The Ultimate Fight Against Heatwaves: Top Portable and Wearable ACs to Consider
2020 has been an interesting yet devasting year thus far, as consumers around the world were warned of the drastic effects of COVID-19. This pandemic on its own has negatively impacted everyone in terms of their physical, emotional and mental health. To make things worse, this summer is expected to be daunting due to a record-breaking warm weather alert issued across the globe. In fact, air, sea surface and ocean heat have all supposedly increased, leaving one to combat heat on a daily basis.
Although there are different means of staying cool, including windowsill and central ACs, drinking tons of water or going for a swim, these are either deemed insufficient or too costly for most families. How can one temporarily fight off this anticipated heatwave? This is where the likes of portable and wearable ACs come into play.
As technology continues to advance, numerous innovative products constantly hit the market. Two that stand out from the crowd are portable and wearable air conditioners because 1) they are lightweight, 2) they are portable, 3) they use up less energy than standard air conditioners, and 4) they provide cooling effects while also sanitizing the air we breathe.
The main question that is likely to come up in one’s mind is how something so small capable of offering a wide range of benefits. To answer this question, extensive research on portable and wearable air conditioners was conducted. As a result, details regarding its role, multifunction and matchless facets have been unveiled. Here’s everything there is to know regarding an innovative take on standard air conditioners.
Top Portable and Wearable ACs That Cannot Be Missed
The innovation inside the portable air conditioning industry has been impressive as incredible inventions are coming to light that are worthy of using on a daily basis to cool, humidify and purify the environment around you. Here are the top 3 best portable air conditioners to buy in 2020 as these personal AC units all met the ranking criteria required to be listed.
Blaux Portable AC
Price: $89.99
Blaux Portable AC is a 3-in-1 unit that cools, humidifies and purifies the air. Designed to handle seasonal heatwaves, it ensures that each and every individual attains the necessary cooling to survive not only heat, but also unwanted toxins. Ultimately, it is likely to enhance many areas of health, ranging from one’s skin to the respiratory system.
How does Blaux Portable AC work?
As per the claims made, Blaux Portable AC is run by USB and only requires a small lithium battery. Individuals are required to pour water into the unit from above (each purchase comes with instructions), place the provided filter and simply turn it on. If the device comes to a halt, it simply means that it is low on battery. In this case, the delivered type-C cable must be plugged into a power source to get it running back up again.
What features does Blaux Portable AC have?
Based on the claims made by the company, Blaux, their portable AC is:
- Transportable and compact
- Comes with 3 fan speeds
- Has 3 embedded gears that determine how long the AC will run
- Long battery life
- Easy to clean
- Built with a noise level under 40dB
Blaux Wearable AC
Price: $69.99
From the same company that unleashed the power of the Blaux Portable AC comes yet another innovative device: the Blaux Wearable AC. Blaux Wearable AC is described as a personal air cooler and purifier that can placed around one’s neck.
How does Blaux Wearable AC work?
Blaux Wearable AC Plus works by using a thermoelectric cooling plate. So, with the thermoelectric effect, a temperature difference is created by passing heat between two electric junctions. When the DC current flows through these junctions, one side is heated up, while the other is cooling. Besides cooling, this device is expected to cleanse the air through its embedded ionizer and antibacterial filter.
What features does Blaux Wearable AC have?
As suggested on the official website, Blaux Wearable AC:
- Moves 1.9 cubic feet per minute
- Has 3 fan speed modes
- A LED ring for power and charging status
- Works up to 30 hours
- Includes back cooling with thermoelectric cooling plates
- Contains an ionizer and antibacterial filters within the fan
- Is designed so that noise level under 40dB
Ultra Cool Portable AC
Price: $99.98
Ultra Cool Portable AC is multifunction unit that can be used as an air conditioner, humidifier and air purifier. In other words, it provides cool air to fight off heat, while at the same time clearing the air of harmful particles and dust.
How does Ultra Cool Portable Work?
Ultra Cool Portable AC is designed to mimic water evaporation so that one’s atmosphere is on par. It includes a fan and evaporative filters so that hot, dry and dirty air is captured and cleansed before releasing it as cool air. As for its uses, individuals are suggested to pour water directly into the top of the unit as indicated, insert the replaceable water curtain and to basically turn it on.
What features does Ultra Cool Portable AC have?
Ultra Cool Portable AC is portable, allowing everyone to carry it as required without any hassles. Other features include:
- Its compact design so that it can easily be placed on the smallest of surfaces
- It does not require an electrical outlet, as its cordless feature promotes utmost convenience
- 3 fan speeds for different weather requirements
- A variable louver so that air can be directed
Ultra Cool Wearable AC Plus
Price: $49.98
To kick things up a notch, the creators behind the Ultra Cool Portable AC have also introduced the Ultra Cool Wearable AC Plus. Rather than carrying it around, it is wearable, meaning that it can be worn around one’s neck. Simply put, the Ultra Cool Wearable AC Plus is described as a high-tech, personal air cooler that provides cool, clean and refreshing filtered air.
