Updated at: 07-09-2022 - By: Sienna Lewis

Using a portable air conditioner to its fullest potential is critical once you’ve purchased one. To put it another way, you’ll want to get the heat out of your house as soon as feasible. To get the most out of your air conditioner, make sure you install it correctly and pay attention to a few details. With that in mind, here are seven recommendations to help you get started.

Tip 1: install the drain hose with a window sealing kit

Exhaust hoses are required for all portable air conditioners. The drain hose of a portable air conditioner must be installed with a window sealing kit to ensure optimum operation. Keep warm air out with this set. This reduces the amount of heat that is lost through the air conditioner. Make sure you read the instructions for the window-sealing product before you install it. Your portable air conditioner or sealing kit’s product page will provide this information.

Tip 2: put the air conditioner in the right place

When using the drain hose, keep your portable air conditioner near a window at all times. It is common for the drain hose to be 150 centimeters in length. An inclined or slanted window is preferable than an inclined roof window with an in-between hinge when used with this type of hose. Warm air is always able to enter a window like this one because it has an aperture. The cooling capacity is affected by this. Keep the air conditioner 30 to 40 centimeters away from the wall and clear of any obstructions. The airflow is impeded when objects are placed on top of the air conditioner.

How do Portable Air Conditioners Work - A Complete Guide

Tip 3: cool the room before it gets warm

It takes a lot of effort to cool down a room that has been overheated. So it’s more efficient to keep the room at a cold temperature. When the room is still cool in the morning, turning on the air conditioner is a good idea. Portable air conditioners use less energy if they simply need to maintain a comfortable temperature. On top of that, it’s a lot quieter.

Tip 4: protect the room against heat

External effects, such as the heat from the outdoors, might cause the space to overheat. Direct sunlight should be kept out of the room at all costs. Use the available window coverings, such as blinds, curtains, and so on. Make sure all the windows and doors are closed as well! This keeps the outside air from getting in.

Tip 5: do not place the air conditioner in a room that’s too large

The maximum surface area cooled by a particular air conditioner is set by the unit itself. We categorize heat loads as high and low. Heat loads are higher in a room with a lot of sunlight and minimal insulation than in a dark, isolated one. You won’t be able to cool the entire area if you use a portable air conditioner in a larger room than recommended. This causes a lot of commotion, but the device doesn’t get hot enough.

Tip 6: place the drain hose as straight as possible

Your portable air conditioner’s drain line guarantees that heated air is drained from the room. It is critical to keep the hose as straight as possible in order to achieve the best results. It’s more likely that the warm air won’t drain effectively if the hose has many kinks and bends. As a result, the room’s air conditioner will have a harder time chilling it.

Tip 7: limit the use of electrical devices

The efficiency of your air conditioner is impacted if you have a lot of different cooling devices in the room. To a certain extent, electronic equipment generate their own heat. You can see this in action with your vacuum cleaner. Using a vacuum on a hot day may not be recommended because it generates a lot of hot air. Thus, you maximize air conditioning efficiency.

What Are Portable Air Conditioners?

Often referred to as a “stand-up air conditioner,” a portable AC may be moved from one location to another with relative ease. It is a self-contained device that may be installed anyplace except for a window and a power outlet. It is easier to transport portable versions around because they have wheels attached to the bottom of them. The ease with which it can be placed and moved makes it a popular choice among portable air conditioners.

How Do Portable Air Conditioners Work?

When it comes to operation, portable air conditioners are just like any other model of air conditioner. Air is drawn in from the room, conditioned to your desired temperature by removing heat, and then returned to the room.

Portable air conditioners are made up of the following components:

  • The refrigerant and evaporator coil chill the air.
  • Condenser coil: To cool the heated refrigerant.
  • The compressor raises the temperature of the refrigerant in order to facilitate condensation.
  • A fan is a device that circulates air as needed.

The portable air conditioner receives hot, humid air from the room via the fan. In addition to lowering the temperature, condensing water is extracted from the air by the coils inside the unit. Afterwards, the air is recirculated throughout the building.

