The best mobile air conditioners in the UK 2023

In summer, the heat is pleasant outside, especially at the beach. However, it's not pleasant to suffer the heat wave at home. To remedy this, the best choice remains the mobile air conditioner, a device capable of really cooling a room and which can move thanks to its wheels. It uses less energy than a stationary air conditioner and doesn't just blow hot air like a fan. Looking for a mobile air conditioner? You've come to the right place.

Olimpia Splendid 01922 1
9/10

Best value

Olimpia Splendid 01922

Best mobile air conditioner in 2021

The Olimpia Splendid 01922 is perfect in every way. This 12,000 BTU mobile air conditioner is efficient and energy saving. So you can enjoy warmer temperatures in hot weather.

401 £ on Amazon

The Olimpia Splendid 01922 has a cooling capacity of 12,000 BTUs and a heating capacity of 2.34 kW. Using R290 gas instead of the highly polluting R410A, this mobile air conditioner takes up very little space thanks to its relatively compact dimensions. Note also that this device has a nominal energy efficiency ratio or EER of 2.8, which allows it to be classified A/A+. A godsend for such a powerful air conditioner!

Made in Italy, the Olimpia Splendid mobile air conditioner can be installed in rooms up to 120 m³. It features Blue Air Technology for faster and more even cooling. It should be noted that this model can also be used as a simple fan and even as a heat pump to serve as a backup heater when needed.

  • Compact design
  • Class A/A+ energy efficiency
  • 4-in-1 unit
  • Relatively noisy
Comfee MPPHA-05CRN7 2
7/10

Best cheap

Comfee MPPHA-05CRN7

Best entry-level mobile air conditioner

Do you hate the heat? Are you looking for an inexpensive mobile air conditioner that can be taken out and stored quickly? We recommend the 5,000 BTU version of the Comfee MPPHA.

187 £ on Amazon

Thanks to the omni-directional casters, you can roll the Comfee MPPHA-05CRN7 3-in-1 mobile air conditioner into the room where you need cool air. The unit has a cooling capacity of 5,000 BTUs and can keep a room up to 17 square meters, the equivalent of 50cubic meters, cool . Once running, the Comfee MPPHA-05CRN7 generates 63 dB of noise in cooling mode at maximum power.

Moreover, this mobile air conditioner works with a remote control through which you can set the temperature, timer and cooling power yourself. Designed to be used in medium-sized environments, the Comfee MPPHA-05CRN7 can be perfectly installed in a motor home due to its compact size and relatively low weight. At this price, it's a gift!

  • Correct cooling capacity
  • Practical "Follow me" function
  • Price equivalent to some air coolers
  • In fact, it is difficult to efficiently cool a room of more than 15 m²
  • The pipe provided is poorly insulated
Remko RKL 495 DC Split
9/10

Best premium

Remko RKL 495 DC Split

Best high-end mobile air conditioner

The German brand Remko has not done things by halves. Indeed, its 2 unit mobile air conditioner, the RKL 495 DC Split, is one of the most efficient, powerful and robust on the market.

1 678 £ on Amazon

The Remko RKL 495 DC Split is a mobile split air conditioner. This means that the unit consists of 2 separate units: the fresh air blower or indoor unit and the warm air exhaust unit, which is located outside. In addition, a 3 m flexible exhaust duct is provided to connect the 2 units. And the inverter technology keeps the temperature of the hot exhaust air to a minimum.

To operate the Remko RKL 495 DC Split, you either tap on the integrated control panel or use the remote control. Although the installation of the 2 units seems complex, the setup is a breeze. Its 15000 BTU/hr cooling capacity will quickly chase the heat away from your home. Moreover, this mobile air conditioner is suitable for areas of 35 m² or less. The refrigerant line can be separated via the Quick-Coupling system.

  • Sleek design
  • Electronic control system
  • Air outlet with swing function
  • Only the outdoor unit makes noise
  • Heavy and expensive
Suntec Transform 12000 Eco R290 3
8/10

Outdoor installable

Suntec Transform 12000 Eco R290

Excellent reversible indoor/outdoor mobile air conditioner

The Suntec Transform 12000 Eco R290 is capable of cooling a room from the outside. This way, you'll sleep cool and quiet on hot summer nights, perfect if you can't stand the noise.

560 £ on Amazon

The Suntec Transform 12000 Eco R290 is a reversible mobile air conditioner, but also an indoor/outdoor model . In addition to offering a cooling capacity of 12,000 BTUs to cool a room of about 50 m², this versatile unit also offers ventilation and dehumidification modes, which are very useful in summer. In the winter, you may need its auxiliary heating function in case your main heating system is acting up.

