Portable air conditioners can provide many benefits to Canadians without access to central HVAC. While you can opt for window units, portable air conditioners can be easier to set up and to have in your home. There are many portable air conditioners on the market, and you might not know which is the best for you.
To help with this, we have created a carefully chosen list of the best portable air conditioners in Canada of 2023. Our hours of research have led us to these products, with each passing through evaluation processes by our experts. During our selection process, we prioritized features that most Canadians prefer in a portable air conditioner. Here are the choices we have unearthed for you.
Best Portable Air Conditioners for Canadians in 2023
- Best Overall: SereneLife Portable Electric Air Conditioner
- Best Controls: Pasapair WiFi Portable Air Conditioner
- Best Design: Midea Duo Portable Air Conditioner
- Best Efficiency: DeLonghi Portable Air Conditioner
- Best Energy-Saving: DeLonghi 11,500 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
- Best Coverage: Whynter 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner
Why Did We Choose These Portable Air Conditioners in Canada?
The portable air conditioners appearing on this list are here after exhaustive research and painstaking research. Our team as a whole is passionate about uncovering the best products to offer you, and each product goes through extensive appraisal. The research is followed by expert opinions and review. We take all of this information into account to make our final choices. Here’s why each of these portable air conditioners made the list.
The SereneLife Portable Electric Air Conditioner is the best option for a portable air conditioner in Canada. With two speeds, a compact but powerful design, and a wide range of coverage, this air conditioner works to keep you comfortable in your home.
When it comes to controls and ease of use, you won’t find a better option than the Pasaspair WiFi Portable Air Conditioner. This option features voice controls, a remote, and four different modes of operation to achieve the comfort most Canadians are looking for.
The Midea Duo Portable Air Conditioner has an eye-catching innovative design. It includes hose-in-hose technology that can create efficient air circulation, assisted by variable-speed inverter engineering. This option provides powerful cooling at faster speeds than many other portable air conditioners.
The DeLonghi Portable Air Conditioner is the best on our list when it comes to efficiency. This option has a built-in dehumidifier and covers up a floor area of up to 65 square metres. It has excellent cooling power of 14,000 BTU and includes numerous features, such as a programmable timer, a fan, and DeLonghi’s Cool Surround Technology, enabled through Bluetooth.
Those interested in being energy-efficient might consider getting the DeLonghi 11,500 BTU Portable Air Conditioner. This option comes with a dust filter and a dehumidifier, and it uses eco-conscious gas that can be better for the environment than other types. It is easy to use and maintain, and can be ideal for larger rooms.
If you’re looking for coverage, the Whynter 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner can be a great choice for you. It can cover a floor area of up to 47 square metres, and it includes a dehumidifier. This option offers digital and remote control of the appliance, and it also uses green refrigerant which contributes to this being an eco-conscious choice.
Best Operating Modes
SereneLife Portable Electric Air Conditioner
- Dimensions: 13.8 x 14.6 x 27.2 cm
- Cooling Power: 8,000 BTU
- Noise Level: 55 dB
- Operation Features: Cooling, Dehumidifier, Fan
It's Great For:
- Canadians looking for sleek design
- Those who want a built-in dehumidifier
- People wishing for a quiet option
- Users who like remote controls
The SereneLife Portable Electric Air Conditioner offers great operating modes. It includes a dehumidifier that can remove up to 1.2 litre of moisture per hour, along with a fan with airflow of 290 cubic metres per hour and 2 speeds. The effective cooling system adds to the functionality of this portable air conditioner.
This compact option has excellent portability and includes a stylish sleek design with modern influences. It includes a remote control with a digital touch panel. You can use it to turn the unit on or off, to adjust the fan speed settings, and to control the temperature and power it is using to operate. You can also change the mode and the timer through the remote control. There is a unit selector, as well as a sleep key that can be configured.
The portable air conditioner has an automatic swing mode. When you turn this on, the vent will move to ensure the best air circulation in the room. This can provide a more efficient cooling experience. The initial installation is easy and can be done in 3 quick steps. First, you have to place it wherever you wish to use it, then use the provided window kit to install the exhaust hose. You then have to connect the exhaust hose to the unit, and proceed to enjoying the cooling feature.
