10 Best Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner – (Reviews & Guide 2021)

One of the noticeable features of portable air conditioners is hose configuration. A portable AC can have a single hose design or dual hose design. Dual hose portable air conditioners are the best because they cool the room more efficiently and takes the shortest time.

If you have decided that a dual hose portable air conditioner is the right choice, then we’ll help you choose one for your home.

In this portable air conditioner buyer’s guide, you’ll find some of the best dual hose portable air conditioners on the market today. However, don’t only look at the design of the hose, compare the cooling capacities, noise levels and other features that will simplify how you operate the unit.

Top 10 Best Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioners 2021

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

1. Whynter ARC-14S 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner

Sale
Whynter ARC-14S 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air...
  • AWARD-WINNING: Good Housekeeping's 2023 "BEST OVERALL PORTABLE AIR CONDITIONER Provides powerful cooling over large areas
  • POWERFUL & QUIET: 14,000 BTU (ASHRAE) / 9,500 BTU (SACC) cooling capacity; Noise level (dBA): <56
  • ADVANCED SELF-EVAPORATION: Dual hose operation; Cools up to a 500 square foot space (ambient temperature and humidity may influence optimum performance); Patented auto drain function fully exhausts all condensate automatically in most environments; Dehumidifying capacity: 71 pints per day; Air Flow (at high speed): 430 m3/h / 253 CFM; 3 fan speeds
  • MULTI-FUNCTIONAL & ENERGY SAVING: Three operational modes: Cool, Dehumidify, and Fan; Full thermostatic control (61°F – 89°F); Maximum power consumption: 1300 W / 11.6 A; Power supply: 115 V / 60Hz / 1 Phase; Eco-friendly CFC free Green R-32 refrigerant
  • EASY TO SETUP & PORTABLE: Extendable exhaust hose (up to 60″) 5.9" diameter; Window kit dimension: 6.5″ W x 20″ L (minimum), 46″ (maximum); Unit dimensions: 19″ W x 16″ D x 35.5″ H; Activated carbon air filter and washable pre-filter

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Whynter ARC-14S 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner is one of the best selling ACs on the market. With its elegant design, it is ideal for most modern homes. It has a cooling capacity of 14,000 BTUs and works efficiently in large spaces up to 500 square feet.

Apart from its cooling capabilities, this portable heat pump unit can be used as a dehumidifier and provides fan-only operation and heat. It removes up to 101 pints of excess water per day and distributes 13,000 BTUs of heat per hour. It can, therefore, be used to supplement the central heating system.

Whynter ARC-14S is environmentally-friendly and energy efficient. It uses a CFC-free refrigerant and contains lead-free RoHS compliant components. It has a programmable timer that allows you to turn your AC on or off up to 24 hours in advance. The thermostat also allows you to set the AC to maintain your desired temperature without wasting energy.

This portable AC is one of the quietest. It also features a washable pre-filter, auto shut-off, carbon filter, and auto drain technology.

Pros:

  • Auto drain technology
  • Auto restarts following power outage incidents.
  • Comes with a protective cover that has storage slots for its remote control and manual.
  • Eco-friendly operations devoid of CFC, lead and R-410 elements.
  • Leakage-Current Detection and Interruption (LCDI) features.

Cons:

  • Relatively expensive.
  • Filters require weekly maintenance, especially when used in dusty environments.
  • Less efficient when it isn’t well aligned with the thermostat.

2. EdgeStar AP14001HS Portable Air Conditioner and Heater with Dehumidifier

LIVING DIRECT EdgeStar AP14001HS - Portable Air...
  • SKU: AP14001HS
  • Finish: Black / Silver
  • Manufactured By: EdgeStar
  • CFM: 210, 254

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The EdgeStar AP14001HS Portable Air Conditioner is another dual hose AC with a self-evaporating system. It’s a powerful unit that provides 14,000 BTUs and cools spaces up to 525 square feet.

