Portable air conditioner and heater combos offer one of the best ways to solve your heating and cooling needs without having to take up too much space or invest in different individual units.
On extremely cold days, they will give you toasty warm heat and when it gets extremely hot, you’ll get refreshingly cool air. They are indeed the perfect option for ensuring an excellent and comfortable living environment for space-challenged homes.
The big question, however, is which portable air conditioner and heater combo is best?
To help you pick the right unit, we’ve selected some of the best models on the market and included a brief overview of each option below.
We’ve also included some useful information about portable air conditioner and heater combos, which will no doubt come in handy when making your decision. If you are looking to invest in one of these units, then this is one review that you should go through.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Portable Air Conditioner And Heater Combo
- OUR TOP PICK: Frigidaire FHPH132AB1
- RUNNER-UP: Whynter Elite ARC-122DHP
- MOST AFFORDABLE: AuxAC MF-13HKC
Comparison of the Best Portable Air Conditioner and Heater Combos
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Aspects to Consider Before Buying a Model From Our List
Our list below consists of some of the best portable AC/heater combos you can find on the market. However, there are several things you need to take into consideration to be able to pick the right unit according to your needs. These include:
Cooling and Heating Capacity
The cooling and heating power of all portable AC/heater combos is measured in BTU’s (British Thermal Unit). Each unit has a specific capacity and your choice will mainly depend on the size of the space or room where you will be using the unit.
Therefore, you need to measure the size of your space beforehand so that you are able to correctly determine the number of BTUs required to cover the space and allow you to pick the right AC/heater combo. For instance:
- A 200 sq. ft. space requires an 8,000 BTU unit
- A 300 sq. ft. space requires a 10,000 BTU unit
- A 400 sq. ft. space requires a 12,000 BTU unit
- A 500 sq. ft. space requires a 14,000 BTU unit
In other words, the higher the BTUs, the more space the unit can cover. A higher BTU rating also means that the system is capable of cooling or heating the room faster.
Energy Efficiency
Portable AC/heater combos usually utilize less energy to cool or warm the surrounding air. Still, it’s essential to buy an energy efficient model that will perform well while keeping your utility expenses down.
Therefore, you should consider the energy efficiency ratio of the unit you are getting. Generally, the higher the EER rating, the better the energy efficiency of a unit, so a unit with a rating of ten would be twice as efficient at utilizing energy as one with a rating of five.
Unit Weight and Size
The weight of a portable AC/heater unit will significantly determine how portable it is. The weight of most units often ranges from 45 to 95 pounds. If you are going to move the unit up and down stairs, then you want to go for a lighter model.
Having a unit that takes up less floor space is also ideal. Therefore, you should consider the depth and width of the unit. Look for something in the range of 12 to 18 inches.
Thermostat
An adjustable thermostat is a feature that can come in handy as it lets you adjust the heater to your desired temperature. Therefore, with a unit that features a thermostat, you get the advantage of custom settings compared to one that does not have a thermostat.
Dehumidifying Feature
Most portable AC/heater units function as dehumidifiers to help eliminate any dampness from the air, providing a healthy atmosphere, as well as greater comfort.
Some of the units on our list have a dehumidification function built-in too. Not all models have it, so you should decide beforehand whether this is a must-have feature for the portable AC/heater unit you need or not.
Reviews of the Best Portable AC/Heater Combo Units
Let's take a look at the top products:
Best Overall:
Black + Decker BPACT12HWT
PROS
CONS
Topping our list is the Black + Decker BPACT12HWT. All things considered, there’s no doubt that this is one of the best portable AC/heater models out there, both in terms of performance and ease of use. It’s a well-built unit that offers great value for money.
This Black + Decker BPACT12HWT portable AC/heater combo features super-strong fans that are able to deliver a cooling power of 12,000 BTUs and a heating capacity of up to 10, 000 BTUs.
One of the main reasons this unit is so effective is that it’s designed to use vertical motion. This function ensures a steady and powerful airflow across the room.
