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Aug 11, 2023 alexxlab

Best Portable Air Conditioner And Heater Combo 2023

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Table of Contents_

Top 10 Best Portable Air Conditioners and Heaters
- #1 Whynter ARC-147WFH Portable Air Conditioner
- #2 Honeywell MO10CESWB Compact Portable Air Conditioner
- #3 Ukoke USPC01W Smart Portable Air Conditioner
- #4 Newair AC-14100H Portable Air Conditioner
- #5 Honeywell MN4HFS9 Portable Air Conditioner
- #6 Whynter ARC-148MHP Portable Air Conditioner
- #7 LG ‎LP1021BHSM Portable Air Conditioner
- #8 Black & Decker BPACT12HWT Portable Air Conditioner
- #9 Shinco SPF1-12 WiFi Portable Air Conditioner
- #10 Frigidaire FHPC102AB1 Portable Air Conditioner
- How We Decided
Best Portable Air Conditioners and Heaters Buyer’s Guide
- The Most Important Factors to Consider

The best portable air conditioners and heaters can be a smart solution for an individual who, for whatever reason, can’t install a permanent option like central air or a mini-split system. You’ll want to think about the BTUs as this determines how powerful a portable air conditioner is, as well as whether it’s compatible with the square footage of the space you want to cool. Features like single versus dual-hose, dry mode vs cool mode, and the CFM rating will also impact efficiency. Likewise, key features like programmability, sleep modes, and even quiet operation can impact your purchasing choices.

Sale

Whynter 14,000 White ARC-147WFH (10,000 BTU SACC)…

Honeywell MO08CESWK6 9,100 BTU (ASHRAE)/6,100…

(1495)

UKOKE USPC01W Smart Wifi Portable Air…

(532)

After conducting thorough research through thousands of verified customer reviews, we nominated the Whynter ARC-147WFH portable air conditioner as our Top Pick. Keep reading to learn more about our research criteria and don’t forget to check out our top recommendations for the best air conditioners.

Top 10 Best Portable Air Conditioners and Heaters

#1 Whynter ARC-147WFH Portable Air Conditioner

Sale

Our #1 Pick is the Whynter ARC-147WFH Portable Air Conditioner

Award: TOP PICK

WHY WE LIKE IT: A portable air conditioner and heater combo that’s perfect for medium-sized rooms up to 500 square feet with four-in-one functionality and a more efficient dual-hose design.

Pros

Ideal for up to 500 sq. feet
Modes inlude cool, dehumidifier, and fan
Dual hose design for more efficient airflow

Cons

56dB noise output may be loud for some

For people who aren’t interested or able to permanently install a heating or cooling system in their homes, a portable air conditioner is fantastic. But some of them come as a cooler and heater combo, which makes them an excellent solution for people in more temperate climates. We’re nominating the Whynter ARC-147WFH as the best portable air conditioner and heater combo because it’s ideal for medium-sized rooms of up to 500 square feet and is a four-in-one solution. You’ll get 14,000 BTUs for cooling and 8,200 BTUs for heating. This pick also comes with a dehumidifier that can cool the room by removing moisture, thanks to the 134 pints per day evaporation rate.

And a fan function with three speeds is also nice. As is standard, this model comes with an installation kit. The dual-hose design means that this portable air conditioner can use cooled air to reduce temperatures quicker. A 270 cubic feet per meter (CFM) rating puts it in the mid-range for performance. You’ll also get a digital readout thermostat that can be adjusted between 61 to 89 degrees Fahrenheit either through the control panel or included remote control. Plus, the auto-drain feature recycles the collected moisture for more efficient operation. You may also want to integrate your AC unit into a smart home system with the best ductless mini-split air conditioner.

See Also: Other options can be found in our best portable air conditioner buying guide.

#2 Honeywell MO10CESWB Compact Portable Air Conditioner

1,495 Reviews

Our #2 Pick is the Honeywell MO10CESWB Compact Portable Air Conditioner

Award: BEST QUALITY

WHY WE LIKE IT: A compact portable air conditioner with three-in-one functionality that’s perfect for smaller rooms thanks to the 10,000 BTUs and a washable dust filter.

Pros

Washable dust filter
3-in-1 cooling, dehumidifier & fan
10,000 BTUs for rooms up to 400 sq. ft.

Cons

Lower 192 CFM rating
Lacks heating element

Even though having a portable air conditioner that can also double as a heater is nice, the truth is they’re not as efficient at heating as they are at cooling. So, for people who just want a portable AC that can be moved from room to room, this pick from Honeywell is a solid choice for average-sized rooms. You’ll get 10,000 BTUs to cool a room up to 400 square feet. This pick is a three-in-one solution that comes with cooling, a dehumidifier, and a fan. However, note that the 192 CFM rating is slightly lower than the average for this product category.

Still, you’ll get a dehumidifier that can remove up to 61 pints per day with an auto-evaporation function which means you don’t need to empty the collection bucket. We like that this is a truly compact option that is only 14. 6 inches wide and 13.5 inches long so it can fit in smaller spaces. The single-hose system comes with an installation kit. But you’ll also like that you can remove the washable air filter to keep it clean and that there’s an easy-to-use digital LED display with soft-touch controls, along with a remote control. And in case you’re planning a camping trip, you should take a peek at the best portable AC for camping that will keep you cool in your tent or cabin.

#3 Ukoke USPC01W Smart Portable Air Conditioner

532 Reviews

Our #3 Pick is the Ukoke USPC01W Smart Portable Air Conditioner

Award: BEST FOR SMART HOMES

WHY WE LIKE IT: A small portable air conditioner and heater four-in-one solution with 12,000 BTUs that’s designed for smart home integration thanks to its Alexa-enabled functionality.

