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Products Tested
44
Hours of Research
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Reviews Examined
Last Updated on May 30, 2023
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Welcome to the remarkable world of portable air conditioner and heater combos! Bid farewell to the hassle of changing units or buying multiple devices for your heating and cooling needs.
These versatile units cool the air on hot days and warm it when it's cold, all in one package. Say goodbye to discomfort and embrace relief with a soothing blast of cool or cozy warm air.
We've done the research and testing so you don't have to. So now you can confidently choose the best portable AC heater combo. Discover year-round comfort today with our expert-reviewed selection.
Quick Guide – Our Top Picks
Best Portable
AC & Heater
SereneLife
Ease Of Use
4.5
Cooling
4.2
Value
4.2
Our Score
4.3
Best Ductless
AC & Heater
PIONEER Mini Split Heat Pump
Ease Of Use
4.5
Cooling
4.5
Value
4.0
Our Score
4.3
Best Window AC With Heat/Cool
Koldfront WAC25001W
Ease Of Use
4.5
Cooling
4.0
Value
4.0
Our Score
4.2
Our Reviews Of The 8 Best AC Heater Combos
Below is my curated list of the top-rated portable air conditioners and heater units. Keep reading to unveil the perfect solution for maintaining year-round comfort in your home.
1 - SereneLife – (Editor’s Choice)
Ease Of Use
4.5
Cooling Ability
4.2
Value For Money
4.2
Overall Rating
4.3
The SereneLife SLACHT108 is my top pick in this best portable air conditioner unit review and the best portable AC & Heater combo on the market.
This powerful portable air conditioner is rated to heat and cool even your biggest rooms (up to 350 sq ft). However, it's still efficient enough to work in larger rooms as long as you don't need to significantly drop the temperature. Harnessing its impressive 10,000 BTU (British Thermal Unit) cooling capacity, this portable AC unit can deliver a refreshing cool across a generous 500 sq. ft. space.
During the colder months, you can experience the impressive heating capabilities of these units as they effortlessly elevate the room temperature by 5 or 6 degrees. That's not where the benefits end, though. You also get a dehumidifier that helps reduce humidity levels, a substantial financial and space saver!
If you like to sleep with a fan on for noise, the SLACHT108 has a fan-only mode that produces a cozy level of white noise without altering the room’s temperature. When it is running, it has an operating noise level of only 52-56 dBa, so it shouldn't disturb your sleep.
This air conditioning/heating system is truly portable, too. It has some weight to it, but the strong caster wheels move the unit easily.
The window kit for the exhaust fan is only 2 pieces. It will fit in horizontal or vertical windows up to 60 inches. You may need some weather stripping to properly seal the opening, though.
As a portable AC and heater, this unit will consume a decent amount of electricity, and you may notice spikes in your energy bill. However, as far as heater/AC combos go, it is energy efficient with an EER of 10.4, translating to an extra $150 to $200 per year to operate (5 hours per day, 7 days per week).
It also has a 1-year limited warranty against defects, craftsmanship, and compressor failure.
Who Is The SereneLife Best For?
The SereneLife is for a family who needs it all. With an AC, heater, and dehumidifier, it's all you will need to keep one of your rooms extra comfortable.
BTU (Cooling/Heating) | 10,000/9,000 |
Energy Rating | 10.4 EER |
Room Size (Cooling Area) | 350 Sq. ft. |
Moisture Removal | 78 pints/day |
Noise Level | 52-56 db |
Dimensions | 17.4 x 13.4 x 32.1 inches |
Pros
Cons
2 - VremiVRM050518N (Runner-Up)
Ease Of Use
4.5
Cooling Ability
4.2
Value For Money
4.2
Overall Rating
4.3
My runner-up is the Vremi 10,400 BTU Portable Air Conditioner with Heat. This powerful and versatile unit excels in both cooling and heating functions.
It can cool large rooms (rooms at least as large as the SereneLife) and provide efficient temperature control. The LED display, adjustable settings, and multiple operating modes offer convenient customization options.
This air conditioner also doubles as a capable portable heater during the cold winter months, so you don't need to store separate appliances. This is something I definitely appreciate with limited space.
The unit features Cool, Fan, Dry, and Sleep modes, ensuring maximum flexibility for different situations. With a temperature range of 64-90°F for cooling and an adjustable heat function up to 81°F, it can create a comfortable environment year-round.
The Vremi Portable Air Conditioner also has a washable air filter that ensures consistent cooling when regularly cleaned. This saves a lot of money compared to filters that can't be washed and need to be replaced.
