P
ortable ACs, as opposed to their fixed counterparts, have some inherent limitations when it comes to their cooling prowess, there’s no denying it. Nevertheless, this is not necessarily the case when referring to the best dual-hose portable ACs since their efficacy and efficiency far surpasses that of their single-hose equivalents. So, if you need vaster coverage, greater cooling potential, yet you need a portable arrangement, you ought to ponder acquiring a dual-hose setup since it complies with all of these demands.
We took the time to talk to a few experts, analyze online reviews, and study what the most popular models at the moment offer to pick the best dual-hose ACs and evaluate their performance truthfully. Instead of going in blind when you make the purchase, read the detailed reviews we offer here and pick one of these top-rated models that have by now proven to be superior to their competitors.
If you don’t need as vast of area coverage as dual-hose models generally provide and you are not necessarily reliant on the portability aspect, we recommend that you also look into the smallest window air conditioners as these products might better comply with your demands.
This model is assessed at approximately 9,000 BTUs, and it is intended for areas up to 250 sq. ft. In its action, it utilizes self-evaporating technology. Thus, it extracts water from the air, using most of it to cool the coils so that the AC runs more economically and decreases costs. After the activity, the dampness is pushed out with the vented air. In extreme humidity conditions, surplus water will accumulate in the unit’s integrated reservoir, so you still have to do routine upkeep work at times even with this more ingenious system. Nonetheless, it’s required so rarely that it won’t pose an inconvenience. During the cooling procedure, air wetness is extracted and utilized to assist the coils in their process. In case there’s excessive dampness, the surplus is gathered in the built-in reservoir.
We advise that you also consider a portable evaporative air cooler in case your mind isn’t made up yet since their end purpose is the same – creating a cooler, more comfortable living space indoors during the hot months of the year.
Operating Modes – Pick between Cool, Dehumidifier, and Fan
Self-swing Louvers – They will automatically swing to cool the room in its entirety
Timer – You can set the operational span of the unit beforehand (timer range from 1 to 24 hours)
The transportable design makes relocation an easy task, so whenever you want to move it to a different room and profit from its cooling prowess there, you won’t go through much trouble. Setup is quite straightforward, and you find all the accessories you require for the procedure in the package, even the slider kit.
Capacity – 64 – 176 CFM
Noise – (High/Low): 50.1 / 47.8
Dehumidifier – Can withdraw up to 47 PPD
Speeds – Choose between the 3 intensity levels
Despite the relatively cheap asking price, this Sunpentown product is quite surprising when it comes to the functions it integrates. It comprises the re-start IC technology, which allows it to restart with your previously selected settings when power resumes after a power cut. The venting hose can be extended up to 5.5” if needed, which is more than sufficient.
Before we wrap it all up, we mention that it is covered by a 1-year guarantee against defects. This implies that poor workmanship-related repairs are handled free of charge while the agreement is active.
What energy efficiency ratio does it boast? This Sunpentown model is rated at 9.21 EER, which indicates that it won’t draw an absurd amount of power, so you can run it as much as desired without worrying that the electricity bill will skyrocket as a result.
The 11,000 BTU potential makes it a feasible option for areas of up to 350 sq. ft. Note that ambient parameters affect the unit’s execution, so the area coverage it provides might fluctuate. For short, if you want to benefit from peak performance on the AC’s part, better use it in an area a bit smaller than its maximum rated capability since environmental conditions can make it less efficient when used under this specific circumstance.
It measures 17.3″ by 15.4″ by 30.5″, taking up a reasonable amount of space. Although it weighs 65 lbs., don’t fret as you won’t need help relocating it seeing how it is fitted with rolling casters with the precise purpose of making it simple to change the placement of the unit whenever you need to.
Dehumidifier – It will eliminate up to 81 PPD when used on this setting
If you have issues with high humidity, better invest in a dehumidifier to handle reducing indoor moisture since this is the action in which these units specialize.
Auto – The speed will modify itself rendering to the parameter values of the room. When the temperature touches your chosen level, the unit stops, and when the temperatures go higher, it commences functioning to reduce them once more
AC – The hot and stale air will be exhausted, bringing in fresh, cooled air
Fan – Moves the air indoors, delivering a freshening breeze in the process
The digital thermostat control is as user-friendly as they get, permitting the user to select a value from 61F to 89F to uphold a relaxing atmosphere indoors even during the most torrid days. It integrates 4 different operating modes, ensuring that you get the most for your money if you acquire it.
