How Portable Air Conditioners Work

• Portable air conditioners use a standard window venting kit to expel exhaust, similar to a clothes dryer venting system.
• Most portable units have water reservoirs that help dehumidify the room. These reservoirs need to be emptied periodically, although some come with optional hookups for a drainage hose.
• Other models evaporate much of the moisture and direct the exhaust through the air duct. This reduces the number of times you need to empty the container.

• Single hose portable air conditioners work by pulling stagnant air from inside the room.
• The motor inside the unit then cools the air for circulation throughout the space.
• The unit also takes the excess warm air and moisture and funnels it through the hose and out the window.
• These tend to use less energy and cost less than their dual-hose counterparts.

• Dual hose portable air conditioners pull fresh air from outside through one hose. It is then used to circulate cool air throughout the space.
• The excess warm air and moisture is then pulled through the unit and exits through the opposite hose.
• These air conditioners often cool the room more quickly and efficiently than single-hose units.

Portable air conditioners are equipped with a variety of different features. These features will vary by brand and style:

• Timer – set a delayed start or stop according to the time of day.
• Remote – operate the unit from a distance.
• Fan – circulate air through the room without altering the temperature
• Auto – set the temperature and let the unit cool the room on its own.
• Dry/Dehumidify – extract the excess moisture from the air without altering the temperature.
• Oscillation – the unit will move from side to side for whole-room comfort.

Keep your portable air conditioner in tip-top shape and extend its life with these basic maintenance tips:

• Clean the air filter every two weeks for optimal performance.
• Wash the filter using a mild liquid dishwashing detergent and warm water. Rinse the filter thoroughly and gently shake out the excess water. Let it fully dry before replacing.
• The water collection tray should be drained immediately before and after storage to prevent mold.
• In households with pets, wipe down the grill regularly to prevent blocked airflow from animal hair.
• Clean your air conditioner occasionally to keep it looking new. Be sure to unplug the unit before cleaning to prevent shock or fire hazards.
• Clean the unit using a damp, lint-free cloth and mild soap.
• If you plan to store the unit during the winter, cover it with plastic tarp tarp or place it back in its carton. Keep it in a cool, dry area.