Most versatile portable air conditioners out there are both cooling units and dehumidifiers rolled into one – which is good news for those of us with an allergy problem. Excessively humid conditions create the perfect breeding grounds for several types of allergens, be it mold, dust mites, insects and more, and inhaling these all day does us no favors, so having a moisture-regulating device which keeps humidity at a more desired degree is a godsend. Add to this the in-built filters in a good portable cooling unit, and you’ll have an air conditioner sieving out pollen, dust mites and other allergens irritating your sinuses. More or less all portable air conditioners double as dehumidifiers, some allowing you to exclusively use the device to dehumidify without switching the cooling on, but if you’re specifically on the lookout for one that’ll take it easy on your allergies, here are a couple of our top picks.
KEN’S PICK
Whynter ARC-14S Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner
Another dual hose entry in this list, this unit is not just energy-efficient, but also environmentally friendly too, with its Chlorofluorocarbon-free, R-410A refrigerant and lead-free, Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) compliant parts. Quick to chill, the unit features 14,000 BTU cooling – just right for rooms as large as 700 square feet – as well as a dehumidification capacity of an impressive 101 pints a day, perfect for any room or rooms experiencing too much humidity. Two layers of filtration, with a pre-filter and carbon air filter, trap dirt and allergens in the air rather than spewing them back out, so you can rest easy that you’re breathing in safe, anti-allergy-provoking air.
The unit can be adjusted to temperatures between 61 and 89 degrees Fahrenheit, the fan with three speed modes, digital and remote controls letting you select your preferred settings. Caster wheels allow for easy maneuverability, while the window installation kit is adjustable to a maxi
KEN’S BUDGET PICK
Honeywell Classic Portable Air Conditioner
This 3-in-1 air conditioning unit cools rooms up to 500 sq. ft. and includes advanced safety features such as thermal overload protection for safety and peace of mind. The unit also has adjustable vertical wind motion to distribute cool air evenly for fast and consistent cooling.
Maintenance is made easy with the filter clean alert and washable filter, which protects the unit from dust and hair to extend its lifespan and improve its performance. The filter can be easily cleaned under a faucet.
Designed for comfort, the unit features a simple-to-use digital control with three fan speeds, a 24-hour energy-saving timer, and a remote control (batteries included). The unit also has stress-free auto evaporation in cooling mode, with no bucket to empty (except in areas with high humidity). The built-in dehumidifier can remove up to 50 pints of moisture per day and has a continuous drain option for long unattended operation.
With a cooling capacity of 11,000 BTU (ASHRAE-128 Standard)/8,000 BTU (SACC BTU), this air conditioning unit is designed to keep you comfortable and cool during hot summer days.