Installation is quick and hassle-free, and it can be installed in any room with a horizontal accessible window. This should be out of the box and ready to go in about ten minutes. You won't have to worry about breaking a sweat while you install your AC.
The built-in casters and handles allow you to move it from room to room, and the 5.6-foot hose and window slide adapter facilitates seamless setup.
In addition to its impressive functionality, this unit operates quietly, providing optimal cooling capacity without disrupting your sleep or relaxation.
Who Is The Vremi Best For?
The Vremi is best for people who need a simple unit with a quick setup. It can be moved easily from room to room, providing ideal indoor climates for all seasons.
BTU (Cooling/Heating) | 10,400 |
Energy Rating | 2.6 SEER |
Room Size (Cooling Area) | 400 - 450 Sq. ft. |
Moisture Removal | |
Noise Level | 49 db |
Dimensions | 17.7 × 15.6 × 29.3 in |
Pros
Cons
3 - Black + Decker BPACT12HWT (Best Value)
Ease Of Use
4.0
Cooling Ability
4.0
Value For Money
4.0
Overall Rating
4.0
The Black & Decker combo unit is the best portable AC heater combo for mid-sized rooms. Ideal for master bedrooms or living rooms, this portable AC unit brings 12,000 BTU to the table to cool or heat rooms up to 350 sq ft.
You may notice that the unit is louder than a lot of other portable AC units. When on the high setting, it can reach noise levels over 78dB. The start-up is quieter, though, and in normal cooling mode on low fan speed setting, the noise is reduced to about 70dB.
Everything you need for proper installation is included, and the window kit for the exhaust hose will fit any sliding-style window. The hose itself is just shy of 5-feet, which allows you room to position the portable air conditioner in any direction for maximum effect.
This portable AC will also dehumidify up to 67 pints per day when on dry mode, and with the bucketless design, it doesn’t require manual emptying. The included warranty is a 3-part warranty with a coverage term of 1-year for each parts and labor. There is also a 5-year limited warranty to cover the compressor. Worry-free heating and cooling are at your fingertips.
Who Is The Black + Decker Best For?
BTU (Cooling/Heating) | 12,000/10,000 |
Energy Rating | 10.1 EER |
Room Size (Cooling Area) | 250 Sq. ft. |
Moisture Removal | 67 pints/day |
Noise Level | 54 db |
Dimensions | 13.8 x 17.1 x 28.1 inches |
Pros
Cons
4 - Whynter ARC-14SH (Best Heating AC/Dual Hose)
Ease Of Use
3.5
Cooling Ability
4.0
Value For Money
4.0
Overall Rating
3.8
The Whynter ARC-14SH may just be the best brand you’ve never heard of. This is the best dual-hose portable air conditioner and heater combo available.
Even though this dual hose system only has a 1-year warranty, it has been heating and cooling homes for over a decade without incident. Of course, there will be some problems with the manufacturing process (as with all brands), which is what the warranty is designed for.
Unlike a single hose unit, the Whynter ARC-14SH dual hose AC and heater provides fast, efficient airflow with a separate hose for venting and intake. It also features a newer technology that recycles the condensation from the drip tray to help produce cool air faster. You don’t have to empty the tray as it will evaporate on its own, even during regular use.
For moderate-sized rooms (up to 550 sq ft), the Whynter ARC-14SH dual hose system will heat the space in as little as 10 minutes. Cooling is much faster, with about 6 to 7 minutes before a noticeable drop in temperature. You can expect up to 10 degrees difference in cooling and 8 degrees difference in heating when using this portable AC.
Start-up noise levels can reach over 60dB; however, regular operation, even with the fan on the high setting, resides around 56dB. You will hear the portable air conditioner running in the room, but you shouldn’t need to make any volume adjustments or talk louder to be heard.
Who Is The Whynter Best For?
Related Article – Single or Dual Hose Portable AC: Which One to Go With?
BTU (Cooling/Heating) | 14,000/13,000 |
Energy Rating | 11.3 EER |
Room Size (Cooling Area) | Up to 500 Sq. ft. |
Moisture Removal | 101 pints/day |
Noise Level | 56 db |
Dimensions | 16 x 19 x 35.5 inches |
Pros
Cons
5 - PIONEER Mini Split Heat Pump (Best High-End Model)
Ease Of Use
4.5
Cooling Ability
4.5
Value For Money
4.0
Overall Rating
4.3
The Pioneer mini-split series has quickly become one of the best ductless AC & Heater combo units on the market. The name recognition and a 5-year warranty also lead credence to the durability and reliability of the products. This separate air conditioner is no different.
It will require professional installation, but once set up, you can use the wireless controls through the mobile app to use the AC from anywhere in the world. While this works, you will most likely set the temp and turn the unit on as you drive home from work, to come back to a nice, cozy home.
