Stay Comfy in Any Season with These 5 Best Portable Air Conditioner Heater Combos

0
Top Portable Air Conditioner Heater Combo

Keeping your home at a comfortable temperature all year round can be a challenge. Extreme heat in the summer and frigid cold in the winter often require separate heating and cooling solutions. However, portable air conditioner heater combos provide an all-in-one solution for temperature control. These versatile units can both heat and cool a room, providing comfort in any season.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the convenience of portable air conditioner heater combos. We’ll discuss the key factors to consider when selecting a unit. Then, we’ll recommend our top pick for best overall along with a budget-friendly option. We’ll also overview other notable models on the market. Finally, we’ll compare portable units to traditional window air conditioners.

The Convenience of Portable Air Conditioner Heater Combos

What sets portable air conditioner heater combos apart is their versatility. With both heating and cooling capabilities, you can use them year-round for temperature control. There are no seasonal changeovers required.

These units are also portable. Smaller models sit on casters, allowing you to wheel them from room to room. Their compact size makes storage easy during months when they aren’t needed. Larger capacity units work well for cooling or heating a main living area.

Installation is a breeze with windowless portable air conditioners. There’s no need for permanent mounting brackets or exterior ductwork. Just install the flexible exhaust hose and adjustable window bracket kit. This makes them ideal for rental spaces where window units are prohibited.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Portable Air Conditioner Heater Combo

With many models on the market, keep the following factors in mind when selecting a unit:

  • BTUs: Select a model with adequate BTUs (British Thermal Units) to handle the size of your room. Too few BTUs result in inefficient cooling/heating.
  • Modes: Look for different fan speeds and modes like auto, sleep, and dry.
  • Extras: Added features like remote controls, timers, filters, and self-evaporating systems add convenience.
  • Efficiency: Check the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) and Energy Star rating.
  • Noise level: Portable units tend to be louder than window ACs, so check decibel ratings if this is important.

Best Overall Portable Air Conditioner Heater Combo

Whynter Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner: The Top Pick

Features and Benefits

After comparing numerous models, we chose the Whynter Elite ARC-122DS as the best overall portable air conditioner heater combo. This 12,000 BTU unit packs impressive heating and cooling power into a sleek body.

Dual hoses improve air intake and exhaust for more efficient temperature regulation. This model can cool spaces up to 400 square feet and heat spaces up to 500 square feet. With three operating modes plus a fan-only function, you get precise control over your environment.

A built-in dehumidifier removes up to 71 pints of moisture per day for comfort in muggy climates. And the activated carbon filter cleans indoor air while reducing odors. Auto-restart, 24-hour programmable timer, and full-function remote add convenience.

Versatility and Control

We appreciate the ARC-122DS’s versatility to handle most heating and cooling needs. Three fan speeds and four modes allow customization for the perfect temp. Plus, the unit is self-evaporating with no water tank to empty.

With caster wheels and side carrying handles, moving this 75-pound unit is manageable. At over $500, it sits at the higher end of the market but offers value for a long-lasting, energy-efficient comfort solution.

Upgrading to the Heater-Included Version

Note that Whynter sells this model in a cooling-only version (ARC-122DHP) for around $100 less. We recommend upgrading to the ARC-122DS with the added heating function. This flexibility to both heat and cool makes it the best overall pick for year-round temperature control.

Budget-Friendly Option

Honeywell Portable Evaporative Cooler with Fan

Affordability and Efficiency

On a tight budget? The Honeywell CO30XE portable evaporative cooler fits the bill. Priced under $200, it delivers reliable cooling at a fraction of the cost of refrigerated air.

This indirect evaporative cooler pulls hot air through moist pads. As the water evaporates, it cools the air which then circulates through the room. An internal fan also enhances air circulation.

With 100 CFM of airflow, this compact unit cools rooms up to 320 square feet. A convenient ice compartment boosts cooling. And the eco-friendly design uses up to 80% less energy than traditional portable ACs.

Ideal for Consumers on a Budget

While it lacks heating, the Honeywell CO30XE portable evaporative cooler suits cost-conscious consumers. It effectively handles cooling needs in hot, dry climates. Affordability, efficiency, and convenient operation make it our budget-friendly pick.

Other Notable Portable Air Conditioner Heater Combos

While the Whynter and Honeywell models are our top recommendations, other quality options exist. Below we’ll overview additional portable air conditioner heater combos worth considering:

MeacoCool MC Series 9000

This versatile British-made unit provides effective heating and cooling. A handy remote and 24-hour timer allow customized control.

ElectriQ Slimline 7000 BTU

Ultra-slim and lightweight, ElectriQ’s sleek model easily moves room to room. Its modern design houses 7000 BTUs of heating and cooling power.

Honeywell 9000 BTU 3-in-1

Another Honeywell option, this 3-in-1 unit can cool, heat, and dehumidify spaces up to 350 square feet. Its remote controlled operation is convenient.

EcoFlow Wave 2

This battery-powered model offers off-grid temperature control during power outages. It can also power other devices like lights and small appliances.

Comparing Window Units and Portable Air Conditioner Heater Combos

Portable air conditioner heater combos provide an alternative to traditional window air conditioners. Below we compare the two options across a few key factors.

Feasibility and Compatibility

Window units require a suitable window location and permanent installation. Portables simply need a nearby window for the exhaust hose. Their flexibility makes them feasible for more spaces like studios or rental units.

Ease of Installation and Operation

Window ACs require mounting brackets and exterior ductwork. Portables have quick, temporary installations. Their casters also simplify moving them room to room. Overall, portables offer easier installation and mobility.

Cooling Efficiency and Flexibility

When it comes to cooling, window units are typically more efficient and powerful. But portables offer heating too for year-round use. And while less efficient for cooling, portables provide better temperature control in irregularly shaped rooms.

Conclusion

Take the Cool Where You Need It

Portable air conditioner heater combos provide flexible temperature control for any season. Units like the Whynter ARC-122DS deliver versatile heating and cooling. Plus portables work in spaces where window ACs aren’t feasible. So take the cool and heat where you need it!

Flexibility and Comfort All Year Round

With both heating and cooling capabilities, portable units allow comfortable temps year-round. Convenient features like casters, remote controls, and programmable timers simplify operation too. Just be sure to select adequate BTUs for the room size. Then enjoy tailored

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *