The Whynter ARC-122DHP is efficient in spaces of up to 400 square feet - it offers 12 000 BTU cooling and 10 000 BTU heating output. The angle of the deflector on this unit is adjusted so that the air shoots forward, going up at about 40 degree angle - this way the cool/warm air gets spread evenly around the room.
Energy-efficient dual hose setup.
Heating, cooling, fan and dehumidify modes.
Performs really well in cooling and OK in heating.
Easy to use.
Auto drain feature.
This unit self-evaporates most condensate under average conditions, but if it's really humid, an automatic internal condenser pump for continuous drainage kicks in. You can connect the drain tube to the exhaust tube and direct the water outside, or just put a bucket beside the unit and let the water drain there. This way the water tank never gets full, which means that the compressor won't shut off on its own.
The ARC-122DHP is one of the quietest portable AC units available - it does not exceed 52 dB, approximately the level of a calm conversation at home. The loudest part is when the compressor cycles on and off, but it is mostly not audible over the fan. However, if installed in the bedroom, it can still wake you up if you're a light sleeper.
The window kit comes in two lengths - 26''-28'' and 36''-38''. It rarely fits the window perfectly, most people need to cut the plank and add air conditioner foam weather stripping, used for window units. The instruction manual doesn't help much, because it's poorly written (lacks some information on how to connect the hose and how to detach connector from the window kit).
When in AC mode, the fan is on continuously, there is no way to set it to turn off automatically after a while. The condenser cycles on and off, but the fan doesn't, and it can emit a high-frequency sound when set on medium or high speed.
While this is not the cheapest unit, it does have some serious features and aspects to back its price. In fact, it is very complicated to find a matching competitor to this air conditioner with a price tag below $480.
Besides air conditioning, this unit also cleans the air through its double filtration system, removing unwanted odors and allergens. It can also work as a dehumidifier or just a fan.
The unit’s cooling capacity is 14 000 BTUs, meaning that it can cool a large space in a short time. The manufacturer says that it’s best suited for spaces up to 500 sq. ft., so it should be enough to cover a small flat, a large living room, or even a workshop.
This AC uses an innovative auto-drain system that pulls moisture out of the air and turns it around to cool the air. Using moisture this way not only helps to save on electricity bills, but it also eliminates the hassle of draining the unit from condensate often.
Some customers have complained about the lack of customer service and that replacement parts after the warranty has expired are expensive. It might be a good idea to invest in an extended warranty.
On top of the dehumidifier and fan mode, this air conditioner also has a night mode. This mode automatically raises room temperature gradually during the night to create a more pleasant atmosphere for sleeping.
This is one of the most powerful portable air conditioning units on the market, having a cooling power of 14000 BTU and being able of pushing air through really quickly. As a result, it can cover up to 700 square ft. of space. That is, in fact, enough for a whole flat, a large storage space, or a server room.
This unit weighs 74 pounds, putting it on the heavy side. While it may be easy to push around, most likely you will need a second person if you want to lift it up.
This AC will cost you considerably more to operate than less powerful units. It can draw a maximum of 1350 W when operating, which is approximately the same as a dishwasher.