How does Ultra Cool Wearable AC work?
Ultra Cool Wearable AC is designed similarly to that of the Blaux Wearable AC in the sense that it too contains a thermoelectric cooling plate. Hence, heat is stored in one end, while cool air is generated on the other. Upon turning on this device, it is cool air that ends up being released while heat remains detained.
What features does Ultra Cool Wearable AC Plus have?
According to the claims made, Ultra Cool Wearable AC Plus is an upgrade to Ultra Cool Wearable AC. Hence, more features have been included to enhance one’s overall experience. In terms of the standard model, individuals were provided with a device that
- Adjusts air flow
- Adjusts sizing
- Supports 3 fan speed modes (low, medium and high)
- Supports LED ring that indicates power and charging status
- Carries USB-C charging wire
- However, with the upgraded model, individuals are introduced to the aforementioned features as well as:
- Personal thermal cooling
- Added neck cooling vents
- An ionizer
- Antibacterial filters.
UV Cooler
Price: $105
UV Cooler is a portable air cooler that silently unleashes cools air. With an advanced set of filters, individuals can anticipate the air breathed in to be as cleansed as possible. What sets this portable cooler apart from others is that it also includes an aromatherapy mode.
How does UV Cooler work?
UV Cooler serves three roles: cooler, purifier and promotes aromatherapy. The first two are pretty straight forward, as individuals will be exposed to cool and cleansed air respectively. As an aromatherapeutic agent, UV Cooler allows one to add some essential oil into the water tank so that with released air, individuals can achieve relaxation.
What features does UV Cooler have?
What makes UVCooler unique is that it could reduce room temperature to as low as 5 degrees Celsius within a matter of 20 minutes. Some of its other notable features include:
- Adjustable louvers
- 3 speed fans
- Lasts up to 8 hours because of its large water tank
- 7-Color LED lighting
- An ionizer
- A Thermostat with programmable timer
- Noise level under 68dB
Crucial Factors Behind Our Ranking Criteria
There are a number of crucial factors that help to identify effective portable and wearable air conditioners among an extensive list of offerings. These include the BTU cooling rate, cooling area, model specifications, filtration processes, noise level, additional features and price factor.
Cooling Rate:
BTU cooling rate determines how much heat a portable or wearable air conditioner can clear within a specific area. As portable air conditioners take up very little space, it is unrealistic to hope that is can release cool air to a large surface. For this reason, any product that falls into a BTU cooling rate of 5,000 and 12,000 BTUs per hour was accepted. This is equivalent to a cooling area of anywhere between 150 and up to 550 square feet. As for the wearable air conditioner, this factor was not considered as it is meant to satisfy the cooling needs on an individualistic basis.
Specifications:
As for the model specifications, many of these devices are relatively small. For instance, the portable air conditioners were chosen based on a maximum dimension of 7.4 by 7.1 by 7.1 inches so that it can be placed on the smallest of surfaces. In addition, the weight of the device was considered, as individuals are probably excited and eager to carry it around.
Filtration:
Next up we have filtration processes. Traditional air conditioners are becoming something of the past because of their uni-function. Sure, cool air is the main goal here, but if a similar device can enhance air quality for much cheaper, why would anyone turn it down? The portable and wearable ACs that made this list house unique filtration processes that promote better health while ridding heat.
Noise:
Following that, comes noise levels. Noise is commonly measured in a unit called decibels. The accepted range deemed quiet enough is between 30 and 60dB. To ensure that individuals are not distracted by noise in any way, the portable and wearable air conditioners that made this list had to satisfy this range.
Features:
As many of these devices serve very similar roles, it was important to assess any additional features that can set them apart. For instance, one might focus on a device that solely humidifies air, while others might retort to different approaches (i.e. purifier, air filter, ionizer, etc.).
Price:
Finally, comes the most sought for factor: price. Traditional air conditioners are usually high in price and consume far too much power. Due to these limitations, many have avoided purchasing air conditioners even if it means that they have to suffer through heatwaves. To prevent such decision making and to provide consumers of all financial backgrounds a chance to take advantage of such devices, this list only supports products that fall between $40 and about $100USD. In addition, a minimum money back guarantee of 30 days was compulsory in picking select devices over others.
How do Portable and Wearable ACs work?
The main function of the portable and wearable ACs is to provide cool air. This requires a specific type of cooling technology.
