Energy Star is a program designed to help people save money and the environment. As of right now, Energy Star is unable to have their logo placed on any portable air conditioners. However, there are still portable air conditioners out there that use less energy than others. Although such units may not be able to bear the logo, Energy Star does have specific qualifications in which portable air conditioners can meet in order to live up to their standards. Some of these qualifications are having higher EERs, as well as being able to use 10% less energy than the standard model. So although Energy Star portable air conditioners may not exist as of yet, there are still energy efficient units out there. Listed below are a couple of the most energy efficient portable air conditioners to be found.
The Whynter SNO Arctica ARC-13W
This Whynter model is known to have one of the highest EER of any portable air conditioner. Its EER is 11.06. It also has 13000 BTU. This model is not only eco-friendly but quiet as well. Its noise level is anywhere from 34-43dB depending on how high you have the settings. This is a reliable product that is well worth the money. It comes with many great features too. Some of its features include a self evaporating design, a 24 hour timer, pull handle and wheels, easy to clean reusable filters, a window kit, and remote control operation. This model uses R410A refrigerant which is also eco-friendly.
Sunpentown WA-1220E
This unit is the closest you’ll find to an Energy Star portable air conditioner. It has 12000 BTU and a 12.63 EER. It also has some great features and functions such as an extended hose for continuous drainage, 2 fan speeds, dehumidifier function, window kit, and a washable air filter. It is also easy to find seeing as it can be purchased from several major retailers. This air conditioner is also a little less expensive than that of the Whynter SNO Arctica ARC-13W. The Sunpentown however, has fewer amenities and isn’t as eco-friendly seeing as it lacks the R410A refrigerant.
Although there are only 2 portable air conditioners that seem to have EERs high enough to fit the Energy Star standards, they are known to be reliable. These 2 units are also very reasonably priced. It all depends on the features, functions, and cooling capacity you are looking for. It is very rare to find any portable air conditioners with an EER any higher than 9.8, unless they happen to be for commercial use. For the amount of BTU that the Whynter SNO Arctica ARC-13W and the Sunpentown WA-1220E both have, the EERs that they have are very high. It is extremely unlikely you’ll find anything near as energy efficient as these 2 models. If you are looking for something with a lower BTU then remember 9.8 is as high as they usually come.