This process would not be possible without the refrigerant. It acts as a heat exchange medium and cools the indoor air. A quick expansion causes it to cool down.

It is this cooled refrigerant that is responsible for absorbing the heat from the interior of the building. A lot of heat is generated as the refrigerant is compressed, and it needs to be expelled from the system. As a result, portable units are equipped with an exhaust hose for discharging heat outside the space they’re in.

Moisture collected in the air can be removed in three different ways by a portable air conditioner:

  • Self-evaporation: Portable air conditioners remove moisture from the air they circulate through an exhaust vent, which is also heated. This feature is primarily utilized by newer models.
  • Gravity drain: A hose pumps the accumulated moisture out of the system.
  • The water is collected in an internal bucket, which must be manually drained. This feature is only included in older models.

In comparison to other types of air conditioners, portables have fewer components because they are self-contained machines. The refrigeration cycle is grouped as tightly as feasible in even the smallest portable ACs.

How Do Single-Hose vs. Dual-Hose Portable Air Conditioners Work?

Single-hose and dual-hose portable room air conditioners are available. There are two types of portable air conditioners, and we’ll explain how they function in a moment.

How Do Single-Hose Portable ACs Work?

The single exhaust vent of a portable air conditioner with a single hose is called a single-hose portable air conditioner. As a result, they’re easier to set up, less expensive, and more common.

The unit cools the air in the room by drawing it in from the inside. The moisture and heat generated as a result of the cooling process are exhausted outside through the single hose.

A negative pressure is formed in the room because the unit is constantly drawing in the room’s air and not exchanging it. As a result, air can seep through door gaps, windows, or other leaks to replace the missing air. As a result, your air conditioner will have to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in the room. Insulation and closing the doors can help avoid this.

8,000 BTU / 5,300 SACC Midea 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner

How Do Dual-Hose Portable ACs Work?

To avoid creating a negative pressure, the unit must constantly draw in the room’s air and not expel it. Thus, any gaps in doors or windows can be filled by the escaping air. In order to keep the room cool, the air conditioner must work harder to remove heat from other parts of the house. Proper insulation and keeping your doors closed can help prevent this from happening.

Just like with a single-hose AC, the heat and moisture generated during the cooling process are exhausted through a single hose. To counteract the negative pressure, a second hose is connected to the exhaust system and utilized to bring in outside air. Temperature-controlled air from outside is then brought into the room.

The dual-hose air conditioner requires less effort to chill the space, resulting in a higher level of efficiency. As a bonus, two hoses make the total process speedier because they can bring in and expel fresh air more quickly.

Maintenance of Portable Air Conditioners

Maintaining your portable air conditioner can help to ensure that it runs efficiently at all times. This will not only extend the life of your machine, but it will also ensure that it runs at peak efficiency.

Cleaning and replacing air filters is the first step in maintaining any ductless air conditioner. Depending on how often you use the air conditioner, it’s best to get the filters cleaned every two to four weeks. Pet hair and dander can clog air vents and filters, so be sure to clean them periodically if you have pets. It is possible to receive timely alerts about the need to change the air filters using a smart thermostat.

The water reservoir should be drained before it starts messing up your room. If your portable aircon isn’t reversible or you don’t plan to use it in winter, it must be stored properly. Clean the device and dry out the water tray to prevent the growth of mold.

Your room will be ruined if you don’t drain the reservoir of water. Even if you plan to keep it out all winter, portable air conditioners must be stored properly even if they are not reversible. To avoid mold formation, thoroughly clean and dry the equipment.

How To Vent Your Portable AC

All portable air conditioners must be mounted correctly and exhaust hot air as they cool in order to chill your room. An accompanying window kit is normally used to vent this warm air to the outside, but that isn’t always an option.

Here’s everything you need to know about setting up and venting a portable air conditioner:

Why Do You Need to Vent Your Portable AC?

Portable air conditioners cool your room by removing the hot air from the space.. The hot must be expelled from the room in order for the cooling process to be efficient and successful. If you don’t vent the heated air outdoors, it will remain in your room and block the cool air from coming in.