Cooling Technology
Both portable and wearable air conditioners are similar in function because they rely on a notion called, thermoelectric effect, also referred to as the “Peltier effect” or the “refrigeration cycle”. This cooling technology creates a voltage difference between two electrical junctions so that air temperature is varied then divided.
In other words, the embedded fan captures warm and humid air within a room (or outside depending on where it is used) into the unit. Inside this unit, there exists thermoelectric cooling plates, where the absorbed heat is carried and stored into one side of the plate, while cold air is separated on the other end. The cool air at the other side of the junction gets released and promotes a cooling effect.
Besides the necessary cooling technology housed within each of the listed devices, additional functions have also been considered. These primarily focus on air quality. Here’s a summary of what they entail:
Humidifier
The most basic role that humidifiers play is that they release water vapor into the air to increase humidity levels. This approach ensures that dry areas are supported by moisture. When achieved at optimal levels, individuals can anticipate bettered skin and lips, and in many cases, has been found to promote better sleep.
That said, when individuals consider a portable or wearable air conditioner with a humidifier, it is important to test one’s surrounding for humidity levels. The acceptable range is 30 to 50% and this can be tested using a hygrometer. Although adding humidity into the air has its perks, it becomes pointless if proper care has not been provided. Dirty humidifiers have been linked to an increase in fungus, molds and other harmful bacteria. This, as a result, can easily deteriorate one’s health.
Purifier
While a humidifier expels moisture, a purifier literally cleanses the air. In this case, it targets unwanted pollutants, allergens and toxins. The way in which a purifier removes particles depends on its type, as some might sanitize said particles, while others merely neutralize them without actually filtering them out. Studies suggest that purifiers are helpful for individuals with allergies or asthma, however, this should be used as an additional measure and should not replace medications.
Ionizer
Ionizers are designed to create negative ions around airborne contaminants found in the air. By establishing a bond between the created ions and the unwanted particles, the overall weight increases; forcing the particles to drop to the closest surface.
The benefit of such a device is that surrounding air is as clean as it gets because all of the particles have been suspended. With that in mind, individuals need to realize that these particles aren’t completely gone. That is, instead of floating, they are now stuck either to the floor, furniture, carpets, tabletops, etc. Therefore, extra cleaning will be required to prevent the particles from refloating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a portable AC?
As the name suggests, a portable air conditioner is one that can be easily transported. Unlike traditional air conditioners that need to sit on a windowsill or offer central cooling, portable ACs have been designed in a compact design to create more space and convenience for consumers.
What electrical requirements do portable ACs have?
Given that most of these portable air conditioners are small in size, they typically require anywhere between 100 and 240V. The charging cable for such devices usually requires 2A or above. That said extra wiring of any sort is not required.
Why are there three gears to portable ACs?
The three gears determine how long the portable AC has been charged for and as a result indicates its running time. According to the claims made, the first gear ensures that it works with a fully charged battery for 8 hours, while the second and third gears run for 4.5 and 2.5 hours respectively.
What are the three fan speeds of portable and wearable ACs?
The three fan speeds found in both types of air conditioners are low, medium and high. Each speed comes in handy depending on the overall temperature. Obviously, a low speed is best when the sun is not out yet or even at night. Those who relied on the medium speed found it to be adequate during late mornings and afternoons. In all other cases, high speed will be needed. Altering between the different speeds is usually recommended to avoid constant recharge.
Can portable ACs be left running all day?
Yes, portable ACs can be left running as long as one pleases. However, the maximum number of hours it can work for is 8 hours and this is after having charged the device in complete.
How often do the water curtains need to be replaced?
Without proper care, the embedded water curtains are expected to last well beyond 6 months. Hence, individuals are highly encouraged to clean the filters to prolong its lifespan.
What room size do portable ACs support?
The portable ACs found in this list support small- and medium-sized rooms. This means that individuals can use it in bedrooms, bathrooms, playgroups and even office spaces that are up to 300 square feet or up to 700 square feet respectively.
Do all portable air conditioners require manual removal of water?
Not all portable air conditioners require manual removal of water, however, those mentioned above do because they are basic designs. Since portable air conditioners have been designed to take moisture out of warm air, this very moisture needs to be eliminated somehow. In this case, individuals might have to remove water from the water tank every 8 hours or so.
What is the difference between single-hose and dual hose designs?
A single-hose design implies that the portable air conditioner has one hot air exhaust hose, while a dual hose design implies that it has one for air intake and for hot air exhaust. The difference between the two is this notion of negative pressure.
With the single-hose, air is captured, cooled and released out of the air conditioners’ exhaust hose. Negative pressure means that some of the air is being removed. This doesn’t happen with the dual hose, because one hose takes air from outside and uses that same hose to release air, while the second hose eliminates hot air.