The wheels on the unit and the lightweight design make it easy to move the portable air conditioner from room to room. There is a washable air filter for additional convenience, making it straightforward to maintain. The floor coverage is up to 20 square metres, which is ideal for small to medium-sized spaces. In smaller rooms, you will get to feel the cooling breeze even quicker.
The exhaust hose connects to the top of the unit, which is easier to access. It is also a good length that assists with easy installation.
Key Features
- Great Functions. This portable air conditioner offers 3-in-1 functionality that can be accessed through the remote control. The easy control over the unit leads to a straightforward cooling experience.
- Easy Installation. When you receive this SereneLife option, you can install it in 3 simple steps. This process can be completed in a few minutes.
- Compact Size. This is a portable option thanks to its light design and the wheels included on the bottom of the unit.
- Swing Mode. The automatic swing mode keeps the air vent moving to get the best circulation around the room.
Our Expert’s Take
“This portable air conditioner from SereneLife offers exciting functions and easy access.”
Best Controls
Pasapair WiFi Portable Air Conditioner
- Dimensions: 6.7 x 19.5 x 32.5 cm
- Cooling Power: 14,000 BTU
- Noise Level: 49.5 dB
- Operation Features: Dehumidifying, Cooling, Circulating
It's Great For:
- Cooling down to 16°C
- Rooms up to 28 Square Metres
- Multiple functions
- Canadians seeking better efficiency
The last thing you need is a portable air conditioner that is difficult to use. You need an option that features intuitive controls, and the Pasapair WiFi Portable Air Conditioner uses some of the best controls on our list. It features a remote control, voice control features, and a smartphone app to give you multiple options for keeping your air conditioner running just how you want. With multiple modes, quiet operation, and a ton of other benefits, this air conditioner is a great choice for most Canadians.
This machine works well in rooms up to 28 square metres, making it the perfect option for most of the small and medium-sized rooms in your home. A cooling capacity of 10,000 BTU means you can get most rooms down to 16°C when you want it, so you can sleep easier at night and stay cool even on the hottest summer days. The CEER Energy Efficiency rating allows you to run the air conditioner without using much energy, so you won’t be paying more to get comfortable.
However, this unit does much more than just keep you cool. There are four modes in total, including the air conditioning mode. The Pasapair WiFi Portable Air Conditioner also doubles as a dehumidifier and fan when needed. A sleep mode allows for even quieter operation while it reduces the temperature in the room, so you won’t wake up hot throughout the night. The exhaust hose is simple to assemble, allowing you to vent warmer air outside. The kit that attaches to your window is adaptable to many different window frames, so you can use the option that best suits your home.
A 24-hour timer and washable filter help you keep on top of the machine without requiring a ton of maintenance or oversight. You can easily program the timer to work when you need the air conditioner and automatically turn it off when you aren’t home. This allows for even more efficient use and reduces energy costs associated with using the air conditioner.
Key Features
- Remote and Voice Controls. You can control this air conditioner with the remote, your voice, or a smartphone app to control every aspect of its operation.
- Powerful Cooling. With 10,000 BTUs of cooling power and a range of temperatures down to 16°C, your medium-sized rooms will feel comfortable throughout the warmer months.
- Four Modes. This air conditioner can be used to cool your air, but it also features a fan mode, a dehumidifier mode, and a sleep mode for quiet, efficient operation.
- 24 Hour Timer. With 24-hour timer functionality, you won’t have to babysit this portable air conditioner. You can set the timer for periods when you want it to function, as well as times when you want it to turn off.
Our Expert’s Take
“The Pasapair WiFi Portable Air Conditioner features four modes of operation, a wide coverage area, and intuitive remote and app control. These features make it one of the best options for Canadians who want an easy-to-use portable air conditioner.”
Best Design
Midea Duo Portable Air Conditioner
- Dimensions: 6.7 x 19.5 x 32.5 cm
- Cooling Power: 14,000 BTU
- Noise Level: 49.5 dB
- Operation Features: Dehumidifying, Cooling, Circulating
It's Great For:
- Those looking for smart control
- People seeking maximum comfort
- Canadians who enjoy the quiet
- Users wishing for fast cooling
The Midea Duo Portable Air Conditioner features an innovative dual hose design. This improves air circulation and ensures that hot air is kept away from rooms as much as possible. This energy-efficient option can save up to 40% energy use when compared to the standard.