This AC can also be used to remove excess moisture and heat rooms during winter. It can dehumidify up to 85 pints per day. During winter, it offers 8,800 BTUs of heat, but it can’t be used as the primary source of heat. However, if your room is less than 400 square feet, the heater will work efficiently.

The EdgeStar AP14001HS is energy efficient thanks to an EER rating of 11.2. It also has other energy saving programmable features including 24-hour programmable timer and thermostat. These features will help cut your energy costs as they allow you to set the unit to run only when you need it.

This unit is also quiet – its maximum noise level is 56dB. It comes with an easy-to-install window kit, uses no ozone-damaging R410A refrigerant and is made with all RoHS compliant components that are free of harmful chemicals.

Pros:

  • Its 3-fan speed conserves energy and boosts efficiency.
  • Restarts automatically and restores setting after a power outage.
  • Its 8,800 BTU version suits smaller rooms and shoestring budgets.
  • 24/hour programmable timer.
  • Comes with a direct drainage option.

Cons:

  • It’s heavy and takes up a lot of space.
  • Relatively noisy especially when working at full capacity.
  • Its tank fills-up quickly.

3. Avallon APAC120S Portable Air Conditioner with Dehumidifier and Fan

Avallon APAC120S Portable Air Conditioner with...
  • 12,000 BTU (ASHRAE-128 Standard) / 5,500 BTU (DOE 2017 Standard) Cools up to 425 Square Feet (depends on heat load)
  • All portable air conditioners including this one must be vented using the included hose; Self evaporating technology eliminating the need to drain; Can be used as single hose or dual
  • 24 hour timer; Electronic control panel w/ digital display; Casters included, Intelligent auto mode
  • Remote control included; Window vent kit included expands 32-56" in length; Three (3) fan speeds; Temp range: 61-89°F
  • Dehumidification capacity up to 80 pints per day; 10.8A; Input voltage: 115 V/60 Hz; Dimensions 29.2" H x 17.2" W x 15.1" D

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you’re looking for a portable air conditioner that doesn’t require permanent installation or move easily from one place to another, then the Avallon APAC120S is the unit to go for. It’s a powerful AC that cools large rooms up to 425 square feet.

If you live in extremely humid areas, this unit will dehumidify 80 pints per day, transforming your space into a cool, dry, comfortable environment during summer. Moreover, it has 3-fan speeds, so you can always choose the amount of cold air distributed across the room.

If you don’t want to empty your AC from time to time, you better choose this unit because it uses self-evaporating technology. It features an intelligent Auto Mode that will automatically adapt fan speed and other settings to cool your area to your set temperature.

Setting up this unit is easy. It comes with an installation kit to vent it through the window and easy-to-follow instructions.

Pros:

  • Its evaporating technology jets out invisible mist when the unit’s tank fills up.
  • Easy to read LED display screen.
  • Comes with a 24-hour timer.
  • Remote control enabled.
  • 3-fan with automatic selection option.

Cons:

  • Some customer reviews note that the unit cools a 300 square feet room better than a 425 square feet room.
  • You may need to obtain a new plastic joiner.
  • Makes a loud bang-like noise as the unit switches to fan-operations.

4. Honeywell MM14CHCS Portable Air Conditioner

Honeywell MM14CHCS 14000 BTU Portable AC,...
  • [POWERFUL, SAFE & DEPENDABLE] Cools rooms up to 550-700 sq. ft. Thermal Overload protection for added safety & peace of mind.
  • [EASY INSTALL & MAINTENANCE] Washable Filter designed to protect from dust & hair to extend product life & performance. Filter cleans easily under a faucet for easy maintenance. Full set window kit included for quick & easy installation for vertical and horizontal windows (Max. hose length is 4 feet).
  • [DESIGNED FOR COMFORT] Enjoy simple digital control with 3 fan speeds, 24 hour energy saving timer & remote control included
  • [4-IN-1 ALL SEASON APPLIANCE] Powerful AC cooling in the summer, Heater in the winter, Dehumidifier for humid days (removes up to 66 pints/ 24 hours with continuous drain option for long unattended operation), Fan circulates air for everyday comfort.
  • 14000 BTU (ASHRAE-128 Standard) / 7500 BTU (DOE+ 2017 Standard)

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

When it comes to household appliances, Honeywell is one of the big names on the market. The Honeywell MM14CHCS 14000 BTU is undoubtedly one of their high-end portable air conditioners with high cooling capacity and proven to work so quietly.

