When you’re feeling the heat, the first thing that comes to mind is to turn on the air conditioning.
In case your home doesn’t have central air conditioning, portable ACs, and window units can do the job just fine for a single room.
This article will inform you about the DeLonghi company, which does not make central ACs, but instead focuses on ductless and window units.
The Best of DeLonghi
When it comes to design, few rival the Italians. From sports cars to home appliances, the Italian designers excel at creating functional and beautiful objects that make lives better.
The company has been selling portable air conditioners in the US for over 30 years. De'Longhi has developed technology for portable ACs called “RealFeel”. This mode maintains the ideal temperature and the ideal humidity in a room. This is a really handy feature as it saves money on energy. It also means you don’t need to constantly remember to adjust the fan-speed, the technology in the unit will do it all for you.
Easy to Install and Set Up
The portable units are simple to install. Taking one out of the box, installing the window kit and switching it on takes a matter of minutes and needs no tools at all. The instruction booklets are clear, full of good quality diagrams and well-explained.
Quality/Durability
The Delonghi Pinguino series is durable and long-lasting, giving years of smooth operation with regular maintenance.
The Ductless mini-split ACs are equally well-designed and perform well under all conditions.
The Drawbacks
Here are a few drawbacks:
Noise
Some of the negatives are related to the noise. Portable ACs from DeLonghi are not whisper quiet as the manufacturer claims, although customers agree that the unit is much quieter than other models. With air conditioners, it is impossible to completely eliminate noise, but at least you can still watch TV in the room with a running DeLonghi AC.
How Does DeLonghi Compare to the Competition?
DeLonghi has many different features that make it stand out from its competitors. Let’s go over some of the main ones that make their air conditioners stand out:
Remote Control
DeLonghi ACs mostly come with wireless remote controllers that make their air conditioners stand out. The remote controls are full-featured and have many different options pertaining to what kind of settings you want to change. You can customize the temperature settings, or even adjust the fan speeds.
Auto Oscillating Louvers
Louvers in an air conditioner allow the air (either hot or cold) to be directed anywhere you want. This is a high-end feature that you will find in DeLonghi air conditioners and is one of the many innovative features that it comes with.
Dehumidifier and Energy-Efficient:
Many of the DeLonghi air conditioners come with a de-humidifier, which is great, especially if you want the room to be warmed or cooled without opening the door to your room. They are also energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. For example, the portable air conditioners made by DeLonghi come with an innovative Bio-Silver technology that aims to remove bad odor or mold inside the tank and recycle water to give out cold air.
Comparison of the Best DeLonghi Air Conditioners
Let’s now compare the different models of DeLonghi Air Conditioners to see which one is most suited for your need:
Model Name | Unit Size (Pounds) | Energy Efficiency (SEER) | Home Sq. Ft. | Condenser Fan Motor (i.e., Single vs. Two) | Cooling Capacity (BTUs) | Heating Capacity (BTUs) | Cost of Unit Only |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
KFHHP-18-ID / KFHHP-18-OD | 28.7 / 130.1 | 13.25 | - | Single | - | - | - |
KFTHP509 | 80 | 15 | - | - | 9000 | 9000 | - |
KFCHP522 | 180 | 20 | - | Single | 22000 | 26000 | - |
PACAN140ES | 91.9 | - | 600 | - | - | - | $629.99 |
PACN130HPE | 67.6 | - | 500 | - | - | - | $463.11 |
PACAN120EW-3A | 68.4 | - | 450 | - | - | - | $349.98 |
Quick Take: Best DeLonghi Air Conditioners
These are our recommendations for the best DeLonghi air conditioners:
Review of the Best DeLonghi Air Conditioners
Now that you’ve gone over the comparison table, let’s look at the reviews of the best DeLonghi air conditioners, to find the one that’s made for your home:
1. Soleus KFCHP522
PROS
CONS
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is an amazing air conditioner that has many high-quality features. It also comes with a wireless remote controller to manage the temperature settings or fan settings. It powers on a cooling capacity of 22000 BTUs and a heating capacity of 26000 BTU. This air conditioner also comes with a programmable timer, which can power on the unit at any time and turn it off whenever required. An air filter is also included, which can be removed at any time for easy cleaning. The remote control also comes with an LCD display that is very user-friendly and super easy to operate.
This split system provides your home with 21,000 BTUs of cooling and 26,000 BTUs of heating capacity so you can keep your room comfortable all year with one convenient unit. It features an inverter that provides high-efficiency performance.
