Summer is here and the sweltering heat is not a welcome sight. While air conditioners have become a necessity in most homes, those living in apartments or rented spaces without window access may find it challenging to install traditional AC units. This is where portable air conditioners come in, providing a convenient solution for cooling a room without the need for a permanent installation. In this blog, we will review the best portable air conditioners without window access, and provide a buying guide to help you choose the right one for your needs.
The Whynter ARC-14S Portable Air Conditioner is a popular choice for those looking for a powerful and efficient portable AC unit. It has a cooling capacity of 14,000 BTUs and can cool rooms up to 500 square feet. This unit also features a dual-hose system, which helps to cool the room faster and more efficiently than single-hose models. The ARC-14S also comes with a programmable timer, allowing you to set it to turn on and off at specific times.
The Black + Decker BPACT14WT Portable Air Conditioner is another great option for those without window access. It has a cooling capacity of 14,000 BTUs and can cool rooms up to 350 square feet. This unit also features a 24-hour programmable timer and a sleep mode, which reduces noise and energy usage while you sleep. The BPACT14WT also comes with a remote control, making it easy to adjust the temperature from across the room.
The Honeywell MO08CESWK Compact Portable Air Conditioner is a smaller option, with a cooling capacity of 8,000 BTUs and the ability to cool rooms up to 350 square feet. Despite its smaller size, this unit still comes with features like a 24-hour programmable timer and a remote control. The MO08CESWK also has a washable filter, making maintenance easy.
Buying Guide:
When looking for a portable air conditioner without window access, there are several factors to consider:
- Cooling Capacity: The cooling capacity of a portable air conditioner is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). The higher the BTU rating, the more powerful the unit and the larger the room it can cool. Be sure to choose a unit with a cooling capacity that matches the size of your room.
- Hose Type: Portable air conditioners come with either a single-hose or dual-hose system. A dual-hose system is more efficient, as it takes in fresh air from outside to cool the unit, while a single-hose system takes in air from the room, which can result in the unit working harder and using more energy.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for units with a high energy efficiency rating (EER). The higher the EER, the more energy efficient the unit and the more money you can save on your energy bill.
- Noise Level: Consider the noise level of the unit, especially if you plan to use it while sleeping. Look for units with a low decibel (dB) rating, or ones that feature a sleep mode, which reduces noise and energy usage.
- Price: Portable air conditioners can range in price from under $200 to over $1000. Set a budget before you start shopping and look for units that offer the features you need within your price range.
In conclusion, a portable air conditioner without window access is a great solution for those looking to cool a room without the need for permanent installation. Be sure to consider factors like cooling capacity, hose type, energy efficiency, noise level, and price.