We must also mention that operational safety is a given with this product since it integrates an LCDI plug that detects current surges, making the unit power off instantly when a potential hazard is detected to avoid incidents.
Do I need to reselect my chosen settings if a power failure takes place and interrupts its action? No, after an outage, the unit instantly carries on from where it left, so you won’t have to reinsert the operational settings since it doesn’t lose them from its memory.
Warranty: 1 year full, 5 years for the sealed system
With a potential of 12,000 BTUs, this air-cooling system is rated to cover up to 400 sq. ft. tops. It comprises 3 distinct working modes, namely AC, fan, and moisture extractor. This versatility expands the unit’s capabilities seeing how, aside from chilling the room, you can also rely on it to disseminate the air or withdraw surplus moistness. It measures 17.6” by 29” by 16”, so it won’t take up a significant amount of space. Moreover, it weighs 72 lbs. and is supplied with casters that entail you can effortlessly push it, and it will slide to the new area.
If unit movability is your main concern, we suggest that you also look into the best small portable ACs before you make up your mind, as you might find a better-suited option there.
Filter – It is simple to access and can be washed, so you won’t need to replace it. It will help eliminate aerial contaminants
This AC might fare honorably when it comes to pollutant reduction in the air it circulates, but it won’t come close to the real thing. If you suffer from asthma or allergies and need to breathe in clean air when you are indoors for the sake of your health, better look into specialized air purifiers for the task.
Speeds – The 3 settings permit control over the pace at which the unit cools the area
Moisture Removal – It can withdraw up to 72 PPD
Airflow – Assessed at 252 CFM
Self-Restart – In the event of a power shortage, it resumes with the prior settings when the power comes back on, with no assistance from your part
Timer – Limits the working span of the unit to reduce power draw
Automatic Mode – Sets the speed rendering to room parameters to uphold your preferred conditions
Cord – Measures 6 feet long, excluding the need for extension cords
It integrates a self-evaporative condensate system so you won’t pour out the water in the container often, only when humidity conditions indoors are excessive and it cannot recycle, use, and dispose of the accumulated water as efficiently. Don’t fear that you might forget to empty the container seeing how this is likely asked very rarely because the unit is fitted with protection from overflow, powering off on its own when the reservoir fills to impede any unwanted occurrence.
The 3-speed action and the auto-sway louvers deliver excellent airflow, ensuring there will be no hot spots in the room. Lastly, we want to talk a bit about the assurance offered for this product. The full system is covered for 1 year, whereas the sealed system is guaranteed to be free of defects for 5 years.
Does it make a difference when it comes to air quality? Yes. It integrates a filtration system that does indeed help make a difference in air quality since impurities found in the air are trapped. In this case, the setup involves dual, washable antimicrobial filters that prove effective when it comes to air sanitization since they trap microorganisms too.
Warranty: 1 year full, 5 years for the sealed system
You can count on this self-evaporative model from Avallon to provide effective cooling when utilized in areas up to 425 sq. ft. tops seeing how it is evaluated to generate 12,000 BTUs. The box contains the window vent kit so that there won’t be any additional purchases to make for the setup process since all you need to bring the procedure to completion is comprised.
Remote – Modify the unit’s settings from the distance for added expediency
Auto Mode – Regulates the fan speed as necessitated to uphold a fresh atmosphere
Dehumidification – Warm weather and high humidity go hand in hand, so the fact that this AC can withdraw up to 80 PPD adds to its versatility in use
It measures 29.2” in height by 17.2” in width by 15.1” in depth to take up as little space as possible where you place it. The unit weighs 68 pounds and it is fitted with casters for simplified relocation when necessitated, making the procedure unproblematic and possible for a single person to complete it. Like all top-rated ACs these days, it integrates a 24-hour timer that helps cut costs to a minimum.
Since it emits about 51.5 dB when it runs, it won’t pose a disturbance, so you can even snooze in the same room with it. It has casters for effortless relocation when needed. Of course, we cannot overlook the service contract, particularly seeing how there’s a 1-year assurance on parts and labor, and a 5-year quality and functionality guarantee for the sealed system.