Thanks to variable-speed inverter engineering, this unit cools more powerfully and at a faster pace. The upgraded hose design accompanied by the air duct system can lock cool air in the room where the unit is operating. This can help keep the space cooler for longer and up to 2x faster.
When the unit is cooling, the noise output can get as low as 42 dB, with a regular output of 49 dB. For Canadians preferring a quiet option, this unit can be used in the bedroom while still enjoying a peaceful sleep. This portable air conditioner has smart Wi-Fi capability, which can be used to pair up with Google or Alexa voice assistants, enhancing the remote control options for this unit.
The portable air conditioner option from Midea provides a comfortable cooling experience, with the addition of a dehumidifier and a circulating fan. For extra portability, this unit includes wheels and does not require access to a window vent when the dehumidifier feature is in use.
The portable air conditioner is easy to maintain. You only need to clear out the collected water once you notice it filling up the basin. To do so, you can use the nozzle on the bottom of the unit which is designed for quick water release. You will know when it’s time to remove the water build-up because the unit will automatically shut off until the moisture is cleared.
When using the cooling feature, you can enhance that by turning on the continuous fan option from the display of the unit. It is ideal for small to medium-sized rooms and fits perfectly in Canadian spaces with non-carpeted floors.
Key Features
- Smart Connection. This portable air conditioner can easily be paired up with the Google or Alexa voice assistants. Doing this will allow you to enhance the functionality of the unit.
- Exciting Design. The dual hose engineering creates a more efficient performance along with an upgraded design and an improved air duct system.
- 3-in-1 Comfort. This option also includes a powerful dehumidifier and a circulating fan for extra cooling and relief.
- Low Noise Output. This is one of the quietest options for portable air conditioners and can be used in bedrooms without affecting rest.
Our Expert’s Take
“This Midea option stands out for its innovative design and the features it offers.”
Best Efficiency
DeLonghi Portable Air Conditioner
- Dimensions: 15.4 x 17.5 x 31.7 cm
- Cooling Power: 14,000 BTU
- Noise Level: 53 dB
- Operation Features: Dehumidifier, Fan, Cooling
It's Great For:
- Canadians seeking a portable option
- Those wishing for multi-functions
- People who want more comfort
- Users in need of targeted cooling
The DeLonghi Portable Air Conditioner is an efficient all-around choice. This option includes a dehumidifier and a fan accompanying the cooling feature. The 3-in-1 aspect enhances the functionality of the portable air conditioner. This DeLonghi option uses ArcticWhisper Extreme technology to reduce the fan noise up to 50%, which allows you to enjoy cooling relief even as you sleep.
This hi-tech option uses Bluetooth to connect to the remote control and target your location. It analyzes the temperature and humidity around the remote, and when they reach specific levels, the appliance will start cooling the area. This technology also provides more energy efficiency by kicking in when the optimal conditions are met. On average, this could save up to 30% of your energy use.
This DeLonghi option offers floor coverage of up to 65 square metres, making it an ideal choice for many types of rooms. Its lightweight design makes it very easy to carry from space to space if you need to cool different areas throughout the day. The portable air conditioner offers Canadians a personalized cooling experience using some of the most innovative technologies available today.
You can program the auto function to work at night, which will make the portable air conditioner turn off on its own once the room reaches 25º Celsius. The washable filter makes maintenance easy, while setup is easy from the first day. You can also make use of the programmable timer to keep an area cool at an even rate whenever you wish. The quiet technology used in this DeLonghi appliance offers up to 4dB less noise output when compared to a standard air conditioner.
This portable air conditioner is recommended for medium-sized rooms, but can suit some larger spaces, depending on their features. The cord length is 1.95 metres, making it easy to plug in and use without hassle.
Key Features
- Innovative Technology. This DeLonghi appliance uses exciting technology to keep the fans quiet and to provide targeted cooling. This can increase the comfort in your home while still being energy-efficient.
- Easy Maintenance. The portable air conditioner is easy to maintain and includes a washable filter. This can help you keep the appliance in the best condition for longer.
- Programmable Functions. You can use the 24-hour timer to control how the portable air conditioner operates. You can also use the auto feature that will turn off when the environment around the appliance reaches 25º C.
- Portability. The lightweight build of this portable air conditioner makes it easy to carry from room to room as needed. This can enhance its functionality by adapting to various spaces.
