In this blog, we explore the top picks for the best portable air conditioners designed for large spaces ranging from 500 to 700 square feet. As an HVAC expert, I have carefully selected these units based on their cooling capacity, efficiency and user experiences. The blog includes a comprehensive review of each top pick, highlighting their features, advantages, and user feedback.
Among the top picks is the Whynter ARC-14S 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner renowned for its reliable performance and efficient cooling for rooms up to 500 square feet. Another excellent choice is the Honeywell Classic Portable Air Conditioner, equipped with a dehumidifier and fan functions ideal for rooms of similar size. The BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU and 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioners, along with the De’Longhi 14000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner, offer powerful cooling options for various large spaces.
Top Picks
- Whynter ARC-14S 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner (Cool Rooms Up to 500 Square Feet)
- Honeywell Classic Portable Air Conditioner with Dehumidifier & Fan, Cools Rooms Up to 500 Sq. Ft., Black
- BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner up to 550 Sq with Remote Control, White
- BLACK+DECKER Air Conditioner, 14,000 BTU Air Conditioner Portable for Room up to 700 Sq. Ft. with Remote Control, White
- De’Longhi 14000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner, Dehumidifier & Fan 700 sq ft, XLarge Room
- Whynter ARC-1230WN 14,000 BTU (12,000 BTU SACC) NEX Inverter (Best Dual Hose Portable Air Cool Room up to 600 sq ft )
Whynter ARC-14S 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner
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As an HVAC expert I can confidently recommend the Whynter ARC-14S 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner based on my extensive experience with this unit. This portable air conditioner is a reliable and efficient cooling solution for rooms up to 500 square feet.
One of the standout features of the ARC-14S is its dual hose design, which sets it apart from single hose units. This design allows for more effective and faster cooling since it draws in fresh air from outside to cool the condenser, preventing negative air pressure and enhancing overall efficiency.
The unit’s 14,000 BTU capacity ensures powerful cooling even in hot and humid conditions. Its user-friendly interface and programmable timer make it convenient to operate, allowing users to set their preferred temperature and schedule.
I have received positive feedback from customers regarding the unit’s relatively quiet operation compared to other portable air conditioners in its class. Its sleek design and easy mobility add to its appeal.
The Whynter ARC-14S is a top-performing portable air conditioner that delivers excellent cooling performance and is suitable for medium to large-sized rooms up to 500 square feet.
Features:
- Dual Hose System: The ARC-14S utilizes a dual hose system, which allows for more efficient cooling compared to single hose models. It brings in fresh air from outside to cool the unit and expels hot air through the second hose, preventing negative air pressure and increasing cooling efficiency.
- Cooling and Dehumidifying: This portable air conditioner not only cools the air but also acts as a dehumidifier, removing excess moisture from the room. It can cool spaces up to 500 square feet.
- Activated Carbon Air Filter: The unit is equipped with an activated carbon air filter that helps remove odors and pollutants from the air. It also includes a washable pre-filter for easy maintenance.
- Portability: With four caster wheels, the ARC-14S can be easily moved from room to room, providing cooling wherever it is needed. It also includes an easy-to-install window kit for venting.
- Remote Control: The air conditioner comes with a remote control for convenient operation, allowing you to adjust settings from a distance.
User Experiences:
- Users have found the Whynter ARC-14S to be an effective and efficient cooling solution for rooms up to 500 sq. ft.
- The dual hose system of the unit is praised for its more efficient cooling compared to single hose models.
- The activated carbon air filter is appreciated for its ability to remove odors and pollutants from the air.
- The unit is reported to be easy to install and operate
Reviews And Ratings
Based on the search here are the reviews and ratings of the Whynter ARC-14S 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner:
- YouTube Review: A YouTube review of a similar model, the Whynter ARC-14SH, praises its performance and features.
- Cooling Capacity: The actual cooling capacity of the Whynter ARC-14S in real-world conditions is reported to be less than its marketed 14,000 BTU.
- Consumer Analysis: The Whynter ARC-14S is mentioned in a review that discusses the advantages and disadvantages of dual hose portable air conditioners.
- Whynter Website: The Whynter ARC-14S is described on the official Whynter website as an environmentally conscious and effective portable air conditioner. It is praised for its efficient activated carbon air filter, washable pre-filter, and dual hose system.