What is the thermostat’s selectable range? The thermostat control spans from 61F to 89F, sufficient to ensure you find the setting that you feel most comfortable with.
Fitted with numerous features and modes, this unit is among the most sought-after options available as it is amid the few ACs that are feasible for year-round use. Considering its features, performance, and asking price, it is a value deal that you should not overlook if you are thrifty with your spendings. It is intended for spaces upward of 400 sq. ft. since it generates 12,000 BTUs while it runs.
Operating Modes – Pick between Cool, Dehumidifier, Fan-only, and Heat
Thermostatic Control – Offers a range from 61F to 89F
Filter – The washable pre-filter will remove chemicals, pollution, and dust from the air
Power Rating – 1,000 watts
Air Circulation – 155 CFM
Speeds – Choose between the 3 provided settings
Air Louvers – 2-way directional louvers for corner-to-corner cooling of the room
Owing to the 24-hour timer, you can limit its operation as necessitated to cut running costs. While utilized in the dehumidifier mode, count on it to draw an estimated 76 PPD, excluding the need for a separate dehumidification system. Design-wise, what we like the most are rolling casters that make it a breeze to change the AC unit’s placement.
What type of refrigerant does this unit use? It integrates an R-32 refrigerant that reduces electricity consumption by approximately 10% as opposed to the R-22 version, so you can see why experts praise and recommend it.
Warranty: 1 year full, 5 years for the cooling system
This is among the most versatile entries available since it generates 14,000 BTUs for cooling and 11,000 BTUs for heating, permitting you to run it year-round. It is intended for spaces up to 500 sq. ft. in size, so it is a feasible option not only for home use but for the workshop or garage as well. Like all of the other products we revised, it can function as more than just a simple AC. It is fitted with a total of 4 action modes, namely:
Cool – Uses refrigerant to extract heat and disperse cool air
Auto-fan – Moves the air in the house
Heat – The 11,000 BTUs heating capability keeps you warm throughout winter
Dehumidifier – It can draw up to 3.6 PPH
The EER is 11.7, which implies that running costs will be insignificant. It measures 19.5 inches by 33.5 inches by 15.7 inches, which is somewhat typical and ensures it won’t take up too much space.
Timer – It can be attuned to turn off after 1 to 12 hours
Casters – Relocate it without breaking a sweat in the process
Adjustable Thermostat – Its action ranges from 64F to 95F
Power Rating – 1200 watts
With a peak airflow rating of 222 CFM, not a lot of time will pass until you feel the difference that running it makes. We also like that the package contains the remote too, permitting you to modify the settings without making the trip from the couch to the AC but rather sit where you are comfortable and just push the buttons you have to and adapt its action to your preference. We cannot end without mentioning a word about the warranty either since parts and labor are covered for 1 year, while the cooling system is protected against defects for a total of 5 years.
How much noise does it make when it runs? When cooling, it emits 55 dB on the low setting, 56 dB on medium, and 57 dB on high. While when heating, it generates 55 dB on the low setting, 56 dB on medium, and 58 dB on high. Regardless of the chosen running mode and speed, you will barely notice that it runs, which makes it apposite for the bedroom or office.
What makes us favor this EdgeStar product to the point where we picked it as our choice is that aside from effective cooling in spaces upward of 525 sq. ft. due to the 14,000 BTUs, it also removes an estimated 85 PPD. Due to this specific capability that it flaunts, you won’t need a moisture extractor when humidity levels go haywire.
Non-Permanent Installation – In most situations, landlords disagree with their tenants drilling holes. Luckily, with this AC unit, you won’t have any trouble with your landlord since all you necessitate to get it running is to plug the cord in an outlet and set up the exhaust, preferably out of a window
The thermostat can be set to uphold a room temperature spanning from 61F to 89F
Among the most cost-effective options available – rated at 11.2 EER
The package contains a remote to change settings without getting in the AC’s proximity
Timer – The highest threshold at which you can set it is 24 hours
Speeds – Low, Medium, High
Automatic Restart – After a power failure, the unit instantly commences operating with your pre-selected settings
Plus, the company guarantees it to be free of defects for 1 year (otherwise, repairs are performed free of charge within this period), and you can see why this AC unit ranks so high.
