Frequently Asked Questions About Portable Air Conditioners
James Brains/Insider
What is Btu?
Btu is an international unit of energy used for measuring the amount of heat required to increase the temperature of 1 pound of water at sea level by 1 degree Fahrenheit. In the context of air conditioners, the Btu rating indicates how much heat a portable AC can remove from a room per hour.
How many Btu do you need to cool your room?
For a 150-square-foot room, you’ll need approximately 5,000 DOE Btu. A 250 sq. ft. room requires 6,000 Btu, a 350 sq. ft. room needs 8,000 Btu, a 450 sq. ft. room requires 10,000 Btu, a 550 sq. ft. room needs 12,000 Btu, and a 700 sq. ft. room requires 14,000 Btu. It’s important to select an AC with the appropriate Btu rating for efficient cooling. If the Btu rating is too high, the AC won’t effectively remove humidity, and if it’s too low, the room won’t be adequately cooled.
Why do portable ACs have two Btu numbers?
According to Joanna Mauer, the technical advocacy manager for the Appliance Standards Awareness Project, the DOE Btu rating is more accurate than ASHRAE because it takes into account factors like hot air infiltration and heat losses through the ducts. ASHRAE, which is the manufacturer’s Btu rating, doesn’t consider the significant heat released back into the room by the exhaust hose, nor is there a consistent testing standard. Our guide references the DOE ratings.
What can you do if you are stuck with an AC that doesn’t have enough Btu to adequately cool a room?
Mauer recommends keeping the filter clean and closing curtains and blinds during the day to reduce heat gain. Running a fan to circulate the cool air is also suggested.
Which is better: a portable air conditioner or a window/room air conditioner?
In our guide comparing portable air conditioners to window air conditioners, we highlight that window ACs are generally the better choice. Our tests showed that even the most efficient portable AC used 60% more power than our top window pick and had inferior cooling performance. Additionally, window units are more cost-effective. We recommend purchasing a window AC unless you don’t have a window that can accommodate one.
Can I use a portable air conditioner in a room without windows?
Yes, but the hot air needs an exit to provide effective cooling. Your portable AC requires an opening large enough for the ventilating hose to expel the heat outdoors.
How do I clean and maintain my portable air conditioner?
To ensure optimal performance, it’s important to clean the filter of your portable air conditioner at least once a month, or more frequently if you use it often. Here are some additional cleaning tips:
Weekly:
- Remove condensation: Regularly remove condensation buildup resulting from the cooling process. Some portable units have built-in dehumidifiers or drain hoses for easy removal. Before storing the AC for the season, make sure to eliminate condensation to prevent mold growth.
- Keep the hose short: Short and straight hoses improve efficiency, reduce dust and moisture buildup.
- Wipe the exterior: Use a damp cloth to wipe the outside of the unit and remove dust.
Monthly:
- Clean the filter: A clean filter allows for optimal airflow and helps reduce allergens in the air. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning frequency. You can use a vacuum with a crevice tool attachment or wash the filter with water, ensuring it’s completely dry before reinstalling it.
- Check the insulation: Inspect the insulation to ensure it remains in place and seals any cracks. If your AC unit didn’t come with foam seals, consider purchasing affordable adhesive strips to provide insulation whenever you move the AC.
Twice per season:
- Vacuum the condenser coils: Use a screwdriver to remove the back panel and access the condenser coils. Gently run a vacuum with a crevice attachment over the coils to remove dirt and debris. Avoid applying excessive pressure to prevent damage to the coils.
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