While the Honeywell MM14CHCS can cool rooms up to 700 square feet, it also offers 13,000 BTUs of heat that can be used to warm rooms up to 550 square feet. Therefore, you don’t have to buy an extra space heater when the cold weather sets in.

Controlling humidity in your home is important. If you live in a humid area, you can turn on the dehumidifier mode that can remove up to 79.2 pints per day.

While Honeywell MM14CHCS is a little expensive than most of the units we have reviewed, the price has been compensated by a quiet operation and other features. Not many powerful portable air conditioners for large rooms can operate at 55 dbA when the fan is running at the maximum level.

Pros:

  • Comes with a digital LED feather-touch controls.
  • Silent operation despite powerful air flow.
  • Easy to install, maintain and operate.
  • Energy efficient.
  • Fits all kinds of window design.

Cons:

  • You may find expensive when on a tight budget stretch.
  • Some customers have noted that its self-evaporating system isn’t ultimately efficient.
  • Gets noisy with time

5. BLACK + DECKER BPACT08WT Portable Air Conditioner

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BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner up...
  • Portable AC: Use this personal air conditioner (15.3” x 14” x 24.8”) in rooms up to 350 sq. ft. Stay cool in the hot summer months and sleep well with this BLACK+DECKER ac unit for bedroom.
  • 3-in-1: Our 4,100 BTU DOE (8000 BTU ASHRAE 128) air conditioner also functions as a dehumidifier & fan. This portable air conditioner (45.8 lbs.) has a convenient remote control & top mounted control panel with LED display.
  • Impressive Features: Set the temperature just right with this ac portable air conditioner. Our ac unit portable also has a slide-out washable filter, auto water evaporation, & 24-hour timer.
  • Easy Mobility: Thanks to casters on the bottom and side handles on both sides of the small air conditioner, this air cooler can be moved from room to room without any hassle.
  • Installation Kit: When it comes to fans that blow cold air, this indoor ac unit includes an easy-to-install window kit. A large, vented airflow outlet ushers in cool air. Cools a room approximately 15' x 20'

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you are looking for a cooling solution for your studio room, basement, attic or garage but don’t want to rework your central cooling system, consider using BLACK + DECKER BPACT08WT Portable Air Conditioner. It’s small, lightweight and best suited for small rooms up to 350 square feet.

The BLACK + DECKER BPACT08WT has three different modes to choose from. You can select between cooling, dehumidification, and fan. This means you can set the unit to dehumidifier the room when the humidity levels are too high. Also, when your room is cool enough, you can just turn on the fan-only mode to distribute the cold air across the room and reduce energy wastage.

This AC is one of the easiest to operate. It has only five buttons and one display screen that shows you the modes you have selected and the temperature and time adjustments you have made. Aside from controlling this unit from the control panel, you can take advantage of the calculator-like remote.

Pros:

  • Comes with a window kit for easy installation.
  • Compact design on wheels.
  • Powerful and steady air flow.
  • Easy to clean filters.
  • User-friendly features with remote control options.

Cons:

  • The unit isn’t crack window compatible.
  • Can be noisy when operating at full capacity.
  • The display light is too bright – you may want to cover it up with an opaque piece of cloth if you prefer leaving it on at night.

