Summer can make your home feel super hot. If you don’t have central air conditioning or need to cool just one room, a portable air conditioner can help. Dual-hose models are becoming popular because they cool faster. But with so many options, it’s hard to choose. Here’s what to look for:
- Cooling Power: Get an 8,000 to 10,000 BTU unit for up to 400 sq.ft. For 400 to 500 sq.ft, go for 10,000 to 12,000 BTUs. If your space is bigger, get advice from an expert.
- Noise: Look for units with less than 50 decibels (dB) for quietness, especially for bedrooms.
- Dehumidification: Pick a unit with a built-in dehumidifier to remove extra moisture from the air. Also, consider features like digital controls, remote operation, and timers for convenience.
We’ve picked out some of the best dual-hose portable air conditioners for you. Plus, we’ve included a “Buying Guide” to help you understand key factors when choosing one.
Best Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner Tabulation
| Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner | BTU Rating | Noise Level (dB) | SEER Rating | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whynter ARC-14S Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner | 14,000 BTU | <56 | 7.69 | Check On Amazon |
| Costway Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner | 11,500 BTU | 53 | Not specified | Check On Amazon |
| Whynter Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner | 12,000 BTU | <52 | 13 | Check On Amazon |
| Cooper & Hunter Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner | 14,000 BTU | Not specified | Not specified | Check On Amazon |
| Midea Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner | 14,000 BTU | 42 | 12.3 | Check On Amazon |
| Black + Decker Dual Hose Air Conditioner | 12,000 BTU ASHRAE (7,000 BTU DOE) | 54 | 5.8 | Check On Amazon |
| Shico Dual Hose Air Conditioner | 12,000 BTU ASHRAE | 52 | 2.8 | Check On Amazon |
Best Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner Reviews
1. Whynter ARC-14S Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner
The Whynter ARC-14S is a dual hose portable air conditioner that blends advanced technology with environmentally friendly elements, establishing itself as a premier option for cooling areas up to 500 square feet. Boasting a cooling capability of 14,000 BTU, it runs quietly at under 56 decibels, delivering robust and efficient cooling performance.
Its advanced self-evaporation mechanism guarantees seamless operation, complemented by dual hose functionality for rapid and efficient cooling. With its compact build and straightforward installation process, complete with an extendable exhaust hose and window kit, it offers a portable cooling solution suitable for various spaces.
Best Features:
- Eco-friendly with CFC-free GREEN R-32 refrigerant
- Powerful cooling for up to 500 sq. ft.
- Three operational modes for versatility
- Adjustable digital thermostat control
- Easy setup and portability with extendable exhaust hose
Pros:
- Energy-efficient with eco-friendly refrigerant
- Effective cooling for large areas
- Versatile operation with three modes
- Portable and easy to set up
Cons:
- Inconsistent fan behaviour
- Size dissatisfaction
2. Costway Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner
The Costway Portable Air Conditioner is engineered to efficiently cool areas up to 400 square feet. Noteworthy for its innovative dual hose system and robust cooling capabilities, this portable air conditioner offers versatility with its three operational modes: cooling, dehumidifying, and fan mode. Tailoring to individual comfort preferences, it boasts three adjustable fan speeds and temperature settings ranging from 62°F to 86°F, complemented by a sleep mode for uninterrupted sleep cycles.
Setting up and using the unit is straightforward, requiring just four simple steps for installation and boasting compatibility with a variety of window types. Adding to its user-friendly design, the air conditioner features a 24-hour programmable timer and automatic shutoff function for added convenience. Users can opt for manual or continuous drainage as per their requirements, enhancing flexibility. Compact in size and equipped with carry handles and smooth-rolling universal wheels, it facilitates effortless mobility between different spaces.
Best Features:
- High-efficient 11,500 BTU cooling capacity
- 3-in-1 functionality with three operating modes
- Sleep mode for a comfortable night’s rest
- Quick installation and easy movement with carry handles and wheels
- Adjustable temperature range and 24-hour timer for customized comfort
Pros:
- Effective cooling for rooms up to 400 sq.ft.
- Versatile functionality for year-round use
- Easy installation and portability
- Sleep mode enhances nighttime comfort
Cons:
-
Issues with the kit for installations reported
3. Whynter Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner
Recognized for its exceptionally quiet operation, the Whynter Elite Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner stands out with its cooling prowess of 12,000 BTU (ASHRAE) / 7,000 BTU (SACC), effectively cooling areas of up to 400 square feet while maintaining noise levels below 52 dBA. Featuring an advanced self-evaporation system, this unit ensures efficient performance, while its patented auto drain function effortlessly expels condensate.
Offering versatility and energy efficiency, this portable AC operates in three modes: Cool, Dehumidify, and Fan, with a thermostatic control spanning from 61°F to 89°F. Additionally, its utilization of the Eco-friendly R32 refrigerant contributes to lower energy consumption, making it an environmentally conscious choice.
Best Features:
- Powerful 12,000 BTU cooling capacity
- Advanced self-evaporation and auto drain function
- Three operational modes and thermostatic control
- Eco-friendly R32 refrigerant for energy efficiency
Pros:
- Recognized for quiet operation by Good Housekeeping
- Energy-efficient with Eco-friendly refrigerant
- Portable and easy to set up
- Powerful cooling for up to 400 sq. ft.
