3 Best Portable Air Conditioner & Heater of 2024

Portable air conditioner and heater combo is the best solution to get rid of heat in summers and cold in winters. They effectively solve your heating and cooling needs without a need of purchasing individual units. 

There are many benefits of using an air conditioner and heater combo. First of all, you can place them anywhere and in any room. No matter whether you have a small space or large space, they are suitable for any space. Also, they save money because you have to invest only on a single product rather than investing in two units, one for air conditioning and second for heating. Moreover, they save electricity. 

But here the question arises, which of the air conditioner/heater unit is the best? 

So, to make the selection process easier for you, Distributed Creativity expert team have reviewed the ten best air conditioner and heater combo units. All of these products are excellent and worth to buy. 

Best Portable Air Conditioner & Heaters

Preview	Product	Rating
	SereneLife SLACHT108 SLPAC 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner with Built-in Dehumidifier Function,Fan…	No ratings yet	Buy on Amazon
	BLACK+DECKER BPACT14HWT AC Remote Control Portable Air Conditioner, 14,000 BTU +HEAT, White-14,000	No ratings yet	Buy on Amazon
	Whynter ARC-14SH 14,000 BTU (9,200 BTU SACC) Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner and Portable Heater…	No ratings yet	Buy on Amazon

But first, it is necessary to look at those factors that you should consider before purchasing your ideal portable air conditioner/heater.+

Best Portable Air Conditioner/Heater Reviews

Choosing The Right Size And Btu Rating

Portable air conditioners have gained popularity as a convenient and effective solution for cooling smaller spaces. But how do they actually work? In this section, we will delve into the important aspect of choosing the right size and btu rating for your portable air conditioner.

By understanding these factors, you can ensure optimal cooling performance and energy efficiency.

Determining Your Cooling Needs Based On Room Size:

• Consider the dimensions of the room to determine the required cooling capacity. An undersized air conditioner may struggle to cool the space, while an oversized one may waste energy.
• Measure the length, width, and height of the room in square feet for a more accurate estimation.
• Calculate the cooling capacity using the general rule of thumb: 20 btus (british thermal units) per square foot. For example, a room measuring 200 square feet would require an air conditioner with a cooling capacity of 4,000 btus.

Understanding The Importance Of Btu Rating:

• Btu rating indicates the cooling capacity of an air conditioner. The higher the btu rating, the more cooling power the unit can provide.
• Consider the climate of your area as it affects the choice of btu rating. Hotter climates require higher btu ratings to achieve the desired cooling effect.
• Keep in mind that additional factors such as room insulation, direct sunlight exposure, and the number of occupants can also impact the required btu rating.

Factors To Consider When Selecting The Appropriate Size:

• Evaluate the insulation of the room. Well-insulated rooms require less cooling capacity compared to poorly insulated ones.
• Assess the level of sunlight entering the room. Rooms with significant sunlight exposure may need a higher cooling capacity.
• Consider the number of occupants in the room. More people generate more heat, requiring a larger cooling capacity.
• Take into account any heat-producing appliances in the room. If there are multiple heat-generating sources, a higher btu rating might be necessary.
• Finally, consider the noise level of the air conditioner. Higher btu ratings often result in louder operation, which might not be suitable for noise-sensitive environments.

By carefully considering the factors mentioned above, you can confidently choose the right size and btu rating for your portable air conditioner. Remember, striking the right balance ensures efficient cooling and a comfortable environment without excessive energy consumption. Stay cool!

Single Hose Vs Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioners

Portable air conditioners are a convenient and effective solution to beat the heat during summers. But with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which type of portable air conditioner is right for you. In this section, we will delve into the difference between single hose and dual hose portable air conditioners and explore the pros and cons of each type of system.

Understanding The Difference Between Single And Dual Hose Systems:

Single hose:

• Single hose portable air conditioners have only one exhaust hose that is responsible for both the intake and exhaust of air.
• These units take in warm air from the room, cool it down, and then expel the warm air along with excess moisture through the same hose.
• The negative pressure created by the single hose system can result in the infiltration of hot air from outside, reducing the unit's efficiency.

Dual hose:

• Dual hose portable air conditioners, on the other hand, have two separate hoses.
• One hose serves as the intake to bring in fresh air from outside, while the other hose is used to exhaust the warm air out of the room.
• This design eliminates the negative pressure issue faced by single hose units and ensures more efficient cooling.