6. Toyotomi TAD-T40LW

Toyotomi TAD-T40LW 14000 BTU Portable Air...
  • 14,000 BTU portable AC
  • Heat Pump: 11,000 BTUs of heating
  • Excellent self-evaporating system that evaporates most (if not all) condensate
  • Timer, remote control
  • Dual hose

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

When it comes to design and aesthetics, Toyotomi TAD-T40LW may not be the best-looking air conditioner. However, when it comes to quality, efficiency, and features, it is one of the units you can never regret purchasing.

It provides 8,000 BTUs of localized cooling power to enhance personal comfort in areas up to 500 square feet. This dual hose AC can also remove moisture from your space if needed and keep your space comfortable in the winter months by providing 11,000 BTUs of heat.

Like many other high-end AC on this list, Toyotomi TAD-T40LW has an excellent self-evaporating system that evaporates most (if not all) condensate. This means you won’t have to empty a water tank manually. The unit will stop operating, or the LED indicator will let you know when the tank is full.

This model is easy to move from one room to another thanks to the four casters. This device also features a 24-hour timer that turns it on or off between 1 and 24 hours in advance.

Pros:

  • Energy efficient.
  • 3-fan speed for efficiency.
  • Reliable self-evaporative system.
  • 12-hour timer.
  • Has an 11,000 BTU built-in heater.

Cons:

  • Loud when working at full capacity.
  • Some customers say that the unit’s fan develops clutter sound after a while.
  • May not be efficient in extremely hot and humid environments.

7. Friedrich ZoneAire PH14B Portable 4-In-One Air Conditioner

Friedrich ZoneAire PH14B Portable 4-In-One Air...
  • Auto restart: automatically restarts the motor in the event of a power failure or a power outage. Once the power is restored, the air conditioner will resume operation in the last Programmed setting
  • Easily portable: durable castor wheels and side handles make moving room-to-room easy. Cooling Amps: 10.8. Heating Amps: 10.8
  • 3 fan speeds: find your ideal temperature by selecting 1 of 3 fan speeds
  • Air Circulation- 250 cubic feet per minute. Moisture Removal- 5 pints per hour
  • 13500 Btu cooling and 10700 Btu heating ZoneAire portableheat pump has an EER of 9.5 for rooms up to approximately 700 sq ft.

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

When searching for a portable unit that can cool and heat, then you need to consider Friedrich ZoneAire PH14B Portable 4-In-One Air Conditioner. With this unit, you have the perfect climate solution for your home all year round.

Friedrich ZoneAire PH14B is ideal for large rooms. It has a cooling capacity of 13, 500 BTU and heating capacity of 10,700 BTUs, making it suitable for large rooms up to 700 square feet.

When the temperature is moderate, and you don’t want to cool or heat your space, you can turn on the fan mode to circulate the air and prevent stuffiness in the room. If the room is too humid, you can also turn on the dehumidifier mode to keep your room at a comfortable humidity level.

This portable AC features an auto restart, so it will automatically restart on power failure and resumes to the previous settings. Also, it has a self-evaporative system, so you don’t have to empty the bucket manually.

Apart from its portability feature, Friedrich ZoneAire PH14B comes with a 6 feet long power cord which allows you to install it exactly where cooling is needed. Or you can move it from one room to another without having to go through the installation process.

Pros:

  • Has a self-evaporative system
  • The 6 feet power cord allows you to install the unit where you exactly need it.
  • Can be used to cool, dehumidify and heat a room
  • Automatically restarts and resumes previous settings

Cons:

  • A little expensive
  • Overestimated room size.
  • Since it’s powerful, its compressor is relatively loud.