How do I install this AC? If you select the window venting setup, which is the suggested configuration, you first have to position the kit plate into the opening. Then, slide the plate so that it covers the complete width of the opening and close the window to keep the plate perfectly still. Next, attach the venting hose to the unit and place the free end into the hose on the plate.
If you need an AC for your condo or a vast area in your house, then consider this Haier entry since it covers up to 500 sq. ft. effortlessly. This vast coverage is granted by the 14,000 BTUs. Best of all, you can even count on it for heating – the unit is evaluated at 10,000 BTUs for it.
Timer – It lets you set an operating schedule for the unit beforehand to save on costs in case you are not around to shut it off yourself
Moisture Extractor – You can utilize it in high humidity locations as it can draw up to 90 PPD
4-Way Air Direction – The airstream goes in the direction you opt for so that you can fully customize its operation
Thermostat – The temperature span goes from 61F to 100F
Filter – It is fitted with a washable filter that cuts on upkeep costs and helps remove air pollutants
The multi-directional casters with which it is fitted provide you with an expedient means to relocate the unit as it will simply slide across the surface. With the package, you get 2 vent hoses and a window venting kit. We also mention that it emits only 50 dB when it runs, so you can keep it on even when you sleep without worrying that it might wake you up since it doesn’t make much ruckus.
Do I receive manuals with the acquisition? Yes, the package contains a use and care manual, as well as installation instructions that come in handy for first-time users who want to correctly proceed with the setup from their first try. If you ever misplace these manuals, you can go to the company’s website and download them for free.
Another 14,000 BTU model that is appropriate for spaces upward of 500 sq. ft., what makes it a standout isn’t only its cooling performance but the fact that it withdraws a hefty quantity of moistness from the air, specifically up to 91 PPD. It is fitted with an antimicrobial filter that eliminates impurities and microbes from the air to confirm that the air indoors is safer for you to breathe.
Thermostat – Has an action span from 61F to 89F
Timer – The 24-hour timer lets you program after how many hours it should shut off to save on operating costs
Cool Mode – It needs only 15 minutes to reach the selected parameters, even if the space is vast
Fan – Perfect for casting away cooking and smoke odors
Direct drain – This option allows uninterrupted disposal of the accumulated condensation so that you won’t have to remove it manually
Self-restart – In the event of a power cut, the unit will instantly resume with the preceding settings
Operating noise – Emits 56 dB tops, which makes it discrete enough when it runs to sleep in the same room with
Just like most products, it features rolling casters with the specific purpose of easing your work when you need to transfer it from one spot to another. In terms of backing, expect the producer to handle parts and labor for the first year, while the sealed system is warranted against defects for 3 years.
What does the F1 error message indicate? When F1 appears on the display, it’s a signal that the air filter needs to be cleaned. Take the filter out, wash it and let it dry, and then you can reinstall it. Press and hold the power button for 10 seconds to reset the code. When the action occurs, the unit will make a beep sound. Don’t fret as the beep just indicates that the reset has been successful, it is not indicative of another issue with the unit.
Warranty: 1 year full, 3 years for the sealed system
Suitable for fairly large residential applications since it provides a hefty 500 sq. ft. coverage, this model impresses in terms of cooling prowess since it delivers 14,000 BTUs. You are guaranteed to also like the auto drain it utilizes since it implies that the gathered water is used and recycled to grant a more rapid cooling process. It fulfills various functions as follows:
Heater – Use it year-round since it can work as a heater too (assessed at 13,000 BTUs for heating)
Dehumidifier – It can retain up to 101 PPD to normalize humidity conditions
Fan – Suited for classic air circulation. Supplies a refreshing, cooling breeze in the process
Cool – The high 14,000 BTUs rating ensures it takes only a few minutes until you feel a difference
You can set its action from 61F to 89F. To more conveniently modify this setting and make the desired adjustments to the AC’s action overall, you can utilize the included remote.
Aside from creating comfortable living conditions by adapting the room condition to your preferences, it also helps clear the air of impurities and unwanted odors due to the activated carbon filter that it integrates.
