Standing Portable Air Conditioners Buying Guide: Everything You Need To Know
By TSG Desk | Updated May 6, 2024, 12:33 PM IST
In hot summers, a portable standing AC is a must-have. It cools instantly and its mobility ensures cooling comfort in your room. With its adjustable settings and energy efficiency, it’s the perfect solution for beating the heat and staying cool. This AC buying guide is intended to provide valuable insights and tips to help you make informed decisions.
Air conditioning becomes essential during the hot weather, typically in summer, when temperatures soar, and humidity levels rise. Air conditioners provide relief by regulating indoor temperature and humidity, creating a comfortable environment for work, rest, and leisure. For a lot of people who are living in a house that does not have a windowpane or central air conditioning unit then portable standing AC is the best bet for them.
Portable standing AC offers unparalleled convenience and versatility, making it the ideal solution for many people. Unlike traditional window or central AC systems, portable units require no permanent installation, making them apt for renters or those who prefer not to modify their living space. With the ability to provide instant relief from the heat while offering convenience and cost savings, it's no wonder that people are increasingly choosing portable AC units as their preferred cooling solution. With so many options available online, finding the best air conditioner is a daunting task. Here is the air conditioner buying guide that helps you to choose the best portable standing air conditioner in India. These are sure to come under your budget and belong to trusted brands as well.
Get more information about standing portable air conditioners in this air conditioner buying guide and choose the best one for you and your family to beat the heat this summer. This buying guide is here to help you through it all.
1. What is a portable standing AC?
A standing portable AC is handy for people who don't own their place or can't make permanent changes to their home. It’s a tall, movable air conditioner that you can easily place anywhere in your home or office. It stands on its own without needing any installation, so you can use it right away. It's great because you can move it around to cool different rooms or areas, depending on where you need it most. Portable AC has wheels attached at the bottom, facilitating easy movement within the house.
2. Types of Standing Portable Air Conditioners:
Monoblock Portable Air Conditioners
Monoblock Portable Air Conditioners are further classifying into two types:
a. Single-Hose Portable AC:
This is the most common type of portable air conditioner. It consists of a single hose used for both intake and exhaust of air. It pulls in warm air from the room, cools it, and then expels the hot air and moisture through the exhaust hose. While effective at cooling, single-hose units can create negative air pressure in the room, which may lead to warm air being drawn in from outside, reducing efficiency slightly. These air conditioners require less energy and cost less than their double-hose counterparts.
b. Dual-Hose Portable AC:
Unlike single-hose, dual-hose portable ACs have two separate hoses—one for intake and one for exhaust. This eliminates the negative pressure issue seen in single-hose units. With a dual-hose system, the unit draws in air from outside to cool the compressor and expels hot air generated by the cooling process back outside. This type tends to be more efficient and can cool a room faster than single-hose units. These air conditioners cool the room faster and are more efficient than single-hose counterparts.
c. Self-Evaporating Portable AC:You might have heard of swamp coolers—they're a type of air conditioner that works differently from the ones you're used to. Instead of using a refrigerant like regular ACs, they use water to cool the air.
d. Heat Pump Portable AC:
These units function as both air conditioners and heaters. They use a heat pump mechanism to transfer heat from one place to another. During the summer, they work like traditional air conditioners, extracting heat from the indoor air and expelling it outside. In the winter, the process is reversed, and they extract heat from outdoor air (even in cold temperatures) and transfer it indoors to heat the room. Heat pump portable ACs are versatile but may be less efficient than dedicated heating or cooling units in extreme temperatures.
3. Features of Standing Portable Air Conditioners:
a. Multiple Fan Speeds:
Portable AC units often come with multiple fan speeds (low, medium, high) to provide flexibility in airflow and cooling intensity. You can adjust the fan speed based on your comfort preferences and the room's cooling needs.
b. Caster Wheels:
Caster wheels or casters facilitate easy movement and portability of the portable AC unit from one room to another. They allow you to roll the unit smoothly over floors without the need for lifting or carrying.
c. Window Kit:
A window kit is essential for venting hot air outside and ensuring proper operation of the portable AC. The window AC kit includes components to seal the exhaust hose to a window opening, while the hose expels hot air generated during the cooling process.
d. Digital Display and Control Panel:
A digital display and control panel provide easy-to-read feedback on current settings and allow for convenient adjustment of temperature, fan speed, timer, and other functions directly on the unit.
e. Adjusting Thermostat:
An adjustable thermostat allows you to set your desired room temperature. Once the set temperature is reached, the AC will automatically cycle on and off to maintain comfort levels.
f. Remote Control:
This portable AC comes with remote control for convenient operation from across the room. The remote allows you to adjust settings such as temperature, fan speed, and mode without having to manually interact with the unit.