It enables the unit to distribute the cold or hot air more evenly, thereby giving you almost instant results and the assurance of consistent temperature throughout the room.
It can comfortably cool rooms that are 250 sq. ft. or less and pleasantly keep rooms of up to 325 sq. ft. warm when the temperature drops. Therefore, it’s an ideal choice for small to medium-sized spaces including an apartment, home, studio, or dorm.
This model also doubles as a dehumidifier which is a big plus. It will efficiently maintain the right humidity level in your room in addition to cooling or warming it. It’s a very helpful feature, especially during those muggy days.
Operating this unit is a breeze. It has a handy control panel featuring an intuitive LED digital display that’s easy to read and use. Even better, it comes with a digital remote control which gives you access to all the functions, so you won’t have a hard time using the unit.
Another commendable thing to note is the 24-hour adjustable timer and sleep mode. You will be able to adjust it according to your needs or program it so that you can always come home to a nice and comfortable environment.
While it weighs around 68 pounds, the BPACT12HWT is highly portable. It doesn’t require much effort to move it around. It has side handles and four caster wheels at the base to facilitate easy mobility and maneuverability.
The noise level is fairly low. It generates around 75dB on the high setting but becomes pretty quiet once the right temperature in the room is achieved.
Installation is also a snap. Perhaps the only challenge you may face is setting up the window panel, as is a bit uneven. Other than that, there’s simply nothing not to love about this Black + Decker AC/heater combo.
Bottom Line
As far as performance and ease of use is concerned, the Black + Decker BPACT12HWT is the real deal. It’s a highly effective unit from a credible company and it’s built to great quality. If strong performance and versatility are what you are looking for, then this is a perfect fit.
Runner-up:
Whynter ARC-14SH
PROS
CONS
The Whynter ARC-14SH is one of the most powerful systems on our list and is designed to deliver impressive performance and efficiency when it comes to cooling and heating. It’s a one-stop solution with an elegant modern design that will complement any room décor.
With 14,000 BTU cooling capacity, this product is a real workhorse that’s capable of cooling a fairly large area of up to 500 sq. ft. It’s meant for small rooms, but the high cooling capacity makes it suitable as well for medium to large rooms.
The ARC-14SH also includes a 13,000 BTU heater which is powerful enough to keep you warm during those cold months. Furthermore, the unit features an adjustable thermostat with a cooling range of 61°F to 89°F and heating range of 61°F-77°F.
Like the Black + Decker product above, the Whynter ARC-14SH is also an effective dehumidifier. It can remove around 101 pints of moisture per day which is an impressive capacity and will be quite helpful if you reside in a really humid environment.
You can expect to breathe in clean, fresh air with this unit too. The air goes through a pre-filter and a carbon air filter where it’s cleaned up before being released.
You won’t have to worry about water accumulation either. The auto drain system exhausts almost all condensation and utilizes it to produce the cool air. It’s an efficient all-around system.
It’s easy to interact and operate this model. The control panel has simple selections and a full-function remote control is included for your convenience as well.
In addition, the unit is equipped with a 24-hour programmable timer that can automatically start or shut down the cooling function or heating function as per your schedule.
Weighing 80 pounds, the Whynter ARC-14SH is rather heavy but there would be no need for lifting it because it comes with four multi-directional wheels that facilitate easier movement. Thus, it’s portable and moving it shouldn’t be much of a hassle.
The noise level produced by the unit is minimal at around 56dB on high settings, so it’s not that distracting. You also won’t need exceptional skills to install it. It’s very simple and can fit in any standard window not more than 46 inches wide.
Bottom Line
The Whynter ARC-14SH is a gem on its own, designed specifically to offer consistent performance and efficiency when it comes to cooling and heating your home. Like the Black + Decker BPACT12HWT model, this is another great one-stop solution that will no doubt give you good value for your money.
Best for the Money:
SereneLife SLPAC 12,000 BTU
PROS
CONS
Specs
Dimensions: 17.4 x 13.4 x 32.1 inches
Performance: 12,000 BTU cooling and heating
Weight: 70.3 lbs
Volts: 120 V
Floor Area: 450 sq. ft.
