How to Debate Buying a Portable Air Conditioner

Buying a portable air conditioner can offer a more affordable way to cool a home or office, but it does have limitations concerning the size of the area it can efficiently cool. Additionally, plans may need to be made for handling the condensation that's built up while the air conditioner is in operation. That can include installing an exhaust hose to move moisture to the outdoors.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Consider the size of the space you want to cool. Depending on the model, portable air conditioners can cool up to 450 square feet.

2. Take note of how a portable air conditioner handles condensation. If it will be used in an area with high humidity, look for a model that can collect condensation in a tank and allow for easy, manual drainage.

3. Plan for the installation of an exhaust hose. For several models, the evaporation process allows moisture to move outdoors through an exhaust hose. Some smaller models may not require an exhaust hose; however, they typically only cool up to 200 square feet.

4. Look for models with features that boost efficiency. Portable air conditioners that allow the motor to be cooled by some of the collected condensation can increase efficiency.

5. Search for models that also use filters to improve indoor air quality by removing dust, pollen and bacteria. However, consider the maintenance and costs associated with such filters. Find out how often a filter needs to be cleaned or replaced and whether cleaning the filter is an easy task.

6. Try to see the portable air conditioner you're considering buying in operation so that you can hear how much noise it makes and determine whether it will bother you.

Tips & Warnings

• Portable air conditioners that are operated with remote controls will enhance convenience, and built-in casters will aid easy movement.