Stay cool and safe with AC units that can be moved room to room.

A portable air conditioning unit can mean the difference between suffering in sweltering heat or relaxing in cool comfort. These appliances work like traditional window AC units but can easily be moved from room to room. Portable AC is great for homes without whole-house AC or when you just want to cool one space—like a home office or workshop.

Selecting a portable AC

Portable AC units start at about $250. Many people use a credit card or a personal loan to cover the cost. However, before you complete a purchase make sure the model you’re considering will meet your needs. Specifically:

• Buy the right size. Before you go shopping measure the area you want cooled. Then choose a unit sized appropriately.
• Check the weight. If you plan to move the unit from room to room, see if the weight is manageable.
• Check descriptions and reviews for noise ratings. Compare quietness among models by looking at each one’s decibel output while operating.

Dos when using portable AC

Portable AC units are easy to use. To maximize comfort and safety, follow these tips:

• Carefully position the exhaust. Most portable AC units come with a vent kit. To ensure that the warm exhaust goes outdoors make sure connections are secure. And to keep cool air indoors eliminate any gaps between the window and vent with a weather seal.
• Keep the doors to the room closed. This keeps the cool air where you are.
• Maintain the filter. A clean filter is good for your health, lowering electricity usage and extending the life of your portable AC unit.
• Turn off a portable AC unit when you leave home.
• If your unit dehumidifies and collects water in tank, empty the tank when full to maximize comfort.

Don’t make these portable AC mistakes

Like any appliance, there are a few things to avoid in order to keep your home safe:

• Don’t put the unit in the wrong place. Position the unit so no one trips over the cord or exhaust vent and keep the unit out of direct sunlight.
• Don’t use an extension cord. Also, ensure that the circuit used to power the unit isn’t overloaded. 
• Don’t overlook security. Use a window lock or a bar in the track to prevent the window from being forced open.

 

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