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Best Commercial Portable Air Conditioner Reviews 2023 (Complete Guide)

Shopping for commercial portable air conditioners to cool down spaces and maintain a pleasant atmosphere? 

Then you have come to the right place. 

Commercial settings usually experience a large task force, numerous customer visits, and a lot of product display or machinery setups. The crowded spaces require robust cooling systems to maintain a comfortable environment for both workers and the clientele. 

Commercial portable air conditioners provide the same functioning as fixed air conditioners but with the added ease of convenient movements. You can move them from one place to another, like to the lunchroom during break hour to provide maximum comfort for your workers.

Their ability of spot cooling lowers the necessity of large air conditioners in commercial settings that not only raise the electricity bill but also require some time and energy before the area starts cooling. Hence, commercial portable ACs are being widely adopted as a money-saving and convenient alternative in place of fixed air conditioners.

portable air conditioner commercial

What’s in this buying guide?

This guide gives you a complete picture of commercial portable air conditioners. We begin by discussing in detail some of the best options in commercial portable air conditioners. You will get an in-depth review of each of the products on our list. 

We will then take a look at the different types of commercial portable air conditioners. This will help you decide what type will best suit your needs according to your commercial settings' nature.

Furthermore, we will discuss the main attributes/features that must be considered while buying a commercial portable air conditioner. The know-how of these features will help make the right decision.

You will also get to know about the pros and cons associated with these commercial portable air conditioners.

Maintenance is crucial for any system’s longevity and efficiency, and commercial portable air conditioners are no exception. You must know the proper maintenance requirements of these air conditioners to experience their best performance. For this reason, we end the article by giving you some helpful insight and tips on how to best maintain the system.


Best Commercial Portable Air Conditioners

Disclaimer: All links below go to Amazon.com

MIDEA MAP10S1CWT 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner, Dehumidifier, Fan, for Rooms
  • MIDEA MAP10S1CWT

  • Best for intensive use
  • BTU


    10,000

  • Humidifier
    Yes

  • Wi-Fi enabled
    Yes

  • Remote controlling

Black + Decker BPACT08WT Portable Air Conditioner, 8,000 BTU
  • Black + Decker BPACT08WT Portable Air Conditioner

  • Sleek and compact design
  • BTU
    8,000

  • Humidifier
    Yes

  • Wi-Fi enabled


    No

  • Remote controlling

Black + Decker BPACT10WT Portable Air Conditioner, 10,000 BTU
  • Black + Decker BPACT10WT Portable Air Conditioner

  • Quiet operation
  • BTU
    10,000

  • Humidifier


    Yes

  • Wi-Fi enabled
    No

  • Remote controlling

Commercial Cool CPT12HW6 Portable unit Air Conditioner, White
  • Commercial Cool CPT12HW6 Portable unit Air Conditioner

  • Most user-friendly design
  • BTU


    12,000

  • Humidifier
    Yes

  • Wi-Fi enabled
    No

  • Remote controlling

Commercial Cool CCPACT08W6C 8000 BTU, White
  • Commercial Cool CCPACT08W6C

  • Best deal for the money
  • BTU
    8,000

  • Humidifier
    Yes

  • Wi-Fi enabled


    No

  • Remote controlling


1. Best for intensive use: MIDEA MAP10S1CWT

portable air conditioner commercial

Our first pick is a high-performing portable air conditioner by MIDEA. MIDEA has a long range of air conditioners known for their robust performance. This portable model has a lot to offer and can easily cool rooms and offices in commercial settings.

The 10,000 BTUs are enough to cool rooms that measure up to 200 square feet in size. The cooling capacity is uncompromised because the air conditioner is compliant with the DOE SACC California energy commission testing standards. The compliance deems the appliance very effective and convenient to use.

Before anyone can begin using the air conditioner, they need to install it. But since this appliance is portable, it does not have a complicated installation procedure. The exhaust hose for the air conditioner is included in the package, along with the window kit.

