth it.

A portable air conditioner provides flexible cooling for spaces where window units aren't practical. The Whynter ARC-14S offers the best efficiency with dual-hose design, while the Midea MAP08S1BWT is perfect for smaller rooms. For year-round comfort, pair with a space heater for winter or a ceiling fan for air circulation.