It has a SEER rating of 20 and comes with a remote control. It uses the Eco-friendly R-410A refrigerant. The unit is louder than some of the other Soleus models, with an indoor noise rating of 49 dB at high cooling.
Bottom Line
If you’re on the hunt for an air conditioner that has a lot of impressive features and optimal performance, then this is the one you should choose. It has the capacity to heat or cool a room and is environmentally friendly as well. It also comes with 4 different fan settings that can be changed whenever desired through the help of the wireless remote controll. The LED display on the remote is very user-friendly and easy to use. It also makes maneuvering the unit’s settings much easier. If you’re looking for all those features in an AC, you should consider this model. It also comes with an outdoor version.
Product Specs
Cooling Capacity:
22,000 BTU
Weight:
130.10 lbs
Voltage:
208-230V
Energy Efficiency Features:
SEER: 20
dB (decibel) Level:
Heat, Cool
2. Soleus KFHHP18
PROS
CONS
Why it Stands Out to Us
This cooling system is a great machine and comes with many innovative features. The inverter technology allows the motor to perform more efficiently with better comfort for the user. It is also super quiet and noiseless so that you can sleep comfortably at night. Moreover, the inverter can increase or decrease the compressor’s capacity to adjust the indoor unit’s demand. This makes the best use of the motor when needed, while also reducing electricity bills for the consumer. The design of the air conditioning unit is also very sleek, stylish, and visually appealing. It’s dove white and can match any kind of room decor.
This unit has five operating modes: cool, heat, dehumidify, auto, and fan. It also has four fan settings. It has oscillating louvers and programmable settings including timer, temperature mode, an adjustable digital thermostat, and a remote control.
It comes with removable and washable air filters. Its cooling capacity is 18,000 BTU and has a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating) rating of 16.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for something sleek, sophisticated, and elegant, then this is the air conditioner for you. This unit is not only attractive in its appearance but is also equipped with smart technology to make efficient use of its motor. The inverter can decrease electricity bills for the user so that they can save on electricity costs while also getting the comfort out of the air conditioner system. It also comes with a wireless remote controller that can be used to change the temperature settings of the air conditioner without getting up and going to the actual unit.
Product Specs
Cooling Capacity:
18000 BTU
Voltage:
208-230V
Energy Efficiency Features:
SEER: 13.25
dB (decibel) Level:
Heat, Cool
3. Soleus KFTHP509
PROS
CONS
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is a great air-conditioning unit that has many different features. It powers on a cooling capacity of 9000 BTUs and a heating capacity of 9000 BTU. It also comes with a wireless remote controll to manage the temperature settings or fan settings. This air conditioner also comes with a programmable timer that can turn on and turn off the AC-unit whenever needed. An air filter is also included, which is detachable for easy cleaning. The remote control also comes with an LCD display that is a convenient addition and is very easy to use. It is also environmentally friendly.
This split system provides your home with 9,000 BTUs of cooling and 9,000 BTUs of heating capacity so you can keep your room comfortable all year with one convenient unit. It features an inverter that provides high-efficiency performance.
It has a SEER rating of 15 and comes with a remote control. It uses the Eco-friendly R-410A refrigerant. The unit is relatively quiet, with an indoor noise rating of 38 dB at High cooling.
These portable AC models by DeLonghi are also a good pick.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for an air conditioner that works like a dream at a good price, then this is the one you should choose. It also comes with 4 different fan settings that can be changed whenever desired through the help of the wireless remote controll. The motor is capable of cooling, as well as heating the room. The LED display on the remote is very easy to use and can change the temperature and fan settings. It also makes operating the AC-unit’s settings much easier. This model comes in an outdoor version as well and has the same features as this indoor unit.
Product Specs
Cooling Capacity:
9,000 BTU
Weight:
80 lbs
Voltage:
208-230V
Energy Efficiency Features:
SEER: 15
dB (decibel) Level:
38 dBA
Modes:
Heat, Cool
4. Pinguino PACAN140ES
PROS
CONS
Why it Stands Out to Us
This portable air conditioning unit is made with different features that are quite impressive. It comes with electronic controls that make managing the settings of the air conditioning unit very simple and easy. There is also a remote control included in case you want to change the temperature or adjust the fan’s settings. The innovative technology embedded in this portable AC-unit is also quite unique. It comes with a Bio Silver filter that prevents the growth of any bacteria or mold inside the filters so that there is no stench or bad odor. It is also designed to operate seamlessly without making any noise.