Review
This portable air conditioner has exceptional performance, with 12,000 BTU allocated to cooling and heating. The other modes you can try are the fans for ventilation, dehumidification, and purification with internal filters.
While the sleek design and wheels make it easy to move around your home, you might find it heavy if you need to lift it when the bucket is filled with condensation. You also might need to make changes to your window frame if the vent kit doesn’t fit properly.
These minor issues aside, you can either control the functions with a remote or via the digital display. You’ll also enjoy TV time or sleep well with its low noise levels, as long as you don’t mind a slight hum on the fastest settings.
Bottom Line
This 12,000 BTU portable air conditioner contains most of the settings you’d look for in a combo AC. You can heat, cool, reduce humidity, blow the fan, or clear the room of dust and allergens. It delivers excellent performance while being easy to move around.
4. Whynter ARC-148MHP
PROS
CONS
This portable AC/heater combo selection is another well-made unit from Whynter, the ARC-148MHP model. This one stands out as the best 14,000BTU portable AC/heater combo thanks to its impressive output both in cooling and heating.
The ARC-148MHP provides a powerful 14,000 BTU cooling output which is ideal for smaller to fairly large rooms but not more than 550 sq. ft. The capacity of the heater is also 14,000 BTU which means it will cope well in the cold months.
The unit has an adjustable digital thermostat with a range of 62°F to 88°F, so you can set the temperature you want based on your comfort level.
The dehumidifying function has a rating of 71 pints a day. It’s not the highest, but it’s sufficient enough to maintain a healthy atmosphere in times of high humidity.
You can expect no moisture build-up inside the unit either. The self-evaporating function uses the moisture collected during air conditioning to produce cool air, thus reducing the need to manually drain the water tank.
The Whynter ARC-148MHP is also designed to keep the air cleaner and fresher. It features an activated carbon filter plus a silver-ion coated pre-filter which combines to clean up the air of any pollutants and dust. The pre-filter is washable.
The control panel is simple with easy-to-press buttons and a readable display. It also comes with a practical remote control, so it shouldn’t be hard to operate.
There are a 24-hr programmable timer and an auto restart function to automatically reset it to its previous settings after a power outage.
The unit is compact and weighs around 73 pounds, so it’s fairly lightweight. Plus, it has side handles and casters for easy mobility. The noise level is relatively low, reaching up to 55dB on high settings. Thereby, you can expect it to operate quietly while you take your rest.
Now when it comes to setting it up, the ARC-148MHP is a walk in the park. You can easily set it up in almost any place as long as it’s indoors. Whether it’s the living room, bedroom, server room, workshop, or garage, it will fit in easily and perform well.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for the best, highly functional 14,000 BTU unit that will deliver great cooling and heating results, then you might want to consider this Whynter ARC-148MHP model. It will certainly not disappoint.
5. Honeywell MM14CHCS
PROS
CONS
The MM14CHCS is a top-of-the-line unit from the reputable Honeywell brand. This multi-functional model comes in third on our list not just because of its attractive modern look but also its collection of wonderful features.
The Honeywell MM14CHCS is a jack-of-all-trades just like its counterparts above. It’s a cooler, heater, dehumidifier, and a fan all in one unit. The system boasts of a 14, 000 BTU cooling capacity which offers year-round cooling in a room of up to 550 sq. ft.
The integrated heat pump, on the other hand, can deliver 12,000 BTUs of heating capacity, so they are both powerful and can work well in small, medium-sized, and fairly large rooms. Plus, the fan is quite powerful and will circulate the air efficiently for a uniform result.
The unit has a good capacity dehumidifier that’s capable of pulling around 79.2 pints of moisture out of the air per day which puts it on par with most top units out there.
The best part is that it uses an auto-evaporation system to dispose of any excess condensation and you can set it up for either manual or automatic drainage.
