Room volume
Length, width and ceiling height establish how much air the unit needs to cool.
Free portable air conditioner finder
What size air conditioner do I need?
Enter your room measurements and the main sources of heat. The finder estimates a practical BTU class, explains what changed the result and compares suitable portable units.
Step 1 of 8Room type
Room type
How the BTU estimate works
Floor area alone misses important heat gains
Sun and glazing
Strong sunlight and extensive glazing can add substantially more heat than a shaded room receives.
People and equipment
Occupants, computers, monitors and televisions all release heat while the room is in use.
The model uses a transparent 45W per cubic metre starting allowance, then applies the selected room and heat-gain factors before converting watts to BTU/h at 1W ≈ 3.412 BTU/h. This is a practical comparison model, not a substitute for a professional cooling-load calculation.
Guides and advice
Learn before choosing an air conditioner
Before choosing
Portable air conditioner questions
How many BTU does my room need?
It depends on more than floor area. This calculator starts with room volume and then allows for sunlight, glazing, insulation, occupants, room use and heat-producing equipment. The result is rounded to a practical purchase class.
Does a portable air conditioner need a hose?
Yes. A compressor portable air conditioner must discharge hot air outdoors. A short, well-sealed exhaust route is important because an open gap can let warm air back into the room.
Can I use one portable air conditioner for several rooms?
A portable unit is generally most effective in one enclosed room with the exhaust installed correctly. Cooling several open rooms requires a proper cooling-load assessment and may be beyond the practical scope of a single portable unit.
Are portable air conditioners quiet enough for sleep?
The compressor and fan remain inside the room, so even models with sleep modes are audible. Compare the published noise range and consider pre-cooling a bedroom before sleep.
Does SetupSelect personally test these products?
No. The shortlist uses your answers and manufacturer-published specifications. Each recommendation links to its specification source so you can verify the details.