Our Expert’s Take
“The DeLonghi Portable Air Conditioner delivers impressive technology and features.”
Best Energy-Saving
DeLonghi 11,500 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
- Dimensions: 13.6 x 16.7 x 27.6 cm
- Cooling Power: 11,500 BTU
- Noise Level: 53 dB
- Operation Features: Dehumidifier, Fan, Cooler
It's Great For:
- Canadians looking for efficient use
- Those seeking programmable options
- Users who enjoy quiet units
- People who want mindful design
The DeLonghi 11,500 BTU Portable Air Conditioner introduces a mindful take on providing cooling relief during the occasional hot Canadian weather. It uses eco-conscious gas to create the cooling experience, adding to the energy efficiency of the unit. This option is on the quiet side, and can be used with great results in more spacious rooms because it can cover up to 46 square metres of floor area.
The DeLonghi 11,500 BTU Portable Air Conditioner introduces a mindful take on providing cooling relief during the occasional hot Canadian weather. It uses eco-conscious gas to create the cooling experience, adding to the energy efficiency of the unit. This option is on the quiet side, and can be used with great results in more spacious rooms because it can cover up to 46 square metres of floor area.
The unit comes with castor wheels and handles for easy portability. It is recommended to focus the cooling operation in one room with the doors and windows closed, and to then transport it to the next space in need of some relief. If you’re looking for a multifunctional option, this can be the right choice for you. This portable air conditioner includes a dehumidifier and a fan to create more efficient cooling throughout the home.
You can use this unit in the bedroom. By enabling the low setting, the fan speed and the hum of the appliance will provide the lowest noise output available on the appliance. This can contribute to an easy rest without interruptions while remaining cool and enjoying fresh clean air.
Key Features
- Eco-Conscious Design. This unit has a mindful design created to have as reduced impact on the environment as possible. It makes use of eco-conscious gas for the cooling feature.
- Programmable Functions. The timer on the unit can easily be programmed to operate on a 24/ basis while still keeping cooling efficient.
- Multiple Functions. This portable air conditioner also has a dehumidifier and a circulating fan that can contribute to keeping spaces cool and providing quick relief.
- Easy to Transport. There are wheels and convenient grip handles on the unit that make it easy to take from room to room.
Our Expert’s Take
“The DeLonghi 11,500 BTU Portable Air Conditioner delivers an eco-conscious design packed with features.”
Best Coverage
Whynter 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner
- Dimensions: 16 x 19 x 35.5 cm
- Cooling Power: 14,000 BTU
- Noise Level: 56 dB
- Operation Features: Dehumidifier, Fan, Cooling
It's Great For:
- Those looking for dual hose action
- Canadians seeking efficient cooling
- Users who want auto drain
- People preferring easy portability
The Whynter 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner offers great floor coverage. It can cover an area of up to 47 square metres, which can fit right into a Canadian household. This portable air conditioner includes innovative dual hose technology: it involves one hose drawing air from the outside and using it to cool the condenser, recycling it to then blow cool air into the room. This can be a more energy-efficient system than the single-hose options.
The Whynter uses CFC-free GREEN R-32 refrigerant, adding to its eco-conscious attributes. It also has lead-free components that comply with ROHS requirements. There are 3 operational modes Canadians can enjoy with this portable air conditioner. These modes are cooling, dehumidifier, and fan. The dehumidifier can remove up to 40 litres of moisture per day, and the fan has 3 adjustable speeds. If you find that the noise of the fans is distracting, you could consider turning the speed down. Overall, this portable air conditioner is on the quiet side.
The appliance uses a carbon air filter and a washable pre-filter. In combination, they keep the air quality fresh. If you want to operate it 24/7, you have the option to add a draining hose to keep condensation from accumulating around the portable air conditioner. During the Canadian winter months, you might want to store this appliance. You can do so with no hassle thanks to the protective cover with an additional pocket that is great for all the additional components, including the window kit, the exhaust hose, and the remote control.
This unit is made from premium materials and has a sleek design that can be at home in any space. The dual hoses are sturdy and known for their durability. The included window kit helps with quick setup. When in storage, the hoses won’t usually be affected and tend to retain their shape, keeping them ready for use when warmer weather returns.
Key Features
- Dual-Hose Technology. The dual hose system can create a more efficient cooling experience. By recycling outside air to cool the interior, this unit saves energy.