Timer – Set the unit to turn off after up to 24 hours of uninterrupted functioning
Self-Restart – In case of a power shortage, it will instantly resume using the preceding settings when the power comes back on
It measures 16” by 35.5” by 19”, and it weighs 80 pounds, but this is nothing to worry about when considering ease of relocation since it integrates rolling casters. It is rated to circulate upward of 222 cubic feet per minute. Finally, we mention that the quality assurance covers parts and labor for 1 year and the sealed system for 3 years.
What are the unit’s ratings according to the DOE 2017 standard? In compliance with this standard, this Whynter product generates 8,200 BTUs heating and 9,000 BTUs cooling. The values we previously provided comply with the ASHRAE-128 standard.
Among the most sought-after products, it is easy to see why the MN14CEDWW from Honeywell is regarded as the best option available yet by experts and consumers alike considering its operational prowess. A 1,200-watt model that rapidly cools the room you set it up in so that you won’t break a sweat even on the warmest day of the year. If you can afford it, there’s no product we more strongly recommend, hands down.
Performance
What makes it a standout is the 700 sq. ft. coverage that makes it a go-to for cooling vaster areas like the attic, for example. Nonetheless, this is the peak capability of the unit. If you want to confirm it works at its best, better install it in a space that doesn’t exceed 550 sq. ft. as it won’t overwork itself to reach and uphold the conditions of your choice. Rendering to ASHRAE ratings, this is a 14,000 BTUs model, while according to the DOE 2017 standard, it is rated at 7,500 BTUs, so you can see where it gets the superior coverage from. Best of all, you can rely on it year-round seeing how it even provides cooling capabilities – evaluated at 11,000 BTUs heating, to be specific. The high 229 CFM airflow is another element that proves just how efficient this air-cooling system is. Per day, it can draw upward of 69 pints of surplus moisture from the air, so you won’t need to separately run a dehumidifier during summer to elevate humidity levels.
Features
The digital panel with soft-touch electric controls grants it a user-friendly design.
The LED display indicates current temperature conditions and shows the chosen settings.
Fitted with a smart digital thermostat that you can set from 61F to 89F.
Automatic overheat protection impedes hazardous incidents from occurring as the unit instantly turns off when a potential overheating event is sensed.
The washable electrostatic filter captures the contaminants from the air passing through the AC to ensure cleaner air, which is especially important for those who are sensitive to air pollution issues (asthma and allergy sufferers).
The timer can be set for a peak of 24 hours, so you can limit the power draw of the unit to impede overpaying when the bills are due.
It provides 3 speeds to pick from, so you can customize its operation as you like. At each speed level, it produces a different amount of noise (the range goes from 51 dB to 53 dB).
The internal full tank alert notifies you when the tank requires that you drain it so that you won’t have to routinely check on it.
Even if you do omit to drain the reservoir, when it fills, the unit instantly turns off to impede a potential overflow.
There is a filter check indicator set in place that provides visual indicators of the fact that the time has come to clean the reusable filter.
Works with the help of the R-410A ecological refrigerant.
Design
This Honeywell AC measures 18.1” by 15.2” by 29.3”, so rest assured knowing that it won’t take up a vast extent of space wherever you put it. The unit might weigh 66.4 pounds, but because it is fitted with casters, you won’t struggle to change its location on your own. When it comes to setting it up, note that the window dimensions it works with span from 19.7 inches to 47.2 inches.
What’s in the box?
A remote that you can use to more conveniently modify the settings without having to move an inch from your current location.
The window fitting kit contains all the items you need to proceed with the setup procedure. So, you won’t have to take any extra trips to the store for parts or spend another dollar since everything is already included.
The manual is useful since it spares you from having to ask for professional assistance during the fitting process.
The warranty guide that we strongly advise you carefully read in its entirety since you find information regarding the conditions that could void this assurance agreement. It is important to handle the unit as instructed and uphold the validity of the service contract since you receive free repairs for potential manufacturing-related issues throughout its span.
Warranty
The quality assurance that accompanies this product is quite standard – 1 year. It covers parts and labor, so if the AC presents any manufacturing defects within this first year, the company will handle repairs free of charge.
Each of these two configurations come with their own set of benefits and restrictions. As a rule of thumb, if you seek fast cooling, you should use a dual hose configuration. Nonetheless, if you have limited space, a single hose AC would be the right choice for you. Regardless, each configuration has an energy-efficient operation so you won’t be seeing spikes in your energy bill. But let’s look closer at all of the differential aspects between the two AC systems.