Operating this Honeywell portable AC/heater combo is hassle-free. All four functions can be controlled through the digital LED display. It even includes an automatic programmable timer, so you can set the time when you want the system to turn off or on.
Like the other two models above, you can operate all the functions of this unit from a distance using a remote control.
The remote has a nice LED display too which shows the fan speed, current mode, and current room temperature. The touch buttons on the unit control panel are backlit, so they are easy to see in the dark and turn off after one minute.
The unit is relatively light, weighing around 73.85 pounds and has four caster wheels. You won’t break a sweat moving it from one room to another, but it might not be easy to carry it up and down the stairs. There are no side handles, so lifting it won’t be that easy.
When it comes to noise, the unit operates quietly for the most part, except when transitioning between cooling on and off. These two are the only flaws in an otherwise excellent overall design.
Bottom Line
As a four-in-one unit, the Honeywell MM14CHCS can serve you all year round with very minimal issues. Apart from the missing side handles and one-time noises, it’s a well-built and effective unit that we would highly recommend.
6. Friedrich PH14B
PROS
CONS
Taking the next spot is the Friedrich PH14B, one of the quietest, high-performing, upscale models featuring a dual-hose system. This is a great option for anyone looking to spend a little cash for quality and high efficiency.
Having an impressive 13,500 BTU AC, this Friedrich unit will comfortably cool down areas of around 500 sq. ft. Friedrich claims that the unit can cover up to 700 sq. ft. but that’s a bit farfetched as it won’t be that effective in such a large area.
However, you can be guaranteed that it will be highly-effective in small to medium rooms that are not more than 500 sq. ft. One thing that makes this possible is the dual-hose system which facilitates closed-loop cooling, delivering much quicker and more efficient results.
The heating function has a capacity of 10,500 BTUs, which is not as high as the other models but it’s nearly as powerful and will manage to keep you warm during winter when it gets cold.
You can adjust the temperature from as low as 60°F on up to 90°F at the top end. The unit also doubles as a humidifier. In fact, it’s one of the most effective humidifiers on our list aside from the Whynter ARC-14SH.
It can whisk away 101 pints of moisture per day which is a very high capacity and one that will keep the humidity levels in your room well balanced at all times. There is no water bucket to empty. The self-evaporative system does well to get rid of any excess moisture. Should water accumulate, the model has a built-in back-up reservoir to hold the excess moisture and is designed to automatically shut off in case the tank gets full.
The ARC-14SH won’t present any challenge when it comes to operating it. Like all the other units we’ve reviewed, it has an easy-to-use control panel with an LED display. It features a 24-hour programmable timer as well.
Another nice addition is the auto restart function. It automatically restarts the motor after a power outage or a power failure and the unit resumes operation according to the last programmed setting.
The only drawback is its hefty weight. The whole unit weighs 95 pounds which makes it the heaviest portable AC/heater combo on our list. It might require at least two people to lift it up.
However, it shouldn’t be hard to push around between rooms thanks to the smooth caster wheels and its easy grip handles. As I mentioned earlier, the Friedrich PH14B operates very quietly, at around 51 dB on highest settings, so noise won’t be a problem.
Installation is easy and quick. Everything you might need to install it is already included in the package, so the only thing you will find bothersome is its hefty weight.
Bottom Line
The Friedrich PH14B is certainly not cheap, but when you consider its performance, build quality, and design, it actually offers great value for money. If you have an extra money to spare, it’s definitely worth buying.
7. NewAir AC-14100H
PROS
CONS
The NewAir AC-14100H features everything you need to make your home a comfortable and healthy living space quickly, easily, efficiently, and at a very affordable price. This is our top budget choice. A small, powerful, and versatile unit that gets the job done without digging deep into your pocket.
Despite its competitive price, the quality of this combo is very commendable. It’s a 4-in-1 unit like the rest of the other models on our list, allowing you to cool, heat, dehumidify, and circulate air using just one appliance. It’s a unit you can use all year round.