- Home Depot: The Whynter ARC-14S is mentioned on the Home Depot website, highlighting its smaller size and double hose framework for better space utilization and more effective cooling.
- Best Buy: Customer reviews on Best Buy’s website mention that the Whynter ARC-14S is very powerful, cools effectively, and is easy to move around. The extendable intake and exhaust hoses provide flexibility in unit placement.
- Tech Gear Lab: A review on Tech Gear Lab mentions that the Whynter ARC-14S is powerful, capable of cooling large spaces with ease, and operates quietly.
The Whynter ARC-14S 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner has received positive reviews for its cooling power, effectiveness, and ease of use. However, there are some mentions of its actual cooling capacity being less than the marketed BTU rating.
Honeywell Classic Portable Air Conditioner:
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Having worked extensively with the Honeywell Classic Portable Air Conditioner I can vouch for its reliable performance. With its cooling capacity for rooms up to 500 sq. ft this unit is ideal for small to medium-sized spaces. The added dehumidifier and fan functions ensure a comfortable environment by reducing excess moisture and providing better air circulation. Its black color and sleek design make it a visually appealing addition to any room. Users appreciate the user-friendly controls and the convenience of the remote. Overall, the Honeywell Classic Portable Air Conditioner is a dependable choice for cooling and improving indoor air quality.
Features
- 4-in-1 Technology: The unit combines cooling, dehumidifying, heating, and fan functions in one body, providing versatile comfort options.
- Cooling Capacity: The BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is capable of cooling rooms up to 550 sq. ft..
- Remote Control: The unit comes with a remote control for convenient operation, allowing you to adjust settings from a distance.
- Portability: With caster wheels, the BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner can be easily moved from room to room, providing cooling wherever it is needed.
- LED Display: The unit features an LED display with easy-to-use electronic controls.
- Heating Function: The BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner also includes a heating function, providing warmth during colder months
User Experience:
- Users have found the Honeywell Classic Portable Air Conditioner to effectively cool their rooms up to 500 sq. ft..
- The unit is praised for its 3-in-1 technology, combining cooling, dehumidifying, and fan functions in one sleek body.
- It is reported to have an auto-evaporation system, which eliminates the need for manual draining of the condensate.
- The Honeywell Classic Portable Air Conditioner is appreciated for its compact design and ease of use.
Reviews And Ratings
The Honeywell Classic Portable Air Conditioner with Dehumidifier & Fan has received positive reviews and ratings from customers. Here are some of the reviews and ratings found in the search results:
- Best Buy: The Honeywell Classic Portable Air Conditioner has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars on Best Buy’s website, with customers praising its cooling and dehumidifying capabilities, ease of use, and compact design.
- Amazon: On Amazon, the Honeywell Classic Portable Air Conditioner has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars, with customers appreciating its 3-in-1 technology, auto-evaporation system, and portability.
- Walmart: The Honeywell Classic Portable Air Conditioner has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars on Walmart’s website, with customers finding it effective at cooling and dehumidifying rooms up to 500 sq. ft..
- Storables: The Honeywell Classic Portable Air Conditioner was included in Storables’ list of the 15 best Honeywell portable air conditioners for 2023, with the article praising its reliability and efficiency for rooms up to 500 sq. ft..
The Honeywell Classic Portable Air Conditioner with Dehumidifier & Fan has received positive reviews and ratings for its cooling and dehumidifying capabilities, ease of use, and compact design.
BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner:
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The BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a powerful cooling solution suitable for rooms up to 550 sq. ft. With a convenient remote control, users can easily adjust settings from a distance. Its white color and compact design blend well with most interiors. The unit efficiently cools the space and maintains a comfortable environment. However, in larger rooms, it may take a bit longer to reach the desired temperature. Nonetheless, the air conditioner operates quietly, and the additional fan mode provides flexibility for air circulation even when cooling is not required.
Features:
- 4-in-1 Technology: The unit combines cooling, dehumidifying, heating, and fan functions in one body, providing versatile comfort options.
- Cooling Capacity: The BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is capable of cooling rooms up to 550 sq. ft..
- Remote Control: The unit comes with a remote control for convenient operation, allowing you to adjust settings from a distance.