The 24,000 BTU cooling capacity of the system will cool areas up to 750 sq ft. If you have a larger space, though, there are other sized options available. The largest of this series will cool or heat areas up to 900 sq ft without complaint.
One of the best things about this heat pump is that it runs extra quiet. At a startup noise level of 52dBA, you won’t even know it is on, except for living in the ideal temperature in your home.
The maintenance of this heat pump is relatively low, as well. You need to keep the vents and louvers free of dust and debris, but other than that, unless there is a problem, you don’t need to do much. Unlike the best portable air conditioner, a mini-split heat pump system doesn’t provide increased portability.
Related Article – How Many Mini Split ACs Will I Need?
BTU (Cooling/Heating) | 24,000/24000 |
Energy Rating | 9.5 EER |
Room Size (Cooling Area) | 750 Sq. ft. |
Moisture Removal | N/A |
Noise Level | 52 db |
Dimensions | 42.5 x 8.8 x 13.2 inches |
Pros
Cons
6 - UKOKE USPC01W (Best Budget)
Ease Of Use
4.5
Cooling Ability
4.5
Value For Money
4.0
Overall Rating
4.3
BRAND NEW CONTENT HERE
Related Article – How Many Mini Split ACs Will I Need?
BTU (Cooling/Heating) | THESE ALL NEED CHANGED |
Energy Rating | 9.5 EER |
Room Size (Cooling Area) | 750 Sq. ft. |
Moisture Removal | N/A |
Noise Level | 52 db |
Dimensions | 42.5 x 8.8 x 13.2 inches |
Pros
Cons
7 - TURBRO Greenland GLP10AC-HU
Ease Of Use
4.5
Cooling Ability
4.5
Value For Money
4.0
Overall Rating
4.3
BRAND NEW CONTENT HERE
Related Article – How Many Mini Split ACs Will I Need?
BTU (Cooling/Heating) | THESE ALL NEED CHANGED |
Energy Rating | 9.5 EER |
Room Size (Cooling Area) | 750 Sq. ft. |
Moisture Removal | N/A |
Noise Level | 52 db |
Dimensions | 42.5 x 8.8 x 13.2 inches |
Pros
Cons
8 - Koldfront WAC25001W (Best for Large Rooms)
Ease Of Use
4.5
Cooling Ability
4.0
Value For Money
4.0
Overall Rating
4.2
The best window AC and heater for large rooms is the Koldfront model. With an impressive 25,000 BTUs of cooling power, you can keep rooms up to 1500 sq ft cool and comfortable with ease. If the temperature drops, you can then turn on heat mode and use 16,000 BTUs of heating power to raise the temperature to a livable level.
What you won’t be able to do is move the unit around very much. Once this unit is in a window, you won’t want to move it. You will also need to verify the window is large enough to hold the air conditioner. It requires a window to drain the condensation outside; anything else will make a mess.
It also requires a 30-amp dedicated circuit and an LCDI 6-30P outlet. If you don’t have this type of outlet already, it may require professional installation. It comes with a limited 1-year warranty on all parts and a 90-day warranty on labor. Should anything go wrong, repair or replacement options are available.
This unit isn’t the most efficient when it comes to energy consumption, but an EER rating of 9.4 for a unit this size is still good. When using it in the winter on heating mode you will most likely see spikes in your monthly energy bill; however, the comfort level it provides is worth the additional few bucks on your bill.
BTU (Cooling/Heating) | 25,000/16,000 |
Energy Rating | 9.4 EER |
Room Size (Cooling Area) | 1500 Sq. ft. |
Moisture Removal | 137 pints/day |
Noise Level | 56 dB |
Dimensions | 18.6 x 26.5 x 26.5 inches |
Pros
Cons
Air Conditioner & Heater Combos Compared
How To Choose The Best Portable AC and Heater Combo
While you can just head out and pick up any AC/Heater combo (heater and air conditioner in one unit), it is best if you did a little research first. There are a lot of factors to think about before you make a final purchase. Let me show you some of those considerations now.
BTU Rating(Cooling/Heating Capacity)
Each model will have a BTU rating, which is the measure of how well it can cool or heat an area based on size. The larger the BTU rating, the bigger the area it will cool, and smaller areas will be heated or cooled more efficiently.
However, you need to realize that too many BTUs can end up costing you more on your monthly energy bills. Choosing the right size for the area, the ideal amount of efficiency and capacity will ensure your room stays at the proper temperature without costing you more than reasonable amounts on your bills.
