Are you tired of sweltering heat and looking for the perfect small air conditioner to keep you cool? Look no further! In this guide, we have done the hard work for you and researched the market to bring you the best small and portable air conditioners of 2022. Whether you need a compact unit for your bedroom, workspace, living room, or even your camping tent, we have got you covered.
Why Trust Us
At our team, we are dedicated to providing you with the most reliable and effective products. We spent three days meticulously researching the market, comparing best-sellers, and reading customer reviews to ensure that only the top-notch air conditioners made it to this guide. Rest assured, if you are looking for a compact, easy-to-install, efficient, and reasonably priced portable AC or window air conditioner, this guide will prove invaluable to you.
Who This Is For
This guide caters to anyone in search of a quality small air conditioner. Regardless of whether you need to cool down your bedroom, workspace, living room, or even your camping tent, you will find the perfect unit here.
How We Picked
To bring you a comprehensive selection of the best small air conditioners, we examined both old and new highly-rated portable AC units. We delved into dozens of verified customer reviews and compared technical specifications, including Seasonally Adjusted Cooling Capacity ratings, BTU ratings, and energy star ratings. Our goal was to curate a diverse range of models to suit varying needs and preferences, including both portable AC units and window air conditioner units.
Image: Small Air Conditioners
Features To Look For In Small Air Conditioners
When selecting a small air conditioner, there are several key features to consider:
Type of the air conditioner
There are different types of small air conditioners available in the market. One popular option is the window-mounted AC, which effectively cools down entire rooms. These units are relatively easy to install but may not be suitable if you frequently move them around. For a portable option that can be moved from room to room, consider a portable air conditioner. These units come with wheels and use a hose to funnel hot air out of the room. Personal or tabletop air conditioners are another option, providing cooling without the need for a window. While these models are smaller and may not effectively cool an entire room, they are perfect for personal spaces.
Cooling power
The cooling power of an air conditioner is measured in BTUs (British thermal units) and is an important factor to consider. The size of your room will determine the BTUs required for effective cooling. As a rule of thumb, an air conditioner typically needs 20 BTUs per square foot of living space. For example, if you have a 150 square feet room, you would need a unit with at least 3,000 BTUs. Generally, the larger the room, the higher the BTU rating should be.
Energy efficiency
Many portable AC units are not known for their energy efficiency. Therefore, it's important to choose models with good energy ratings. In this guide, we have carefully selected only energy-efficient models for your consideration. We recommend choosing a model with a rating above D to ensure optimal energy savings.
Noise level
If you're a light sleeper, pay attention to the noise level of the air conditioner. Many brands provide information on energy consumption and the decibel level generated by their units. To provide a point of reference, many white noise machines have a volume of 45 dB. We recommend selecting models with noise levels between 45 to 55 dB for a peaceful sleep environment.
Extra features
Consider any additional features that your air conditioner may offer, such as the ability to function as a fan, humidifier, or dehumidifier. Some models also come with added features like remote control, timers, or Wi-Fi compatibility. While these features are not essential, they can enhance your overall user experience and make operating the air conditioner more convenient.
Warranty and support
Last but not least, prioritize models that come with a reliable warranty and accessible customer support. There's nothing worse than having your air conditioner malfunction in the middle of summer with no assistance available.
Image: Small Air Conditioner
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a small air conditioner?
A: A small air conditioner is a unit designed to cool one room at a time. Portable models can be easily moved from room to room and are typically installed by one or two people. However, there are also small window air conditioner units available.
Q: What's the smallest AC unit?
A: While there may be trade-offs between size and cooling power, you can find compact AC units on the market. If you are tight on space and do not want the hassle of installation, consider a personal evaporative cooler. These units are smaller than most fans but offer more effective cooling than standard desktop fans.
Q: Can I use a portable air conditioner in a room without a window?
A: Yes, it is possible to use a portable air conditioner without a window. You can connect the hose to a vent in a door or wall. However, this setup can be more challenging. If you do not have a window, you may find it easier to use a personal cooler or fan, as they do not require a vent.
Q: Is it safe to use an air cooler?
A: Air coolers are safe to use and can effectively cool your room through water evaporation and fan circulation. These units are particularly beneficial in dry climates as they also humidify the air. Despite misconceptions, air coolers purify the air and contribute to a comfortable living environment.
Sources:
- How to Vent A Portable Air Conditioner Without A Window - American Home Water & Air
- The Different Types Of Air Conditioning Systems - ActronAir
