11 Best Portable Aircon Singapore: Free Buyer’s Guide

Highly-Recommended Portable Aircon

Beating the Singapore “all-year summer” heat can be quite a challenge, which is why many individuals opt for investing in high-quality portable air conditioners. The primary advantage of these units lies in their versatility—unlike fixed air conditioning systems in each room, portable air conditioners can be easily moved around without much hassle or expense. If you’re considering purchasing a portable aircon in Singapore, here are 11 top-rated options to keep you cool:

1. Best Selling: EuropAce Portable Aircon 12K BTU – EPAC 12C6UV
2. Best Overall: Novita Coolplus™ 3-In-1 Portable Air Conditioner NAC12000UV
3. Best Rated: EuropAce Portable Aircon 10K BTU – EPAC 10C6
4. Best Value: EuropAce Portable Aircon 12K BTU – EPAC 12C6UV
5. Best Large Capacity / Heavy Duty: EuropAce 20,000 BTU Portable Aircon – EPAC 20A
6. Best Budget Friendly: EuropAce Portable Aircon 10K BTU – EPAC 10C6
7. Best Small Capacity: Midea MPHA-09CRN7 Portable Air Conditioner, 9000 BTU
8. Best Design: Novita Coolplus™ 3-In-1 Portable Air Conditioner NAC12000UV
9. Most Energy Efficient: Novita Coolplus™ 3-In-1 Portable Air Conditioner NAC12000UV
10. Optimal Noise Level: EuropAce Portable Aircon 10K BTU – EPAC 10C6
11. Latest Model: EuropAce 20,000 BTU Portable Aircon – EPAC 20A

Remember to consider your specific needs—whether you want a compact model, one with multiple uses, or one with high-tech features—when selecting the best portable air conditioner for your home. Stay cool! 🌬️🌞

What To Look For When Buying a Portable Aircon Singapore?

1. Size and BTUs (British Thermal Units):
   • Size: Consider where you plan to place the portable air conditioner. The unit’s effectiveness depends on its size and power.
   • BTUs : Higher BTU numbers indicate more powerful cooling. Match the BTU rating to your room size to optimize efficiency and reduce energy costs.
2. Estimating BTUs for Your Room:
   • Use a quick estimation guide based on room size:
     • Up to 20 sqm.: Choose 9,000 BTUs.
     • Add 2,000 BTUs for every additional 9.5 sqm.
   • Environmental factors (appliances, sunlight exposure) may influence your choice.
3. Noise Level Considerations:
   • Portable air conditioners, like any other devices, generate noise. When selecting an excellent portable aircon, aim for a maximum noise level of 55 dB (decibels). Noise levels beyond this threshold may cause disturbances.
     • Room Context: The acceptability of noise depends on the room where you plan to use the air conditioner. For example, in the kitchen or living room, a higher noise level might be tolerable. However, for your home office or bedroom, excessive noise can become highly disturbing.
     • Decibel Ratings: Portable air conditioners house all cooling and heating components within the unit. Typically, manufacturers provide decibel ratings to indicate noise levels. If uncertain, consider testing the unit in-store before purchasing.
4. Types of Portable Air Conditioners:
   • Single Hose Units: For those seeking an affordable and user-friendly portable air conditioner for small space, consider the single-hose variant. These units operate by absorbing the indoor heat and cooling it internally, followed by the discharge of warmed air via the hose. The installation is quite simple, requiring only the attachment of a single hose to a window adapter.
   • Dual Hose Models: In the case of larger areas, dual hose portable air conditioners are noted for their superior performance. They function by drawing in external air to cool the machinery with one hose, while the other hose expels the heated air back outside. This design ensures a more consistent indoor temperature and avoids the creation of negative pressure in the room.
   • Evaporative Coolers: Evaporative portable air conditioners are distinguished by their distinctive cooling technique, which is especially suited for arid and warm environments. Diverging from conventional air conditioning systems, these units utilize the evaporation of water to reduce room temperature, thus being a more environmentally friendly choice due to their lower energy consumption. They work by drawing in warm air and directing it across pads drenched in water, cooling the air as moisture evaporates, and then recirculating the cooled air back into the room.
5. Installation and Hose:
   • Portable air conditioners are straightforward to install. However, they do require external ducting for operation. Place your portable air conditioner near a sash or sliding window to appropriately vent the exhaust hose. Some models allow you to place the exhaust hose near a safe area for continuous water drainage.
6. Maintenance:
   • Like other household items, portable air conditioners require regular maintenance. Most models collect water in a tank, necessitating frequent emptying.

Click here for our Expert Comparison of Portable Air Conditioner Vs Window Vs Split-System: Free Expert Guide 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are Portable Aircons Effective?
   • Portable air conditioners are convenient for spot cooling in small spaces. They work by pulling in warm air from the room, cooling it, and releasing the cooled air back into the space. While they are effective for localized cooling, their efficiency depends on factors like room size and energy consumption.
2. How To Install Portable Aircon HDB?
   • Follow these steps for proper installation:
     • Step 1: Determine the right location: Look for a spot that is close to a window so that the exhaust hose can be installed to expel warm air. Ensure that there is enough space around the unit to allow for proper airflow. Avoid location that is in direct sunlight or close to other hear-emitting appliances or objects.
     • Step 2: Exhaust Hose Installation: The hose is a critical component of your portable aircon. It serves to expel warm air from the room. It is important to follow the instruction manual of the air conditioner unit. Installation involves attaching one end to the back of the unit and the other end to the window kit. Make sure that the hose is straight and has no kinks or bends, as this can restrict airflow.
     • Step 3: Secure the Window Kit: The window kit is a set of panels that fit into your window to hold the exhaust hose in place. The panels should fit snugly into the window frame to prevent hot air from re-entering your home/room. Use foam tape or weather stripping to seal any gaps between the panels and the window frame.
     • Step 4: Connect to Power Socket and Turn it On: Once you have completed Step 1 to 3, connect your portable aircon to the power socket and turn it on. Set the temperature and fan speed to your desired settings. Your aircon unit should start cooling the room within a few minutes.
3. Where to Buy Portable Aircon Exhaust Hose In Singapore?
   • You can find portable aircon exhaust hoses online on platforms like Shopee or Amazon.sg. These hoses come in various lengths and diameters to fit different units.
4. How To Clean EuropAce Portable Aircon?
   • Follow these steps:
     1. Gather Your Tools: Screwdriver, compressed air, vacuum cleaner, soft cloth, and 3% hydrogen peroxide.
     2. Remove and Clean Air Filter: Wash or vacuum the filter.
     3. Open Up the Unit: Use a screwdriver to access the coils.
     4. Vacuum the Condenser Coils: Remove dust and debris.
     5. Vacuum the Evaporator Coil: Clean the thick coils.
     6. Drain the Water Tank: Empty accumulated water.
     7. Clean the Drip Tray and Exhaust Hose: Ensure proper drainage.
     8. Reassemble the Unit: Put everything back together.
5. How Does Portable Aircon Work?
   • Portable ACs pull in room air, cool it using refrigerant, and release the cooled air back into the room. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the indoor air, which is then exhausted outside through an exhaust hose. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.
6. Where to Buy Portable Aircon in Singapore?
   • You can find portable aircon on platforms like Shopee or Amazon.sg. These hoses come in various lengths and diameters to fit different units.