how to vent portable air conditioner without window

how to vent portable air conditioner without window

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How often have you tried to cool off during summer only to realize that you don’t have a window or a door to open? If you live in a hot country, then you probably face this problem every day. 

The good news is that you can now solve this problem with a portable air conditioner (see also ‘How To Clean Air Conditioner Drain Line Like A Pro‘).

But just how can you vent a portable air conditioner if you are lacking a window? Well, we have the answers you need!

What Are Portable Air Conditioners?

Portable air conditioners are designed to provide cooling comfort for a limited time period.

They are compact, lightweight, and affordable. These devices are ideal for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, etc.

You can easily install these units into almost any room in your home. In addition, they come equipped with a variety of features, including remote control, timer, fan speed adjustment, and even a built-in humidifier.

These units also offer great versatility. For example, if you want to add some extra cooling power, simply connect an extension cord from the unit to an external power source. This will allow you to use the AC while it’s plugged into the wall socket.

Portable Air Conditioners Vs Central Air Conditioners 

When it comes to choosing between portable air conditioners and central air conditioners, there are many factors that you need to take into consideration.

Here are some of the main differences between these two types of air conditioning systems:

Costs 

Central air conditioning systems typically cost much more than portable air conditioners. However, because they require a dedicated ductwork system, they are generally more expensive to purchase and maintain.

Energy Efficiency 

Central air conditioning systems (see also ‘Window Unit vs Central Air Conditioner’) are far less energy-efficient than portable air conditioners, which makes them significantly more costly to operate.

Maintenance Costs 

Because central air conditioning systems require regular maintenance, they’re often more expensive to repair than portable air conditioners are.

Durability 

Central air conditioning units are made from heavier materials that are designed to withstand the rigors of everyday life. As such, they tend to last longer than portable air conditioners do. 

What Are Some Advantages of Using Portable Air Conditioners?

There are many advantages to using portable air conditioners over traditional central air conditioning systems. Here are some of them:

1) Portability – You can take your portable air conditioner anywhere without worrying about where you’ll plug it in. It doesn’t matter whether you’re at work, on vacation, or out shopping–you can always keep yourself comfortable.

2) Environmentally Friendly – Portable air conditioners are considered environmentally friendly because they don’t require electricity to operate. Instead, they rely on natural energy sources like wind, solar, and water.

3) Convenience – Since portable air conditioners are so easy to use, you won’t be spending hours trying to figure out how to run the system properly. You can quickly turn the device on and adjust its settings right away.

4) Cost Savings – Because portable air conditioners are more efficient than central air conditioning systems, you may find that you save money by installing one instead of buying a new central system.

5) Flexibility – With a portable air conditioner, you can enjoy cooling comfort indoors or outdoors. Depending on what type of weather you’re experiencing, you can either set up the unit inside or outside.

6) Safety – When used correctly, portable air conditioners do not pose any safety hazards. However, if you choose to place the unit near flammable materials, make sure that there is adequate ventilation around the area.

7) Quietness – Most portable air conditioners are very quiet. Even when operating, they emit no noise whatsoever.

8) Ease of Use – The majority of portable air conditioners are extremely simple to use. All you have to do is plug the unit in and then adjust the temperature and fan speeds.

9) Durability – Portable air conditioners tend to last longer than central air conditioning systems. If you invest in a quality model, you should expect to get years of service out of it.

10) Energy Efficiency – While most portable air conditioners aren’t quite as energy-efficient as central air conditioning systems, they still provide significant savings.

How To Vent A Portable Air Conditioner Without A Window 

Venting a portable air conditioner without a window is more than possible, and there are a number of ways that this can be achieved. Some of the most popular and simple include:

Vent A Portable AC Unit Through The Door 

If you live in an apartment building, chances are good that you have a door that leads directly to the outside. By placing your portable air conditioner through this door, you’ll be able to vent it easily.

Use An Existing Window Or Screen 

Another option for venting a portable air conditioner is to use an existing window or screen. This will allow you to install the unit wherever you’d like.

Use The Ceiling Fan 

While ceiling fans are usually associated with indoor spaces, they also make excellent vents for outdoor units.

Simply attach the portable air conditioner to the fan’s motor shaft, and you’ll be able to direct the airflow into the surrounding environment.

Place Your Portable AC In The Garage

Finally, if you live in a house with a garage, you might consider using that space as a way to vent your portable air conditioner.

Venting Through The Chimney

In some cases, the chimney itself can serve as a great vent for a portable air conditioner. There are two main reasons why this is true.

First, the chimney provides a convenient opening for the air to escape from the unit.

Second, the roof overhangs and walls of a home often create a drafty atmosphere. 

By installing your portable air conditioner at the top of the chimney, you can prevent this problem altogether.

Ceiling Venting (Most Commonly Used In Windowless Offices)

A common method of venting a portable air conditioning system is by means of a ceiling vent. These are typically found in office buildings where windows are prohibited.

They work much like a standard vent, but instead of being placed above the room, they’re placed on the wall behind the desk.

Vent The AC Through a Nearby Wall

This method works best if you live in a single-story residence. It involves attaching the portable air conditioner near one of the walls and then running a duct from its exhaust port to the nearest window.

