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Quick Answer: How To Store Portable Air Conditioner

Keep your portable air conditioner away from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure will discolor the plastic housing and turn it yellow. Store your portable AC in its original box or cover it with a tarp or sheet. Store the slider kit, power cord, and remote nearby, to make sure they don’t get misplaced before spring.

Can you store portable AC in garage?

To be at all effective, a portable unit needs a vent to the outside. HVAC professionals universally agree: a portable AC technically could be used in a garage, but it will work poorly and you will be disappointed with the results. Window air conditioner – Your standard window AC unit is a good choice for most garages.

Can you lay a portable air conditioner down?

A portable AC should not be tilted, inclined or laid on its side or back during operation. This could lead to permanent compressor failure due to oil deprivation and inability to retain condensate causing it to spill on floor. Portable air conditioners are designed to be operated in upstanding position only.

Can a portable air conditioner freeze?

The second reason your portable air conditioner may not be venting air is frost on the cooling coils, also known as the evaporator coils. This happens when the low temperatures around the coils cause water to condense. If the water doesn’t drain properly, it can build up and freeze around the coils, hampering air flow.

Can air conditioner be stored in Shed?

Avoid putting your A/C unit in the garage or a backyard shed as critters might make it a home during the winter, and mice and other rodents tend to chew on the wires and insulation. Instead, place it in your home’s basement, attic or utility room.

Can I store my portable air conditioner outside?

It’s best not to store your air conditioner in an outdoor garage or anywhere else that might be subject to freezing temperatures. Outdoor storage areas can also be vulnerable to pests such as rodents and insects, which can chew through the box and get dirt, bacteria and feces inside of the air conditioning unit.

What happens if you don’t vent your portable air conditioner?

What happens if you don’t vent a portable air conditioner. If you don’t use the exhaust hose, then your portable AC will not cool your room. It will blow all the heat right back into your room. By removing the vent hose and running your portable AC, you can turn your portable AC into a dehumidifier.

Do air conditioners need to be stored upright?

Store air conditioners in their upright position. Storing an air conditioner on its side or back can damage the compressor. If you must store an air conditioner on its side, let it rest in the upright position for an hour before turning it on next year.

How long do you have to let an air conditioner sit?

A portable air conditioner (as well as any other refrigeration appliance) should be allowed to rest for 30 minutes after being moved. This will allow fluids to settle into their proper places before the appliance is started. Starting too soon can potentially damage the appliance.

What happens if you lay an air conditioner on its side?

When an air conditioner is turned on its side, this oil settles on the bottom half of the compressor and potentially deprives part of the compressor of oil, which can lead to damage and, eventually, compressor burnout. A sideways orientation can also damage the compressor mounting, which can affect operation.

How do I keep my portable air conditioner from freezing?

Ensure that your AC is set to “Cool” mode and see if it starts blowing cold. The “Mode” button on this portable AC is used to cycle between “Cool”, “Dry”, and “Fan” modes. Emptying the condensate tank regularly ensures that your portable AC won’t shut off due to a full tank.

How do you defrost a portable air conditioner?

The safest way to defrost your air conditioner is to let nature take care of the ice. Turn off your system from the control panel, then shut off power to the system at the breaker in your home’s electrical panel. Then just wait and let the ice thaw. Don’t try to pry the ice off with your hands or a sharp object.

How long do portable air conditioners last?

Portable air conditioners last from 5 to 10 years. Portable AC units can be moved from room to room and can generate anywhere from 8,000 BTU to 15,000 BTU of cooling output. Portable AC units have the lowest lifespan of all AC types because: They get moved around a lot.

How do I store my air conditioner?

An air conditioner should always be stored in an upright position. If you store the unit on the back or side, it can damage the compressor. This can lead to expensive repairs and maintenance issues. Storing the unit in an upright position will also allow the oil to resettle.

Can you store an air conditioner on its back?

The unit can be stored in a non-heated area, but be sure to keep it upright. If the unit is placed on its sides or back, the compressor could be damaged. If on its side or back for more than a day, leave in an upright position and unplugged for 24 hours. Larger units can be covered for protection from snow and ice.