This reversible mobile air conditioner has an IP24 rating. This means you can install it outside so you won't hear the sound of the air conditioner when you sleep at night or take a nap. Note that this mobile air conditioner works with natural refrigerant R290, less polluting than R410A gas. The only drawback is the poor quality of the inlet and outlet pipes. But they are easily replaceable.

  • Versatile
  • Can cool a room of up to 50 square meters
  • Easy-to-read LED display
  • Blower noise not very discreet
  • Poor quality inlet and outlet hoses, easily replaceable though
Klarstein New Breeze 7 4
9/10

Best at 7,000 BTU

Klarstein New Breeze 7

Best 7,000 BTU mobile air conditioner

The Klarstein New Breeze 7 is a mobile air conditioner that is surprisingly powerful and efficient for the price it is offered at. It is ideal for rooms of 20 to 30 m², or even 40 m² in some cases.

223 £ on Amazon

With the Klarstein New Breeze 7, you won't have to worry about the heat wave! With a cooling capacity of 7,000 BTU/h, this mobile air conditioner can cool a room of 20 to 30 m² over a temperature range of 16 to 30 °C. Of course, it won't be able to bring the indoor temperature down below 25°C if the outdoor temperature is above 35°C. However, in view of its power, the device, with an energy class A, remains one of the most economical.

The Klarstein New Breeze 7 can be used as a dehumidifier or as a fan. For the latter, it has an adjustable speed on 4 positions. With a timer that can be set for up to 10 hours, you can schedule the air conditioner to start and stop. What's more, this one-piece model comes with a remote control. At maximum power, the Klarstein New Breeze 7 announces a sound level of 63 dB.

  • Can cool an area of 40 m²
  • 4 fan speeds
  • Interesting price/power ratio
  • Drain hose too big
  • Quite noisy
Comfee MPPH-09CRN7 5
8/10

Best at 9,000 BTU

Comfee MPPH-09CRN7

Best 9,000 BTU mobile air conditioner

Cool, dehumidify and ventilate! That's what the Comfee MPPH-09CRN7 does. This mobile packaged air conditioner impresses not only with its cooling performance, but also with its price.

226 £ on Amazon

With 1,000 watts of power and 9,000 BTU/hr of cooling capacity, the Comfee MPPH 09CRN7 mobile air conditioner delivers stunning cooling results. It is a packaged air conditioner with exhaust hose, which can cover rooms up to 32 square meters. With the air-to-air system, the Comfee MPPH-09CRN7 removes hot air and allows cooled air to circulate through the room. Note the ingenious cooling technology: instead of collecting condensed water in a water tank, the air conditioner uses it to cool the compressor.

In addition to the cooling function, the air conditioner has a 2-speed fan function and an extremely powerful dehumidification function. The Comfee mobile air conditioner removes 50.9 L of moisture from the air in 24 hours. This makes it suitable for use in apartments where laundry is air-dried. Finally, note that the device is white and has an LED display with remote control and timer. However, it will not be suitable for rooms larger than 30 m².

  • Ingenious cooling system
  • HEPA filter
  • 3-year manufacturer's warranty
  • Noisy
  • Not suitable for rooms larger than 30 sq. m.
Argo Relax Style 6
8/10

Best at 10,000 BTU

Argo Relax Style

Best 10,000 BTU mobile air conditioner

The Argo Relax Style is very robust. Designed to withstand high temperatures, it can also be used as a heater in winter. Class A, this mobile air conditioner ensures considerable savings.

279 £ on Amazon

The Argo Relax Style mobile air conditioner has a cooling capacity of 10,000 BTU. Considering the price, you'll get a great deal! The device will make you benefit from its 3 modes for an above average comfort of use. You can use it as a dehumidifier, fan and air cooler, among others. In addition to its 3 fan speeds, the device also offers an Auto function.

The motorized vanes, which you can adjust horizontally or vertically, allow for a wide oscillation that can be set via the remote control to direct the flow of cool air in a specific direction. The LED display makes it easy to use. Note that the Argo Relax Style has a timer that can be programmed over a 24-hour period, a sleep memory mode and a self-diagnosis system.

Suntec Transform 14000 Eco R290 7
9/10

Best at 14,000 BTU

Suntec Transform 14000 Eco R290

Best 14,000 BTU mobile air conditioner

The 14,000 BTU version of the Transform Eco R290 is one of Suntec's most popular air conditioners. This unit is powerful, efficient and energy saving. You'll be hard pressed to find a more efficient unit.