All you have to do is adjust the kit in the window and attach the hose to it so that hot air can be vented out. The appliance comes with easy-to-read instructions, and the steps are easy enough for anyone to perform. You will hardly need the help of a technician.

Fast and direct cooling lowers the temperature of your room, office, cabin, shop, etc., in no time. Not only that, but the air conditioner also works as a humidifier and a fan.

Therefore, your environment remains pleasantly cool and fresh. If you feel the need to switch off the air conditioning but still keep the space ventilated, you can easily turn on the fan and enjoy a comfortable environment.

When assessed in terms of ease of use, the MIDEA MAP10S1CWT did not disappoint. It features an LED display that you can read easily. The display shows settings for the timer, mode, speed, and temperature, etc., while the remote control makes changing between settings more convenient. 

To top it all off, MIDEA provides users with the convenience of controlling their air conditioner via a smartphone app over WiFi and allows pairing with digital assistants like Google Assistant and Alexa. Now you can turn on your air conditioner and control settings before arriving so that you are greeted by a pleasant atmosphere. 

Various control settings are available to enhance the utility of this portable commercial air conditioner. You can select any of the three modes; fan, dehumidifier, or air conditioner, depending on the requirement.

Temperature settings range from 62°F to 90°F. A 24-hour adjustable timer allows you to set the cooling time beforehand. Moreover, a sleep mode is available that provides an optimal resting environment maximizing comfort. 

The air conditioner is low maintenance. You need to clean the air filters that are installed to reduce air impurities, dust, germs, etc. All you have to do is take them out and wash them under a faucet. Let them dry before putting them back in; there is no need to buy new filters again and again.

All in all, this air conditioner is a very competent appliance for use in commercial settings. It is powerful, performs well, and has features that ensure ease of use.


commercial portable ac units


The second pick is a very stylish commercial portable air conditioner by Black + Decker. We know that having an aesthetic commercial setting does not only enhance productivity but also attracts customers. For such settings, this air conditioner satisfies the need for style and flair while providing optimal performance.

With 8,000 BTUs of cooling capacity, the air conditioner is ideal for rooms, offices, shops, and commercial areas ranging up to 150-170 square feet in size. Even if you have limited space, you can easily fit this small model inside the room. It measures 16.5 x 11.5 x 26 inches and can be set in small nooks and corners. 

Like all other portable air conditioners, the Black + Decker BPACT08WT Portable Air Conditioner also features smooth rotating wheels at its base that you can use to move it. In order to set it up, all you have to do is attach the 4’11” hose between the unit and the window adapter. A double-hung or sliding window will suffice. After that, just plug it in, and the cooling will begin.

Three fan levels, low, medium, and high, allow you to set the controls according to your likeness. This portable commercial air conditioner can also be used as a dehumidifier in addition to a fan and an AC.

Usually, you have to turn off the A/C if you want to use the dehumidifier, but this model dehumidifies while it cools. Due to the self-evaporating operation, your spaces remain cool, dry, and clean. It also eliminates the need for buckets or drains pans. In addition, the 24-hour timer gives greater ease of use and saves energy. 

Refrigerants have become a cause of concern due to their violations of environmental codes. Some air conditioners may have refrigerants that make spaces harmful to breathe in.

However, you don’t have to worry about that when it comes to the Black + Decker BPACT08WT air conditioner. This model uses R410a refrigerant, which is environment- and health-friendly. 

A remote control feature is also available, and an LED display shows the present status of the settings. The filters are easily washable, and washing them twice a week keeps them clean and in prime condition. 

Often, noise is a problem with any type of air conditioner. In fact, many models produce a deep humming sound. However, this model works quietly and noiselessly. 

For all those looking for a good performance packed in a sleek design, the Black + Decker BPACT08WT is a very favorable option. It runs on 8000 BTUs and is ideal for spaces that measure up to 150 square feet. 


portable commercial air conditioner


The Black + Decker BPACT10WT lives up to the expectations associated with the brand name. This is the smallest portable AC among our picks and features a robust cooling system with a user-friendly style and design.