Pros

Control panel with LED temp display
12,000 BTUs for up to 400 sq. ft.
4-in-1 heating, cooling, dehumidifier, and fan

Cons

No carbon filter

Some people can’t imagine not living in a smart home. So, if you’ve already synced your door locks, fridge, and lights through Alexa, it only makes sense that you would want your home’s temperature to also be smart-enabled. The Ukoke air conditioner with heat functionality is a great option because it comes ready to pair with Alexa. We think this small portable air conditioner and heater is a great option thanks to the four-in-one functionality. This model includes cooling, heat, a dehumidifier, and a fan.

With 12,000 BTUs, you can cool spaces as large as 400 square feet. And even if you’re not using Alexa, you can rely on the Ukoke app to control this appliance remotely — even when you’re not at home. However, it does also come with a remote. As is standard, this pick comes with the installation kit. And while the removable filter is washable, note that there is no carbon filter. For options regarding a self-evaporative technology to remove condensation and purify the air, have a look at the best portable air conditioner for RVs.

#4 Newair AC-14100H Portable Air Conditioner

Sale

85 Reviews

Our #4 Pick is the Newair AC-14100H Portable Air Conditioner

Award: BEST FOR SENIORS

WHY WE LIKE IT: A powerful portable air conditioner with 14,000 BTUs that can cool rooms up to 550 square feet, an easy-to-use control panel with push buttons, and a large digital temperature display that is great for seniors.

Pros

Fan and dehumidifier included
14,000 BTUs for up to 550 sq. ft.
Efficiency booster improves performance with less energy consumption

Cons

May be noisy in heating mode

Sometimes buying appliances can be a chore for seniors as concerns around accessibility or ease of use can become a concern. We like the Newair portable air conditioner and heater combo because it features an easy-to-use control panel with push buttons, easy-to-read labels, and a large digital temperature display that’s ideal for older individuals to use. You’ll also get 14,000 BTUs that can cool a room up to 550 square feet.

We also liked that this pick has a 250 CFM rating, which puts it in the medium range and makes it a solid choice. There’s also an efficiency booster mode that helps to improve the air conditioner’s performance while using less energy. Likewise, the self-evaporating mode helps to reduce the frequency of emptying the collection basket. However, we did note that while the Newair is a four-in-one solution, many people noted that it was especially noisy in the heater mode. The listed noise output is 57 decibels, so this might not be a good choice for bedrooms. You’ll also get standard features like a remote control, and a single-hose installation kit. For bedrooms, you may require the best tower air conditioner that features a low sound output and white noise functionality. If you’re unsure how a tower A/C works, our info articles can assist you.

#5 Honeywell MN4HFS9 Portable Air Conditioner

Sale

142 Reviews

Our #5 Pick is the Honeywell MN14CHCSBB Portable Air Conditioner

Award: BEST WINDOW COMPATIBILITY

WHY WE LIKE IT: A sleek portable air conditioner that can work with a variety of window configurations that offers four-in-one functionality and 14,000 BTUs to cool rooms up to 700 square feet.

Pros

Powerful dual-hose system
14,000 BTUs
Dehumidifier removes 51 pints per day

Cons

70.5-lb weight may be difficult for some to move between floors

This Honeywell portable air conditioner and heater is a great option for people who are concerned about the installation process. While all portable air conditioners come with an installation kit, not all kits are compatible with all window types. This Honeywell pick has an installation kit that can work with both vertical and horizontal sliding and crank windows. You’ll get a four-in-one solution that includes cooling, heating, a dehumidifier, and a fan. The dehumidifier removes a decent 51 pints of moisture per day.

With 14,000 BTUs, this portable air conditioner is perfect for rooms from 550 to 700 square feet. The easy-to-use control panel with digital backlighting is easy to use, even in low light. But of course, you’ll also get a remote control for better accessibility from across the room. And the fact that this is a dual-hose system means that it works faster to cool or heat spaces. Note that you also get smart thermostat control, a 24-hour energy-saving timer, and three fan speeds. For those that live in drier climates like the Southwest, where the humidity levels are low, the best evaporative air conditioner is a perfect choice.

#6 Whynter ARC-148MHP Portable Air Conditioner

383 Reviews

Our #6 Pick is the Whynter ARC-148MHP Portable Air Conditioner

Award: BEST CFM RATING

WHY WE LIKE IT: A 14,000 BTU four-in-one portable air conditioner with an easy-to-use control panel and a powerful 292 CFM rating for fast and efficient functionality.

Pros

Easy to use control panel and remote
14,000 BTUs for up to 550 sq. ft.
4-in-1 heater, cooler, dehumidifier, and fan

Cons

Lower evaporation rate of 71 pints/day

While not all brands make it easy to determine the CFM ratings for their portable air conditioners, we make a point to disclose that information where available. The Whynter ARC-148MHP has one of the best ratings for air movement that we found from our research at 292 CFM. You’ll get 14,000 BTUs that are powerful enough to cool spaces up to 550 square feet. While the evaporation for the dehumidifier isn’t the highest, it’s 71 pints per day which should be sufficient for many people.

We liked that this pick also comes with a 3M filter that contains a SilverShield for antimicrobial protection. As is standard, it’s removable and washable. The four-in-one functionality means you’ll get heating, cooling, a dehumidifier, and a fan with three speeds. And the self-evaporative system improves efficiency and minimizes the need to empty a collection bucket. And if you don’t want to have to constantly empty a collection bucket, the best windowless air conditioner will be perfect due to the self evaporative feature.

#7 LG ‎LP1021BHSM Portable Air Conditioner

Sale

95 Reviews

Our #10 Pick is the LG ‎LP1021BHSM Portable Air Conditioner

Award: BEST DEHUMIDIFIER

WHY WE LIKE IT: The best portable air cooler with a dehumidifying function that is ideal for spaces up to 450 square feet and with an intuitive auto-start and 24-hour on and off timer.