g. Auto-Evaporation System:
An auto-evaporation system eliminates the need to manually empty a water storage by evaporating condensed moisture and expelling it through the exhaust hose. This feature simplifies maintenance and ensures continuous operation without the hassle of frequent emptying.
h. Quick Installation:
Portable AC units typically require no installation compared to window or split-system air conditioners. They can be set up quickly without professional installation or modification to the building's structure. This makes them an attractive option for renters or temporary cooling needs.
i. Adaptability to Climate Change:
As we know that with the increasing frequency of heatwaves and rising temperatures due to climate change, these portable AC units offer a practical solution for staying comfortable during hot weather. They provide immediate relief from high temperatures.
4. How does a standing portable air conditioner work?
The working of the standing portable air conditioner is same as other air conditioners. The system of portable air conditioners works by pulling in the room’s air, extracting the heat to match the temperature and releasing cooled air back into your room.
Importantly, a standing portable air conditioner have these basic elements to be focused upon:
As the fan pulls in the air from your room, the cold –storage box comes into operation and works. It plays a very important role in processing the cooling in the room and serves as a heat exchange medium.
5. Factors to Consider Before Buying a Standing Portable Air Conditioner:
a. Cooling Capacity (BTUs) of air conditioner:
Cooling capacity indicates the amount of heat the AC can remove from a room. You should measure the square footage of the area you intend to cool and match it with the appropriate BTU rating. BTU stands for British Thermal Unit, which measures how much energy your air conditioner consumes to cool your home in one hour. Too high a capacity can lead to excessive energy consumption, while too low might not cool your space effectively.
b. Energy Efficiency Level of the air conditioner:
Look for the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) rating. Higher EER ratings mean more efficient cooling, resulting in lower energy bills. Energy Star certified units are a good choice for long-term savings.
c. Sound Level of the air conditioner:
Portable air conditioners often create a lot of noise. The noise can be disruptive, especially in quiet environments. Check the decibel (dB) rating to ensure it operates quietly, particularly if you plan to use it in bedrooms or offices.
d. Placement of the air conditioner:
Portable air conditioners need to vent hot air outside. Ensure you choose a location that has a window or suitable venting option. Check if the air conditioner unit comes with the window installation kit and if it fits your window type.
e. Portability of air conditioner:
As you are opting for a portable air conditioner check the weight of the unit and ensure its manageable for you to move within your area. Look for features like caster wheels for easy mobility across different floor surfaces. Check out the air conditioner's height and width to ensure it fits right through doorways and into desired space.
f. Features of air conditioner:
When you opt for a portable air conditioner assess your needs for features like remote control, programmable timer, and adjustable fan speeds. Consider additional functions such as dehumidification mode and air purification, if desired. Also, evaluate the user interface to ensure easy operation of the AC.
g. Ventilation of air conditioner:
Portable AC units require proper ventilation to expel hot air generated during the cooling process. Check the unit's exhaust hose length and size, as well as the type of window adapter included, to ensure compatibility with your space. You need to ensure there's a nearby window or suitable venting option for proper installation.
h. Budget considerations for air conditioner
Firstly, you need to check your budget and compare prices across different models while considering features, cooling capacity, and energy efficiency. Do not forget to factor in long-term energy savings and potential maintenance costs when evaluating the unit's overall value.
i. Maintenance of the air conditioner:
If you are a budget conscious person, check out the maintenance requirements for filters and condenser coils. Determine how often filters need cleaning or replacement. Consider the accessibility of maintenance components for easy operation.
j. Brand reputation and warranty:
Investigate and select a well-regarded brand known for manufacturing dependable and durable air conditioners over many years. Review the warranty conditions thoroughly and contemplate opting for an extended warranty to enhance assurance.
Now that we have talked about the importance and features of standing portable air conditioners. Let’s check out our top recommendations for the same.
Conclusion:
Choosing the best standing portable air conditioner amongst many options requires considering your specific needs, energy efficiency, and additional features. Careful evaluation of these factors will help you make informed decisions that will ensure the comfort, efficiency, and longevity of your investment.
FAQs
Is portable AC a good option?
Portable air conditioners are an excellent alternative because they don't require any window installation.
Why is portable air conditioner an excellent option now a days?
A portable air conditioner consumes much less power as compared to your central or split. They offer a much better and more personalized cooling experience to you.
Does a portable AC save money?
A portable air conditioner cools just one room at a time is both environmentally friendly and a great way to save you money.