Working on 10,000 BTUs, you can use this air conditioner in spaces measuring up to 200 square feet. Commercial settings require constant cooling and hence the air conditioner needs to run continuously.

The Black + Decker BPACT10WT Portable Air Conditioner is designed to work long hours without compromising performance. You can set them up and run them all day long to make summer days cool.

The model requires a power of 1150 Watts and runs on 11.5 Amperes and 115 Volts. Usually, power outlets of 120V are present in commercial settings, offices, and homes. These regular outlets are enough to run this commercial portable air conditioner. 

Featuring three modes, i.e., fan, dehumidifier, and AC, the air conditioner provides a great solution to hot, humid days. It dehumidifies while cooling the room so that the environment is pleasant, dry, and cool. Plus, the self-evaporating technology makes clean up easy as there is no need for a drain bucket or pot. 

One of the best features of this model by Black + Decker is its noiseless operation, making it one of the quietest units. When placed on firm ground, the model makes no sound. Under high-speed cooling, the model produces an unnoticeable sound level of 53db.

But, this is further lowered to 51db when the model is put on sleep mode. This mode provides optimal cooling for relaxing and produces no discernable noise, allowing you to work or rest in peace. 

It further features three different fan modes, i.e., high, medium, and low, so the air conditioner allows you to customize settings according to your mood and requirement. The coolest setting of 65°F beats the heat of a hot day in commercial settings, including offices or shops.

Many commercial settings require a quiet working environment. The Black + Decker BPACT10WT Portable Commercial Air Conditioner is ideal for such settings. It is stylish, powerful, easy to assemble, and noiseless.


4. Most user-friendly design: Commercial Cool CPT12HW6

best commercial air conditioners


Air conditioning units can get a little hard to understand at times. But mostly, portable air conditioners are easy to install and have an uncomplicated control panel.

Our next model features various small details that make for quite a user-friendly design. You won’t find it hard to operate or handle it at all. This is the reason why it is also one of the best residential portable ACs.

Perfect for spaces up to 400 square feet, this portable commercial air conditioner runs on 12,000 BTUs. It is capable of running long hours, keeping the environment cool and dry. Fast and direct cooling lowers the temperature within moments.

Not only that, but the unit can also act as a heater. Therefore, you can use it around the year, especially since it serves as a one-stop appliance for all seasonal requirements.

portable commercial ac units

The unit is overall quite sturdy. Like all other models, the inner machinery is fully covered by an outer wall or cast. This wall is quite dependable and does not damage easily. Often, when moving the unit around, it may bump into objects, furniture, or walls. However, its outer shield is strong enough to resist damage.

Furthermore, the unit features caster wheels. These can rotate 360°, making moving this unit hassle-free. The washable filters are within easy reach.

They can be taken out twice a month, especially in the hot months, for washing. The package comes equipped with a hose and window adjustments. Plus, since the unit runs on 115V, regular 120V wall outlets are sufficient to power it.

An added feature that we don’t usually see in many commercial portable air conditioners is the air outlet residing at this model's top. When turned on, the outlet for the cool air emerges at the top.

Within the slits, adjusters for regulating air direction are also present. This allows maximum control over air regulation for users. Handgrips at the sidewalls of the unit are also present to make movement easy. 

Moreover, the Commercial Cool air conditioner is equipped with useful control settings like a 24-hour timer, three modes, temperature variations, and a sleep mode. The window adjustments fit most horizontal and vertical windows. An instruction manual is also included in the package, which provides a step-by-step guide to setting up the air conditioner.

Various little details in the design and final layout of this model enhance the user experience. The friendly design facilitates the user and makes the use easy and problem-free. 


5. Best deal for the money: Commercial Cool CCPACT08W6C

commercial portable ac units


Commercial Cool has quite a lineup when it comes to commercial portable air conditioners. The CCPACT08W6C is one such option that has a sturdy build and works on 8,000 BTUs. 

Equipped with all high-end features like remote controllability, three-mode operation, easy cleaning, etc., the Commercial Cool CCPACT08W6C comes at a very affordable price. There is no compromise on performance or quality, yet the unit is one of the least expensive commercial portable air conditioners on the market. 