Cons:
- Installation is challenging.
- Issues regarding size and portability.
4. Cooper & Hunter Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner
The dual hose portable AC and heater from Cooper and Hunter is a versatile HVAC unit crafted to cater to various climate control requirements. Boasting an impressive 14,000 BTU cooling capacity and 11,000 BTU heating capacity, this portable AC guarantees year-round comfort. Its 4-in-1 functionality encompasses cooling, heating, ventilation, and dehumidifying, offering a holistic approach to climate management.
Equipped with a dual hose system to enhance efficiency, this unit pulls in hot air from outside for cooling while expelling cooled air into the room, facilitating quicker and more efficient air circulation.
Best Features:
- Powerful 14,000 BTU cooling and 11,000 BTU heating
- Dual hose system for efficient air exchange
- 4-in-1 multi-functionality: cooling, heating, ventilation, dehumidifying
- Super silent self-evaporative system and auto restart function
Pros:
- Versatile 4-in-1 functionality for year-round use
- Efficient dual hose system for rapid cooling and heating
- Reliable 2-year replacement warranty
- Additional features like auto restart and refrigerant leakage detection
Cons:
-
Issues reported with the unit’s heat function in colder temperatures
5. Midea Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner
The Midea Duo 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner introduces an innovative dual hose-in-hose structure, a pioneering feature in the industry. This design ensures a balanced airflow indoors while effectively preventing the intrusion of hot external air. Leveraging inverter technology, this portable AC unit delivers remarkable cooling performance with an impressive energy-saving capability, surpassing U.S. federal standards by more than 40%.
Benefiting from an optimized air duct configuration and the groundbreaking dual hose system, the Midea Duo offers cooling that is more than twice as rapid and potent. Experience year-round comfort with its efficient heating and cooling functions, conveniently adjustable via the Wi-Fi-enabled MSmartHome App, compatible with both iOS and Android devices. Operating at a whisper-quiet level as low as 42dB, it rivals the tranquility of a library, ensuring uninterrupted comfort whether in your bedroom or living area.
Best Features:
- Innovative dual hose-in-hose design for balanced air circulation
- Inverter technology for over 40% energy savings
- More than 2x faster and stronger cooling with optimized air ducts
- Ultra-quiet operation at only 42dB for a peaceful environment
Pros:
- Efficient cooling and heating capabilities
- Whisper-quiet operation for minimal disruption
- Smart control with Wi-Fi connectivity and voice control options
- Dual hose design for improved air circulation
Cons:
- Discrepancy in noise level
6. Black + Decker Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner
The Black+Decker 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a small yet sturdy air conditioning unit that delivers effective cooling for spaces of up to 550 square feet, ensuring a pleasant atmosphere during hot periods. It features a versatile 3-in-1 design that includes cooling, dehumidification, and fan modes, along with a convenient 24-hour timer for customized comfort.
Features:
- 12,000 BTU capacity quickly cools up to 550 sq. ft.
- Acts as an air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan.
- Convenient handles and casters for hassle-free room-to-room movement.
- Impressive Features like Washable filter, auto water evaporation, LED display, and remote control.
- Installation Kit: Includes window kit for easy setup.
Pros:
- Efficient Cooling for larger spaces.
- 3-in-1 functionality for versatile use.
- Portable with handles and casters.
- Easy-to-install window kit included.
Cons:
- Durability concerns reported by some users.
- Noisy operation.
- Issues with window kit reported.
- Poor Quality and value.
7. Shico Dual Hose Air Conditioner
The Shinco 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is crafted for small to medium-sized areas. With a cooling power of 12,000 BTU (ASHRAE) / 7,800 BTU (SACC), it efficiently cools spaces of up to 400 sq. ft. Its compact size, measuring 13.39 inches in depth, 17.44 inches in width, and 32.68 inches in height, ensures suitability for various room sizes.
Features:
- 12,000 BTU capacity for effective cooling.
- 3-in-1 Functionality offers cooling, fan, and dry modes.
- Easy setup with included exhaust hose and window sealing kit.
- LED display, remote control, and 24-hour timer for convenience.
- Four casters for effortless room-to-room movement.
Pros:
- Outstanding cooling for smaller spaces.
- Versatile 3-in-1 functionality.
- Easy and quick installation process.
- User-friendly with remote control and timer.
Cons:
- Noise issues.
- Quality concerns and perceived flimsiness.
- Issues with product durability mentioned.
Buying Guide For The Best Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner
A dual-hose portable air conditioner stands out as a compact and easily transportable cooling solution designed to offer efficient climate control from room to room. Its operation involves extracting warm air from the room, cooling it, and then circulating the cooled air back into the space. Simultaneously, it expels hot air and moisture generated during the cooling process through a separate hose to the outside environment. The defining characteristic of these units is the presence of two hoses: one for intake and one for exhaust.