- 3-in-1 Operation. This portable air conditioner does more than just cool. It also includes a dehumidifier and a fan with 3 speeds.
- Fresh Air Quality. The carbon air filter and washable pre-filter enhance the quality of the air by keeping it clean.
- Draining Option. For continuous use, you can have peace of mind by adding the drain hose. This will prevent accumulated condensation.
Our Expert’s Take
“The innovative dual hose system creates an efficient cooling experience.”
Why Trust Us?
Improving your life is important to us. We want to recommend products that help you at home, at work, and everywhere in between. To do this, we utilized our experience in recommending the best possible products. We put each of our best portable air conditioners in Canada through rigorous evaluation to ensure that it met our standards. Our team of experts perform hours of research and analysis to bring you only the best.
Some of the features we were most interested in include the following.
- Coverage: How big is the area you want to cool? A portable AC will usually have an effective coverage range. Outside of this range, it might not work effectively. Spot air conditioners are great for smaller or more specific spaces. They can offer coverage up to 200 square feet. Larger ACs are available, but you must consider the size of your space before making a purchase.
- Power Consumption: Some ACs use more power to operate than others. Look for eco-friendly options that don’t drain as much power to avoid higher electricity bills. Depending on size, capacity, and the hose system used, most portable ACs use between 700 W and 1500 W during normal operation. Single-hose options, which need more power to cool a space, use more energy than dual-hose systems.
- Transportability: Almost all portable ACs come with wheels for easy transport. Some will have handles, which makes moving them around that much easier. If a portable AC is difficult to move around, it may lose some of its appeal. We looked for models that were easy to transport.
- Modes of operation: Most of the portable air conditioners on our list (and on the Canadian market) are 3-in-1 systems. They offer cooling, dehumidifying, and a fan function. More modes mean more versatility for your air conditioner, so look for options that work for your space.
How Portable Air Conditioners Work
Portable air conditioners are truly efficient movable machines that take in the humid, stale, and hot air, and blow the air over a cold iron coil. The coil uses a gas refrigerant to supercool the air from your room. inside the coil, as it has a lower temperature when compared to the room’s air temperature. Air temperature drops when it travels through the cold metal coil. The colder air gets inside the room, it mixes with the warmer air and lowers its temperature.
To give the maximum results, portable air conditioners need to be installed in a well-ventilated place, near a vent or window so that their hose can release hot air out of the house. The setup process is simple and doesn’t take more than 15 minutes as the portable air conditioners come with a particular window adapter, which creates an air-tight opening for the exhausting hose.
Choosing a Portable Air Conditioner in Canada: Valuable Criteria to Look At
When it comes to choosing the best portable air conditioner in Canada, there are several circumstances and factors to bear in mind if you want to make an informed decision.
First off, put your primary focus on the space you wish to air control. Decide whether you want to air-condition the whole living space or a certain area in a preferred room. Also, you have to consider whether you will need to move the AC around a lot and if you prefer the AC to be remotely controlled.
All in all, choosing the right AC is more than just choosing its cooling properties –
it needs to be functional, fit to your budget, portable when needed, and come with the right specifications.
Why Do You Need a Portable AC?
This is perhaps the most important question to ask yourself before opting for any AC in the Canadian market. If you don’t know the answer yet, you might need to look deeper into your primary needs for wanting an AC. Portable ACs will make a difference in your living space if you know exactly what you’re looking for in a portable air conditioner.
Is it mobility, portability, user-friendliness, great price, and heating and cooling options combined? Let’s go over some of the things you need to keep in mind when deciding on the right type of AC you need.
Cooling Purposes and Coverage
If you’re spending more time in a certain area of your room or office, and you feel like the temperature in that particular spot could use some cooling, then a portable air conditioner with nice spot-cooling properties is what you need.
Whether it’s a home office corner in your living room, or the server room in your office – portable ACs with spot-cooling properties will do the trick and cool down your space of choice.
You don’t have permission to do any construction work in your house
This is probably one of the most common reasons why many people choose portable ACs. Certain laws prohibit many residents from doing any construction work inside their living space (especially in condominiums) – unless they have a valid permit. So, it’s easier for people to bypass the hassle of getting all of the paperwork for a single drill hole in a wall, and go for the more suitable option – choosing a portable air conditioner.
