The Most Efficient Way to Use a Portable Air Conditioner

There’s nothing cool about sweating through your clothes all summer long. Whether your central air conditioner is on the fritz or you just want to cool down one small space, portable AC units can be a lifesaver.

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But installing a temporary air conditioner can also mean bigger utility bills and irritating hot spots. Luckily, there are some easy-to-execute ways to make your portable AC more efficient.

What Is a Portable AC Unit?

A portable air conditioner, or portable AC, is a mobile unit designed to cool a smaller space. Unlike central air conditioning, portable ACs don’t require ductwork, as cool air is pumped directly into the surrounding environment. These units can be moved from room to room or positioned semi-permanently in a family room or bedroom to help keep occupants comfortable.

Portable ACs offer comfort and flexibility on a budget. They’re far easier and less costly to install than central air and don’t require any permanent changes to your home.

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How Can You Make Your Portable AC Run More Efficiently?

To run your portable AC efficiently, complete this short checklist of portable AC installation and maintenance tips.

• Seal the window vent. Portable ACs use one or two hoses to exchange air in and out of the home. Looking up the best approach to AC exhaust sealing can help you plug gaps that could allow hot air to seep in. Also, plug any open areas around the unit itself using weather stripping, caulk or even plastic and duct tape.

• Amp up your insulation. Insulating portable AC ducts and covering your windows can help reduce heat gain. This keeps your room cooler, so your AC doesn't have to work as hard to achieve your target temperature. You can insulate using blinds, blackout curtains, foam sheets or a specially designed sleeve cover or spiral duct wrap to block out sunlight.

• Check your AC unit’s size. Look at your unit’s BTU rating and see if it’s the right choice for the size of the space it’s supposed to cover. Oversized units may waste energy, while undersized units work harder and may wear out sooner.

• Clean or replace the filter. Ensure your AC unit has a clean filter to allow for proper airflow. Clean or replace a dirty or clogged filter as soon as possible.

• Drain pooled water quickly. Some portable ACs collect condensation that must be removed manually. Skip portable AC drainage tasks and the unit can malfunction, creating inefficiencies and leading to professional repairs.

• Optimize your portable AC’s placement. Portable AC units should always be placed close to a window or door to make it easier to expel hot air through the exhaust hoses. Make sure there’s space around the unit for ample airflow, and keep the AC away from other appliances that might generate their own heat, such as dehumidifiers.

• Close the doors and windows. Portable ACs work best in enclosed spaces. Just shutting the door to the room the AC is in may boost its cooling efficiency.

• Don't put a portable AC in a corner. Portable AC units that don't fit in a window may operate best when situated in the middle of a room. If you have a particularly sunny room or limited space, place the AC where there's minimal direct sunlight.

If you plan on moving your portable AC from room to room, always recheck ventilation and reseal the unit once it’s reinstalled. Look into portable AC window kits that include everything you need to fit and seal your air conditioning unit. Accessories such as an extra-long exhaust hose and PVC plates make it easy to insulate components and block out the elements.

Scheduling regular maintenance appointments and tune-ups can also help your AC run more efficiently. Routine inspections give your local HVAC experts a chance to identify small problems before they turn into major concerns. This can save you money on costly repairs, improve your utility bills and extend the life of your AC.