628 £ on Amazon

The Suntec Transform 14000 Eco R290 has a cooling capacity of 14,000 BTUs, a cooling capacity of 4.0 kW and belongs to the energy class A. And it doesn't stop there! Many users praise the unit's simplicity and effective power. In fact, this mobile air conditioner can effectively cool a room of up to 70 m²! And despite such power, the Suntec Transform 14000 Eco R290 remains relatively compact, although there are even smaller but certainly not more powerful models on the market.

The Suntec Transform 14000 Eco R290 is a 4-in-1 unit, which, in addition to its function as an air conditioner, can act as a fan, dehumidifier and heat pump to supplement home heating. You will have the ability to change the temperature over a range of 15 to 30°C. As with all air conditioners, don't expect 15°C in your home if the outside temperature is over 35°C.

  • 4-in-1 unit
  • Easy-to-read LED display and settings
  • Washable dust filter
  • Very short exhaust hose
  • Makes noise: but you have to choose between cooling power and quiet operation
De'Longhi PACN90 8
8/10

Best Delonghi mobile air conditioner

De'Longhi PACN90

Best Delonghi mobile air conditioner

If you're looking for a mobile air conditioner that can run quietly at night so you can sleep peacefully, the De'Longhi PACN90 Silent is a great choice. This model comes from Italy.

540 £ on Amazon

De'Longhi is famous for 2 things: coffee machines and air conditioners. For the second type of appliances, the Italian brand is among the best in Europe. For this year, here is the Delonghi PACN90 and its cooling power of 9000 BTU. With this mobile air conditioner, you will be able to cool rooms up to 30 m². 3 air conditioning settings allow you to cool the room as you wish. In addition, you have an adjustable timer over 12 hours and a thermostat.

This mobile air conditioner has a dehumidification function, capable of removing the pressing sensation of hot and humid air at a rate of 34 L/24 h. A more traditional ventilation function is also present. You control the portable air conditioner from the comfort of your chair via the remote control and the presence of wheels makes the air conditioner easy to move.

  • Dehumidification function up to 34 L/24 h
  • Brand recognized for the quality of its air conditioners
  • 12-hour electronic timer and thermostat
  • Fairly generous dimensions
  • Non-removable water tank
Buying guide • November 2023

Best mobile air conditioner

Any specific needs?

Best mobile air conditioner in 2021

Best entry-level mobile air conditioner

Best high-end mobile air conditioner

Excellent reversible indoor/outdoor mobile air conditioner

Best 7,000 BTU mobile air conditioner

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best mobile air conditioners

TOP OF THE TOP NOT EXPENSIVE EXCELLENT 7,000 BTU 9,000 BTU 10,000 BTU 14,000 BTU Delonghi Mobile Air Conditioner
Olimpia Splendid 01922 9
9/10
Comfee MPPHA-05CRN7 10
7/10
Remko RKL 495 DC Split
9/10
Suntec Transform 12000 Eco R290 11
8/10
Klarstein New Breeze 7 12
9/10
Comfee MPPH-09CRN7 13
8/10
Argo Relax Style 14
8/10
Suntec Transform 14000 Eco R290 15
9/10
De'Longhi PACN90 16
8/10
OUR SELECTION
Olimpia Splendid 01922
Comfee MPPHA-05CRN7
Remko RKL 495 DC Split
Suntec Transform 12000 Eco R290
Klarstein New Breeze 7
Comfee MPPH-09CRN7
Argo Relax Style
Suntec Transform 14000 Eco R290
De'Longhi PACN90
The Olimpia Splendid 01922 is perfect in every way. This 12,000 BTU mobile air conditioner is efficient and energy saving. So you can enjoy warmer temperatures in hot weather.
Do you hate the heat? Are you looking for an inexpensive mobile air conditioner that can be taken out and stored quickly? We recommend the 5,000 BTU version of the Comfee MPPHA.
The German brand Remko has not done things by halves. Indeed, its 2 unit mobile air conditioner, the RKL 495 DC Split, is one of the most efficient, powerful and robust on the market.
The Suntec Transform 12000 Eco R290 is capable of cooling a room from the outside. This way, you'll sleep cool and quiet on hot summer nights, perfect if you can't stand the noise.
The Klarstein New Breeze 7 is a mobile air conditioner that is surprisingly powerful and efficient for the price it is offered at. It is ideal for rooms of 20 to 30 m², or even 40 m² in some cases.
Cool, dehumidify and ventilate! That's what the Comfee MPPH-09CRN7 does. This mobile packaged air conditioner impresses not only with its cooling performance, but also with its price.
The Argo Relax Style is very robust. Designed to withstand high temperatures, it can also be used as a heater in winter. Class A, this mobile air conditioner ensures considerable savings.
The 14,000 BTU version of the Transform Eco R290 is one of Suntec's most popular air conditioners. This unit is powerful, efficient and energy saving. You'll be hard pressed to find a more efficient unit.
If you're looking for a mobile air conditioner that can run quietly at night so you can sleep peacefully, the De'Longhi PACN90 Silent is a great choice. This model comes from Italy.
Cooling capacity
12,000 BTU
5000 BTU
15,000 BTU
12,000 BTU
7,000 BTU
9,000 BTU
10,000 BTU
14,000 BTU
9,000 BTU
Energy efficiency class
A / A+ (heating)
A
B
A / A+ (heating)
A
A
A
A / A+ (heating)
A
Noise level
64 dB
63 dB
62 dB
65 dB
63 dB
63 dB
52 dB
65 dB
65 dB
Additional functions
Ventilation, dehumidification, heating
Fan, dehumidifier
-
Ventilation, dehumidification, heating
Ventilation, dehumidification
Ventilation, dehumidification
Fan, dehumidifier
Ventilation, dehumidification, heating
Ventilation, dehumidification
Weight
34.3 kg
23 kg
64 kg
35.5 kg
24.3 kg
25.3 kg
20 kg
35.6 kg
30 kg

