As soon as temperatures start hitting thirty degrees, it's time for a mobile air conditioner. However, for it to cool as it should, it needs to be properly connected and used. Today, we'll look at how to properly air condition so you feel truly comfortable at home.
How to connect a mobile air conditioner step by step
You might be thinking, what's so complicated about connecting a mobile air conditioner? You just plug it into the socket and it's done. However, for the air conditioner to work effectively and safely, a few things need to be taken seriously.
1. Find the right location
Place the air conditioner as close to the window as possible, preferably on a solid floor (tiles, floating floor). Leave at least 30 cm of free space around the unit so it can "breathe."
Our tip: You can find more information in the article Where to place the air conditioner so that it really works.
2. Connect the exhaust hose
The warm air must leave the room. Lead the hose the shortest way out through a slightly open window or balcony door with a sealing kit (with Salente mobile air conditioners, you'll find it directly in the package).
3. Plug the air conditioner into the socket
Use a separate socket without splitters or extension cords. The air conditioner has a higher power consumption and needs a stable power supply.
Our tip: Before you start the air conditioner for the first time, let it stand upright for 1–2 hours. This will help the oil in the internal circuit to get to the right place.
How to use the air conditioner in the apartment so that it really cools
Connected? Great. Now it's time for advice on how to air condition an apartment so that the air conditioner doesn't cause you trouble, but brings relief.
1. Air condition only one room
A mobile air conditioner is not central cooling. The best way to use the air conditioner correctly is in a closed room with the doors closed and the blinds drawn.
2. Pre-cool
Don't wait until it's 30 °C in the apartment. Turn on the air conditioner before the space overheats. For example, in the morning or after returning home.
3. Set the temperature correctly
The ideal difference between the indoor and outdoor temperature is about 5–7 °C. If it's 33 outside, set the air conditioner to 26–27 °C. A bigger difference can strain the body and increase consumption.
4. Don't set the cold air directly on yourself
It sounds tempting, but a fan blowing directly on you can lead to headaches, a stiff neck, or a cold. It's better to let the air flow freely into the space.
Our tip: Salente mobile air conditioners have a timer function that allows you to schedule the automatic switching on and off of the air conditioner. So, for example, after returning home, you can already enjoy a cooled home.
What to (not) do during operation: The most common mistakes that hinder performance
You turn on the air conditioner, set the cooling mode, and wait for relief. But it doesn't come. Why? You might be making one of the common mistakes that significantly reduce cooling efficiency and increase energy consumption. Fortunately, they are easy to avoid.
Leaving doors or windows open
A mobile air conditioner has no chance of cooling a room if warm air from outside or other parts of the apartment is constantly flowing in. As a result, it runs longer, is noisy, and consumes more energy.
Solution: Close the windows and doors and air condition only one room at a time.
The air conditioner runs at full blast all day
Long, uninterrupted operation strains the air conditioner and can lead to compressor overheating and unnecessary consumption.
Solution: Use the timer or turn on the air conditioner in time – before the apartment gets completely hot.
Forgetting about condensate
If your air conditioner does not have automatic evaporation, condensate accumulates in the tank. When the tank fills up, the air conditioner stops working or, worse, starts to leak.
Solution: Regularly check and empty the water tank. Some models will alert you when the tank is full.
The air conditioner has too little power
An underpowered air conditioner in a large space only struggles – cooling takes forever and the effect is minimal.
Solution: Choose the power according to the size of the room. The general rule is:
- 2.5 kW → up to 20 m²
- 3.5 kW → up to 25 m²
- 4 kW and more → over 30 m²
Ignoring maintenance
Dusty filters and greasy vents = lower performance, more noise, and the possibility of odors.
Solution: Clean the filters twice a month and wipe the surface. You can learn more in the article Maintenance of a mobile air conditioner.
Cooling and humidity
High humidity (more than 60%) increases the perceived heat, so even if the room is only 26 °C, you can feel stuffy. The air conditioner helps not only to cool the air but also to dehumidify it, so you can breathe better and more comfortably at home. On the other hand, too dry air (below 40%) can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat.
Solution: If you have the air conditioner on for a long time, it is worth monitoring the humidity (e.g., with a simple hygrometer) and, if necessary, adjusting the air with a humidifier or diffuser.
Cool smartly, not unnecessarily
Using a mobile air conditioner is not rocket science, but a few rules can significantly improve its performance and your comfort. Just place it correctly, seal the window, clean it regularly, and most importantly, air condition with common sense. If you follow our basic tips, you'll get through the summer comfortably and, most importantly, in the cool.
Most frequently asked questions
What temperature to set on the air conditioner?
The appropriate difference between the outdoor and indoor temperature is about 5–7 °C. If it's 32 °C outside, set the air conditioner to about 25–27 °C. Too low a temperature not only increases consumption but can also strain the body.
How to transport a mobile air conditioner?
When transporting, always leave it in an upright position and secured against movement. After moving it, let it stand for at least 1–2 hours before turning it on again – this way, the oil in the compressor settles and you prevent a malfunction.
How long can a mobile air conditioner be on?
A mobile air conditioner can handle normal continuous operation, but it works best when you use a timer or turn it on only when needed. Long-term operation without a break can lead to overheating or increased consumption.