The 14,000 BTU cooling capacity is strong enough to efficiently keep a room of up to 525 sq. ft. in size cool and comfortable. Besides that, the unit is equally efficient as a heater. Its 14,000 BTU heating capacity is sufficient to keep a fairly decent-sized room warm during cold months.
The adjustable thermostat has a range of 64°F to 90°F, so you can set the temperature that suits your personal needs. It also does fairly well as a dehumidifier as it capable of removing up to 71.04 pints of moisture a day.
It doesn’t require regular manual draining since it also features an automatic evaporation system. There is also a carbon filter that cleans the air around the room and it goes for all year round.
Operating the AC-14100H is a piece of cake like all the other models on our list. It uses electronic controls and KCD display, plus you can also operate it using a remote control.
It includes a programmable and reliable timer that allows you to customize the operation according to your schedule. The system will cycle on and off based on how you’ve programmed it.
The unit is compact and weighs 62.95 pounds, hence it’s not so heavy and like the rest, it has four caster wheels that roll easily. You can move it around without much effort.
The noise level is acceptable, ranging around 45 to 57 dB on high settings which is fairly quiet to allow you to rest peacefully and comfortably.
Setup is not difficult either. The exhaust hose hooks up to the window vent easily and in just a few minutes. It’s a simple installation.
Bottom Line
The NewAir AC-14100H is a great product for anyone on a budget but wants a really good, versatile machine for both cooling and heating. It’s a quality unit that will perform well and last a long time.
Benefits of Investing in a Great Portable AC/Heater Combo
There are many benefits of getting a portable AC/heater combo and some of these benefits include:
Highly Portable
Most units are compact and lightweight. You can easily move them from room to room. In fact, most of these units are on wheels, so you won’t struggle when relocating them.
Take Little Space
Setting up a separate air conditioner and heater requires a lot of space. However, portable AC/heater combos are small in size and occupy less space. They are ideal for areas with limited space such as a studio or small apartment.
Can Cool or Heat the Room
A portable AC/heater combo kills two birds with one stone. It’s an air conditioner and a heater at the same time. You can make your living area both cool and warm whenever you want. It gives you the same comfort you will get if you install the units separately.
Energy Efficiency
A portable AC/heater combo uses less energy than running two units separately. Therefore, you are sure to save a decent amount of money on your electricity bills when you invest in this unit.
Easy to Install
No installation is needed and no holes need to be drilled. All you need to do is place it where you want it, then fix the exhaust hose for draining and you’re done.
How Does a Portable AC Heater Combo Work?
A portable AC combo can heat or cool an area, depending on the setting that you select. On the one side, the compressor has coils that cool the air and create condensation. On the other, the heat pump heats it and releases the warm vapor into the room.
There’s an expansion valve that plays a significant role in how these two functions perform. When you turn on the cooling mode, the valve lets the refrigerant flow over the condenser coils. Alternatively, it reverses the flow to the heat pump, where the liquid is evaporated for warm air.
Price Points of Portable AC Combo
You might have looked online for a portable AC combo and wondered why the prices vary so much. There are various sizes, modes, and features that set them apart from other products. Here’s a quick guideline of what you can expect to find.
$100 - $250
Air conditioners in this price range have the lowest cooling and heating capacity, featuring few other modes in their arsenal. The remote options are limited to control, while you might only be able to switch between two fan speeds.
$250 - $500
If you’re looking for exceptional performance, you’ll generally find it in this range. You can expect some dehumidification and ventilation, and some might even have internal filters. These air conditioners are also heavier and might produce more noise.
$500+
This section holds the cream of the crop, with top brands displaying the best features. It consists of the highest BTUs with several functions to make you enjoy the air conditioning experience. For instance, you might find LED lights, a night mode, larger water buckets, dual hoses, or Wi-Fi controls.
Pros and Cons of Portable Air Conditioner and Heater Combos
Portable air conditioner and heater combos provide an excellent solution to all your cooling and heating needs without having to invest in different individual units. On extremely hot days, these units provide cool, refreshing air, during cold days, you can enjoy warm, toasty heat. These units are the perfect option for ensuring a comfortable living environment in space-challenged homes.
