Advantages of dual-hose portable air conditioners

- The best dual hose portable air conditioners reduce negative air pressure by using different hoses to draw and expel air.
- Dual hose models are faster and more effective in cooling large spaces.
- They also consume less energy due to their high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER).
- Dual hose air conditioners come with wheels and a compact design that allows them to be transported easily to different rooms.
- Versatile models can also be used as heaters and humidifiers.
Features to consider when choosing a dual hose portable air conditioner
Before you choose the best dual hose portable air conditioner, there are a number of key factors that you need to consider to make the right choice. We will review them in detail below so you can match them to your budget and needs.
BTUs
A British Thermal Unit (BTU) is the amount of heat that can increase the temperature of a pound of water by 1°F. This rating is an effective way of knowing the cooling capacity of a specific model. A high BTU rating indicates a powerful unit that can improve airflow in large rooms but also consume more power. This is why it is important to also consider the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) when choosing the best dual hose portable air conditioner. EER compares the cooling capacity and the power consumption by dividing BTU by wattage. A high EER rating of at least 10 is efficient. The EdgeStar AP14001HS has an EER rating of 11.2 and a BTU rating of 14,000.
Coverage area
Each dual hose portable air conditioner is designed to cover a specific size of space. This is typically denoted in the product description or on the package. Once you have identified the size you intend to cool, look for a unit that is equipped to effectively improve airflow within that space without overworking. The MIDEA MAP08S1BWT has a maximum coverage of 100 square feet while the Haier 14000 is designated for rooms with square footage of up to 600.
When choosing the best dual hose portable air conditioner for your space, other factors to consider apart from the size of your room are the presence of heat-generating devices, high ceilings, several windows, poor insulation, and high humidity levels because they may necessitate a model designed for coverage that is broader than your room size.
Fan speeds and modes
It is important to have variable speed that you can adjust to control the rate of airflow to suit your room and to lower the fan speed for quiet operation. The majority of dual hose portable air conditioners feature at least three speed settings to customize the output. Such models include the EdgeStar AP14001HS and the Whynter ARC-14S.
Having different modes will also make your unit more user-friendly and versatile for other functions. The MIDEA MAP08S1BWT features five modes for cooling, dehumidification, fan only, sleep mode, and auto mode where your air conditioner operates on the set temperature.
Noise level
Dual hose portable air conditioners come with compressors and motorized fans to improve airflow in your room, but these components also make them noisy. Manufacturers usually indicate the noise output of their models with a decibel rating. This is particularly important if you plan to install the unit in bedrooms and nurseries. Some emit white noise that can be soothing when sleeping.
You can manage noise level by programming air conditioning to a time you are away, lowering the fan speed or activating sleep mode. The Haier 14000 runs pretty quietly on the low speed setting, generating only 50 decibels which is equivalent to a normal conversation at home or a quiet suburb. The MIDEA MAP08S1BWT features sleep mode that can be activated to minimize disruption and to save energy.
Filters
The best rated dual hose portable air conditioners come with filters that eliminate dust and other impurities from the air in your room, prevent the unit from clogging and extend its lifespan. These filters may be washable and reusable like the one in the MIDEA MAP08S1BWT, which also includes a light indicator to remind you when to clean it. They may also be replaceable carbon filters such as the ones featured in the Whynter Elite ARC-122DS and the EdgeStar AP14001HS. Although a pre-filter and an activated carbon filter would suffice for most homes, you need to look for a filter that can get rid of the specific contaminants in your space.
Dimensions
Seeing as we are discussing portable models, size will matter for convenient portability and storage. Knowing the dimensions will enable you to choose a dual hose portable air conditioner that will fit in the available space and connect well to windows for ventilation.
Remember you need to connect the hoses and drain pipe if you want to completely do away with manual emptying. Consider the size and weight of your intended models and the availability of wheels since some can be pretty heavy. For instance, the Whynter Elite ARC-122DS weighs 60 pounds and has dimensions of 17 x 29.5 x 16 inches.
Warranty
Depending on the dual hose portable air conditioner you choose, you may get warranty for the whole unit or different periods of warranty for various components. For example, the Whynter ARC-14S offers a one-year limited warranty for the air conditioner and a limited warranty of three years for the compressor whereas the Haier 14000 comes with a limited warranty of one year for the unit and five years for the sealed system.
Extra features
Controls: A dual hose portable air conditioner that can be operated with a remote controller, as well as a digital touchscreen, is convenient to use. All the models we have reviewed feature a digital screen that displays the current settings and maintenance alerts, and intuitive buttons to select and adjust multiple settings. The Haier 14000 even has memory recall capability that enables the unit to retain the settings programmed prior to a power outage.
Caster wheels: Needless to say, portable models should be easy to move around. To facilitate this, majority of the products have caster wheels for convenient transport. The Haier 14000 is an ideal example that features multi-directional wheels.
Auto shut-off: The best rated dual hose portable air conditioners automatically shut off when the reservoir is full as a safety precaution.
Directional air control: Adjusting the direction that air circulates allows you to target specific areas that may need faster or more airflow.
Timer: This is a convenient energy-saving that allows you to program the unit to turn on or off at your preferred time.
Installation kit: All the dual hose portable air conditioners in our list come with window kits and intake and exhaust hoses so you can set up the unit right away. A few may require additional tools for installation or minor adjustments. You will also need to confirm the designated windows to ensure your air conditioner fits.