You’re renting your living space
In the case you’re a tenant, you surely know that there are landlords that simply don’t allow any modifications to be done in the space they are renting. Speaking of traditional air conditioners, if you’re a renter, you might not be allowed to install a wall-mounted AC, which is a common issue for many residents. Because of that, renters are forced to get creative and think of functional ways to comply with the landlords’ demands without sacrificing their perfect temperature for it.
If you want to add extra power to your existing air conditioner
Many users tend to look for ways to cool their living space when a wall-mounted air conditioner doesn’t do enough. A portable air conditioner can help reduce the temperature in your spaces. Your window-mounted air conditioner won’t have to work so hard.
Other Factors to Consider When Buying a Portable Air Conditioner in Canada
A portable air conditioner should tick all of the boxes you need, so you shouldn’t settle for one that does less than you want. The following features and factors can help you choose the best portable air conditioner in Canada for you.
Coverage
How much space you want to cool down should be the first question to pop into your head, since most times, the price of the AC will depend on the square footage it can cover. If you’re looking for an AC to cool down a specific part of your home, spot coolers are the most fitting option. Varying from model to model, spot coolers offer different area size coverage – 100 to 200 sq. ft.
- Portable ACs will cover anywhere from 100 to 900 square feet
- Spot coolers will lower the temperature in a particular spot in your living space
Power Consumption
If possible, try and look for eco-friendly ACs that won’t drain much power when cooling down your preferred space. Depending on the hose system the AC uses, power consumption can vary from 700 to 1500 W. Double-hose ACs usually require less time to lower the temperature in the room, which means less power will be consumed. Also, note that single-hose systems need more time to cool down spaces, hence, they’ll use more electrical power.
- Portable ACs will use as little as 700 W, and as much as 1500 W
- How fast an AC will reach the desired temperature depends on its hose system. Single-hose ACs use 1 exhaust hose, and double-hose ACs use 2 exhaust hoses – for less power consumption.
Transportability
Almost all portable ACs come with four wheels for easy transport, but not all of them are designed with a handle for easy moving. Considering transportability as the main feature of portable ACs. If a model is difficult to move around, it might just not be worth the penny.
- Portable air conditioners come with a 4-wheel system for easy transport
- Some ACs come with an integrated handle for better navigation and moving through different spaces and surfaces
Filtering Options
Most portable ACs come with reusable filters which are easy to maintain. Whether a filter is mounted on the sides of the AC or in the back, if it’s reachable and easy to maintain, you won’t have any issues with your AC running smoothly, filter-wise. High-priced ACs usually come with high-end filters that can contain even the tiniest dust particles and pollutants. At the same time, the more affordable AC models use filters that also do a decent job of filtering the air that comes into your space.
- Most portable ACs use a washable filter that’s easy to maintain
- Some ACs come with a reusable, carbon filter
- ACs that utilize single-use filters demand more maintenance
Modes of Operation
Some of the portable air conditioners on our list are 3-in-1 air conditioners that cool, dehumidify, and fan the air. These are essential factors to consider before making a final decision. If a portable AC can fan, cool, and dehumidify the air, you’re getting more than a regular product – you get an all-around AC unit that’s needed when you want to keep their air fresh, filtered, and just the right amount of cool.
- 3-in-1 portable ACs are the most common types of air conditioners
- Most portable ACs offer cooling, fan, and dehumidifying properties
- Certain portable air conditioners include an ionizer
Noise
Portable ACs are known to produce less noise, compared to traditional wall-mounted air conditioners. If you’re looking for a quiet yet efficient way to cool down your living space, portable ACs will get the job done. Portable air conditioners that produce less than 52 decibels are considered quiet. There are a few options on our list that are deemed super-quiet, and can even be used in children’s rooms since they won’t disrupt their peace.
- Some types of portable ACs are extremely quiet – making as little as 25db noise
- ACs that yield no more than 52 decibels are regarded as quiet
- The loudest AC on our list performs at 56 dB
Temperature Range
While many of the portable ACs on the market in Canada will offer a decent range of temperatures, always compare several different ACs to see which one performs better for your needs. Most ACs usually work well with temperatures ranging from 64º F to 86º F.