All that being said, the portable air conditioners above do not house such tiring systems. In fact, it only requires its water tank to be filled with water and the filters cleansed from time to time.
What are antibacterial water filters?
Antibacterial or antimicrobial water filters help to prevent bacterial growth. Given that both portable and wearable air conditioners can be used for long periods of time, this could increase the risk of bacterial growth. Hence, water filters today include a bacteriostatic agent so that filters can last extensive periods, which otherwise would not be possible due to bacteria formation.
What factors are important when selecting a portable AC?
Since most portable air conditioners are multifunction, individuals will have to decide what facets are more appealing to them. That said, the most important facets that one should bear in mind include the BTU cooling rate, cooling area, filters and price. Other features can be chosen to one’s likings.
Are portable and wearable ACs energy efficient?
To assess whether or not portable and wearable air conditioners are energy efficient, individuals should take a look at the Energy Efficiency Rating (EER) on their respective purchases. In general, a high rating infers increased energy efficiency. On that note, both devices require very little energy, so the associated costs will surely drop in comparison to that of central or windowsill AC.
What is a wearable AC?
A wearable AC is as self-explanatory as it gets; it is a cooling system that can be worn around the neck. It usually comes with adjustable air flows so that cool air can be directed in any direction.
Are wearable ACs safe for long hair?
Yes, wearable ACs are deemed safe for long hair and even clothing because its rooted, patented technology ensures that these components are not sucked into it. That said, it is always safe to have hair tied up in a ponytail to avoid any possible accidents.
What does a wearable AC run on?
The wearable AC runs on rechargeable battery. To charge the device, individuals have been recommended to use a standard USB cable. Though it is unclear as to how long it will take to fully charge it, said device includes a LED ring that indicates when it has been sufficiently charged. On that note, a full charge can last up to 30 hours.
Do wearable ACs cool the body?
Yes, although wearable air conditioners are worn around the neck, the cooling area can be focused towards the rest of the body.
Can a wearable AC be adjusted to fit 20-inch necks?
Yes, in fact, wearable air conditioners have been designed to fit most neck sizes. It is as simple as adjusting the device to match one’s neck size.
Will a wearable AC feel heavy when hanging on the neck?
No, it will not feel heavy because wearable air conditioners are intended to be lightweight and comfortable.
Is it safe to let the wearable AC running constantly?
Although wearable air conditioners can last up to 30 hours on full charge, it is best to avoid wearing it for consecutive periods of time. The longer they are used without any breaks, proper air flow is not initiated. This results in increased heat at the back of the neck, which defeats the purpose of using such a device.
Can wearable ACs be worn during physical activities?
Yes, there are no limitations on when to use wearable air conditioners. However, if the physical activity involves too much movement, it might be best to wait after the activity to avoid it from falling off.
Is the wearable AC quiet enough to be worn while watching TV?
According to verified customers, the wearable AC is generally quiet enough to be worn while watching TV. Having said that, it might be most beneficial to have the fan speed set to low so that it doesn’t get in the way.
Can the wearable AC be worn while it is being charged?
Although the wearable AC can be worn while it is being charged, this is usually not recommended because certain power sets might not be safe. For this reason, individuals are better off waiting until their respective devices have been charged prior to using them.
Final Thoughts
A traditional air conditioner is capable of cooling large areas; however, it falls short on energy consumption (and costs), requires extensive maintenance, can be extremely noisy and is quite restricted due to its position and weight.
Portable and wearable air conditioners have been designed by coming up with a solution for all of the aforementioned flaws. In fact, they go as far as promoting improved air quality, which is a function that most standard air conditioners do not support.
With portable and wearable conditioners, individuals no longer need to worry about unnecessary costs and its overall setups. Most of all, noise levels have been controlled to the bare minimum so that it neither irritates nor distracts anyone. While this respective market is filled with a number of mobile ACs, many of them don’t even come close to the likes of Blaux, UV Cooler and others found on this list because the former typically requires a good amount of space and need additional venting processes in the form of exhaust hoses.
After researching the overall function of portable and wearable ACs, these devices are definitely head turners, which explains their popularity. They serve multiple purposes, come in a small yet fashionable design and include a wide range of features that is surely to garner many people’s attention. Moreover, they are motivating because the maintenance is nowhere near tedious. To be quite frank, the cleaning process is said to last under 10 minutes.
Ultimately, the top picks found in this list are based off our own ranking criteria. Hence, the goal here isn’t to shame all other portable and wearable ACs with similar designs, instead, it is to see whether the determining factors of an effective air conditioner have been satisfied. These of course can vary from individual to individual depending on their own needs, climate, and preferences. This isn’t the end of our research, as the future is surely to hold far more innovative product. So, be on a lookout!