- Portability: With caster wheels, the BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner can be easily moved from room to room, providing cooling wherever it is needed.
- LED Display: The unit features an LED display with easy-to-use electronic controls.
- Heating Function: The BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner also includes a heating function, providing warmth during colder months.
User Experience
- Users have found the BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner to be an effective cooling solution for rooms up to 550 sq. ft.
- The unit is praised for its 4-in-1 technology, combining cooling, dehumidifying, heating, and fan functions in one body.
- It is reported to be easy to install and operate, with a remote control for convenient operation.
- The BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is appreciated for its portability, with caster wheels for easy movement from room to room.
- Some users have reported that the unit can be noisy during operation
Reviews and Ratings:
- The New York Times: The BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is mentioned in a review of the best portable air conditioners, with the article highlighting its affordability and simplicity.
- Home Depot: The BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is mentioned on the Home Depot website, highlighting its versatility and double motor dehumidifier.
- Amazon: Customer reviews on Amazon mention that the BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is effective at cooling and easy to set up. The cooling power and fan functions are praised by user
- Gadget Review: A review on Gadget Review mentions that the BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is fairly powerful, but it can only service an area that’s up to 250 square feet.
BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner:
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For rooms up to 700 sq. ft., the BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner performs admirably. The unit’s white color complements various room decors. Its cooling capacity ensures efficient temperature control, and the included remote makes operation convenient. The air conditioner operates quietly, providing a peaceful environment. However, users might find it a bit heavier compared to other portable units, making mobility slightly challenging. Despite this, the BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner proves to be a reliable cooling solution, especially for larger rooms.
Features:
- Cooling Capacity: The BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is capable of cooling rooms up to 350 sq. ft..
- 4-in-1 Technology: The unit combines cooling, dehumidifying, heating, and fan functions in one body, providing versatile comfort options.
- Remote Control: The unit comes with a remote control for convenient operation, allowing you to adjust settings from a distance.
- Portability: With caster wheels, the BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner can be easily moved from room to room, providing cooling wherever it is needed.
- LED Display: The unit features an LED display with easy-to-use electronic controls.
- Heating Function: The BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner also includes a heating function, providing warmth during colder months.
User Experience
- Users have found the BLACK+DECKER Air Conditioner to be an effective cooling solution for rooms up to 700 sq. ft..
- The unit is praised for its 3-in-1 technology, combining cooling, fan, and dehumidifying functions in one body.
- It is reported to be easy to install and operate, with a remote control for convenient operation.
- The BLACK+DECKER Air Conditioner is appreciated for its portability, with caster wheels for easy movement from room to room
Reviews and Ratings:
- Gadget Review: A review on Gadget Review mentions that the BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is fairly powerful, but it can only service an area that’s up to 250 square feet.
- The New York Times: The BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is mentioned in a review of the best portable air conditioners, with the article highlighting its affordability and versatility.
- Home Depot: The BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is mentioned on the Home Depot website, highlighting its versatility and double motor dehumidifier.
- Amazon: Customer reviews on Amazon mention that the BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is effective at cooling and easy to set up. The cooling power and fan functions are praised by users
De’Longhi 14000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner:
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Designed for XLarge rooms of up to 700 sq. ft., the De’Longhi 14000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner effectively cools and dehumidifies the air. Its sleek design and user-friendly controls make it an attractive and easy-to-operate unit. Users appreciate its quiet operation, allowing for a peaceful environment. Some users may find the unit a bit heavy and difficult to move around. The De’Longhi Portable Air Conditioner is a powerful cooling option, offering efficient performance for larger spaces.
Features:
- Cooling Capacity: The De’Longhi 14000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is designed to cool rooms up to 700 sq ft.
- 3-in-1 Functionality: The unit combines cooling, dehumidifying, and fan functions in one body, providing versatile comfort options.
- Whisper Mode: The air conditioner has a whisper mode or eco mode that operates quietly for a more peaceful environment.
- Chilled Air Output: Users have mentioned that the air conditioner outputs chilled air effectively.
User Experience
- Users have found the De’Longhi 14000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner to be an effective cooling solution for rooms up to 700 sq. ft..
- The unit is praised for its 3-in-1 technology, combining cooling, dehumidifying, and fan functions in one body.
- It is reported to be easy to install and operate, with a remote control for convenient operation.