Pros

10,000 BTUs for up to 450 sq. ft.

Cons

Not Energy Star Certified

LG is a reliable home electronics brand, so we picked their ‎LP1021BHSM model as our best portable air cooler. It’s ideal for studio apartments or medium-sized rooms that are up to 450 square feet. This pick has 10,000 BTUs. Still, you’ll get a dehumidifying function that works pretty well.

The included installation kit is designed for standard windows with a single-hose connection. You’ll also get a removable washable mesh filter to improve air quality. Other key features include an auto-restart function as well as a 24-hour on and off timer. Keep in mind that portable air conditioners are, by default, louder with higher noise levels than mini-split or central air systems. However, this pick has a lower 521-decibel output which is fairly quiet for portable options and ideal for use in bedrooms. Much like the best LG air conditioner that is also quiet but has a much higher BTU.

#8 Black & Decker BPACT12HWT Portable Air Conditioner

42,460 Reviews

Our #8 Pick is the Black & Decker BPACT12HWT Portable Air Conditioner

Award: BEST ON A BUDGET

WHY WE LIKE IT: The best budget portable air conditioner and heater combo that can cool rooms up to 300 square feet and heat to 325 feet thanks to the four-in-one functionality.

Pros

Removable and washable filter
12,000 BTUs
4-in-1 cooling, heater, dehumidifier, and fan

Cons

Heater may not be as efficient as the cooling function

Portable air conditioners can be pricier than standard window models because they’re easier to install and of course, portable. So, if you’re shopping on a budget, you’ll appreciate this pick from Black & Decker. We think this is the best budget portable air conditioner and heater combo from our research. Along with the wallet-friendly price, we liked that this pick offers 12,000 BTUs to cool rooms up to 300 square feet, and warm rooms up to 325 square feet. While the manufacturer failed to share the CFM rating, our research showed that consumers were happy with the cooling capabilities of this unit.

Still, you’ll want to take note that a common complaint we found was that the heating function wasn’t as efficient as the cooling. In some cases, there were complaints that the unit would have to stop heating to defrost itself before continuing operation. However, we do like that you get four-in-one functionality of heating, cooling, a dehumidifier, and a fan. Likewise, you’ll get an easy-to-use control panel, an installation kit, and a remote control. The best air conditioner for sliding windows also comes with an installation kit and has a lower noise output.

#9 Shinco SPF1-12 WiFi Portable Air Conditioner

Sale

5,096 Reviews

Our #9 Pick is the Shinco SPF1-12 WiFi Portable Air Conditioner

Award: BEST FOR BEDROOMS

WHY WE LIKE IT: A three-in-one portable air conditioner with a high evaporation rate that is powered by 12,000 BTUs to quickly cool rooms as large as 400 square feet in five minutes.

Pros

Self-evaporating mode is efficient
Self-evaporating mode is efficient
3-in-1 cooler, dehumidifier, and fan
10,000 BTUs for rooms up to 300 sq. ft.

Cons

Can be noisy in heater mode

If you’re going to put a portable air conditioner in your bedroom, you want it to be effective and quiet. We think the Shinco portable AC is a great pick for this because they promise to cool rooms as much as 400 square feet in as little as five minutes. Plus, it’s a three-in-one solution with cooling, a dehumidifier, and a fan. We like that this option has a high evaporation rate of 105 pints per day and is self-evaporating to take one more item off your to-do list.

The Shinco portable air conditioner gives you 12,000 BTUs of cooling power. As is standard, you’ll get an installation kit and a remote control to operate the appliance. However, we did note through customer reviews that the dehumidier mode could be noisy — even though this air conditioner is promoted as quiet with a noise output range of 51 to 55 decibels. And if you’re looking to compare this with units that prioritize the BTUs and energy efficiency rating, then have a look at the best window air conditioner. Alternatively, you can also check out the top-rated window air conditioners with heat, so you’ll save on buying a separate heating device.

#10 Frigidaire FHPC102AB1 Portable Air Conditioner

175 Reviews

Our #10 Pick is the Frigidaire FHPC102AB1 Portable Air Conditioner

Award: BEST FOR COLLEGE

WHY WE LIKE IT: A four-in-one portable air conditioner with 13,000 BTUs of power to cool rooms as large as 600 square feet, and smartphone app integration makes this perfect for a dorm room.

Pros

Comes with smartphone app
6,000 BTUs for up to 350 sq. ft.
Removable washable filter

Cons

Fan may not turn off when desired temperature is reached

While most new college dorms are built with central air, that’s not always the case for older dorm rooms. And that means that you’ll need to bring an air conditioner. If a window unit is the last thing you want to deal with — or your dorm charges significant fees for you to install one — then a portable air conditioner is a smart alternative. This Frigidaire portable AC heat combo is a great alternative. With 6,000 BTUs, you can cool rooms as large as 350 square feet.

You’ll get a four-in-one solution with cooling, a dehumidifier, and a fan with three speeds. More importantly, we like that this pick comes with a remote control that allows you to wirelessly control the air conditioner. As is standard, the filters are removable and washable, and the installation kit is removable. And for hot summer days spent on your patio or for people who live in drier climates, the best outdoor air conditioner is perfect.

How We Decided

Portable air conditioners can be a great solution for people who, for whatever reason, aren’t able to install a more permanent temperature control solution like central air conditioning or a mini-split system. To create our guide, we looked at the BTUs, whether it was single or dual-hose units, room size, the CFM rating, programmability and operating modes, and additional features. Keep in mind that these models will need some floor space near a window which may be a problem for some.