This power allows it to comfortably cool up to 450 sq ft. with its 14,000 BTU of cooling power. It allows you to easily see the temperature and set the timer, mode of operation, temperature, and other functions through the six soft-touch buttons and backlit LCD screen. The unit offers three fan speeds and a useful auto mode which adjusts the fan speed to suit the current and required room temperature.
Due to the weight of 72 lbs (33kg), it’s not built for much lifting. However, there are handles on the side and casters for rolling the device. The “Whisper Cool Mode” in this unit allows it to operate at 45 dB, which is quieter than a refrigerator.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a portable air conditioning unit, then this is the one for you. It comes with many different features and is designed with leading innovative technology for the user’s ease and the unit’s functionality. It can also be set up in a matter of a few minutes and has castor wheels that can be used to transport the air conditioner from one place to another easily. The bio silver filter is also another nice addition that manages the water inside and ensures that there is no mold or bacteria growing inside. Overall, this is a one-of-a-kind portable air conditioning unit.
Product Specs
Cooling Capacity:
6,800 BTU
Dimensions:
17.8 x 13.5 x 30.3"
Weight:
72 lbs
Voltage:
115V
Coverage Area:
600 sq. ft
Energy Efficiency Features:
CEER: 5.82; Eco Real Feel
dB (decibel) Level:
49-53 dB
5. Pinguino PACN130HPE
PROS
CONS
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is a comfortable and portable air conditioner that comes in a stylish and sleek package. It is a powerful unit that packs in 4 functions in one system. It is a portable air conditioner that also has a heat mode. It can cool, dehumidify, fan, or heat a room measuring 500 square feet. This means that this machine can be used at any time of the day for any season. It also has a no-drip technology that recycles water to prevent any leakage or mold forming in the air vents, and it comes with a 12-hour timer that lets you cool or heat the room beforehand.
The 130HPE provides 13,000 BTU of cooling, which is enough to cool 500 sq. ft. of room (a room about 22 square feet). The heat pump is rated at just over 3800 watts, so it’s not enough to replace central heating. But it will keep any room comfortable during cooler early spring and autumn months.
The control panel across the top has touch buttons below a combination of lights and printed symbols. This allows you to control the fan speed, operating mode, on/off switch, timer, and other features. A small LED displays the set temperature. A remote control is also included.
It weighs 67.5 lbs, so keep this in mind if you want to move it up and downstairs daily. The unit has handles on the side of the unit to help make it easier to lift, and caster wheels for rolling it about.
Maintenance is easy, the air filter is the only thing that needs to be dealt with on a regular basis. During the time when you are using the unit, the filter needs to be removed and cleaned out every one or two weeks.
Bottom Line
This is a great portable air conditioner that you can purchase as it has all the great qualities and functionalities of an amazing AC-unit, and it can also be set up in minutes. It comes with a wireless LED remote that can be used to adjust the fan speed settings or the temperatures. It also has a strong cooling power that cools a room of about 500 square feet. You can enjoy a full night’s rest by just turning the air conditioning unit on and going to sleep as the motor doesn’t make any sound and gives you just the right temperature for sleeping comfortably.
Product Specs
Cooling Capacity:
15,000 BTU
Dimensions:
15.5 x 17.5 x 29.5"
Weight:
67.46 lbs
Voltage:
115V
Coverage Area:
500 sq. ft
Energy Efficiency Features:
SEER: 13
dB (decibel) Level:
54 dB
Modes:
Cool, Fan, Dry
6. PACAN120EW
PROS
CONS
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is a great air conditioner that is packed with high-class performance. It is an impressive unit that comes with many different features. It has a real feel mode feature that allows the user to balance the temperature of the room, as well as de-humidify the room. It can cool or heat a room measuring 450 square feet. It also has a no-drip technology that recycles water to prevent any leakage or mold forming in the air vents, and it comes with a 24-hour timer that lets you cool or heat the room beforehand.
This portable AC has gained the respect of many customers. It has 12,000 BTU/hr of cooling power, perfect for rooms of up to 450 square feet. It uses a re-circulation system for dripless and bucketless operation.
The set up is easy and the unit de-humidifies as it cools the air to keep you comfortable. The Whisper Cool Mode creates 50% less noise, letting you sleep peacefully. It’s got a 24-hour digital on/off timer and a 3-in-1 function that enables the unit to act as an air conditioner, de-humidifier, and fan.