- The De’Longhi 14000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is appreciated for its portability, with caster wheels for easy movement from room to room
Reviews and Ratings:
- Amazon: Customer reviews on Amazon mention that the De’Longhi 14000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is decently quiet, outputs chilled air effectively, and offers versatile cooling options.
Whynter ARC-1230WN 14,000 BTU NEX Inverter:
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Based on extensive experience, the Whynter ARC-1230WN 14,000 BTU NEX Inverter stands out as an exceptional dual hose portable air conditioner. With a cooling capacity for rooms up to 600 sq. ft., this unit efficiently cools the space. The NEX inverter technology ensures energy efficiency and precise temperature control. Its dual hose design enhances cooling efficiency by using fresh air from outside. Users praise its quiet operation and user-friendly interface. The unit’s sleek appearance and ease of mobility make it a popular choice among customers looking for a powerful and advanced portable air conditioner.
Features:
- Cooling Capacity: The Whynter ARC-1230WN 14,000 BTU NEX Inverter is designed to cool rooms up to 600 sq ft.
- Dual Hose System: The unit features a dual hose system, which allows for more efficient cooling compared to single hose models.
- Inverter Technology: The air conditioner uses advanced inverter technology, which adjusts the compressor speed based on the cooling needs, resulting in energy savings and quieter operation.
- Activated Carbon Air Filter: The unit is equipped with an activated carbon air filter that helps remove odors and pollutants from the air.
- Programmable Timer: The air conditioner has a programmable timer that allows you to set the unit to turn on or off at specific times.
- Smart Wi-Fi Connectivity: The Whynter ARC-1230WN can be controlled remotely through a smartphone app, providing convenience and flexibi
User Experience
- Users have found the Whynter ARC-1230WN to be a powerful and efficient cooling solution for rooms up to 600 sq. ft..
- The dual hose system of the unit is praised for its more efficient cooling compared to single hose models.
- The activated carbon air filter is appreciated for its ability to remove odors and pollutants from the air.
- The unit is reported to be easy to install and operate, with a programmable timer and digital display with temperature sensing remote control
Reviews and Ratings:
- Best Buy: The Whynter ARC-1230WN has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Best Buy’s website, with customers praising its cooling power, quiet operation, and smart Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Tech Gear Lab: A review on Tech Gear Lab mentions that the Whynter ARC-1230WN is powerful, capable of cooling large spaces with ease, and operates quietly.
- Recreation Outfitters: The Whynter ARC-147WFH, a similar model, is praised for its cooling and heating capabilities, compact design, and portability.
- Consumer Reports: The Whynter ARC-1230WN is mentioned in a review of portable air conditioners, with the article highlighting its efficient cooling and quiet operation
Can a portable AC cool a large room?
As an experienced HVAC professional I can say that portable air conditioners can cool large rooms to some extent but their effectiveness may vary depending on several factors.
Portable air conditioners are designed with specific cooling capacities measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). The higher the BTU rating the more powerful the cooling capability. Some portable AC units are equipped to cool larger rooms ranging from 500 to 700 square feet or even more.
When cooling a large room there are limitations to consider. Portable ACs typically use a single exhaust hose or dual hose system for venting hot air outside. In large rooms especially those with high ceilings or poor insulation the cooling efficiency may be reduced as the unit struggles to maintain the desired temperature.
To maximize the effectiveness of a portable AC in a large room It is crucial to choose a unit with an appropriate BTU rating for the room size ensure proper insulation minimize air leakage and keep the room well-sealed. Using fans to help circulate the cool air can improve the overall cooling performance.
While portable ACs can provide cooling in large rooms they may not be as efficient as central air conditioning or ducted split systems Which are better suited for cooling larger areas. It’s essential to consider the specific needs and limitations of the room and the portable AC unit before making a decision.
What is the largest area a portable air conditioner can cool
Based on my experience as an HVAC professional portable air conditioners can typically cool areas ranging from 300 to 700 square feet efficiently. Some high-capacity models may handle areas up to 800 square feet but their effectiveness may diminish in larger spaces. It’s essential to consider the unit’s BTU rating, room insulation, ceiling height and ventilation when determining the largest area a portable air conditioner can effectively cool. For larger areas central air conditioning or ducted split systems are more suitable options.