Air conditioning units can have a wide range of BTUs. In our guide, we prioritized options from 10,000 to 14,000 BTUs. Within this range, you should be able to find a portable AC that can accommodate rooms from 300 to 700 square feet. So, this will work for bedrooms, living rooms, and even larger oversized spaces. If you’re focused on efficiency, a dual-hose option is best since it can cool faster than a single-hose unit. While the majority of our recommendations are single-hose models, we did include a few dual-hose models.

CFM ratings will determine how efficiently an appliance can move air in a room. Assuming you picked a unit that is compatible with the space that needs to be cooled, a higher CFM rating is preferable as this will be more efficient. However, it’s important to note that often manufacturers don’t readily share this information if you’re shopping online through many retailers, although that information will be in the instruction manual. Where available, we made a point to share the CFM rating so you can make a more informed decision.

All portable air conditioners come with a control panel and remote control. But many of them include 24-hour on and off programming or the ability to auto-adjust the temperature once it reaches a certain level. And in some cases, you can find options that are smart-enabled, with functionality to integrate into a smart assistant like Alexa or Google Assistant. In our guide, we included a few options that came with proprietary apps for wireless control, as well as a pick that was Alexa-enabled.

And finally, additional features like a dehumidifier can help to improve your comfort without the need for cranking down the temperature to a frigid level. A good dehumidifier should be able to efficiently remove moisture from the air, thereby helping to naturally reduce the temperature. You’ll want to pay attention to the evaporation rate which is listed in pints per day or pints per hour. Where available, we included this information in our recommendations. And as their name suggests, these portable models will come with rolling caster wheels to help make moving them from room to room easier.

Best Portable Air Conditioners and Heaters Buyer’s Guide

The Most Important Factors to Consider

BTU Rating
Before buying any good portable air conditioner combo, you’ll want to start by focusing on the BTUs or “British Thermal Units”. This reference defines how much air an air conditioner can move around a room. Larger rooms are going to need air conditioners with higher BTU ratings. Typically BTU cooling can range from 8,000 BTU, 10,000 BTU, and 12,000 BTU, to as much as 36,000 BTUs. Additionally, higher BTUs will also increase the warmth of many portable air conditioners with heat. Thankfully portable models can be more easily moved around your home, but if you have a more stationary model, you can learn how to move an air conditioner unit.
Dual vs. Single Hose
Portable AC heater combos still need an efficient way to remove the exhaust and warm air. This is done through an exhaust hose that is usually connected to a window. You’ll need to pick between a single or dual-hose window kit design. Both are efficient, but dual-hose models can be more energy-efficient and cool a large room quicker. Single hose tends to be simpler to set up, like the model in our Honeywell CO30XE portable review.
Room Size
You can’t just rely on BTUs since the concept of “bigger is better” won’t always apply. A small room of 300 square feet doesn’t need a 16,000 BTU air conditioner that’s rated for 700 square feet. In short, that will just waste energy whenever you use a portable AC and heater device. While it will cool the room, there’s a good chance that you’re overpaying for more power than you’ll ever need in portable units. Always check to confirm that the portable air conditioner you’re picking is compatible with the square footage of your room by thoroughly reading our portable air conditioner with heater reviews. Keep in mind how to maintain your AC unit in the long run, like how to not overuse the unit, in case you’re asking yourself, “How long can you run a portable air conditioner continuously?” It’s important that you’re familiar too with the locations of the major components of your unit, such as the AC drain pan location in case it winds up becoming full of water that needs to be emptied. Now if you notice that the portable AC is leaking water, then a repair may be needed.
- But, if you’re strapped for cash, you’ll want to make your own AC out of ice and a fan.
Cubic Feet per Meter Rating
Also known as the CFM, the cubic feet per meter signifies how efficiently an air conditioner or fan can circulate air through a room. The higher the number, the better the airflow.
- But also keep in mind that for this number to be relevant, you also need to pick the right BTU rating that’s compatible with the square footage of the space that you want to heat or cool.
- For an efficient cooling process, you should look for models that are Energy-Star certified to make sure your energy bills won’t go up too much. Although, it should be noted that a portable model will almost always have less energy efficiency than a window AC.
- Plus, if you’re experiencing problems with it, you’ll want to look into repairing a portable AC.
Programmability
These days, more and more appliances are being made with smart functions in mind. While not all portable ACs with heat will have this, if you want to be able to cool or heat a room to the perfect temperature before you arrive, a great WiFi smart air conditioner or one that can be integrated into smart voice assistant technology is a perfect option. Although, if you already have a great AC/heater combo, you can buy a smart plug to use with your current unit.
Additional Features
While not a necessity, features like a dehumidifier can help to reduce the excess moisture and make your interior climate more comfortable, which can be found on some models like the one in our Honeywell 525-790CFM portable review. Likewise, consider whether you want a portable AC that self-evaporates, as this is more convenient than one where you need to manually empty the collection tank. Additionally, having wheels on your portable AC makes moving it much easier. All in all, you’ll find the best air conditioner with a heater function by reading our many portable AC and heater combo reviews available on our site. Be sure to check out the quietest portable air conditioner, so you can stay cool and comfortable during those hot summer days.
- You’ll also want to learn about the portable AC P1 meaning, especially when it pops on the unit’s screen.

Portable Air Conditioner and Heater Combos

By Corey Majeau

Corey Majeau Home Improvement Contributor

Corey Majeau is a researcher, product tester, and writer for many sites including Homedit. With ten years of experience as a content writer, graphic designer, and hands-on product tester. Corey brings a certain level of quality and personality to the team.

Learn more about Homedit’s Editorial Process

| Updated on Dec 15, 2022

Buy Now

If you live in an area where you experience all four seasons, you’ve more than likely encountered days where the temperature is erratic. It’s cold in the morning, blazing hot in the afternoon, and chilly in the evening. Rather than investing in both an air conditioner and a heater to tackle these temperature changes, why not purchase a portable air conditioner and heater combo? Not only will it take up less space, but it also costs less than investing in two individual units.