It is lightweight, runs on 110V, and offers auto-evaporation technology to eliminate the need to clean up after a drain bucket.

Moreover, to ensure maximum customer facilitation, the brand offers pictorial guidance to measure your window size. This model combines all the superior features that enhance the usability of a portable commercial air conditioner into one. Not only that, but the one-year manufacturer’s warranty further increases the value of the deal. 

Anyone looking for a portable air conditioner for smaller industrial settings, including offices and small shops, might be interested in the Commercial Cool CCPACT08W6C. It provides all the features available in other more powerful units but at a lower price and with a warranty.


Types of Commercial Portable Air Conditioners

Even in summers, different climates prevail in a country. Some areas are hotter than the others, while others are drier compared to humid regions. With continuing innovation, different types of portable air conditions for commercial settings have been designed. 

Because it is hard to halt commercial activities for long times even if it gets too hot, manufacturers have introduced different types of portable air conditioners in the market.

These types mostly differ on the system they are based on and the number of units they use. Such differences also separate them according to suitability for various climates. Let’s take a look at the three most common types of commercial portable air conditioners.

Ductless portable air conditioners:

This type of portable AC is usually seen in large commercial buildings that require cooling in more than one room. The system acts like a miniature split AC and has two units at least. The outdoor unit is placed outside in the open, while the indoor unit is placed in the room. The two are connected via a thin duct that passes through a small hole in the wall. 

The indoor unit removes warm air and passes it on to the outdoor unit through the duct. The outdoor unit then dissipates it as heat. These portable ACs have limited mobility but more power than most other designs. 

Furthermore, if you want to cool more than one room, you can attach multiple indoor units from different rooms to the same outdoor unit. They are, however, pricier than other designs and involve complex installation procedures. Such units are best suited for very warm climates but without much problem of humidity.

Air Exhaust portable air conditioners:

All the commercial portable air conditioners that we have reviewed above are portable ACs that employ hot air exhausts. These units only have an indoor unit with a hose connected to them. The hose is used to release the hot air to the outside environment through a window. 

Such models are great at maintaining a pleasantly cool environment because they often double as dehumidifiers. Hence, they are more suited to humid areas. They are truly portable and come with many advanced control settings, including timers and fan modes, etc.

Water-based portable ACs

A water-based portable AC uses water to cool down the temperature of the commercial setting. It does not need an exhaust system and works on a single unit without any ducts or hose, providing a ventless option. You can move it anywhere without interrupting functioning, unlike the other two types that require a set up in other rooms before use. 

To power it, you need an outlet and a water source. The AC uses water to cool the air. Very little heat is dissipated in this type of portable AC. However, it might cause some humidity within the room. Hence, it is best suited to arid and dry areas.

best commercial air conditioners

How to Select the best commercial portable Air Conditioner for your needs

You might be wondering how to choose the right commercial portable air conditioner when there are so many options to choose from. Even though the market is saturated with numerous options, not all will suffice for your needs. 

Hence, before making the purchase, it is best to assess some of the main attributes and features related to these ACs and then match them to your needs. This way, you will find the AC best suited to your requirements. Below we discuss the main attributes or features you should consider before buying a commercial portable air conditioner. 

Size of your space:

The foremost consideration is the power of the portable air conditioner and the size of your commercial space. The bigger the area, the more BTUs it requires for cooling. Starting small, 8000 BTUs can cool up to 150 square feet. As the BTUs increase, the air conditioners can handle larger spaces. For instance, 10,000 BTUs can cool up to 300 square feet and so on. 

You must take into account the size of your commercial setting before buying a portable AC. If the AC has less than the required BTU, then the place won’t cool efficiently. Conversely, if the BTU surpasses the requirement by a large margin, not only will you get unnecessary electric bills, but the environment will also become uncomfortably cold. 

Control Panels:

Not all commercial portable air conditioners allow you to set a timer or run the system in different modes. Some are not even remotely controlled. Therefore, you must consider if the unit you buy satisfies your programmability requirements. 