How to Install Your Portable AC with a Window Kit

Window kits provided by manufacturers make it easy to set up most portable air conditioners. To make your home more comfortable, all it takes is a few simple actions. See how simple it is in the video below!

A window bracket, one or two vent hoses, and the vent hose adapters are all part of a basic window kit. Your vent pipe needs to be installed close to a window because the average length is between 4 and 5 feet. To rapidly set up your portable air conditioner, simply follow these steps:

Hose connectors/adapters must be attached and inserted before venting a portable air conditioner (or hoses).

Your window’s length should be taken into account when extending your adjustable window kit in steps 4 and 5. Trim the window bracket if necessary to ensure that it is a perfect fit for your window. Depending on the model, screws may be included to secure the window kit in place. Afterwards, shut your window to keep the toolkit secure.

Vent hoses are connected to the window kit in step 6. You can begin cooling right away if your model is properly installed and ventilated. Simply plug it in and begin customizing it. Simple as that!

Customers sometimes inquire as to whether or not they must remove their window screen in order to install a portable air conditioner. You don’t need to remove your screen most of the time.

Replacing Portable Air Conditioner Window Kits

Check out our Portable Air Conditioners Accessory page if you need to replace a window kit for your model. However, you may be able to find one that meets your demands if you go with the AC’s manufacturer.

Window kits from Honeywell are among the most popular we provide. The exhaust hose is 5 inches in diameter and fits ordinary double-hung windows with a width of 20 to 47.25 inches. Before purchasing a new window kit, make sure it is compatible with your model and window. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 1-800-934-9194.

Sliding Window and Sliding Door Ventilation

They can be fixed horizontally at the bottom of windows, but they can also be installed vertically to accommodate sliding windows and doors. Installing air conditioners in slider windows may necessitate some alterations to the window bracket.

The bracket for sliding windows must be long enough to suit the aperture. Sliding windows are well-suited to units with twin window brackets. The basic window bracket and a filler bracket are both included in a double bracket. It is possible to fill any gaps in the bracket after it has been installed using wood, Plexiglas or some other filler material.

For sliding windows with air conditioners, the window brackets will not be long enough to fit the vertical aperture, so you will need to fill the extra area with plywood or Plexiglas.

Casement Windows

Standard window kits will not fit casement or crank windows since they open like doors. But that hasn’t deterred our clients, who are always looking for new ways to save money. Plexiglas covers the entire window opening, and the exhaust hose is cut out of the Plexiglas.

Drop Ceiling Ventilation

It is important to keep sensitive equipment cool at all times, as electronic equipment can generate a lot of heat. It’s no surprise that portable air conditioners are so popular in server rooms, given their ability to keep warm equipment from overheating and causing other problems. There’s only one problem: server rooms don’t normally have windows or other access to the outside.

Fortunately, drop or panel ceilings are common in most office buildings. KwiKool portable air conditioners, for example, provide the option of venting into drop ceiling spaces.

Wall Ventilation

Wall vents allow individuals to vent hot air to the outside or to another room, such as a garage or storage area, rather than relying on ductwork. In order to be sure you don’t cut into any wiring or plumbing, you can use a jigsaw to cut out the desired hole in the wall. Silicone caulk can be used to fill in the gaps around the hole.

Connecting to Dryer Vents

A portable air conditioner’s exhaust should not be emitted through a dryer vent. The diameter of dryer vents is 4 inches, while the diameter of most exhaust tubes is significantly greater. DeLonghi portable air conditioners, on the other hand, have 4-inch exhaust tubes, making them compatible with most dryer vents. To avoid an overflow of dryer lint and debris, it is best to keep the external aperture of your dryer vent clear of obstructions such as flaps or other obstructions. Remove the flap and replace it with a screen in this scenario.

How Long are Portable AC Exhaust Hoses?

Depending on the model, exhaust hose lengths range from 4 to 7 feet.

Do Not Extend Vent Hoses

Extending the vent line while using a portable air conditioner will reduce its effectiveness and void the manufacturer’s warranty.