When selecting an air conditioner and heater combo, however, where do you start? Here, we’ll provide detailed product descriptions of 6 air conditioner and heater combos. We’ll also talk about the benefits of investing in this combo, along with some things you should consider and look out for when purchasing your unit.

Top picks:

Whynter ARC-14SH 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner

Honeywell, MN14CHCSWW Portable Air Conditioner with Heat Pump

SereneLife 10,000 Portable Air Conditioner + 9000 BTU Heater

What are the Benefits for Air Conditioner and Heater Combos ?

There are multiple benefits from investing in an air conditioner-heater combo. For starters, most of these units are lightweight and compact. That means you can quickly move them around without having to struggle. In fact, you might not even have to carry most of them as the majority of these units are on wheels.

Since these units have two functions in one, they take up less space than if you were to purchase a separate air conditioner and heater unit. They’re suited to smaller apartments and are also great for studios.

One of the greatest benefits of investing in this combo is cooling or heating the room in one nifty unit. Feeling warm? No worries, turn on the A/C setting on the unit. Likewise, if you’re feeling cold, the heater functions in this unit will warm you right up.

Using a portable heater/air conditioner combo is also much more energy-efficient than running two units separately. You’ll be saving quite a bit of money in the long-run by investing in this unit.

Lastly, air conditioning and heater combos are easy to install. You won’t have to drill any holes, and all you’ve got to do is place it at your desired location, install the exhaust hose, and you’re good to go. No complicated installation procedure is required.

Factors to Consider

The first thing you need to consider is the unit’s heating and cooling capacity. This is measured in BTU’s (British Thermal Unit), and all units come with their individual capacity. The BTU you require is dependent on the size or space of the room that you’ll be placing the unit.

To determine this, you should measure your space’s size beforehand so that you’ve got a good idea of what the number of BTU will be. For example, a 200 square foot space will require an 8,000 BTU unit while a 500 square foot space needs a 14,000 BTU unit. Usually, the higher the BTU rating also means that the unit can cool and heat the room more efficiently.

Another thing to consider is how energy efficient the model is. If you plan on using it often, energy efficiency is vital. Not only will it keep your electricity bills down, but it’s also better for the environment. For this, you’d want to consider the energy efficiency ratio. The higher the rating, the better the energy efficiency of the unit.

If you plan on moving your air conditioner and heater unit around, you’d also need to consider unit weight and size. Usually, the units don’t weigh more than 95 pounds, but if you’d be shifting it around, it’s better to opt for a lighter model. If you’ve got minimal space in your home, you’d also want to go for a unit that takes up less floor space. Ideally, you should look for something that’s between 12 to 18 inches in width.

When it comes to purchasing your unit, you should also consider if you need additional features such as an adjustable thermostat or dehumidifier. An adjustable thermostat will allow you to custom set your preferred temperature while a dehumidifier will eliminate any dampness in the air and provide additional comfort.

Pros and Cons

To sum it all up, here’s a quick pros and cons list of purchasing an air conditioning and heater unit.

Pros:

Portability. Most of these units are light and portable so that you can move them around with no issues at all.
Budget-friendly. They’re much cheaper than paying for a separate air conditioner and heater. You also won’t have to invest as much money for installation or your electricity bill.
Doesn’t take up as much space. Since you’ve got two functions in one, this unit can fit in small spaces – making them ideal for a small apartment or studio.
Easy to install. No holes need to be drilled, so installation is a breeze. Just place it where you want, and it’s all ready to go.

Cons:

Noise. Perhaps the only con in investing in an air conditioner and heater unit is the noise you’ve got to deal with. While it’s minimal, it’s still something to consider – especially in the evening when you’re trying to go to sleep.

Top 6 Best Air Conditioner and Heater Combos

1. Whynter ARC-14SH 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner

This popular unit can cool a room that’s up to 500 square feet in size and comes with a dehumidifying capacity and a fan with three fan speeds and heating functions. Other features include full thermostatic control with a digital readout and a 24-hour programmable timer. The auto-drain function also means that this unit will fully recycle moisture that’s collected to produce cool air.

Upon purchase, you’ll get pretty much everything you need, from remote control to an activated carbon filter and a washable pre-filter. It also comes with wheels so you can move it wherever you need. It’s truly a mobile and powerful model that’s also easy to install.

In case you encounter a power outage, this unit also comes with auto-restart. Customers who have purchased this unit mentioned that it’s a great product. Not only has it decreased the expenses of some of their electricity bills, but they’ve also said that installation is easy, customer service at the company is excellent, and runs well as both an air conditioner and a heater.

Pros:

Comes with heating, cooling, and dehumidifying functions
Has a full thermostatic control
24-hour programmable timer
Auto-drain function
Easy to install

Cons:

Some customers have mentioned that it’s a tad noisy

2.

Honeywell, MN14CHCSWW Portable Air Conditioner with Heat Pump

This 4-in-1 portable unit comes with an air conditioner, dehumidifier, fan, and heat pump. It provides powerful airflow and also operates quietly. It can effectively cool rooms up to 700 square feet and cool rooms that are about 500 square feet. Upon purchase, you’ll receive all the accessories you need for quick installation, and the unit will also reduce energy consumption and our electricity bills in the long-run.

Other great features of this unit include the dual motor technology for lower noise levels, a smart digital thermostat system for precise climate control, and an advanced LCD display. If you run into any issues, you can also call the company’s support team that’ll help you with all of your needs.

This is a highly-rated machine that’s popular with its customers. Individuals have stated that its lightweight, takes seconds to set up, and is a powerful unit that does the job. They also like how there are rolling casters to move the appliance to different rooms with ease, and mentioned that both the cooling and heating features of this unit works great.