Pros And Cons Of Each Type Of System:

Single hose:

• Pros:
• Typically more affordable compared to dual hose units.
• Easier installation as there is only one hose to deal with.
• Suitable for small to medium-sized rooms.
• Cons:
• Less energy efficient due to the possibility of hot air infiltration.
• Can struggle to maintain consistent cooling in larger rooms.
• Higher condensation levels may require frequent draining.

Dual hose:

• Pros:
• Offers more efficient and effective cooling performance.
• Minimizes the chance of hot air infiltration, resulting in higher energy efficiency.
• Better suited for larger rooms or spaces.
• Cons:
• Generally more expensive than single hose units.
• Slightly more complex installation with two hoses.
• Limited availability compared to single hose models.

Which Type Of Portable Air Conditioner Is Right For You?

Determining which type of portable air conditioner is right for you depends on various factors such as room size, budget, and your cooling requirements. Consider the following points to make an informed decision:

Opt for a single hose portable air conditioner if:

• You have a small to medium-sized room.
• You're on a tight budget.
• Energy efficiency is not the primary concern.

Consider a dual hose portable air conditioner if:

• You have a larger room or space.
• Energy efficiency is a priority.
• You can afford the higher upfront cost.

Remember to assess your specific needs and preferences before making a purchase. A single hose unit may suffice for some, while others may find the additional benefits of a dual hose system worth the investment.

The choice between a single hose and dual hose portable air conditioner ultimately boils down to your specific cooling requirements. By understanding the differences, pros, and cons of each type of system, you can make an informed decision and enjoy a cool and comfortable living space during hot summers.

Tips For Maintaining Optimal Performance Over Time

To keep your portable air conditioner running smoothly and efficiently, follow these tips:

• Regular cleaning: Clear any dust, debris, or obstructions from the air filters, condenser coils, and vents to ensure unrestricted airflow and proper cooling performance.
• Check for leaks: Regularly inspect the exhaust hoses and connections for any leaks or damage that may hinder the unit's efficiency. Repair or replace any faulty parts promptly.
• Proper insulation: Ensure the room or area where the portable air conditioner is used is properly insulated to minimize heat transfer and maintain cooler temperatures.
• Scheduled maintenance: Consider professional maintenance at least once a year to ensure all components are in good working condition, prolonging the lifespan of your portable air conditioner.
• Maintain proper ventilation: Make sure the area is well-ventilated to prevent the accumulation of hot air and moisture, allowing the portable air conditioner to work more effectively.

How To Get The Most Out Of Your Portable Air Conditioner In Different Climates

Portable air conditioners can be optimized to provide maximum cooling in various climates:

• Humid climates: Utilize the dehumidification mode to reduce excess moisture in the air, creating a more comfortable and less humid environment.
• Dry climates: Add some moisture to the air by placing a bowl of cold water near the portable air conditioner. This helps combat dryness and adds a refreshing element to the cooling process.
• Hot climates: Opt for a portable air conditioner with higher british thermal units (btu) to handle higher temperatures more effectively. Additionally, using room-darkening curtains and blinds can help reduce solar heat gain and improve cooling efficiency.
• Moderate climates: Take advantage of the window ventilation feature to bring in fresh outside air, reducing the reliance on the cooling function and increasing energy efficiency.

Remember, following these upgrades, maintenance tips, and climate-specific adjustments will allow you to get the most out of your portable air conditioner, ensuring effective and efficient cooling in any situation.

Buyer’s Guide For Portable Air Conditioner & Heater

If you are new to portable AC/heater combo, then you have to look at various things before selecting your ideal product. Here, in this section, we are going to share some important factors that you must consider before your purchase. Also, this buyer’s guide is for the combo unit users where they can find some extra information related to these units. 

Cooling and Heating Capacity

The first thing that you must look at is the cooling and heating capacity of your portable air conditioner plus heater. Both the cooling and heating power of these units is measured in BTU. BTU stands for British thermal unit.  

Different portable units come with different heating and cooling capacity. Many featured with a higher BTU rating, whereas some have a lower BTU rating. But it depends on the size of the room where you want to place the unit. 

So, before going to purchase the AC and Heater combo unit, measure the room size. So that you can get the best idea about the BTUs required to cover your complete room. 

If you have to cover an area of 500 square feet, then it is recommended to purchase a unit having 14,000 BTU. Similarly, a 13,000 BTU unit is for the 450 square feet covered area, and 12,000 BTU is for 400 square feet room. But if you have less space like 300 or 200 square feet, then a 10,000 or 8,000 BTU unit will be required respectively. 

Units having higher BTU rating can cool or warm up the room faster as compared to those having lower BTU rating. So, even if your room is small in size, you can select a higher BTU rating unit to have refreshing and chilly rooms in summers and warmest in winters. 