- Some portable air conditioner manufacturers aren’t upfront regarding the temperature range
- Most ACs will deliver temperature levels between 64º F and 86º F
Draining
Although draining options might seem irrelevant to some, compared to power consumption, for example, still, it’s a trait that shouldn’t be overlooked when choosing the perfect AC for your living space. All of the portable ACs on our list are either manually drained or employ a continuous draining system. Manual drainage won’t take up much of your time, but if you forget to dispose of the excess water, you might have a problem on your hands. That is why most people opt for a portable AC that works based on a continuous drain system. This means all excess water self-disposes.
- Manual draining requires a higher level of maintenance
- Continuous draining disposes of excess water automatically
- Most ACs utilize both ways of draining, but always check to make sure
These aside, the perfect portable AC will serve those who have unconventional windows that can only fit a portable AC, love natural light without a standard AC blocking it and those who live in a humid climate that requires keeping their AC close wherever they go.
Tips and Tricks That Can Save Money When Using Portable Air Conditioners
Portable air conditioners in Canada offer many benefits, as you can roll them from room to room and you can also take them on a road. But what if we tell you that you can also save some extra money while using portable air conditioners in your home? Well, here are the best tips and tricks for Canadians that are easy to follow, and will ensure you effective cooling without causing an explosion in your electricity bill:
Turn it off: Never let your portable air conditioner run while you aren’t at home and close your curtains when you are outside!
Appropriate capacity: Portable air conditioners have different capacities, and it’s critical to select a portable air conditioner that matches the unit capacity and power requirements. Never buy a portable air conditioner smaller capacity item, because a less powerful conditioner will struggle to make your room cooler, and a bigger one will waste more electricity than necessary.
Use a timer: Almost all portable air conditioners come with timers that allow users to program them according to their cooling needs. It means that you can program your conditioner to turn off and save energy while you sleep and when you aren’t in the room. You can program it to turn on before you wake up or before you return home.
Close the windows: Never open your windows to get some fresh air when your room hits the desired temperature. By doing this, your air conditioner will use its full energy to provide the same room temperature after you let the cold or hot air in and then close the window.
Clean it regularly: Sometimes, if you don’t clean the portable air conditioner, it may waste the same energy without offering the maximum benefits. It will need to work longer and harder, which wastes energy.
Clean and Maintain Your Portable Air Conditioner
To work optimally, owners need to take good care of their portable air conditioners. They should keep them spotless and clean their filters at least once a month. How often you need to clean the filters depends on the time you use your item. Keep reading and learn how to clean your portable air conditioner properly, which will help you get the maximum use out of your unit.
Weekly Cleaning
Remove condensation: To maintain your portable air conditioner, you need to remove the condensation that builds up as a result of the cooling process. Most portable air conditioners make this simple and easy with a drain hose or built-in dehumidifier. Since condensation is moisture, it can lead to mould over time. Make sure to get rid of condensation after each use to avoid harm to your unit.
Keep the hose short: You may boost your portable air conditioner’s effectiveness and prevent moisture and dust build-up by using a straight, short hose.
Wipe the exterior down: Clean the exterior of the air conditioner frequently to eliminate dust, pet hair, and other contaminants.
Monthly Cleaning
Clean the filter: A filter reduces allergens in the air and supports optimal airflow. Always follow the producer’s recommendations to clean the filter properly. Sometimes, you can vacuum the surface of the filter with the crevice tool on your vacuum cleaner. Another way to clean the filter is to wash it with water (if it can be washed). Make sure the filter is completely dry before replacing it.
Check the insulation: To prolong the life of your portable air conditioner and keep it running proficiently, you need to check whether the insulation is where it should be and covers any cracks. You can use adhesive strips if your unit didn’t come with foam seals in some cases.
Twice a Season
Vacuum the condenser coils: Remove the panel using a screwdriver and access the item’s condenser coils. Use a vacuum and run it gently over the coils to maintain your AC running efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most portable air conditioners require a hose to work in Canada, as they expel air through it. Whether it’s a single or dual hose design, you will usually encounter hoses on these types of units.
Most portable air conditioners have an automatic shut-off option that gets triggered when the water basin is full of condensation. When this happens will vary depending on the heat and the humidity conditions in the room.
The best portable air conditioners in Canada can provide quick cooling relief. If you want to be sure that you get the fastest cooling experience, you should opt for a dual-hose unit.