Will Someone Be Able to Push My Window Open and Get Into My House?

With a portable air conditioner in place, your home should be safe. However, once the venting kit has been fitted, you can no longer use the window lock. A window lock is an option for consumers who want to keep their portable air conditioners safe. Despite the vent kit, the locks allow you to latch and lock your window.

FAQs About Portable Air Conditioners

It’s possible that you still have some unanswered questions in your head. In this section, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about portable air conditioning equipment.

Do Portable Air Conditioners Work Without a Window?

A portable air conditioner with an exhaust hose that requires you to vent it out. However, a window isn’t required for exhaust venting. You can also vent it through a wall, door, or roof, depending on the area and availability.

Do All Portable Air Conditioners Have to Be Vented Out a Window?

The absence of exhaust vents is also common on some portable air conditioners. They chill the air by eliminating moisture from the atmosphere.. Draining the water reservoir is a regular occurrence. Rooms with no windows are the only places where these are appropriate.

Do You Have to Put Water in a Portable Air Conditioner?

Standard portable air conditioners don’t need to be filled. If you have a swamp cooler, which is a type of evaporative portable room air conditioner, you’ll need to keep the reservoir stocked with ice and water. Because it lacks an exhaust vent, it uses evaporation to cool the air instead of condensation. It’s not like an air conditioner in that respect.

How to Vent a Portable Air Conditioner | Sylvane

What Happens if You Don’t Drain Your Portable Air Conditioner?

Self-evaporative or gravity-drained portable air conditioners don’t need to be emptied. Evaporation and drainage are the two methods used to deal with it. However, if your model comes equipped with a water bucket, you’ll need to pay close attention to it. If the reservoir isn’t drained when it’s supposed to, the water will leak out and destroy your furniture. Mold can form in a bucket of water that has been left unattended for days on end if the portable air conditioner is not being used on a daily basis.

Do Thermostats Work With Portable Air Conditioners?

Yes! The Cielo Breez Plus smart AC controller can be used to manage your portable air conditioner if it has an IR remote. Your home’s environment can be controlled using a mini-stat. Setting schedules and reviewing use records help you save money on your electric bill as well. Add-on accessory for your smart home, compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google, Siri Shortcuts and Samsung Smart Things

Is It Ok to Leave Portable AC on All Day?

It’s still not a good idea, even if you don’t have to bother about the water drainage. You’re wasting energy by leaving your portable air conditioner running all day, even if you don’t need it. To get the most out of it, connect it to a smart AC controller like the Cielo Breez and program it to come on at specific times. Additionally, location-based triggers can be set to switch on and off your air conditioning when you arrive home and leave.

Are Portable Air Conditioners Noisy?

There are certain drawbacks to portable devices, such as the fact that they are loud. Portable air conditioners can be noisy, so if you recently purchased one, you may find it difficult to sleep next to it. Due to their placement on solid floors, vibrations can travel further, resulting in a louder sound. Under your portable air conditioner, try putting a mat to reduce the noise. You may also check the decibel rating of the product before purchasing it. Decibel rating is a good indicator of how loud the speaker is.

Are Portable Air Conditioners Energy-Efficient?

Portable air conditioners, in general, are not an energy-efficient solution. Since portable air conditioners constantly produce heat while chilling the room, the cooling process takes longer. Your utility bills will rise as a result of this increased energy consumption.

A portable air conditioner, on the other hand, would be a great choice for those who only need to heat or cool a single room.

What Should I Look for When Buying a Portable Air Conditioner?

Set a budget before purchasing a portable air conditioner for your room. Then narrow down your options to those that are within your price range. After that, see if you can figure out what your room’s proper dimensions should be. If you have a limited amount of space in your room, go for dual-hose models. To ensure year-round use, consider a model that has a heating element.

We hope this article has answered all of your concerns about portable air conditioners, including how they function and what else you need to know about them!

In Summary

You don’t need any special tools to vent your portable air conditioner. In order to use, you must first connect any necessary hose connectors or adapters. Fit the window kit to the length of your window and fix it in position.