How do you set up a portable air conditioner?

Written by Julie

Edited on

3 September 2024

·

07:25

How do you set up a portable air conditioner?

If you set up a portable air conditioner in the wrong way, it doesn't cool properly on a warm summer's day. In this article, we'll explain in 5 steps how you properly set up a portable air conditioner. That way, you get the most out of your air conditioner.

Exhaust hose portable air conditioner

Set up portable air conditioner

It's important to keep a couple of things in mind during the setup:

  • Step 1: place the air conditioner close to a window or an exterior door

  • Step 2: make sure there's a socket nearby

  • Step 3: keep the exhaust hose as straight as possible

  • Step 4: keep the surroundings of the air conditioner in mind

  • Step 5: use a window seal kit

View all portable air conditioners
Portable air conditioner window exterior door

Step 1: place the air conditioner near a window or exterior door

A portable air conditioner leads the warm air outside via the exhaust hose. That's why you should always place the air conditioner near a window that can open or an exterior door.

Plug portable air conditioner socket

Step 2: make sure there's a socket nearby

Don't extend the cord of a portable air conditioner with an extension cord. This can be dangerous. That's why you should keep the length in mind, so you're sure it can reach the socket.

Exhaust hose portable air conditioner

Step 3: keep the exhaust hose as straight as possible

Keep the exhaust hose as horizontal as possible. The more vertical the hose, the less powerfully the air conditioner cool.

Surroundings portable air conditioner

Step 4: check the surroundings of the air conditioner

Before you turn on the air conditioner, check if the curtains are closed and if unnecessary devices are turned off. Such as a television or radio you aren't using. That way, you know for sure nothing stands in the way of your portable air conditioner.

How well does a portable air conditioner cool?

Step 5: use a window seal kit

Use a window seal kit to make sure the warm air stays outside. This window seal kit covers the crevices next to the window. Air conditioners often include a basic window seal kit, but this might not fit on your type of window. That's why it's smart to check which type of window seal kit is included.

Portable air conditioner manual

What should you not do?

Above, you can read how to set up your portable air conditioner for the best result. There are also some things you shouldn't do. You shouldn't extend the drain hose, for example. You're also never supposed to lead it to a different room or hallway. Every air conditioner is different. That's why you should always read the manual of your air conditioner.

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Article by Julie

Air Conditioner Expert.

Julie