Portable standing AC offers unparalleled convenience and versatility, making it the ideal solution for many people. Unlike traditional window or central AC systems, portable units require no permanent installation, making them apt for renters or those who prefer not to modify their living space. With the ability to provide instant relief from the heat while offering convenience and cost savings, it's no wonder that people are increasingly choosing portable AC units as their preferred cooling solution. With so many options available online, finding the best air conditioner is a daunting task. Here is the air conditioner buying guide that helps you to choose the best portable standing air conditioner in India. These are sure to come under your budget and belong to trusted brands as well.
Get more information about standing portable air conditioners in this air conditioner buying guide and choose the best one for you and your family to beat the heat this summer. This buying guide is here to help you through it all.
1. What is a portable standing AC?
A standing portable AC is handy for people who don't own their place or can't make permanent changes to their home. It’s a tall, movable air conditioner that you can easily place anywhere in your home or office. It stands on its own without needing any installation, so you can use it right away. It's great because you can move it around to cool different rooms or areas, depending on where you need it most. Portable AC has wheels attached at the bottom, facilitating easy movement within the house.
2. Types of Standing Portable Air Conditioners:
Monoblock Portable Air Conditioners
Monoblock Portable Air Conditioners are further classifying into two types:
a. Single-Hose Portable AC:
This is the most common type of portable air conditioner. It consists of a single hose used for both intake and exhaust of air. It pulls in warm air from the room, cools it, and then expels the hot air and moisture through the exhaust hose. While effective at cooling, single-hose units can create negative air pressure in the room, which may lead to warm air being drawn in from outside, reducing efficiency slightly. These air conditioners require less energy and cost less than their double-hose counterparts.
b. Dual-Hose Portable AC:
Unlike single-hose, dual-hose portable ACs have two separate hoses—one for intake and one for exhaust. This eliminates the negative pressure issue seen in single-hose units. With a dual-hose system, the unit draws in air from outside to cool the compressor and expels hot air generated by the cooling process back outside. This type tends to be more efficient and can cool a room faster than single-hose units. These air conditioners cool the room faster and are more efficient than single-hose counterparts.
c. Self-Evaporating Portable AC:You might have heard of swamp coolers—they're a type of air conditioner that works differently from the ones you're used to. Instead of using a refrigerant like regular ACs, they use water to cool the air.
- They pull in warm air from outside
- This warm air passes over pads soaked in water
- As the air moves over these wet pads, the water evaporates, cooling the air down
- Then, the cooler, now chilled air, gets blown back into the room
d. Heat Pump Portable AC:
These units function as both air conditioners and heaters. They use a heat pump mechanism to transfer heat from one place to another. During the summer, they work like traditional air conditioners, extracting heat from the indoor air and expelling it outside. In the winter, the process is reversed, and they extract heat from outdoor air (even in cold temperatures) and transfer it indoors to heat the room. Heat pump portable ACs are versatile but may be less efficient than dedicated heating or cooling units in extreme temperatures.
3. Features of Standing Portable Air Conditioners:
a. Multiple Fan Speeds:
Portable AC units often come with multiple fan speeds (low, medium, high) to provide flexibility in airflow and cooling intensity. You can adjust the fan speed based on your comfort preferences and the room's cooling needs.
b. Caster Wheels:
Caster wheels or casters facilitate easy movement and portability of the portable AC unit from one room to another. They allow you to roll the unit smoothly over floors without the need for lifting or carrying.
c. Window Kit:
A window kit is essential for venting hot air outside and ensuring proper operation of the portable AC. The window AC kit includes components to seal the exhaust hose to a window opening, while the hose expels hot air generated during the cooling process.
d. Digital Display and Control Panel:
A digital display and control panel provide easy-to-read feedback on current settings and allow for convenient adjustment of temperature, fan speed, timer, and other functions directly on the unit.
e. Adjusting Thermostat:
An adjustable thermostat allows you to set your desired room temperature. Once the set temperature is reached, the AC will automatically cycle on and off to maintain comfort levels.
f. Remote Control:
This portable AC comes with remote control for convenient operation from across the room. The remote allows you to adjust settings such as temperature, fan speed, and mode without having to manually interact with the unit.
g. Auto-Evaporation System:
An auto-evaporation system eliminates the need to manually empty a water storage by evaporating condensed moisture and expelling it through the exhaust hose. This feature simplifies maintenance and ensures continuous operation without the hassle of frequent emptying.
h. Quick Installation:
Portable AC units typically require no installation compared to window or split-system air conditioners. They can be set up quickly without professional installation or modification to the building's structure. This makes them an attractive option for renters or temporary cooling needs.
i. Adaptability to Climate Change:
As we know that with the increasing frequency of heatwaves and rising temperatures due to climate change, these portable AC units offer a practical solution for staying comfortable during hot weather. They provide immediate relief from high temperatures.
