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10 Best Energy Star Portable Air Conditioner 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner, 14,000 BTU for Rooms up to 700 Sq. Ft., Smart Portable AC with Follow Me Remote and Window Kit, BPACT14WT, White

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,225
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
50458 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Delivers powerful cooling quickly, capable of lowering room temperature within minutes and maintaining comfort efficiently throughout the day.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy consumption is moderate; it cycles on and off to maintain temperature, likely reducing electricity costs compared to continuously running models.
Noise Level
Operates noticeably quieter than many comparable units, allowing conversations and video calls nearby without disruption.
Portability Features
The unit’s size and weight make it less portable for frequent moves, but it remains manageable with proper placement.
Programmable Timer and Remote Control
Remote control lacks backlighting, making it difficult to read in low-light conditions, which could be improved for better usability.

The BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner offers strong cooling with 14,000 BTUs, suitable for rooms up to 700 square feet, making it a good choice for larger bedrooms or living areas. Its energy efficiency ratio (SEER) of 6.2 is decent, helping to manage electricity consumption without being the most efficient on the market. The noise level at 54 decibels is moderate—quiet enough for most living spaces but might be noticeable in very quiet rooms.

Portability is practical with its size and included window installation kit, though it weighs about 62 pounds, so moving it around may require some effort. A notable feature is its smart functionality, allowing control via an app or voice commands through Alexa and Google Assistant, plus the “Follow Me” remote that measures temperature wherever the remote is placed, enhancing comfort control. Besides cooling, it works as a dehumidifier and fan, which adds versatility during warmer months. The washable filter is easy to maintain, reducing ongoing costs.

On the downside, while it’s not overly complicated to set up, the unit’s size and weight may limit portability for some users. Also, the energy efficiency is average rather than top-tier, so power bills could be higher with frequent use. This BLACK+DECKER portable AC is well-suited for users who want a powerful, smart-controlled cooling unit for larger rooms with added dehumidifying capabilities, while accepting some trade-offs in noise and portability.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,225
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
50458 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Delivers powerful cooling quickly, capable of lowering room temperature within minutes and maintaining comfort efficiently throughout the day.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy consumption is moderate; it cycles on and off to maintain temperature, likely reducing electricity costs compared to continuously running models.
Noise Level
Operates noticeably quieter than many comparable units, allowing conversations and video calls nearby without disruption.
Portability Features
The unit’s size and weight make it less portable for frequent moves, but it remains manageable with proper placement.
Programmable Timer and Remote Control
Remote control lacks backlighting, making it difficult to read in low-light conditions, which could be improved for better usability.
#2

BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner, 12,000 BTU for Rooms up to 550 Sq. Ft., Smart Portable AC with Follow Me Remote and Window Kit, BPACT12WT, White

Rating
9.6
Cooling Capacity (BTUs
Noise Level
Portability Features

Most important from
50458 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs
The B&D unit easily cools the room in a few minutes and keeps it cool all day.
Noise Level
Overall, the unit is much quieter than previous models I've owned.
Portability Features
The hose attachment on the back of the unit is so much better and fool-proof, essentially locking in place and staying put.
Programmable Timer and Remote Control
The remote control screen could use illumination, as it's hard to read in dim light.

The BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner offers a cooling capacity of 12,000 BTU (ASHRAE) and 8,000 BTU (DOE), making it suitable for rooms up to 550 sq. ft. This unit stands out with its three-in-one functionality, acting not only as an air conditioner but also as a dehumidifier and fan. The 'Follow Me' remote control is a nice touch, allowing for more precise temperature control by acting as a thermostat. The unit is designed for easy mobility with built-in casters and side handles, making it simple to move from room to room.

The installation kit included makes setup straightforward, and the auto water evaporation feature reduces maintenance needs. However, the SEER rating of 5.8 indicates it might not be as energy-efficient as some other models. At 52 dB, the noise level is moderate but could be a concern if you're very sensitive to sound. The air conditioner includes environmentally friendly R410a refrigerant, adding a green touch. It's relatively heavy at 56.8 pounds, which might make it less convenient to move frequently.

The user-friendly LED display and top-mounted control panel, along with a programmable timer, add to its ease of use. This portable air conditioner is well-suited for those looking for versatility and ease of movement in cooling solutions, though it might not be the best choice for those prioritizing energy efficiency or noise control.