Pros:

4-in-1 portable unit
Operates quietly
Smart digital thermostat system
Advanced LCD display
Comes with customer service support

Cons:

It’s heavier than some of the other units, so carrying it is not recommended

3. SereneLife 10,000 Portable Air Conditioner + 9000 BTU Heater

This lightweight unit is both handy and portable. Since it comes with rolling wheels, you’re able to move it around different rooms efficiently. In terms of features, it comes with a built-in dehumidifier that helps reduce humidity levels along with four operating modes. You’ve got cooling, heating, a dehumidifier along with a fan. It’s also got automatic swing mode if you’d like to maximize the circulation in your room.

To control the features, the unit comes with a remote control that has a digital touch button. You can set the temperature, power, mode, timer along with fan speed settings. In terms of BTU, it has 10,000 BTU of cooling power and 9,000 BTU of heating power – making it a great option for saving both space and money.

Those who have purchased this unit mentioned that it’s good value for money and cools great. They also like how it’s easy to install, turns on beautifully, and like how it can be used year-round. Other great features include shutting off when it reaches the desired temperature, and a customer service department that can help you run into any problems.

Pros:

Handy and portable unit
Comes with rolling wheels so you can move it around
Four operating modes
Comes with an automatic swing mode
Has a remote control with a digital touch button

Cons:

Some have commented that it’s quite loud

4. COSTWAY Air Cooler and Heater

This multifunctional unit can be used for various purposes – as an air cooler, heater, humidifier, fan, and air purifier. To customize it to your individual needs, feel free to use the unit’s function that includes a swing feature, an 8-hour timer, along with three different fan modes and speeds.

It even comes with a cooling pad and two ice-crystal boxes to ensure superior cooling. To operate your unit, you can use the electronic display and remote control. The control panel is user-friendly, and it’s both a compact and lightweight unit that fits into tight spaces.

Customers mentioned that it’s great for dry areas, is easy to use, and not difficult to move around. Perhaps the only tip that customers have said is that you need to keep an eye on the water level. Either than that, customers mentioned that it works as advertised.

Pros:

Multifunctional unit
Can be customized to your individual needs
Comes with a cooling pad and ice crystal boxes
Has an electronic display and remote control
Lightweight unit

Cons:

Some have mentioned that it doesn’t really produce cool air

5.

Black + Decker BPACT12HWT Portable Air Conditioner, 12,000 BTU with Heater

Another fantastic dual unit, this air conditioner and heater will keep you cool during the summer and warm during the winter. It produces over 12,000 BTU and is great for smaller rooms up to 250 square feet. Installation is simple, and the unit even comes with handles along with castor wheels to move it around with ease.

Other features that you’ll get with this unit include a remote control with an LED display along with a 24-hour timer. There are four energy-efficient modes that you can pick from – cool, fan, heat, and dehumidify. The vertical motion means that you’ve consistent automated temperatures in your room, and there are three different fan levels – low, medium, and high.

Customers who bought this unit like how it’s easy to set up, and mentioned that it does blow cool and warm air – depending on the functions you select. They also like how it has a window fitting that’s long enough for tall windows and mentioned that it seems to be sturdy and made of high-quality materials.

Pros:

Simple installation
Comes with handles and castor wheels
Comes with a remote control and a 24-hour timer
Has four energy-efficient modes
Has a window fitting that’s long enough for tall windows

Cons:

Not great for larger rooms

6. NEWAIR AC-14100H Portable Air Conditioner and Heater

This portable heater and air conditioner unit heats and cool rooms that are up to 525 square feet. It also comes with a fan and a dehumidifier, automatic cooling mode, a programmable timer, and a remote control. The intuitive interface makes it easy to use, so it’s not difficult to set up modes or the timer. The unit also comes integrated with a cooling tank that helps with maximizing air conditioning efficiency.

It’s a powerful unit that produces 14,000 BTUs of power, and also comes with casters so you can wheel the unit around your home. In terms of fan speed, the unit comes with three fan speeds, so you can select the one that suits you best.

Customers that have purchased this unit mentioned that it works well for the price, easy to install, and has a temperature sensor that works great. They also appreciate how it doesn’t take up too much space, has an auto-evaporate function, and comes with a hose that is of a pretty good length.

Pros:

Heats and cools rooms up to 525 square feet
Has an intuitive interface
Comes with a programmable timer and remote control
Integrated with a cooling tank
Temperature sensor works well

Cons:

The medium or low function for the fan settings

The Bottom Line

We hope that this article was helpful and you’ve got a better idea of air conditioner and heater units. When selecting your unit, it’s essential that you know how powerful of a unit you need. The last thing you’d want is to purchase a unit that’s only suited to cooling a smaller room. Air conditioner and heater units are helpful devices that are great purchases for anyone on a budget or have minimal space in their home.

Heating with air conditioning in winter is profitable!

More and more questions began to sound: “Is it possible to turn on the air conditioner for heating in winter or is it not intended for this? What models of air conditioners are better to use to get heat in winter? It’s time to figure it out!

In the modern world, there are practically no split systems left that cannot heat the air, because technologically it is very easy to introduce the possibility of heating into the air conditioning system. A four-way valve is installed inside the outdoor unit, which changes the direction of the refrigerant when switching modes.

It is worth noting that the air conditioner was created precisely as a device that cools the air and for the most part serves people with a warm climate. But, unfortunately, conditions in Krasnoyarsk are much harsher than in most regions of the world.

When to use an air conditioner for heating is advisable

So, let’s take a closer look at the cases in which the use of an air conditioner in winter is economically beneficial for the user:

1) Off-season. It’s no secret that heating in our apartments does not come all year round. And, unfortunately, the establishment of a comfortable temperature at home and on the street does not always coincide. So, when the heating has already been turned off or has not yet been turned on and you need heating in the air conditioner! The air conditioner creates comfortable and very economical heat. The cost of heating with an air conditioner is several times lower than with an electric heater, because the air conditioner only transfers heat, and does not create it.