4. How does a standing portable air conditioner work?
The working of the standing portable air conditioner is same as other air conditioners. The system of portable air conditioners works by pulling in the room’s air, extracting the heat to match the temperature and releasing cooled air back into your room.
Importantly, a standing portable air conditioner have these basic elements to be focused upon:
- Compressor: Compressor raises the refrigerator’s temperature for the condensation process
- Evaporator Coil and Refrigerator: This element cools the air
- Fan: Fans make the air around cool and circulate to your room evenly
- Condenser Coil: Condenser Coil is the important element in the air conditioner they help in cooling down the hot ice-chest of the AC
As the fan pulls in the air from your room, the cold –storage box comes into operation and works. It plays a very important role in processing the cooling in the room and serves as a heat exchange medium.
5. Factors to Consider Before Buying a Standing Portable Air Conditioner:
a. Cooling Capacity (BTUs) of air conditioner:
Cooling capacity indicates the amount of heat the AC can remove from a room. You should measure the square footage of the area you intend to cool and match it with the appropriate BTU rating. BTU stands for British Thermal Unit, which measures how much energy your air conditioner consumes to cool your home in one hour. Too high a capacity can lead to excessive energy consumption, while too low might not cool your space effectively.
b. Energy Efficiency Level of the air conditioner:
Look for the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) rating. Higher EER ratings mean more efficient cooling, resulting in lower energy bills. Energy Star certified units are a good choice for long-term savings.
c. Sound Level of the air conditioner:
Portable air conditioners often create a lot of noise. The noise can be disruptive, especially in quiet environments. Check the decibel (dB) rating to ensure it operates quietly, particularly if you plan to use it in bedrooms or offices.
d. Placement of the air conditioner:
Portable air conditioners need to vent hot air outside. Ensure you choose a location that has a window or suitable venting option. Check if the air conditioner unit comes with the window installation kit and if it fits your window type.
e. Portability of air conditioner:
As you are opting for a portable air conditioner check the weight of the unit and ensure its manageable for you to move within your area. Look for features like caster wheels for easy mobility across different floor surfaces. Check out the air conditioner's height and width to ensure it fits right through doorways and into desired space.
f. Features of air conditioner:
When you opt for a portable air conditioner assess your needs for features like remote control, programmable timer, and adjustable fan speeds. Consider additional functions such as dehumidification mode and air purification, if desired. Also, evaluate the user interface to ensure easy operation of the AC.
g. Ventilation of air conditioner:
Portable AC units require proper ventilation to expel hot air generated during the cooling process. Check the unit's exhaust hose length and size, as well as the type of window adapter included, to ensure compatibility with your space. You need to ensure there's a nearby window or suitable venting option for proper installation.
h. Budget considerations for air conditioner
Firstly, you need to check your budget and compare prices across different models while considering features, cooling capacity, and energy efficiency. Do not forget to factor in long-term energy savings and potential maintenance costs when evaluating the unit's overall value.
i. Maintenance of the air conditioner:
If you are a budget conscious person, check out the maintenance requirements for filters and condenser coils. Determine how often filters need cleaning or replacement. Consider the accessibility of maintenance components for easy operation.
j. Brand reputation and warranty:
Investigate and select a well-regarded brand known for manufacturing dependable and durable air conditioners over many years. Review the warranty conditions thoroughly and contemplate opting for an extended warranty to enhance assurance.
Now that we have talked about the importance and features of standing portable air conditioners. Let’s check out our top recommendations for the same.
- Blue Star 1 Ton Fixed Speed Portable AC (Copper, Anti Bacterial Silver Coating, Self Diagnosis, Comfort Sleep Modes-Auto/Cool/Fan/Dry, Auto Mode, Remote Control Operations, Gold Fins, PC12DB, White)
- Eva polar Evaporating AC
- Lloyd 1.0 Ton Portable AC
- Philips CX 5535/11 High Performance AC
- HIFRESH Air Cooler for Home, 107CM
- Havells-Lloyd 1 Ton Portable AC (LP12B01TP White)
Conclusion:
Choosing the best standing portable air conditioner amongst many options requires considering your specific needs, energy efficiency, and additional features. Careful evaluation of these factors will help you make informed decisions that will ensure the comfort, efficiency, and longevity of your investment.
FAQs
Is portable AC a good option?
Portable air conditioners are an excellent alternative because they don't require any window installation.
Why is portable air conditioner an excellent option now a days?
A portable air conditioner consumes much less power as compared to your central or split. They offer a much better and more personalized cooling experience to you.
Does a portable AC save money?
A portable air conditioner cools just one room at a time is both environmentally friendly and a great way to save you money.
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