A portable air conditioner is a versatile, standalone cooling unit that brings comfort to specific areas or rooms. These appliances consist of a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and a fan, all working together to create a comfortable climate. They operate by drawing warm air from the room, cooling it through a refrigeration cycle, and then releasing refreshingly cool air back into the space. The hot air, which is a byproduct of the cooling process, is vented out through an exhaust hose, typically placed in a window or a suitable outlet. This makes them a simple and effective solution for targeted cooling.

Choosing the right portable air conditioner requires careful consideration of several key factors to ensure you find the perfect fit for your home. Your primary starting point should be the cooling capacity, measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units), which must always be matched to your room's size to achieve effective and efficient cooling. Beyond capacity, you should also evaluate the unit's energy efficiency, its noise level for quiet operation, and smart features like programmable timers and remote controls for convenience. It's also wise to consider the unit's overall build quality and reliability. Some versatile portable air conditioners offer additional functionality such as heating and dehumidification, providing year-round comfort. Our Pinguino range offers a variety of models, and you can easily compare them in our shop to help you make an informed decision.

When choosing a portable air conditioner, its cooling power is a critical factor, measured in either BTUs (British Thermal Units) or kilowatts (kW). As a general guide, the ideal BTU and kW rating should directly correspond to the size of the room you need to cool; higher ratings are necessary for larger rooms, while lower ratings are sufficient for smaller spaces. However, it's important to remember that factors like a room’s insulation, sun exposure, and the presence of heat-generating appliances can also influence cooling requirements. For instance, rooms up to 85m³ are effectively cooled by units with around 9,000 BTUs (2-2.5 kW). For larger areas up to 100m³, it’s best to choose a more powerful unit, ranging from 9,000 to 12,000 BTUs (2.6-3 kW). For the biggest spaces, our most powerful De'Longhi units offer up to 13,000 BTUs (3.3 kW), making them suitable for areas larger than 120m³.

Installing a portable air conditioner with an external hose is a simple process. The exhaust hose must be properly connected to the unit and directed toward a suitable window or ventilation opening. The setup involves securing the hose in place and ensuring a tight seal to prevent hot air from re-entering the room. To begin, select a location for the portable air conditioner near a window or door, placing the unit on a flat, stable surface, preferably close to a power outlet. Next, attach one end of the exhaust hose to the designated port on the back of the air conditioner, and then extend the hose toward the window or door. Finally, connect the other end of the hose to the window ventilation kit that is supplied with the unit.

The price of a portable air conditioner can vary, depending on several key factors. The primary considerations that influence cost are the unit's cooling capacity, its advanced features, and its energy efficiency rating. While models with higher cooling power or more features may come with a higher initial price tag, they often represent a better long-term investment due to their superior performance, durability, and potential for energy savings. Therefore, it's wise to consider not just the upfront cost, but also the overall value and benefits the unit provides over its lifespan