Rating
9.6
Cooling Capacity (BTUs
Noise Level
Portability Features

Most important from
50458 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs
The B&D unit easily cools the room in a few minutes and keeps it cool all day.
Noise Level
Overall, the unit is much quieter than previous models I've owned.
Portability Features
The hose attachment on the back of the unit is so much better and fool-proof, essentially locking in place and staying put.
Programmable Timer and Remote Control
The remote control screen could use illumination, as it's hard to read in dim light.
#3

BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner for Rooms up to 350 Sq. with Remote Control, White

Rating
9.5
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Noise Level
Portability Features

Most important from
50458 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
The BLACK+DECKER unit cools a room quickly and maintains a comfortable temperature throughout the day, even in a home office filled with heat-generating computer equipment.
Noise Level
This portable air conditioner is much quieter than other units, allowing for phone and video calls without needing to turn it off.
Portability Features
The hose attachment on the back of the unit is highly secure and stays in place, unlike other models where the hose tends to fall off.
Programmable Timer and Remote Control
The remote control is functional but could benefit from an illuminated screen for easier reading in dim light.

The BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner boasts a cooling capacity of 9,000 BTU (ASHRAE) or 5,300 BTU (DOE), making it suitable for rooms up to 400 sq. ft. It also functions as a dehumidifier and fan, adding versatility. The unit's Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) is relatively low at 5.4, which means it may not be the most energy-efficient option available.

Its portability is a strong point, with casters and side handles making it easy to move between rooms. The noise level is 54 dB, which is moderate and may be noticeable but not overly disruptive. The 'Follow Me' remote control is a convenient feature that allows for precise temperature control by acting as a thermostat. Additionally, the easy-to-install window kit simplifies setup. Maintenance is straightforward with a reusable filter.

However, at 52.9 pounds, it is on the heavier side for a portable unit. This air conditioner is best suited for those looking for a versatile, portable solution for medium-sized rooms, who don't mind a bit of noise and are okay with a lower energy efficiency rating.

Rating
9.5
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Noise Level
Portability Features

Most important from
50458 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
The BLACK+DECKER unit cools a room quickly and maintains a comfortable temperature throughout the day, even in a home office filled with heat-generating computer equipment.
Noise Level
This portable air conditioner is much quieter than other units, allowing for phone and video calls without needing to turn it off.
Portability Features
The hose attachment on the back of the unit is highly secure and stays in place, unlike other models where the hose tends to fall off.
Programmable Timer and Remote Control
The remote control is functional but could benefit from an illuminated screen for easier reading in dim light.

Buying Guide for the Best Energy Star Portable Air Conditioner

Choosing the right portable air conditioner can make a significant difference in your comfort during hot weather. An Energy Star certified model ensures that the unit is energy-efficient, which can save you money on your electricity bills and is better for the environment. When selecting a portable air conditioner, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs.
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)Cooling capacity, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), indicates how much heat the air conditioner can remove from a room per hour. This is crucial because it determines how effectively the unit can cool your space. For small rooms (up to 300 sq. ft.), a unit with 8,000-10,000 BTUs is sufficient. Medium-sized rooms (300-500 sq. ft.) require 10,000-14,000 BTUs, while larger rooms (500-700 sq. ft.) need 14,000-18,000 BTUs. Choose a unit with the appropriate BTU rating for your room size to ensure efficient cooling.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) measures the air conditioner's efficiency by comparing the cooling capacity (BTUs) to the power input (watts). A higher EER indicates a more efficient unit, which means lower energy consumption and reduced electricity bills. Look for units with an EER of 10 or higher for optimal efficiency. If you prioritize energy savings and environmental impact, a higher EER is essential.
Noise LevelNoise level, measured in decibels (dB), indicates how loud the air conditioner will be during operation. This is important for maintaining a comfortable and quiet environment, especially in bedrooms or offices. Units with noise levels below 50 dB are considered quiet, while those between 50-60 dB are moderate. If you are sensitive to noise or plan to use the unit in a quiet space, opt for a model with a lower noise level.
Portability FeaturesPortability features include the unit's weight, size, and the presence of wheels or handles, which affect how easily you can move the air conditioner from one room to another. Lighter units (under 50 lbs) are easier to transport, while heavier units (over 70 lbs) may require more effort. If you plan to move the unit frequently, look for models with sturdy wheels and convenient handles to facilitate easy relocation.
Dehumidification FunctionMany portable air conditioners also function as dehumidifiers, removing excess moisture from the air. This is particularly useful in humid climates, as it can improve comfort and prevent mold growth. The dehumidification capacity is measured in pints per day (pints/day). For moderately humid areas, a unit with a capacity of 50-70 pints/day is sufficient. In very humid environments, look for a higher capacity to ensure effective moisture removal.
Programmable Timer and Remote ControlA programmable timer allows you to set the air conditioner to turn on or off at specific times, which can help save energy and ensure your space is cool when you need it. A remote control adds convenience, allowing you to adjust settings from a distance. If you value convenience and energy savings, look for models with these features to enhance your user experience.
Filter Type and MaintenanceThe type of filter used in the air conditioner affects air quality and maintenance requirements. Washable and reusable filters are cost-effective and environmentally friendly, while replaceable filters may offer better filtration but require regular replacement. Consider your preference for maintenance and air quality when choosing a filter type. If you have allergies or respiratory issues, a unit with a high-quality filter is essential.

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