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Buying guide - mobile air conditioner

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How to choose your mobile air conditioner

The main function of a mobile air conditioner is to regulate the temperature in your home or workplace during the hot summer months. Depending on the options, the mobile air conditioner can also dehumidify the house, filter the air and warm up in winter. In addition to the criteria common to all products (manufacturing quality, brand...), there are 5 specific criteria to take into account when choosing your mobile air conditioner.

#1 - The cooling capacity (expressed in BTU)

The first criterion to remember when choosing a mobile air conditioner is without question the cooling capacity. Why? Simply because it determines the speed at which the air is cooled and the size of the rooms you can air condition. The cooling capacity of an air conditioner is expressed in BTUs or British Thermal Units. The higher the BTU rating of the unit, the more powerful it will be.

Choosing an appliance with a very high cooling capacity, i.e. with a high BTU rating, is not necessarily a panacea. High power means high electricity consumption. Choose a mobile air conditioner with a cooling capacity adapted to your needs instead of choosing the most powerful unit.

The power needed to air condition your home or workplace depends on many parameters:

  • the surface of the rooms
  • their insulation
  • their sunlight
  • their orientation
  • the height under the ceiling
  • the number of occupants
  • the importance of the heat sources present

You can order a heat assessment from a professional to take all these elements into account. However, it is possible - thanks to a relatively simple formula - to determine approximately the thermal power you need.

To do this, you must first know the conversion of BTUs to watts: 1 W corresponds to 3415 BTUs. From there, proceed as follows:

  • Count 100 W per square meter to be air-conditioned (i.e. 1.5 kW for a room of 15 m² for example)
  • Then add 100 W per light bulb,
  • 100 W per person regularly present in the room (especially if the room is used for meetings)
  • then 100 W per electrical device (computer, projector, etc.)
  • And multiply by 1.2 if the room faces south.

For example, for a 40 m² room, with 2 bulbs, a laptop and a video projector, facing north and serving eight people, you would need : 4,000 W + 200 W + 200 W + 800 W, or 5,200 W. So 5,200 W x 3,415 = 17,700 BTU.

To simplify things, look for a power at least equal to :

  • 8,000 BTU for a room less than 20 m² (215 sq. ft.)
  • 12,000 BTU for a room between 20 and 35 m².
  • 18 000 BTU for a room larger than 35 m².

#2 - The sound level (expressed in dB)

The noise level of a mobile air conditioner is expressed in terms of the noise emitted during its operation. Depending on the rooms you plan to use it in, this criterion may be more important than the cooling capacity. Imagine yourself in bed in the middle of summer, with the air conditioner making so much noise that it prevents you from sleeping and wakes you up every time it starts. A real nightmare, isn't it?

On the other hand, it's okay to have a relatively noisy air conditioner if you cool the room off hours. Again, use common sense to choose an air conditioner that suits your needs. Most units range in sound level from 45 dB for the quietest to 70 dB for the loudest.

Split type air conditioners are generally much quieter than others. Indeed, its compressor is located in the external unit of the device, always placed outside the house. At equivalent prices, the more powerful a unit is, the more noise it will make. The challenge is to find the best balance between power and sound quality. Once again, choose according to your needs!

#3 - Energy consumption

The third criterion to consider is the energy consumption, that is to say the one related to the efficiency of the device. Indeed, the air conditioner, fixed or mobile, consumes a considerable amount of electricity. For financial and/or ecological reasons, it is therefore crucial to be very careful about the energy efficiency of the chosen appliance.