8. LG LP0817WSR 115V Portable Air Conditioner

LG LP0817WSR 8,000 BTU, 115V Remote Control in...
  • COOLS UP TO 200 square feet: Stay cool and comfortable when Mother Nature turns up the heat. This 8,000 BTU (5,500 BTU – DOE) portable air conditioner can cool rooms up to 200 square feet (10’x20’ room size).
  • OSCILLATING AIR DISCHARGE: Inclined top air discharge swings up and down to sweep air evenly throughout the room, eliminating hot spots. Oscillation feature can be turned off using remote control.
  • INSTALLATION KIT INCLUDED: Slide-together window bracket has click-lock connection point for exhaust hose. Other end of exhaust hose slides securely into place on the back of the air conditioner. Installation kit fits vertical and horizontal windows from 18” to 50”. Detailed installation instructions included.
  • SLEEK TOUCH CONTROLS: The control panel on this LG portable air conditioner features sleek digital touch controls and an LED screen, making switching between the 3 modes and 2 fan speeds simple. An included LCD remote control reflects the unit settings from across the room.
  • AUTO-EVAPORATION SYSTEM: The bucketless design of this LG portable air conditioner is thanks to the auto-evaporation system built into this model. Moisture created by the cooling process is evaporated inside the unit, allowing you continuous operation without having to regularly empty a bucket.

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The LG LP0817WSR 115V Portable Air Conditioner is a stylish and modern AC that is perfect for many home decorations. It comes in two colors – black and white – so you can choose depending on your preference.

The LG LP0817WSR has received a lot of positive reviews from customers not only because of its design but also because of its cooling abilities. While it’s just ideal for small rooms up to 200 square feet, it features an auto-swing air vent technology that ensures even circulation of cool air across the room.

This unit is more than just an air conditioner; it’s also capable of air circulation and removing up to 1.8 pints of excess moisture per hour.

The LG LP0817WSR is easy to use compared to other air conditioners. Apart from the remote control, it has a LED display that shows you the current and set temperature, set time as well as different modes and settings. The thermostat will allow you to set your desired temperature while the timer allows you to set the AC to turn on or off up to 24 hours in advance.

Pros:

  • Powerful
  • Easy to use
  • Stylish, contemporary design
  • Can dehumidify up to 74.4 pints daily
  • Has an oscillating fan
  • Operates quietly – 53 dBA at maximum level

Cons:

  • Lacks a sleeping mode
  • Window vent take a little more time to set up

9. Haier HPND14XHT 14, 000 BTU Dual-Hose Portable Air Conditioner

Haier HPND14XHT 14, 000 BTU 115V Dual-Hose...
  • Dual-hose portable air conditioner with supplemental heat capability for a room up to 500 sq. Ft
  • 4 modes include cool, heat, fan, and Dehumidify
  • 14, 000 BTU cool mode/10, 000 BTU heat mode
  • Electronic control panel with digital temperature/timer display
  • Full-function remote control with on-board storage

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Haier HPND14XHT 14, 000 BTU Dual-Hose Portable Air Conditioner helps eliminate the warm spots in your home or office in a very convenient way. While it’s portable and lightweight, the caster wheels even make it easier to move it around.

Haier HPND14XHT can be used both in the summer to cool and winter to heat a room. Its 14,000 BTUs cooling capacity and 10,000 BTUs heating capacity is enough for spaces up to 600 square feet. It has other two modes – a fan to circulate the air and dehumidifier to reduce excess moisture.

When you look at the programmed settings, the digital control panel displays the customizable settings for the temperature, timer, and the four operational modes: auto, air conditioner, fan, and dehumidifier.

When it comes to adjusting the settings, you have the option to use either the remote or control panel. Setting up this unit is easy – it does not require any permanent installation unlike central air conditioners and window units.

Pros:

  • Powerful
  • Quiet
  • Nice looking

Cons:

  • The window mount for the exhaust hoses is expensive

10. Danby DPA120DBAUGDB Portable Air Conditioner

Danby DPA120DBAUGDB Portable Air Conditioner,...
  • 12, 000 btu (7, 700 btu, sacc*) portable air conditioner cools spaces up to 550 sq. Ft
  • 3-In-1 design: air conditioner, fan and dehumidifier
  • Dual hose design efficiently exhausts warm humid air outside
  • Auto restart: unit automatically restarts after a power failure
  • Electronic controls with led display and remote

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Danby DPA120DBAUGDB is one of the powerful and energy efficient dual hose portable air conditioner. It’s 12,000 BTU is perfect for cooling living spaces up to 550 square feet. It’s an environmentally-friendly air conditioner thanks to the R410A refrigerant.