These air conditioners boast high efficiency, making them ideal for domestic use, particularly in smaller rooms. If you’re considering purchasing one, we recommend consulting our comprehensive buying guide for the best portable dual hose air conditioners. Within this guide, we’ve outlined crucial factors often overlooked by buyers when selecting a portable air conditioner.
1. BTU Rating
The first and foremost factor to consider when purchasing a dual hose portable air conditioner is the BTU rating. BTU represents the cooling capacity of the unit and determines its ability to cool a specific area. Selecting the right BTU for your space is crucial for optimal performance. A unit with insufficient BTU may struggle to cool a large room, while an overpowered one may lead to excessive energy consumption without effectively removing humidity.
To determine the appropriate BTU for your space, consider the size of the room. As a general rule, calculate the square footage by multiplying the length and width of the room and use the following guidelines:
- 7,000 to 10,000 BTU: Suitable for small rooms (150 to 350 sq. ft.)
- 10,000 to 14,000 BTU: Ideal for medium-sized rooms (350 to 600 sq. ft.)
- 14,000 BTU and above: Recommended for large rooms (600 sq. ft. and above)
Choosing the right BTU ensures efficient cooling and energy savings while preventing unnecessary strain on the unit.
2. Noise Level
The noise level is measured in decibels (dB), and lower dB values indicate quieter operation.
Look for units that offer a balance between cooling power and quiet operation. Typically, dual hose portable air conditioners with noise levels below 60 dB are considered quiet, ensuring minimal disruption to your indoor environment.
3. SEER Rating
The SEER rating is a critical metric for assessing the energy efficiency of air conditioning units. It measures the cooling output of a unit over a typical cooling season, divided by the energy consumed in watt-hours. A higher SEER rating indicates better energy efficiency, resulting in lower electricity bills and reduced environmental impact.
When comparing dual hose portable air conditioners, look for units with higher SEER ratings, as they are more energy-efficient. While higher SEER-rated units may have a higher upfront cost, the long-term energy savings often justify the initial investment.
4. Portability
People often choose portable air conditioners over standard options like split ACs for homes because they are easy to move around. With the dual hose design in dual hose portable conditioners, you can put the air conditioner anywhere in the room with the right ducting for air intake and exhaust.
However, it’s important to check if the unit is really easy to move between rooms before making a decision. Some models are designed for effortless transportation, making it simple to move from your home to the office or between different rooms, especially on hot summer days.
Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner – FAQs
Ans: Dual hose units are more efficient, as they use separate hoses for intake and exhaust, preventing negative pressure and increasing cooling power.
Ans: Dual hose ACs are versatile, suitable for various room sizes. Ensure to check the product specifications for recommended square footage.
Ans: No, installation is straightforward. Most dual hose portable ACs come with user-friendly kits, and manufacturers provide clear instructions for setup.
Ans: Dual hose ACs are more efficient, as they bring in fresh air from outside for cooling, unlike single hose units that use indoor air for the process.
Ans: Yes, dual hose units excel in humid conditions. They maintain a better balance of air pressure, preventing the intake of warm, humid air from outside.
Ans: Most dual hose ACs are designed to be quiet. Check the product’s decibel rating to ensure a comfortable and quiet cooling experience.
Ans: Yes, dual hose units are generally more energy-efficient, as they cool the air more rapidly and effectively without relying on the home’s HVAC system.
Ans: Yes, dual hose units can serve as a primary cooling solution for smaller spaces or as supplemental cooling for larger areas in conjunction with central HVAC systems.
Ans: While initial costs may be higher, the efficiency and energy savings make dual hose units cost-effective in the long run, reducing electricity bills.
Ans: Absolutely. Dual hose portable ACs are ideal for cooling specific rooms, providing precise temperature control for equipment or workspaces that require consistent cooling.
Conclusion
If you’re thinking about getting a portable air conditioner, chances are you want one that’s energy-efficient and works well in a small space like a bedroom or office. Regular air conditioners might use too much power and cool too much for what you need. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best portable air conditioners with two hoses. These are great for smaller rooms because they’re more efficient and have just the right amount of cooling power.
We selected these air conditioning units due to key features tailored for optimal performance in compact areas. If you’re struggling to decide, our comprehensive guide above is designed to assist you in selecting the most suitable option. Alternatively, you can simplify your decision-making process by opting for one of our top recommendations.
- Those seeking efficient cooling for larger rooms up to 550 sq. ft. This BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner will be best with a robust 12,000 BTU capacity, this AC unit is perfect for individuals with spacious bedrooms or living areas. The 3-in-1 functionality, including dehumidification and a fan, adds versatility, making it suitable for users looking for comprehensive climate control.
- Individuals with smaller to medium-sized spaces up to 400 sq. ft. Shinco 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner. The Shinco unit offers powerful cooling tailored for smaller rooms. Its compact design and 3-in-1 functionality cater to users who prioritize flexibility and ease of use.
- Lastly, we suggest the Whynter ARC-14S Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner as it brings the best of both worlds for portable air conditioners. This is the most popular choice for a portable dual-hose air conditioner right now and also offers the added functionality of a dehumidifier you will need around monsoon. This unit has a BTU rating of 14000 and is compatible with up to 500 sq. ft. coverage area.
