Silence is a precious commodity. When looking for a portable air conditioner, one of the main concerns is finding one that is not too loud. Everyone wants a quiet portable air conditioner that won't disturb their sleep.
While most portable AC units are generally quiet, picking the wrong one can result in a noisy experience. To ensure a peaceful night's sleep, it's important to find an ultra-quiet portable air conditioner that generates less than 55 dB, even on the highest setting.
To identify the quietest portable AC units, LearnMetrics conducted a study on the 102 most popular models. Based on our analysis, we have compiled a list of the top 5 quietest portable air conditioners in 2024.
What Determines the Noise Levels of Portable AC Units?
There are two primary factors that contribute to the noise levels of portable air conditioners: airflow and the compressor.
1. Low Airflow, Colder Air Portable AC Units Generate Less Noise
The swirling sound made by a portable air conditioner is caused by the airflow. Increasing the cooling speed leads to louder noise as it requires higher airflow. Larger units also tend to be louder due to their higher airflow.
To minimize noise levels, opt for a portable AC unit with low airflow. These units deliver colder air in lower volumes, resulting in a quieter operation.
2. Inverter Compressors Make Less Noise Than Rotary Compressors
Another major noise generator in portable AC units is the compressor. There are two types: rotary compressors and inverter compressors.
Rotary compressors, commonly found in standard portable AC units, generate high noise levels due to their on-off operation. Inverter compressors, on the other hand, use a variable-frequency drive, resulting in a more tightly regulated cooling capacity and significantly lower noise levels.
When choosing a quiet portable air conditioner, opt for one with an inverter compressor over a rotary compressor.
3. Check the Specification Sheet for Noise Levels (Measured in dB)
When browsing for portable AC units, it's crucial to check the specification sheet for noise levels. Look for decibel measurements at different speeds, as this provides an accurate understanding of how quiet or loud a unit is. Some specification sheets may not include noise levels, which can be a red flag indicating that the unit is louder than average.
4. Consider Size (BTU), EER Rating, and Reliability
To find the best quiet portable AC unit, it's important to consider other factors beyond noise levels. Properly sizing the unit based on the room's square footage and using the EPA's recommended BTU per square foot guideline ensures optimal performance and minimizes unnecessary noise. Additionally, consider the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) rating, with a rating above 8.5 being highly energy-efficient. Reliability is also a critical factor to ensure a long-lasting and quiet operation.
Based on these considerations, we have compiled a list of the top 5 ultra-quiet portable air conditioners in 2024:
List of Best Ultra Quiet Portable AC Units (2024)
1. Whynter Elite ARC-122DS (Quietest Portable Air Conditioner in 2024)
The Whynter Elite ARC-122DS is the quietest portable air conditioner on the market. With a noise level of only 52 dB, even at full fan speed, it generates a noise level quieter than a standard fridge. It operates at an impressive 10.0 EER energy efficiency and can deliver up to 12,000 BTU of cooling power. The dual hose design and low airflows contribute to its whisper-quiet operation.
2. LG LP1022FVSM (Whisper Quiet LG Portable Air Conditioner)
The LG LP1022FVSM is known for its low noise levels, making it one of the quietest portable AC units available. With noise levels ranging from 44-53 dB, even at the highest speed setting, it remains impressively quiet. While sacrificing some energy efficiency, the LG LP1022FVSM focuses on reducing noise levels to provide a silent cooling experience.
3. Honeywell MN14CEDWW (Best Super Quiet 14,000 BTU Portable AC)
The Honeywell MN14CEDWW is a top contender for the quietest portable air conditioner. With a maximum noise level of 53 dB, it is the quietest 14,000 BTU portable AC unit. Its advanced dual hose design contributes to its high energy efficiency, boasting an exceptional 11.67 EER rating. The Honeywell MN14CEDWW provides silent operation and impressive cooling power.
4. De'Longhi Pinguino 4-in-1 (Super Quiet Small Portable AC)
The De'Longhi Pinguino 4-in-1 is a highly versatile and quiet portable air conditioner. With a maximum noise level of 52 dB, it excels in low noise operation. Its 4-in-1 design includes a portable air conditioner, heater, dehumidifier, and fan, making it a flexible cooling solution. Additionally, it offers smart connectivity for convenient control via a smartphone.
5. Whynter ARC-102CS (Quietest 10,000 BTU Portable AC)
For those seeking a smaller yet quiet portable air conditioner, the Whynter ARC-102CS is an excellent choice. With a maximum noise level of only 51 dB, it is the quietest 10,000 BTU portable AC unit available. While its energy efficiency and coverage are not exceptional, it offers a decent performance at an affordable price point.
In conclusion, finding the quietest portable air conditioner involves considering factors such as airflow, compressor type, noise levels, size, energy efficiency, and reliability. The list above showcases the top 5 ultra-quiet portable AC units in 2024, providing a serene cooling experience for any space.