The Danby DPA120DBAUGDB is a 3 in 1 unit. It can cool, dehumidify and circulate air. The fan has three-speed settings which allows you to customize the air circulated in your room. The auto swing technology ensures that every part of the room receives cool air evenly.

Moving this unit around is easy thanks to the four caster wheels and integrated handles. It’s easy to install, comes with all the materials needed to set it up, and fits easily in sliding glass doors, slider and double hung windows.

The control panel is user-friendly and has an LED display. You can adjust the temperature or timer using electronic control or remote. The filter is reusable/washable, so you don’t have to worry about the additional cost of maintaining the unit.

Pros:

  • 3-in-1 design: Air conditioner, fan, and dehumidifier
  • Auto restart: unit automatically restarts after a power failure
  • Environmentally friendly R410A refrigerant
  • Powerful 3-speed fan
  • Reusable, washable air filter
  • Four caster wheels and integrated handles

Cons:

  • Noisy
  • Some customers complained that the instructions on how to prepare for winter storage are incomplete and confusing.

What is the Difference Between Single-Hose and Dual-Hose Portable Air Conditioners

By now, you already know that portable air conditioners come in two hose configurations – single and dual.

What is the difference between the two?

First, let’s discuss what exhaust hoses do and why they are important.

A Portable air conditioner must be vented via a window or wall to cool a room. Once you have the AC positioned where you’d like it, you must create an opening through the window or wall that will allow the exhaust to vent hot air out of the room.

Why is it necessary to vent your portable air conditioner?

It’s necessary to vent portable air conditioners because they extract hot air. This warm hair must be exhausted outside and cool air drawn into the unit for it to cool your room.

When you buy a portable AC, the window kit is usually included. If it’s not, you’ll have to purchase it separately.

You can install your portable air conditioner in any position as long you can vent it through a window, wall, ceiling or door. The most common material used for venting portable ACs through casement windows is Plexiglas.

The best way to vent the hot air to the outside using Plexiglas is by cutting it into the size of the window. You also need to cut a 5-inch hole and set it over the open window. This way, the portable AC will vent the hot air to the outside without interfering with the amount of light coming through the window.

So, what is the difference between single-hose and dual-hose portable air conditioner?

Single Hose Air Conditioning Units

ngle Hose Air ConditionerThe single hose design uses a compressor to power the cooling system and pulls warm air from the room.

Single-hose portable ACs removes air from within the room and expels warm air and moisture through the hose and out of the house. This creates a negative air pressure because when the air is continuously being pushed out of the room, the warm air that seeps into the room through the doorway, cracks, and holes attempts to replace the “missing” air.

In this case, the unit has to work much harder to keep the room cool, which is why single hose portable ACs are less efficient than dual hose portable ACs.

However, these types of air conditioners are still useful and provide ample cooling for most spaces.

If you decide to choose a single hose unit, you need to keep some things in mind before you install and start using it.

  • Single hose portable air conditioners are temporary cooling options. So, they’re ideal if you don’t want to install an air conditioner permanently in your room. Moreover, installing a temporary portable air conditioner allows you to move it to other areas of your home that need cooling.
  • You need to determine the right BTU rating for s single hose unit to work effectively.
  • Choose a unit with high BTU ratings if you’ll be using it in a room with computers or even a mini-fridge.

Dual Hose Air Conditioning Units

Best Dual Hose Air ConditionerThis type of air conditioner utilizes two separate exhaust hoses, one that draws air into the unit and one that removes the warm air to the outside of the home.

So, in the process of cooling the air from the room, the unit heats up, but the intake hose pulls air from outside the home to cool it down.

One of the reasons why a dual hose portable air conditioner is much more efficient than a single hose unit is its ability to eliminate negative pressure. This is why it cools the room efficiently and quickly without having to work as hard as a single hose unit.