Pros
The many benefits of a portable AC/heater combo include:
Portability
These units are compact and lightweight, making it easier to move them from one room to another. In fact, a majority of these units are designed with wheels, therefore, relocating them will not be a hassle.
Economical
These portable combos provide users with an air conditioner and a heater simultaneously. You can make the room both warm and cool by investing in a single unit.
With these units, you can enjoy the same level of comfort that you will get if you install the units separately by spending less money.
Saves Space
Setting up separate units for air conditioner and heater needs plenty of space. These portable AC/heaters combos occupy very little space as they are small in size. Their convenient size also makes them suitable for limited spaces such as a small apartment or studio.
Easy Installation
These units do not require any installation nor need any holes to be drilled. It only needs to be placed where you want it, fix the exhaust hose for drainage, and you are ready to go.
Cons
In addition to these advantages, the portable AC/heater units have the following disadvantages:
Noise
You might experience a bit of noise when operating these portable AC/heater units. Although this noise will be minimal and not very noticeable, it might still cause a bit of disturbance while you are trying to sleep.
Conclusion
Using a portable AC heater combo allows you to easily add heat or cooling to a space without costly installation costs. Now that you know how to choose the best model for you, what the best uses are, and have read about some of the best options, the ball is in your court.
People Also Ask
Below are some common questions surrounding this topic.
Can a Portable Air Conditioner Combo Be Used Without a Window?
Yes, it can. Many portable AC combos have trays to collect the condensation that you’ll need to empty on a regular basis. If you have a hose for venting, you can install it through the wall, ceiling, or door. You don’t specifically need a window for the device unless the manufacturer indicates it.
What’s the Average Lifespan of Portable AC Combos?
Even if you regularly use the air conditioners, you can easily get about five to ten years out of it. Some have shown an extra five years, but it depends on how well you look after it. If you maintain and service it at the correct times, it will keep you longer.
Are Portable AC Heater Combos More Energy Efficient?
This factor depends on the Energy Efficiency Rating. If you buy one with an EER of 11 or 12, you’ll have massive savings on electricity compared to a standard heater. You could see a cut of $100 per year in your utility bill if you purchase the right one.
How Large of a Space Can a Portable AC Combo Heat and Cool?
You’ll have to look at the BTU measurements. The larger the number, the greater the area it can cover. An 8,000 can heat or cool up to 250 sq. ft., while a 12,000 BTU can reach up to 450 sq. ft. if the room’s design allows it. Always measure the space before you buy a new portable AC combo.
How Many BTUs Should an AC and Heater Unit Have?
To cool your room properly you need a unit that has an adequate number of BTUs based on your room size. For smaller rooms that range from 55 to 550 sq. ft., you should consider units with capacity ranging from 5,000 to 14,000BTU.
Note: Higher BTUs does not necessarily mean better cooling since an excessive number makes the unit work harder and may lead to premature malfunctions. Ensure that you measure your room well so that you can pick a unit with the appropriate BTU capacity.
Do Portable AC and Heater Units Use a Lot of Electricity?
Portable AC/heater combos are generally designed to be energy efficient and as such, they don’t have a significant impact on your electricity cost especially compared to a central cooling system.
Even better, some units like all the models on our list feature a programmable thermostat and auto turn off functions that help lower energy use. Therefore, they are not likely to sky-rocket your electricity bills any more than when you install the units separately.
Are Portable AC and Heater Units Loud?
When it comes to the noise level, it will majorly depend on the model you choose. However, most portable AC/heater combos are relatively quiet. The decibels of sound they produce mostly range from 50 to 80dB.
If you are a light sleeper or are sound-sensitive, then you would want to consider a unit that has a maximum noise level of no more than 60 dB on the highest settings.
There are also some models that feature a sleep mode whereby the fan runs at a lower speed, thereby reducing the noise it makes. For sound-sensitive people or light sleepers, this is another great feature you should consider when picking your portable AC/heater combo.