Fan/Dehumidification Feature

Some units come with only two operational modes, whereas some are 4-in-one units. They also have a fan and a dehumidification unit along with an air conditioner and heater. 

Fan mode is only for a good airflow where you get neither hot nor cold air from the unit. Many users first turn on the fan and then switch to the air conditioning mode.

If we talk about dehumidification, then it is also a useful feature that eliminates dampness from the air. It keeps the room environment clean and healthy. This feature is used in the hot summer days to control the humidity level in the house or rooms. 

So, always go for a 4-in-one unit if you need this dehumidification feature in your system.   

Weight and Size of the Unit

Another factor that needs your consideration is the size and weight of the unit. It is necessary to know the dimensions and weight of the product so that you can get the right product according to the space available. Also, the weight of the system counts when you need to lift the unit upstairs. So, if you have less space available, then consider the depth and width of your system. Also, if you live in a flat then consider the lighter model so that you can lift it easily.  

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficient portable air conditioners and heater combos are ideal to buy. These portable units consume less energy, but still, it is necessary to find an energy efficient product so that you can save some of your money. 

So in order to get the energy efficient product, check the EER rating. If the rating is higher, it means that your unit is much energy efficient. Need to choose a product between 10 EER rating and 5 EER rating! In this case we recommend to with a product having a 10 EER rating.  

Thermostat

It is quite useful to have an adjustable/programmable thermostat feature in your portable air conditioner/heater. This feature helps you to have custom temperature settings. You can set different temperatures for different times of the day, and the programmable thermostat will adjust the temperature of your room according to that settings. 

For example: If you come home from the office after 5 PM and then turn on your portable air conditioning/heating unit to make yourself feel comfortable, then with the programmable thermostat you only need to set your desired temperature for 5 PM, and you will get that room temperature when you reach home. Isn’t it cool?

Self-Evaporating Feature

Another great and important feature to have in your portable air conditioner is the self-evaporating feature. Air conditioners remove the moisture available in the air of the room, convert it into liquid form, and drain it from the rear end of the system. But with the self-evaporating feature, there is no need to empty the water-filled buckets. Units having this feature use the condensed water to cool off the inner cooling coils of the air conditioner through recycling that condensed water. This system use half of that water to cool the inner coils, and the remaining half is dispersed or evaporated into the outside air.  

Fan Speed

Another thing that requires your consideration is the fan speed. Most of the portable air conditioners and heaters come with three fan speed settings. One is low, second is medium, and the third is the high one. These settings help you to adjust the fan speed according to your needs. If you want to chill your room, select the high setting, and if you want to have slightly cool or warm room temperature, then the low setting is the best to go with.  

Noise Level

Everyone wants to have a noise-free air conditioning unit so that they can sleep without any disruption. If you are buying a system for your room or your children room then it is necessary for you to select a unit that operates with less noise level. 

Remote Control  

Each of the modern portable air conditioner/heaters comes with or featured with a digital LED display. Also, they feature a control panel so that you can easily control the unit. But having a remote control is ideal when you are not near to your unit. It comes with the same functions available on the control panel. 

So, we suggest to go for a unit that comes with remote control for easy operation across the room. 

Ease of installation

Generally, these portable air conditioners/heaters are quite easy to install. But still, you should buy a system that offers hassle-free installation. Make sure that the window kit is available. Also, check whether the exhaust hose is extendable or not. 

Ease of Movement

Some portable conditioner come with caster wheel whereas some are not featured with these wheel. So, it is best for you to go for a unit that offers wheels for easy movement from one place to another. 

Price

Price is another factor that you should consider. Always try to get the best possible product within your budget. But never compromise on quality. If you want to get a good quality product just by giving some extra amount, then we recommend to give that extra money for a good quality unit. 

Conclusion

Portable air conditioners and heaters offer a versatile solution for temperature control in various settings. With their compact size and easy installation, they provide convenience and flexibility, allowing you to cool or heat specific areas as needed. These devices come equipped with advanced features such as built-in timers, remote control access, and multiple operating modes, ensuring optimum comfort and energy efficiency.

Moreover, their portability enables you to use them in different rooms or even take them along when you move. By investing in a portable air conditioner and heater, you can maintain a comfortable environment year-round, whether at home, the office, or any other space.

As the demand for portable climate control systems continues to rise, manufacturers are constantly improving their designs to deliver more efficient and environmentally friendly products. Embrace the convenience and functionality of portable air conditioners and heaters, and enjoy a comfortable living or working space regardless of the season.