The energy class

Just like many other equipment and household appliances, air conditioners are now subject to a standardized classification according to their electricity consumption. There is an energy label to identify, thanks to a simple letter, the performance of the device. This label ranges from G to A, with G indicating a very energy-consuming appliance and A a very economical appliance. In today's market, there are few reasons to choose an appliance with a label other than A or A+.

The EER indicator

For more precision, you can also rely on the EER or SEER (Energy Efficiency Rating) indicators. This rate corresponds to the ratio between the cooling capacity in BTU per hour and the required power in Watts. It provides information on the performance of the unit with a numerical ratio. The higher the EER, the better.

#4 - Comfort options

There are several additional features you may need depending on your lifestyle and how often you plan to use your mobile air conditioner. Among them are :

  • The integrated programmer : you will be able to set the temperature of your choice and to parameterize the air-conditioning schedules or the delayed departure. Some models have a connectivity that allows you to control them remotely.
  • Silence mode : you probably know it under other names such as "night mode", "sleep mode" or "Quiet mode". With this function, the power of the air conditioner is gradually reduced, which at the same time reduces the noise level to just under 20 dB.
  • Humidifier : Some of the current mobile air conditioners have a humidifier option. On the other hand, others propose to dehumidify the ambient air.
  • Additional filters : activated carbon filters, ideal for getting rid of bad smells, and electrostatic filters, which are more practical for retaining bacteria and dust, will be made available to you.
  • The air ionizer : a lot of negative ions will be produced to purify the air.
  • The ventilation : it is often available on the multifunctional models.
  • The remote control : in general, it goes with the mobile air conditioner and gives you the possibility to control the device without having to move.

#5 - Available location

Before you purchase your mobile air conditioner, make sure you have the location for its installation. Do not hesitate to take measurements if necessary. Indeed, such an equipment always requires a place of choice near the window to facilitate the evacuation of the air (hot or cold).

How do mobile air conditioners work?

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Portable air conditioners work by drawing warm air from the room. The motor inside the portable air conditioner then cools the sucked in air and blows it back into the entire room. One type of portable air conditioner in particular can also draw in hot air and excess moisture and expel it through a hose to the outside. In reality, the thermodynamic principles implemented on portable air conditioners are very similar to all other types of air conditioners.

For this process to work, a portable air conditioner must have three key components:

  • A refrigerant to cool the air
  • A compressor to compress the refrigerant gas
  • A fan to move the air

What are the prerequisites for installing a mobile air conditioner?

The point of a portable air conditioner is to remove heat and humidity from a room while cooling it, without having to do complicated and often expensive installation work. In order for you to enjoy the benefits of a portable air conditioner, the following conditions must be met:

  • Presence of a window or opening to the outside for the exhaust pipe connection.
  • Presence of an open space next to the window or opening for the air conditioner to be positioned.
  • Presence of at least a 115/120V outlet, except for portable air conditioners of 14,000 BTU or more. These air conditioners may require their own circuit with a much higher voltage on the order of 220/240 V.

As you probably know, any air conditioner consumes a certain amount of considerable energy. So it's important to keep other high-energy appliances on a separate circuit to avoid overloading a circuit. Depending on the model and brand of air conditioner you choose, there may be additional requirements listed in the user manual.

How to maintain a mobile air conditioner

The best mobile air conditioners 17

In the city or the country, air conditioning tends to accumulate dust. To avoid breathing air loaded with fine particles, regular maintenance is required. In addition, it ensures the longevity of the device.

Classic maintenance

Equip yourself with a damp cloth and thoroughly clean the exterior of the device. It is advisable to perform this task once a week if you use the mobile air conditioner every day. For this task, prefer soapy water to detergents and other cleaning products.

Cleaning the filters

Filters trap or remove fine particles in the air. As a result, the fresh air released into the room will become healthier and less allergenic. But for optimal efficiency, filters should be cleaned at regular intervals, on average every 2 weeks.

To do this, remove the filters from the mobile air conditioner and use a brush vacuum or compressor to remove accumulated dust and particles. Then rinse with soapy water and wipe thoroughly. Wait until the filters are completely dry before putting them back in the air conditioner.

Decalcifying

You will only need to perform this task once a year. Of course, forgetting about descaling will prevent the air conditioner from getting rid of the accumulated limescale, which inevitably shortens its life. We strongly advise against the use of conventional descaling agents. Prefer the products recommended by the manufacturer in the instructions.

