It is undeniable that one popular of air conditioning models at this time is portable ac units! They are excellent home appliance that becoming so familiar day by day especially during the hottest months (summer season). There are some points that push them popular. And some of those points are (1) small size, (2) portability performance (free standing device), (3) relatively cheaper particularly if we compare to the conventional air conditioners or central models, (4) they require easily installation without needing to hire a professional HVAC contractor (free cost for the installation), they work more efficient (spot cooling concept that make them perfect choice to complement your existing central ac system), and still many more.
One big downside of them is about the loud noise when running. Therefore it’s important to analyze and consider well about the decibel value when shopping them. They are available in a wide range sizes from (5,000 BTU), (10,000 BTU), (14,000 BTU) up to (18,000 BTU), or even more than 30,000 BTU that basically purposed to accommodate variety choices of different room sizes. Choosing the right size is important point that you should consider carefully when buying one of portable air conditioners. Wrong size either over or lower size will make the unit cannot run optimal and even it will work not-efficient that finally result unexpected high energy bill in the end of the month. Not only that, the other issue that you must concern as well is about the regularly maintenance and how to operate or use portable AC units properly!
Although they can be installed and re-installed not too difficultly (compact and handy air cooling appliances), but there are still some people who still unknown and understand how to use and operate portable ac units properly. Ok, below are some tips and basic procedures on how to use them properly;
- The first thing that must be considered as well is about venting! Although they are portable air conditioning appliances but they must be vented properly. The venting mechanism can be installed through wall, window, door, or else. Venting is needed to vent warm and humid air from the inside to the outside of the room. Generally, the proper venting mechanism is already listed in the manufacture’s instructions. Usually a venting kit is always included one package with the portable ac unit when purchasing. Accommodating variety window sizes, the kit usually consists of the window and hose kit. Don’t miss to consider about your window model (such as casement, sliding, etc) that finally will meet to the model of the kit’s window-covered.
- The next point is about the electrical power supply. It is important basic procedure to avoid overloaded electrical power problem. Ensure that your house or building has adequate electrical power to turn on your portable ac unit! And as possible, avoid using extension cords! It is simply idea but so helpful to minimize and prevent the fire risk accident.
- Then about water removal point. We know well that almost air cooling system always result water condensation as by-product of cooling process. The water can be used to cool down the hot machine when running and the rest must be removed. There are some models on how the unit removes the water condensation. One popular model is by using water removal tray. And if you have the unit that use this mechanism then you must keep the tray will not overflow. The period time about this procedure usually is also already listed in the manufacture’s guidelines. The other popular model is by using evaporation principle which the water condensation will be evaporated automatically! Hmm… But unfortunately this model is usually offered relatively more expensive.
- The other proper operation and maintenance that cannot be ignored is about cleaning and replacing air conditioning filter. The main function of filter is to catch and collect unwanted dirty particles so thus they cannot release into the room. Good performance of the filter is important to ensure the cold air quality is good and clean. It is also helpful for people who suffer from allergy problems. How long you should replace the filter is dependent on the quality of filter itself. In addition, most of air filters for portable ac models usually is produced from carbon.
- The last is about the exhaust hose! One useful tip to ensure the exhaust host stay in good performance is by keeping it straight, particularly when the venting system is being used.
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The other post: How to set your portable air conditioning more efficient?