Venting Through Another Room

You may not want to run a duct from your portable air conditioner to another room, but you could always place it in another part of the house.

For example, you could put it in the basement, attic, or even under the floorboards.

Venting Through A Bathroom Window

If you don’t mind having a portable air conditioner in your bathroom, you could simply run a duct from its exhaust outlet to a nearby window.

Venting From A Deck

You could also install a portable air conditioner on a deck or balcony. Just remember to keep the unit away from any flammable materials such as wood.

Venting With A Ducted System

The last option we’ll discuss is how to vent a portable air conditioner through a ducted system.

You’ll need to purchase a small box that connects to the unit’s intake and exhaust ports. Then you’ll need to run a new duct from the box to the desired location. 

Why Is Learning How To Vent A Portable Air Conditioner Without A Window Important?

Learning how to vent a portable air conditioner isn’t just useful for those who live in apartments. It’s also important for homeowners who want to save money on their heating bills. 

By learning how to vent a portable AC unit, you’ll be able to reduce the amount of power used by your device.

You’ll also be able to improve its efficiency, which will ultimately lead to lower utility costs.

6 Things To Know When Using a Portable Air Conditioner

To make the most of your portable air conditioner, here are the main things you need to consider when making your purchase: 

1. What Size Should I Buy?

The size of your portable air conditioner depends on several factors. For example, the size of your room will determine whether you need a small, medium, or large unit.

If you plan on living in a very hot climate, you may want to buy a larger model. On the other hand, if you don’t mind spending less money, then you should opt for a smaller one.

2. Do I Need A Filter?

Some people believe that a filter is essential when using a portable air conditioning unit (see also ‘How To Clean Your Air Conditioner Filter In 5 Easy Steps’).

However, filters aren’t necessary unless your unit has a built-in HEPA filter. Most models have these filters already installed.

3. Where Can I Install My Portable Air Conditioner?

If you want to install your portable air conditioner in a place that won’t be affected by drafts, you should choose a spot that doesn’t face an open window.

This will help keep your equipment cool during the summer months.

4. How Much Does it Cost to Use a Portable Air Conditioner?

Portable air conditioners (see also ‘Is It Cheaper To Leave Your Air Conditioner On All Day?’) come in different prices. Some cost more than others, so make sure you shop around before buying yours.

5. What Are the Advantages of Having a Portable Air Conditioner Installed?

Having a portable air conditioner installed in your home can provide numerous benefits. One benefit is that it can cut down on energy usage.

Another benefit is that it can increase comfort levels. Finally, having a portable air conditioner can help protect against mold growth.

6. How Long Will It Take to Install a Portable Air Conditioner Unit?

Installing a portable air conditioner is usually a simple process. The hardest part of the installation is actually getting the unit into position.

Once it’s in place, all you have to do is connect it to electricity and plug it in.

How To Make Your Portable Air Conditioner Last Longer

In addition to ensuring that you are venting your portable air conditioner properly, there are extra steps that you can take to ensure that your unit lasts for years to come, and offers the best possible value for money.

Here are some tips to make your portable air conditioner last longer:

1. Keep It Clean

Keeping your portable air conditioner clean will help prevent dust from building up inside it. Dust buildup could cause your machine to overheat and even burn out.

2. Change Your Filters Regularly

Changing your filters regularly will ensure that they’re working properly. Changing them every two weeks is recommended.

3. Check The Electrical Wires

Checking the electrical wires periodically will help you find any problems with your unit. Problems like loose connections or damaged wiring could cause your unit to stop working altogether.

4. Turn Off The Power Supply When Not In Use

When not in use, turn off the power supply to your portable air conditioner. Leaving the power on while the unit isn’t running will shorten its lifespan.

5. Avoid Overloading The Machine

Overloading your portable air conditioner (see also ‘Air Conditioner Won’t Shut Off‘) could damage it. Don’t overload your unit because this could lead to overheating and possible malfunction.

6. Be Careful With Water

Never put water directly onto the compressor of your portable air conditioners. Doing this could damage your unit. Instead, pour water over the condenser coil.

7. Consider Using A Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat allows you to set the temperature at which your portable air conditioner operates.

This way, you’ll never have to worry about manually adjusting the settings when you leave for work or go to sleep.

8. Check The Manual

Your manual will tell you how often you need to change your filter and what kind of maintenance you need to perform on your unit.

You may also get information about other things you should know about your unit.

Final Thoughts

A portable air conditioner can be a great addition to your home, but ensuring that it is adequately vented is important for preserving and extending the lifespan of your unit, and ensuring that your air conditioner lasts for years to come.

Photo of author

BY M. Kogan

Hello, I am Marcio. I am an architect and designer, alma mater is Mackenzie. Retired in theory, but an architect never retires completely. Along with architectural projects, I am a filmmaker and have completed some short documentaries. Filmmaking and design are my passions. In HomeQN I write about home decoration and foundations. The goal is to teach homeowners to DYI as much as possible, and when this is not possible, enable them through knowledge, to evaluate service quotations and choose the best service technicians.

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