Another advantage of using a dual hose design is that the lifespan of the unit’s filter is increased. In single hose designs, more unfiltered air enters the unit, shortening the length at which the unit’s filter removes allergens from the expelled air.

When choosing a dual hose portable air conditioner, make sure you compare the BTU, EER ratings and manufacturing quality. These will help you determine the most appropriate model for your home.

Features of Portable Air Conditioners

Apart from the dual hose design, some extra features are usually available in most air conditioners that would improve efficiency and user experience. When you go shopping for a two-hose portable AC, keep these features in mind.

Thermostat

Different models come with different types of thermostats. Modern ACs feature digital thermostats that have a LED display, showing you the preselected the temperature and the current room temperature. The LED display offers convenience and accuracy while the digital thermostat maintains a more consistent temperature in the room.

Most of these thermostats also come with an automatic shut off that turn the AC on and off depending on the temperature variations.

Basic models, on the other hand, come with mechanical thermostats – a typical dial button which you use to select your preferred temperature setting. These thermostats are less-convenient because you have to choose the temperature setting manually.

Adjustable fan speed

The different fan speeds allow you to select the rate at which the unit cools your room. Some air conditioners have two speeds (low and high) while others have three (low, medium, and high).

If the room is too hot and you want cool in the shortest time possible, you can select the high speed. If the room is relatively warm and doesn’t require too much cooling, choose the medium speed. The low speed is used when you want to maintain a certain temperature over a specific period.

Keep in mind, the fan speed you select affects the level of noise produced by the unit. The higher the speed, the louder the unit.

Remote

Just like other home appliances, air conditioners come with remote control. You can use it to adjust the temperature setting, fan speed and select the different modes. If you can’t always find your remote when you need it, you can choose a unit that has a magnetic hold on the side that stores the remote when it’s not in use.

Programmable Timer

A timer is intended to help you to save energy by allowing you to schedule the unit to turn on/off depending on when you need your room cool and when you don’t. While timers can only be set in a one-hour interval, they can go up to either 12 – 24 hours.

Air direction control

Sometimes you’ll need to customize the air flow and direct it to specific zones in your room. The adjustable louver lets you direct cool air to the areas you need it most. This is important because you get to eliminate hot spots in your room.

Energy star rating

Energy efficiency ratio is a feature that you must give some thought because it will affect how much you spend on energy. However, units that are energy-star rated are 15% more efficient than units that are not energy star rated.

Filter types

An air filter is what ensures the unit functions smoothly as intended. It’s important because it keeps dust, dirt, and allergens out of your home.
The two different types of air conditioning filters are standard and washable.

Standard filter is replaceable and used for a specific time. They are usually replaced when the time elapses.

Washable filters can be used for an extended period. They are more durable and can withstand many washes.

Things to Consider When Buying Portable Air Conditioners

It’s crucial that you choose the right portable air conditioner for your home. A perfectly-sized unit will work in the space you have, not only to meet your cooling needs but also at a cost you can manage.

Here are some of the boxes your new air conditioner must check before you can install it in your room.

Properly Sized.

You can buy a portable air conditioner with the intention of keeping it in one room or moving it from one room to another. Depending on how you intend to use your AC, it must have the right capacity to cool your room.

The BTU rating of an air conditioner determines its cooling capacity. If you have calculated the size of the space you want to cool, then it’s easy to find a unit with the right BTU rating.

Portable air conditioners with high BTU ratings are considered to be powerful and work efficiently in large rooms. A lower BTU rating means the unit is less powerful and ideal for a small room.

Keep in mind that power equals price. A higher BTU means the AC will be likely more expensive. If you have a small room, here are some of the smallest portable air conditioners.

It’s important that you choose the right BTU rating for your home so that you avoid wasting energy and money. An oversized or undersized unit will not cool your room efficiently.