Bottom Line
This easy-to-setup and convenient portable air conditioner is all you need to make your room as comfortable as ever. This powerful machine comes with a wireless LED remote that can be used to adjust the fan speed settings or the temperatures. It is also designed with castor wheels to transport the air conditioner from one room to another easily. It also comes equipped with a Bio Silver filter for easy breathing, and to prevent any mildew from forming inside the vents. Overall, this is an impressive air conditioning unit that will satisfy any household.
Product Specs
Cooling Capacity:
12000 BTU
Dimensions:
15.5 x 17.5 x 29.5"
Weight:
68.4 lbs
Voltage:
115V
Coverage Area:
450 sq. ft.
dB (decibel) Level:
53 dB
Modes:
Whisper, Cool
Finding the Best Prices
Use our handy tips to score a good deal on your DeLonghi portable, or mini-split AC.
DeLonghi portable ACs are usually bought directly through their online store or authorized resellers and online. They have partnered with retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond, and others.
Generally, people rush to buy portable air conditioners during summer, when they urgently require an AC during a heatwave. But if you want to save money it’s best to plan ahead.
An easy way to save money on your portable AC is to buy in the winter when demand for air conditioners is lowest. Many retailers have excess stock in their inventory during the off-season so they encourage sales by offering discounts. Brick-and-mortar stores might not stock these items during winter but may offer sales at the end of summer into early autumn.
Just like central ACs, ductless systems need to be installed. The best time to get your new units installed is fall or spring, when HVAC professionals are less busy. When selecting an installer, make sure they offer the service you need with good warranties. Often, you may find installers offering lower rates but they may end up doing a shoddy job due to a lack of training and awareness. Never cut corners when it comes to the installation of your ductless AC.
Another way to save money is rebates. Check online to see if there are any offers, rebates or incentives being given by your state or local utility for replacing an outdated AC system with a newer, more efficient one. You should also check with the AC reseller to see if they offer any rebates. If you’re lucky, you may be able to score a triple discount with the manufacturer, the state and the local utility giving you rebates.
When installing a mini-split system, ask for at least 3 bids from various installers before you make the decision. Ask them to factor any applicable tax rebates and state incentives on efficient appliances into the bid. Since it may require a few days or weeks of waiting to get a quote, start getting quotes well in advance of when you expect to get the new system.
What Kind of Warranty Does DeLonghi Offer?
DeLonghi offers different kinds of warranty depending on the parts of the air conditioner. For example, if the product is a compressor, it comes with a 5-year warranty. However, the air conditioner itself comes with a warranty of 1 year after the purchase of the product. This includes the free parts or the labor that is required to fix any of the parts inside the air conditioning unit. There are also several terms and conditions you must go over:
Consequential or Incidental Damage
The warranty does not cover any damage that is caused by you consequentially, or incidentally. However, in some cases, this law can be excluded, but generally, this is what the warranty claims.
Third-Party Involvement
This warranty is also not applicable to third-parties, or if there is damage to the product due to a representative who is not from DeLonghi. Lost and damaged products will also not be covered in the warranty.
Shipping Costs
DeLonghi will bear the shipping costs of the item that needs to be returned due to repairing or fixing. However, they will not be held responsible for any in-transit damage that occurs to the product that is being delivered.
Company History
The company was founded by the DeLonghi family in 1902 as a small industrial-parts manufacturing workshop. Although the company has traditionally been a major producer of portable heaters and air conditioners, it has expanded to include nearly every category of small domestic appliances.
DeLonghi is especially well known for the Artista Series espresso machines, the DeLonghi gelato maker, and the Pinguino portable air conditioner.
DeLonghi's 2000 acquisition of Climaveneta SpA and DLRadiators allowed DeLonghi to enter the commercial HVACR (Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning and Refrigeration) market.
DeLonghi acquired the British appliance maker Kenwood in 2001, giving DeLonghi access to Kenwood's Chinese factory. As a result, many of DeLonghi’s products are now imported from China, but design and engineering remain largely in Italy.
In 2006, DeLonghi purchased a majority stake in RC Group, a leading player in information technology cooling, strengthening its presence in the HVACR market.
In all, DeLonghi operates 13 production facilities and 30 international subsidiaries that support sales to 75 countries worldwide. International sales account for nearly 75 percent of the group's total revenue.
Conclusion
Consider DeLonghi ACs if you’re looking for well-designed ductless and portable ACs supported by a company with a long history of HVAC products in the US. These ACs are not the highest-end products.
They are designed for buyers who need an AC to keep them cool under various conditions. Many of the AC models have both heating and cooling components so they are suited for dual-use functions, but the heating is usually sufficient only for mild weather.