Refilling with refrigerant gas

For refilling with R32, R292 or R410A gas, it's best to call a professional. Even if these fluids are not toxic, they can cause lesions on the hands or eyes. Handling them requires precision, protection and specific skills. Count between 60 to 100 € for this operation.

The different types of mobile air conditioners

The market for mobile air conditioners is getting more complex by the day. It is easy to get lost among all the products offered. However, if we ignore the marketing considerations of manufacturers, there are actually only 4 major types of mobile air conditioners: the monobloc, the split, the reversible and the air cooler.

The mobile air conditioner monobloc

As its name suggests, the mobile air conditioner is a single unit. The packaged air conditioner extracts hot air from the room and exhausts it to the outside through an exhaust duct that can easily be passed through any window, wall or door. It is simple to install and use and is the least expensive on the market.

This air conditioner is suitable for rooms up to 35 m². Note that the flexible duct is often quite short, so the air conditioner must be placed near a window or opening. In addition, it is comparatively noisier than a split air conditioner.

The mobile packaged air conditioner is an ideal choice if silence is not an essential criterion of choice, especially for the bedroom. If you need to heat your rooms in the winter, choose a reversible model. And, if you need a quieter model or more powerful, choose a mobile split air conditioner.

Please note

The performance of your mobile air conditioner depends on the length of the exhaust circuit. The shorter it is, the more efficient it is. In this case, avoid lengthening the pipes at the risk of allowing condensation or mold to form inside.

The mobile split air conditioner

"Split" is a term borrowed from the English, which means "separate". Unlike the mobile air conditioner monobloc, the split air conditioner consists of 2 units. The outdoor unit evacuates the hot air and the indoor unit distributes the cool air. Superior to the monobloc and relatively powerful, it can air condition up to 45 m² or even several rooms in the house at the same time.

Much quieter than a packaged air conditionerThe compressor is located outside the house. It is the same for its tubes which are proportionally less wide and less cumbersome. It is mobile in name only. Every time the indoor unit is moved, the outdoor unit must also be moved.

If you have the means, if you need silence, for a room or a place of more than 30 m² and if you have a place where you can easily place the outdoor unit (like a balcony or a terrace), the mobile split air conditioner is recommended.

Caution!

Most split air conditioners are fixed. We have all seen them at work, in a business or in a house. They are expensive and require demolition work during installation. So make sure the split model you choose has wheels to prove its mobility.

The reversible mobile air conditioner

Coolness in summer and heat in winter: that's the incredible comfort provided by the reversible air conditioner. In a single device, you combine air conditioning and radiator, all while saving on your energy bill. Indeed, the reversible air conditioner gives back 3 times more energy than it consumes! The heating system is based on the principle of reversibility of the heat pump, hence the name "reversible". The calories, i.e. the energy, are extracted from the molecules of the outside air and returned to the inside.

For 1 kW absorbed by the compressor, the reversible air conditioner :

  • Produces 2 kW of cold in air conditioner mode
  • Gives back 3 kW of heat in heating mode

The device has a COP or coefficient of performance of 2 in air conditioning mode and 3 in heating mode. It has what it takes to make great energy savings in winter, compared to a system using a resistance such as electric central heating.

Moreover, it has all the advantages of a top-of-the-line split air conditioner and can cool in summer and heat in winter. This model costs "nothing" in operating costs over the year: the cost of air conditioning in summer is offset by the heating savings in winter. However, it is more of a supplementary heating system, for outdoor temperatures of 6°C or more.

In addition to the obvious cooling capabilities, the reversible air conditioner is ideal for providing supplemental heating or replacing your main heater if the temperature rarely drops below 6°C in winter where you live.

The mobile air conditioner without exhaust

This type of air conditioner is misnamed. It's really an air cooler. Let's face it, there's a world of difference between "real" refrigerant air conditioners and simple air coolers that rely on water and ice packs.

But if you're looking for an alternative to a fan and air conditioner, this should fit the bill. Lighter and simpler than other air conditioners, this is the cheapest type to buy. Most of them can purify the air by ionization or filtration. On the other hand, it is necessary to combine ice water and ice blocks for a correct cooling.

It may be appropriate to buy a simple air cooler if you live in the North or if you are looking for a one-time solution to air-condition rooms of up to 15 m². In all other cases, choose a real mobile air conditioner.

Our advice

There are kits, included with the air conditioner or sold separately, to seal the space left open and prevent hot air from coming back in through your window. It's an inexpensive purchase that will simplify your life. A mobile reversible air conditioner is most often made of 2 units. In some cases, it is even called a split reversible air conditioner. However, and although they are rarer, it is also possible to find reversible monobloc air conditioners.