2) Cool summer. Not every summer in Krasnoyarsk is very hot. Sometimes daytime temperatures in summer are 15-17 degrees, and nighttime temperatures are 10. Then your friend comes to the rescue – air conditioning! Turn it on for heating, or in automatic mode, set the temperature that is comfortable for you, and after a few minutes you can take off your woolen socks.

3) Mild winter. Fortunately, we are sometimes lucky and the winter is not very severe. Most air conditioners quietly work for heating when it is not colder than zero degrees outside. Most inverter models of air conditioners are designed for heating when the outdoor temperature is not colder than minus 7.

But the most advanced inverters, for example, the Mitsubishi Heavy SRK25ZM-S inverter air conditioner, work confidently for heating at temperatures down to minus 15 degrees. Such “winter air conditioners” are also present in other Japanese brands – Toshiba and Daikin.

Heating with air conditioning in a private house is real!

The energy efficiency indicators of the heating process in the best inverter models today have reached such high values that heating a private house with wall-mounted air conditioners is becoming a real alternative to classic water heating systems. Consuming 1 kW of electricity, an inverter split system is capable of producing 4-5 kW of heat, which is an absolute record in the field of electric heating!

True, the high energy efficiency of obtaining heat using a heat pump – an air conditioning system is maintained only up to an outdoor temperature of -15/20 degrees, and at lower values, air conditioning heating loses its attractiveness, as the efficiency approaches the performance of conventional electric heaters – consumes 1 kW of electricity, produces 0. 95 kW of heat.

Separately, I would like to talk about such a topic as

Heating with mobile air conditioner? Can’t be!

Despite a common misconception, mobile air conditioners are not suitable for heating. Despite the fact that the instructions for some mobile models indicate the heating function, it is performed in a completely different way than in wall-mounted split systems.

To begin with, most of the mobile models do not know how to work for heating at all. Some devices provide for such a function, but it is implemented very “clumsily” – due to the built-in heating element of the “TEN” type, as in a conventional household fan heater. In this case, a 1 kW electric heating element will produce the same 1 kW of heat, and no more.

The most advanced mobile models have a heat pump function, but since this is a monoblock model without an outdoor unit, it cannot accumulate heat from the street. Heat is accumulated here not from outside air, but from indoor air, heat is simply accumulated from a large volume and transferred to a small volume – due to this, it appears that warm air is coming out of the air distribution grille. But in fact, no heat is added to the room … Therefore, mobile models of air conditioners, unfortunately, are not suitable for use for heating.

So let’s recap. In winter, heating with an air conditioner is, in principle, possible, but subject to a number of conditions: firstly, it can only be a wall-mounted air conditioner, and secondly, it is better that it be made using inverter technology, which allows you to expand the operating temperature range outside.

But to organize a quick heating in the apartment during the off-season, almost any wall-mounted air conditioner-split system is capable of organizing, regardless of what technology it is made of.

It’s easy to choose the right option in our solid CATALOG OF AIR CONDITIONERS! For permanent heating of a private house with the help of air conditioners, we recommend choosing INVERTER SPLIT SYSTEMS.

Heating with air conditioning not only in spring but also in winter is a convenient and economical way to get warm!

HEATER OR AIR CONDITIONER – 8 points comparison

Residents of apartment buildings cannot always rely on centralized heating. Sometimes it is turned on late, turned off early, the temperature in the radiators sometimes clearly does not meet the needs of the residents. Heaters or air conditioners in heat supply mode help to solve the problem.

For heating, which is better: air conditioning or heater

This section of the article will focus on heating efficiency. In the case of an air conditioner, when choosing equipment, look at the thermal units (BTU). One such unit corresponds to the amount of heat required to heat 1 pound of water by 1 degree. If we translate into the usual watts, we get the ratio: 1000 BTU / hour are approximately equal to 293 watts. To heat 15-20 “squares” you need a 7000 BTU air conditioner. It can be compared with a 2 kW heater. “Duychik” of such power costs 20 times cheaper. In terms of energy efficiency, of course, it will yield, but the difference will not be 20 times.

In terms of price / power ratio, the air conditioner will lose to a fan heater, ceramic or infrared heater. And this should not come as a surprise, since air conditioning is designed to cool rooms, and heating is an auxiliary function. Air conditioners are mainly heated in Spain, Israel and other warm and rich countries. In the summer it is difficult to live there without a split system, and in the winter, if there is full air conditioning in the apartment, it is quite comfortable.

If we compare purely in terms of efficiency, which is better: an inverter air conditioner or a heater, then a split system is preferable. However, it is desirable to make a choice based on several criteria.

Choosing the best: Convectors and infrared heaters: comparing 5 parameters

Heating rate

When compared with a similar power “air blower”, the air conditioner will heat up the room many times faster at a suitable temperature (5-15 degrees). To determine the energy efficiency in heating mode, the COP indicator is used. If it is equal to 3, this means that a unit with a power of 1 kW in 1 hour will be able to pump a thermal power of 3 kW into the room. The more COP, the easier it is for the air conditioner to bypass the heater, the characteristics of which indicate similar kilowatts. The catch is that at negative temperatures, COP drops, and the rate of heating the room decreases accordingly. In frosts, it is much more expensive to heat a house with an air conditioner, the cold levels out its advantages over heaters.

In addition to the COP in the characteristics of equipment, you can find SCOP – a new energy efficiency unit that appeared in 2013. It shows the same thing, only it is measured more correctly: tests are carried out at different positive and negative temperatures (-7, +2, +7, +12), and then the average value is calculated. In the case of COP, only +7 degrees were taken.

