A loud portable air conditioner unit can be a distraction in many ways.
One of the problems with portable units is all the main components are combined into one package.
Standard central air most homes have separate the components outside so that a unit can run quieter than a portable model.
Keep in mind there are small home HVAC units called mini-splits that are much more affordable than an entire home air conditioner package.
Mini-split models run very quietly since all the main components, such as the compressor, are located outside away from home.
With that said, there are some portable models that make less noise than others. While they will always make some noise, let’s look at the quietest unit we have found.
As always be sure to read the reviews on Amazon or elsewhere to get the best unit for you and your home.
Our Picks for the Best Quiet Portable Air Conditioners
- Whynter 14,000
- Haier HPB08XCM
- LG Electronics LP0910WNR
The Whynter ARC-14S is a dual hose unit that has three fan speeds.
It is a well-built unit that hums along nicely when in use.
The noise level is about that of a home fan set on high. While it does make noise, it is not so high as not being able to have a conversation or go about your daily routine.
The Haier HPB08XCM is a nice portable unit with three fan speeds and cooling settings.
Much of the noise units make is how well they are built. Haier does a good job of constructing their AC packages.
Like other portable cooling, it does make some noise but is one of the better units in our opinion.
LG Electronics makes this popular unit.
It can cool a space of up to 200 square feet and also dehumidifies the space.
It has two speeds that, when it is on the high setting, it can be a noisy unit. On low, the noise is less so, and it makes less sound than many other models.
The fan is what makes the most noise as the compressor, like other models, makes noise when it first kicks on.
Summary
Any portable air conditioner unit will make some degree of noise.
The compressor and fan are the noisiest components and, unfortunately, are located directly inside the package.
The build quality can go a long way in making everything run smoother and less noisy.
Sometimes rough treatment, such as dropping the package or accidentally hitting it, will make it start emitting more sound.
Some level of noise should always be expected from a small portable AC unit.