Mobile air conditioner or fixed air conditioner?

Mobile air conditioner

The mobile air conditioner is very attractive because of its high mobility and practicality. It comes in the form of a detachable unit that is connected to the outside environment by means of an exhaust pipe. The device has various advantages, not least its very affordable price. Indeed, its average price is between 300 and 600 €. Its installation is easy and fast in addition to its easy transport thanks to its wheels.

This type of air conditioner does not only offer advantages, it also has some small disadvantages. An air outlet is essential to ensure its proper functioning. Therefore, you have to place the exhaust pipe in a doorway or window or make a hole in the wall to insert the pipe. The unit generates a lot of noise because of its shape. It does not have the same robustness as a fixed air conditioner, which makes it an ideal backup solution.

Fixed air conditioner

Buying a stationary or wall-mounted air conditioner can be advantageous as it will provide the comfort you need. Efficient, it requires very little attention once you have installed it. Its permanent presence guarantees a satisfactory room temperature in your home. In terms of maintenance, the unit will only need a few strokes of a damp sponge and a dry cloth. You will always be cool without opening the windows.

On the other hand, the fixed air conditioner also has disadvantages such as its sound volume which can vary depending on the system chosen, the energy consumption, the maintenance of the air filter which must be done every 15 days thanks to a vacuum cleaner (washing by hand is also possible) and especially its relatively high price (from 500 to 5000 € on average and depending on the characteristics proposed)

Verdict

In summary, the mobile air conditioner is interesting in terms of mobility because it can be moved from one room to another more easily. It also represents a very attractive quality/price ratio despite its limited power and performance. On the other hand, the fixed air conditioner is quite expensive, which will be a significant investment for you. It is not transportable, but remains very efficient.

Why buy a mobile air conditioner?

A mobile air conditioner is a significant investment, easily costing between 400 and 800 euros for a good model. But it represents such an improvement in terms of quality of life that you would be wrong to deprive yourself of it.

Easy to install

You live in an apartment and you are not allowed to do any work? You don't want to disfigure your home by installing a fixed air conditioner with a large duct sticking out of your wall? Or are you simply too lazy to spend several days installing your air conditioning? The choice of a mobile air conditioner seems to be an obvious one. The installation costs are almost zero. The only effort required is to take the unit out of the box, connect the exhaust duct and turn it on!

The mobile air conditioner also has a hidden advantage over conventional air conditioners. You can change the filters yourself! This is the opposite of a fixed air conditioner where you have to call a technician to change the filters. An expensive practice!

Less expensive than a fixed air conditioner

The fixed air conditioner requires the entire house to be equipped and involves considerable operating costs. This is not the case with a mobile air conditioner, especially the monobloc, which you move only to the room where you want to regulate the temperature.

Even better, if you opt for a reversible model, you will save more electricity. In heating mode, such an air conditioner draws up to 70% of its energy from the calories contained in the surrounding air molecules. The savings on your heating bill in winter will cover most of the cooling costs in summer!

Easy to move

Mobility is of course one of the greatest assets of this type of air conditioner.

  • You can take it with you to quickly cool the room that needs it most.
  • If the room is too big to be cooled properly, you can bring it closer to make the most of it.
  • If it is not a reversible model, you can put it away at the end of the summer.

To clean the indoor air

Almost all air conditioners have a dehumidification function and built-in particle filters. The latter are activated carbon and/or electrostatic. Filtration improves the air quality in your home or workplace. The air you breathe will be cleaner. In this way, you will reduce your allergy problems. You will also preserve your interiors from the risks of moulds. Also note that the lower humidity reduces the feeling of heat.

An almost silent unit

Mobile air conditioners are quieter than conventional fans. In fact, the noise from a quiet air conditioner is equivalent to the hum of a refrigerator. Add to that the fact that an air conditioner runs intermittently once the target temperature is reached, and it's easy to forget that it's in the room.

Good to know

If you have children, you should choose mobile air conditioners with covers. These will close automatically after each use.

The best brands of mobile air conditioners

In our opinion, the best brands of mobile air conditioners in 2022 are :

Olimpia Splendid
Taurus Alpatec
Suntec Wellness
Klarstein
Remko
De’Longhi
One Concept
Trotec

World leader in air conditioning, heating and air treatment, Olimpia focuses on the design and simplicity of its appliances. The most power in the least amount of space is its credo. If you want an efficient mobile air conditioner, you know which brand to choose.

Originally from France, this brand is well known for its fans, heaters and mobile air conditioners. Bought in 2011 by the Brazilian group Taurus, it continues to keep its tradition of excellence alive. Taurus Alpatec is a strong ally when it's hot.

