It’s summer in the Pacific Northwest and hot days above 85 degrees are on the horizon. To keep yourself cool this year, investing in a new portable AC or window unit might just be your best option.
No more sitting in the car with the engine running or spending the day at the movies just for a few relieving moments of AC when you opt for one of these best-rated portable air conditioners listed below, available from national retailers like Target, Walmart, Lowes, and Home Depot. Some even have fast, free shipping depending on your location.
How do I pick the right AC for me? What size is best for my home?
The ability of an air conditioner to cool your home—known as the cooling capacity—will dictate how large of a space you can use it in. To find out your room size and learn more about buying the right cooling equipment or portable air conditioner for your family, check out Home Depot’s handy air conditioner buying guide.
What is the difference between a portable AC and a window unit?
The main difference between a window air conditioner and a portable unit is that the window option sits mounted in a chosen window of your home with access to air from outside, while a portable can be moved around the room as long as the vent hose has access to the outside through a door, window, or designated opening. According to Consumer Reports, a window AC uses outside air to cool the coils on the outdoor part of the unit, while a single-hose portable AC uses conditioned air from the room it’s in to cool the mechanicals and provide colder air blowing back at you. For a look at how to install a window unit, check out the helpful video guide below, courtesy of Home Depot.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.