Getting ready to move: How to remove the air conditioner from the wall: 13 steps to dismantle it yourself

Which is more economical: a heater or an air conditioner

Heaters convert energy from the electrical network into heat. As a result, 1 kW of electricity allows you to get a maximum of 1 kW of heat. The air conditioner works on the principle of a heat pump, so the output of heat energy is many times greater. Approximate relationship between values is shown by SCOP. In 2013, the following gradation was adopted:

That is, even an air conditioner with low energy efficiency is 2-3 times more economical than a heater of the same power when operating under normal conditions. However, if we compare their work in the range from -10 to -15 degrees, the split system is unlikely to show a more impressive result.

Organizations developing standards for climate technology take their climate into account with winters that are more characterized by positive temperatures. For Kyiv, average winter temperatures are around 2-3 degrees below zero. In such a climate, the answer to the question of what is more economical: an air conditioner or a heater is definitely in favor of a 2-block unit. A split system is 1. 5-2 times more economical in winter and 2-5 times more preferable if we take the entire heating season.

We bring the split system to life: Why the air conditioner does not heat: 10 reasons

Safety

At first glance, air conditioning is safer. The indoor unit hangs itself on the wall, does not touch anyone. Getting to it is problematic, which can not be said about the heater. An oil cooler, a mobile convector or an infrared heater on a leg can be accidentally turned upside down.

The second aspect is sustainability. For dusty rooms or apartments with pets, installing a split system is associated with certain inconveniences. The indoor unit drives the air, and with it the dust, pet hair. With fan heaters, the situation is similar, other heaters are safer in this regard. In addition, an air conditioner without cleaning in a couple of years will become a breeding ground for germs. Heaters do not require maintenance.

As a result, it turns out that there is no clear favorite in terms of security.

Features of inverter units: What is an inverter air conditioner and how does it differ from an ordinary one: educational program from 6 sections

Mobility

Air conditioners are usually not reinstalled. They choose the optimal place, mount it, and after the expiration of the service life, a new unit is hung in the same place instead of the old one. There is a separate category of mobile air conditioners, but they are still tied to the street with air ducts, and, as a rule, they can only cool.

In the case of mobile heaters, things are much better. Models on wheels or legs can be easily moved around the rooms. There are also heavy ceramic panels for permanent installation. Some of them weigh more than 20 kg, so their mobile use is difficult. Such heaters are used as analogues of heating radiators.

We warm ourselves as best we can: How to heat a room without a heater: 9 life hacks

Service life

The service life of air conditioners depends on the manufacturer. Units representing famous Japanese brands: Daikin, Mitsubishi and Fujitsu have been operating for 12-15 years. Buyers of NeoClima, Cooper&Hunter split systems and other models from China can count on 7 years or more of trouble-free operation. A rather modest service life is compensated by moderate prices for equipment from China.

For heaters, this is the picture:

oil coolers – from 5-7 years of operation;
infrared heaters – from 10 years;
ceramic – from 20 years;
fan heaters – from 3 years.

Duychiks fail earlier than other heaters, in part because of moving parts. However, budget models of fan heaters win in price compared to other types of devices. They do not have sensors and protective mechanisms that prevent some breakdowns. In this they are inferior to air conditioners.

Easy maintenance and operation

The heaters do not require complex maintenance, especially for models with closed housings. If you have a ceramic panel or an oil cooler, it is enough to periodically wipe the dust from the outside.

Air conditioners are more capricious in terms of maintenance. Measures for the indoor unit include:

Cleaning the dust filters. The recommended frequency is 2-4 times a month.
Replacement of filters with new ones. Some manufacturers recommend performing the procedure once a quarter, but usually it is enough to change the filter elements once a year.
Complete cleaning of the unit with the removal of the housing. Frequency – 1-4 times a year, depending on the dustiness of the room.

The outdoor unit needs to be cleaned once every 2 years if it is installed on a quiet street in your home. The device, which operates on the lower floor of a skyscraper in a gassed quarter, needs an annual cleaning.

Regardless of whether you are heating with an air conditioner or a heater, the process of controlling the device is unlikely to cause any difficulties. The split system has several modes and a remote control, but the instructions describe in detail how to set up the equipment. As for the difficulties associated with care, they will be, even if you turn on the unit only in the summer in the cold. Winter operation will not cause much trouble, except that a small glacier will form under the outdoor unit in frost.

Price

Prices for fan heaters start somewhere from 500 UAH.

The second place is shared by oil radiators, infrared heaters, convectors and ceramic panels. The most budget models cost about 2000 UAH.

Air conditioners can’t compete with heaters for the price, since inverter units start at $400. Price tags for Japanese brands are somewhere in the region of $1000. However, the comparison with heaters cannot be called correct, since non-compressor equipment can only produce hot air, but is not able to cool the room in summer.

What the air conditioner can do: Functions and modes of operation of the air conditioner – an overview of 7 basic and 4 additional options for climate technology

Air conditioning and heater: comparing the pros

One of the options to simplify the choice is to count the number of pluses.

For a split system, these are:

energy efficiency,
space heating rate,
multifunctionality,
service life.

For heaters:

easy control,
mobility,
easy maintenance,
reasonable price.

Comparison of the benefits of the heater and air conditioner showed a draw. And what about the downsides?

More fun with a thermostat: How to connect a thermostat to a ceramic heater: 4 steps to controlled heat

Disadvantages of devices

There is an opinion that air conditioners dry the air. It is difficult to disagree with this, however, the operation of heaters also leads to a decrease in humidity in the room. With the problem of dry air in winter, you can fight with a humidifier – another type of climate technology.

The next disadvantage of a split system is the noise, which can be compared to the rustling of leaves in a light breeze.