Here is a brand that deserves to be known worldwide for the quality of its appliances. Suntec Wellness regularly places one of its units in air conditioner comparisons. The sturdiness of its Klimatronic range is certainly not foreign to this.

It's hard to ignore the German brand, as its air conditioners and air coolers are at the cutting edge of technology. What's more, their units are always reasonably priced. If you're looking for a good deal, Klarstein is a must.

Remko is a premium brand of heating and air conditioning systems and is known throughout Europe for its RKL DC series. For many, it offers the best mobile split air conditioners on the market. Buy with your eyes closed if you can afford it.

What is the price for a mobile air conditioner

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
70 £ to 300 £
Mid-range
300 £ to 800 £
High-end
more than 800 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Correct installation ensures a long service life.

Although the installation of a mobile air conditioner can be done without the help of a professional, there are some strict rules to follow. Place the unit in a clear, dry space. Then connect the warm air exhaust duct to the unit and place it outside through a half-open window or drill a hole in the wall. Above all, keep the duct as horizontal as possible and avoid bending it too much.

Clean the filter regularly.

There's no doubt about it, your air conditioner's filter needs to be cleaned and even changed regularly. This is not only important to keep the unit running smoothly and optimize cooling, but also to maintain your indoor air quality.

Store it properly when not in use.

If you don't intend to use your mobile air conditioner, it is recommended that you store it away to keep it safe for the next season. If possible, do not store your unit in an area with extreme temperatures, such as the garage or patio.

Combine with a rotary fan.

Use a small rotating fan near the unit. This will help circulate air throughout the room.

Do not exceed a difference of 5°C between the outside temperature and the room temperature.

This way, the unit's energy consumption will be kept to a minimum. In addition, it negates the risk of thermal shock. If it's really hot, you can have a differential of 8°C at most. But in this case, you are taking risks and your electricity bill will seriously climb.

FAQ

What is the best mobile air conditioner?

The best mobile air conditioner depends on your needs and budget. Read our buying guide to find out which products are the best at the moment.

Which mobile air conditioner to choose for a very large room?

At present, no mobile air conditioner can handle a very large room, with a minimum surface area of 55 m². However, you can use 2 models simultaneously or have a professional installation.

At what decibels does a mobile air conditioner qualify as quiet?

The sound level of a mobile air conditioner ranges from 45 to 65-70 dB. However, a model emitting between 30 and 40 dB, such as a mobile split air conditioner (motor located outside the house), would be considered quiet.

Can a mobile air conditioner cool more than one room?

The mobile air conditioner is designed to cool and air-condition a single room only.

Is it possible to extend the hose of a mobile air conditioner?

No! Extending the flue pipe can lead to serious risks such as condensation or mould formation in the flue.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. quechoisir.org, quechoisir.org
  2. consumerreports.org, consumerreports.org
  3. consumersearch.com, consumersearch.com
  4. bestreviews.com, bestreviews.com
  5. homeownerfaqs.com, homeownerfaqs.com
  6. consumeraffairs.com, consumeraffairs.com
  7. slant.co, slant.co
  8. thespruce.com, thespruce.com
  9. toptenreviews.com, toptenreviews.com
  10. sylvane.com, sylvane.com
  11. manomano.fr, manomano.fr
  12. monclimatiseurmobile.net, monclimatiseurmobile.net
  13. darty.com, darty.com
  14. lemonde.fr, lemonde.fr
  15. franceinter.fr, franceinter.fr
  16. wikihow.com, wikihow.com
  17. cdiscount.com, cdiscount.com
  18. amazon.co.uk, amazon.co.uk
  19. leroymerlin.fr, leroymerlin.fr
  20. castorama.fr, castorama.fr
  21. leroymerlin.fr, leroymerlin.fr
  22. darty.com, darty.com
  23. futura-sciences.com, futura-sciences.com
  24. cdiscount.com, cdiscount.com
  25. quechoisir.org, quechoisir.org
  26. amazon.co.uk, amazon.co.uk
  27. conforama.fr, conforama.fr
  28. mycomparatif.com, mycomparatif.com
  29. amazon.co.uk, amazon.co.uk
  30. manomano.fr, manomano.fr
See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

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Our selection
Olimpia Splendid 01922 18
Olimpia Splendid 01922
Comfee MPPHA-05CRN7 19
Comfee MPPHA-05CRN7
Remko RKL 495 DC Split
Remko RKL 495 DC Split
Suntec Transform 12000 Eco R290 20
Suntec Transform 12000 Eco R290
Klarstein New Breeze 7 21
Klarstein New Breeze 7

Lecteurs

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