Here is a table that will give you an idea of the number of BTUs you need for the specific room size.

[wpsm_comparison_table id=”9″ class=””]

Keep in mind that other factors may affect the number of BTUs required in a room. For instance, the type of insulation in your home will significantly impact the BTUs you need. If the insulation is poor, then it’s a good idea to choose a unit with a slightly higher BTUs rating.

Easy to Install, Position and Use.

Portable air conditioners work by extracting hot air from the room and taking in cold air from the outside. For this to happen, an exhaust hose needs to be set up through an opening to the outside.

Why is this important? Because the exhaust hose and the location of the window will determine where you place your unit.

The easiest way to vent portable air conditioners is next to a window. Since most models come with a window kit, all you need to do is set it up and plug the unit a few feet from the window.

The process is a little different if you want to install the unit in another room or away from the window where the hole that connects the unit to the outside is created. In this case, you have to consider the maximum width of the window kit. Some kits may extend to your preferred location, and others may not. If it doesn’t extend to the location where you want to place the unit, you can purchase an extension hose or vent kit that will allow you to position the unit in your preferred spot.

Remember, installing the unit close to a window and reducing the length of the hose increases efficiency.

Maintenance

While the initial cost of a portable air conditioner is a little expensive depending on the type of unit you have bought (here are the cheapest portable air conditioners), the maintenance cost can be way more expensive if you don’t take care of your unit properly.

This is not to scare you off, but to inform you that these units require periodic maintenance without which they’ll get faulty or work inefficiently.

One of the main maintenance that will require most of your attention is draining the collected moisture. If you have purchased a full self-evaporating air conditioner, then it’s not something you have to worry about. If your unit has a drain hose or an internal bucket, you’ll have to drain the water from time to time.

Next is cleaning or replacing the filters as directed by the manufacturer. The type of filter that comes with your AC determines whether it needs to be washed or replaced. Find out from the manual how long the filters should last and how often you’ll need to replace or clean them.

Lastly, you have to defrost the unit fully if ice builds up on the coil. Air conditioners freeze up for various reasons. The most common cases are low refrigerant and improper fan operation. Depending on what the case of the problem is, you should be able to fix it to continue enjoying the services of the device.

How much Noise does it Produce?

Like any machine that generates airflow, portable air conditioners also create noise in your space.

If you prefer a silent indoor environment, you may want to choose a quiet window AC. The decibel rating is what determines the noise level of an air conditioner. The higher the decibel rating, the louder the AC.

Some manufacturers will indicate the decibel rating on the product specification. Compare the different models and chose a lower decibel rating. If the decibel rating is not included, read other customer reviews to find out more information about the noise level of the unit. If the reviews are positive, then you can consider it, but if the reports are negative, look for another model.

The recommended decibel rating for a quiet portable AC is below 55 dBA. Anything more than this will be loud and make your home uncomfortable.

Is it Energy Efficient?

If you want to lower your cooling bills, you need to consider the energy efficiency of the unit you want to use. An energy star rated unit can help you save up to 30 percent on your total monthly cooling bills.

The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) will help you determine whether or not an AC is energy efficient or not. A higher rating means it’s more efficient while a lower score means it’s less efficient.

Some air conditioners have an energy saving mode. This feature allows you to program the unit the maintain preferred temperature setting without using a lot of electricity.

Wrap Up

We hope that you’ve gathered enough information from this guide that will help you choose the best dual hose portable air conditioner for your home. Like mentioned earlier, while dual hose units are more efficient than single hose units, don’t make the hose configuration a priority than the cooling capacity and energy efficiency of the AC. Also, make sure you have selected a unit that is features-packed so you can get the best out of it. Lastly, read the manufacturer’s guidelines so you can use it and maintain it as intended.

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AUTHOR
Ronald Watford, the owner of Quality Home Air Care, is a qualified HVACR technician and manages the team of expert writers on this site. He believes that educating homeowners about HVAC systems is one of the most impactful aspects of his job.