While some units only have limited temperature settings, others have different modes, timers, noise levels, oscillation, and many more features in addition to multiple temperature settings. 

Portable ACs with numerous controls are more suited for enclosed, small, and sophisticated settings. Meanwhile, a unit with limited settings and temperature controls low enough to provide a pleasant working environment is best for large and crowded settings. 

Drainage systems:

There are three systems for getting rid of the condensate water in a portable AC: partially evaporative, fully evaporative, drain hose systems. Partially evaporative releases most of the water through the exhaust, but they might need a small tray to get rid of the condensing water under extensive use. 

Fully evaporative does not need any drainage, and they remove all the condensates via the exhaust hose. Drain hose requires a separate drainage hose that empties into a bucket or pot for removal of condensate. 

If you want a low-maintenance portable AC that does not require emptying the tray every once in a while, then the partially evaporative system would be suitable for you. But if you do not want to spend any time cleaning or emptying the water, then you should invest in fully evaporative technology. Those who do not mind emptying the drain buckets will find the drain hose system suitable.


Pros and Cons of Commercial Portable Air Conditioners

Portable air conditioners are recognized as a modern solution to the cooling needs around the world. They have many advantages associated with them. However, they have their fair share of drawbacks. Let’s have a look at both aspects. 

Pros:

Portable air conditioners are far more convenient to use than fixed air conditioners. This is because of the following reasons:

Portability: 

Arguably, the best feature of this type is that you can move them around from one place to another. They are lightweight and equipped with wheels that aid with moving.

This eliminates the expense of installing a different air conditioner in every room. You can use them to cool one room after the other. This saves energy and lowers the cost of electricity bills.

Less expensive: 

Split air conditioners, window air conditioners, or central cooling are different types of fixed ACs that can cost up to thousands of dollars to buy, install, and maintain.

A portable air conditioner with the same BTUs costs much less. Commercial portable ACs with high BTU, such as 14,000, cost between $500 and $600, which is much more affordable than competing fixed ACs with the same BTU.

Easy installation and minimal maintenance: 

For fixed and central cooling systems, you need to hire technicians for proper installation. The process is complex and requires manpower. As a result, a common man cannot perform the task of installation. Paying the technician per hour further raises the cost associated with fixed ACs. 

Portable ACs, on the other hand, do not require complex setting up. They come with few parts and clear instructions. Anyone can install a portable AC. Moreover, unlike fixed ACs that require the services of a technician, users can clean portable commercial ACs themselves. All they need is occasional dusting and regular washing of easily approachable filters. 

Cons: 

The downsides associated with portable commercial ACs are discussed below.

Noisy operation

While a lot of different brands provide features of noiseless operation in commercial portable ACs, usually, these units are noisier than fixed systems. This is especially true if they are placed on an uneven surface or squeaking wood floor. Firm ground is a crucial factor in noise reduction for portable ACs.


Maintenance of Commercial Portable AC

Here are some helpful tips on how to maintain a commercial portable AC in prime condition. Don’t worry; you will not need extensive processes, nor will you need to hire a technician for help in these simple tasks. However, if some problem goes beyond your understanding, we strongly recommend consulting a technician before handling the AC yourself.

Proper placement and storage: 

As mentioned before, the noise reduction feature of portable ACs works best on firm ground. Therefore, you must place it on a solid surface in a straight position. It is best to set up a place for your AC in a corner to avoid bumping and tangling with the hose.

Protect the hose: 

Make sure to not drive the wheels of the AC over the hose or ducts repeatedly many times. This might cause the hose to break. In such a case, you will need to fetch a new hose of the right size from a hardware store, or the warm air will keep leaking into your room. Also, you should keep the hose straight and without any tangled knots.

Clean the filters: 

The filters in a portable AC are quite reachable. All you need to do is open the panel housing the filters and remove them. The site of the panel differs from model to model.

You can easily wash the filters with gentle rubbing to get rid of debris or dust. Once dried, put them back and continue using your commercial portable AC. Ideally, this should be once or twice a month under normal use.