Time to Install the Portable Air Conditioners

By Mark J. Donovan

With summer getting into full swing it’s time to pull out those portable air conditioners, clean them up a little, and install them. Portable air conditioners are perfect for cooling rooms and even entire homes, albeit with multiple units installed in the case of cooling an entire house. However, it’s important to install portable air conditioners in or near windows so that that the condensed hot air and moisture that is pulled from the home can be vented outdoors.

When preparing to install your portable air conditioner check the filters and clean or replace them if necessary. Often all you need to do to clean the air filter is to soak it in some warm soapy dish detergent water and gently scrub it. Let it fully dry, however, before installing it back into the portable air conditioner. Also make sure the air conditioner chassis vents are free of dust and lint. A clogged air filter not only causes the air conditioner to work harder, it also prevents the air conditioner from cooling off the room or home quickly. Also, if your portable air conditioner has a drain hose make sure it is free of debris that could cause it to clog.

If the portable air conditioner doesn’t seem to produce and/or blow out cold air after doing these few simple maintenance tips it may be wise to simply replace it, particularly if the fan or compressor is no longer working. The cost of portable air conditioner repairs are often as much as buying a new one.