Dual
Single
Fast – Out of the two configurations, dual hose ACs can chill a room the quickest. This also has a positive impact on your power bill. The sooner it touches the anticipated outcome, the lower the sum of money you have to pay since it won’t work as strenuously.
Longevity – In a single hose AC, more unfiltered air will enter the unit. Thus, it will shorten the lifespan of the unit by many months. Whereas, dual hose units are created with a filter that will capture the contaminants from the air.
Efficiency – It draws up the hot air, cools it, and discharges it back. Even though the process will heat the unit, the second hose will intake air from the exterior, cooling the AC in the process so that you enjoy a cool living space even on the warmest day.
Functions – Most models integrate multiple functions, so you get the most for your money with the acquisition. This is seen even in the products we reviewed here since most of them also function as fans, heaters, or dehumidifiers.
Portability – These units are much more lightweight as opposed to their dual-hose counterparts, which makes handling and relocation considerably easier.
Air – Due to their operating design, single-hose models are not as proficient when it comes to clearing the air of impurities. Ideally, you should use an air purifier in combination with these systems.
Conclusion
With their multiple operating modes and unparalleled efficiency in cooling large-sized spaces, dual-hose portable AC units are quite unmatched in their performance. In this article, we rounded up what experts and consumers alike view as the most efficient systems available yet, and we urge that you opt for one of our recommendations to ensure that your money is spent on a worthwhile model that delivers the anticipated outcome. While all of our picks are qualitative, some stand out through specific aspects of their performance, and before we end, we want to quickly go through these models to assist you in making a decision that is on par with your demands.
Comprising multiple modes to work year-round since aside from cooling, you can also use it to warm the air, this entry was bound to rank high. However, what makes it the best isn’t only the fact that it comes from one of the most prestigious manufacturers in this trade but the superior performance it flaunts. Expect it to deliver optimal cooling in spaces upward of 500 sq. ft., which makes it a fitting system to use even in large zones like the attic. Additionally, the 14,000 BTU rating ensures it won’t need much time to make a significant difference in room temperature, reaching the level you select rapidly to ensure relaxing living conditions ASAP. Considering its durability and performance, it’s safe to say that the asking price is reasonable.
With a large area coverage of 525 sq. ft. and a cooling prowess rated at 14,000 BTUs, this EdgeStar AC unit stood out from competitors quite easily. Despite the hefty cooling performance granted, it doesn’t make much ruckus when it runs – it is rated to generate only about 51 dB, so you can sleep with it in the same room without worrying that the noise might pose a disturbance. It even impresses when it comes to its moisture removal capabilities, the fact that it can wick away upward of 85 PPD ensuring that once you run it, you won’t need to separately operate a dehumidifier to uphold proper humidity conditions indoors.
Nothing beats a multi-purpose unit, and this is precisely what the Toyotomi is since you can use it every season due to its cooling and heating capabilities. When cooling, it delivers an estimated 14,000 BTUs, while when heating, it is rated at 11,000 BTUs. The area coverage is quite considerable – count on it for spaces upward of 500 sq. ft. Moreover, the selectable temperature range of this system spans from 64F to 95F. Thus, you are bound to enjoy the most comfortable living conditions possible temperature-wise regardless of the season if you acquire and use this AC unit.
Reasonably-priced considering its capabilities, this model is praised by experts and consumers alike for its fair value and hard-to-beat performance. It works for rooms of up to 400 sq. ft. since it provides upward of 12,000 BTUs cooling. Apart from successfully fulfilling its cooling purpose, this model is even used as a fan when you simply want it to distribute the air within the room, or a moisture extractor when you are dealing with excess moisture-related issues (count on it to withdraw an estimated 76 PPD). The manufacturer even backs it against defects for 1 year, so in the off-chance that something happens to the AC that is a result of poor workmanship, repairs are handled free of charge within this period.
Our resident expert in all things AC-related, Markus is a never-ending source of knowledge regarding how these systems work. What makes him so savvy in this field is his direct experience that he acquired while working in sales. The connections he made during that period also came in handy here as Markus knows a lot of experts in this field. With each article uploaded, he makes sure to gather the expertise of his more experienced ex-peers as well, making sure to provide readers with reliable reviews and articles.