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Portable Air Conditioners
Buy the best portable air conditioner online at Appliances Online and beat the Aussie heat! Renting a place with no air con? or maybe there's a room in the house or office that always gets hammered with heat during summer? Don't worry, we've got you covered, with brands like Dimplex, TCL, DeLonghi, and Goldair. Appliances Online offers great deals on portable air conditioners, complete with our price match guarantee and free next-day delivery to most Australian metro areas. Not sure which model suits your needs? Our expert customer service team is ready to help you find the ideal portable air conditioner, or explore our range of fans and evaporative coolers for alternative cooling options. Stay cool and comfortable this summer with Appliances Online – your one-stop shop for all your cooling needs!
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Looking for the best portable air conditioner to beat the Aussie heat?
Whether you’re a renter, a homeowner, or just need extra cooling for that one stubbornly hot room, we’ve got you covered. Below, we answer all your burning questions about portable air conditioners, making it easy to find the perfect cooling solution for your home.
What Is a Portable Air Conditioner?
A portable air conditioner is a compact, self-contained cooling unit that you can move from room to room. Unlike built-in systems, they don’t need permanent installation, making them a great choice for renters or anyone who values flexibility.
How Do Portable Air Conditioners Work?
Portable air conditioners work by drawing in warm air, cooling it using a refrigerant system, and then circulating cool air back into the room. The heat is vented outside via an exhaust hose, typically through a window or another outlet. This efficient process keeps your space comfortably cool even during scorching summers.
Why Should You Consider a Portable Air Conditioner?
Portable air conditioners are perfect for:
- Flexibility: Move them wherever you need cooling.
- Ease of installation: Just set it up, plug it in, and you’re ready to chill.
- Renters: No permanent changes needed – ideal for rental properties.
- Supplemental cooling: Great for targeted cooling without cranking up the whole house system.
Do Portable Air Conditioners Need to Be Vented?
Yes, venting is essential to remove heat from the room. Most units come with a window kit, but you can also vent through sliding doors, wall vents, or ceilings. Without venting, the unit can’t effectively cool the room.
How Do You Choose the Right Size Portable Air Conditioner?
The size you need depends on the room size:
- Small rooms (up to 20 m² or 215 ft²): 2-3 kW.
- Medium rooms (20-40 m² or 215-430 ft²): 3-4 kW.
- Large rooms (40-60 m² or 430-645 ft²): 4-6 kW.
Measure your space, and consider factors like ceiling height, insulation, and sun exposure for the best results.
Are Portable Air Conditioners Energy Efficient?
Portable air conditioners are less energy-efficient than split systems but offer convenience and affordability. Look for models with features like programmable timers and eco modes to manage energy usage. New Zoned Energy Rating Labels (ZERL) in Australia can help you compare models.
What Should You Look for When Buying a Portable Air Conditioner?
When choosing the right model, consider:
- Cooling power: Match the kW rating to your room size.
- Noise level: Quieter models are ideal for bedrooms or home offices.
- Energy efficiency: Choose models with energy-saving features.
- Portability: Check for wheels and handles to move the unit easily.
- Extra features: Look for remote controls, Wi-Fi compatibility, and sleep modes.
Can You Use a Portable Air Conditioner Without a Window?
While venting through a window is the most common method, you can also use wall vents, sliding doors, or ceiling exhausts. Remember, it is always recommended to follow the manufacturers instructions. If none of these are an option, consider evaporative coolers as an alternative.
How Do You Maximise the Performance of Your Portable Air Conditioner?
Here are some tips to get the most out of your unit:
- Keep the exhaust hose short: A shorter hose improves efficiency.
- Seal gaps around the vent: Prevent hot air from re-entering the room.
- Clean filters regularly: Maintain efficiency and improve air quality.
- Close doors and windows: Keep the cool air contained.
- Use in enclosed spaces: Avoid placing the unit in direct sunlight.
Are Portable Air Conditioners Suitable for Apartments?
Absolutely! Portable air conditioners are perfect for apartments due to their easy setup and mobility. They’re renter-friendly and don’t require any permanent modifications, making them a versatile choice for small to medium-sized rooms.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Portable Air Conditioners?
- Flexible and easy to move.
- Ideal for renters.
- Simple installation.
- Great for targeted cooling.
- Can be noisy.
- Less energy-efficient than split systems.
- Requires venting.
- Takes up floor space.
Should You Choose a Portable Air Conditioner or Another Cooling Solution?
If you need quick and flexible cooling, a portable air conditioner is a great option. However, if you’re looking for more energy efficiency or a permanent solution, consider split systems or evaporative coolers.
Need a little more help finding the best portable air conditioner for your home? Read through our dedicated Portable Air Conditioner Buying Guide.
You’ll also find a range of air treatment devices to suit your home. You can keep your home cosy with heaters or cool down with window reverse cycle air conditioners and evaporative coolers. Beyond room temperature, you can keep your space more comfortable with humidifiers and air purifiers. Certain models also have Wi-Fi and smart home compatibility for seamless connectivity.