Coverage Area
The coverage area is measured in square feet. You can measure the sq ft of your room by multiplying the length and the width together. From this measurement, you can identify the BTU rating and coverage size needed for an efficient machine.
There is a lot more to square footage, though. The number of windows, the amount of proper insulation, the AC unit installation, and even the height of your ceiling can affect how efficient the machine is in that particular space.
Understanding room attributes such as high ceilings, large, uncovered windows, and other factors will require more powerful units to keep cold or hot as needed.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) is a measurement of how well the machine operates and if it will cost you more or less to operate than other machines. The ratio is determined by looking at the BTU rate in conjunction with the kWh per BTU.
In short, the higher the EER, the better the machine is at cooling and heating while keeping your costs down. For the most part, you will find EERs between 9.0 and 15.0. Anything above 13.5 is considered highly efficient, as long as the BTU rating isn’t too high for the room size.
Dual vs Single Hose Drainage
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Ease Of Installation (Exhaust Kit)
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Related Article – Can a Portable AC be Vented Without a Window?
Noise Levels (Decibels)
Another thing to think about is how loud the units are when operating. Most will have two-decibel ratings. There is a start-up noise level and an operating noise level. The start-up will be much louder as the motors, fans, and pumps turn on.
Once running, the overall noise level will drop to a more nominal level, but you should understand the levels. Higher decibels is worse, and you should opt for a quieter portable AC that operates at 56dB or lower.
To put it in perspective, a hairdryer on high at 15 feet produces about 60 to 63dBA. City traffic at 20 feet rates about 60dBa. These levels aren’t conducive to conversation, television watching, or phone calls.
To be able to watch TV or have a conversation with a guest in the room, the noise rating should be below 58dB. Otherwise, you may find yourself shouting or raising the volume on the television.
Related Article – How Much Electricity Does a Portable AC Consume?
CFM Explained
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Related Article – How Often Should I Drain My Portable AC?
Price (Value For Money)
Your budget will come into play. While these models are cheaper than central air units, they do have a wide variety of price ranges. Finding the right size, efficiency, and price is a delicate practice that requires time and thought.
You will also want to examine the warranty to look for coverage terms, conditions, and time frame. Some warranties require you to maintain proof of purchase, registration of the product, or other conditions for the warranty to take effect.
Related Article – Are Portable Air Conditioners Worth It?
Portability (Unit Weight & Size)
Not all units are designed to be portable, even if they are labeled as such. Through-the-wall and window units are meant to be installed and remain in place. While you can move them to another room, it isn’t a feasible option or long-term solution.
Most portable air conditioner units are still heavy, with some tipping the scales near 100 pounds. They will come mounted on wheels, but you still need to accommodate the space they take up as well as the venting hose. If you have a room without windows, you will need to vent to another room, a bathroom, or invest in a mini-split ductless system.
Installation Requirements
Something else to keep in mind is what is required for proper installation. Some larger units will require their own dedicated circuit, for example.
Not only are power requirements something to look at, but you also need to know if the unit has a specific plug type, or can it be used in any standard outlet? Venting is something else to consider. Portable units will generally come with a window vent hose and a window mounting unit.
However, you can vent them to other rooms if you don’t have a window, or into a central register if you have the mechanical know-how to install such a setup. Drainage can be an issue as well. Some units evaporate on their own and don’t need manual draining. Other models require you to add a drain hose and empty the drip tray when it gets full.
Related Article – How to Make Your Portable AC Quieter
Benefits Of Getting A Portable AC/Heater Combo
There are several benefits to owning a portable AC and heater combo. Below I will outline some of the more important benefits. You will find more personal interests as you use the units in your home.
Related Article – How to Install an In-Wall Window AC
Common Air Conditioner And Heater Questions
What Uses more electricity, heater or AC?
A heater typically uses more electricity than an air conditioner. While things like altitude, ambient temperature, season, and other factors go into play, heaters generally require more energy to operate.
Is Buying A Heater More Expensive Than An AC?
Buying a heater tends to be cheaper upfront compared to an AC. However, heaters tend to have higher long-term expenses when considering the overall costs, like energy consumption, and maintenance.
Can You Use A Portable Air Conditioner In A Room With No Windows?
You can use a portable AC in a room with no windows, although venting through a window is much easier. Instead of a window, you can vent through a door, through a drop ceiling (if you have one), or you can install a vent in the wall.
Will heaters work without AC compressor?
Heaters will work without AC compressors. The heater in a combo unit is separate from the air conditioner and doesn’t use the compressor or condenser coils.
Related Article – How Many Watts Does a Portable AC Need to Work?
Can a window AC unit be used as a heater?
A window AC unit cannot be used as a heater. An air conditioner that also heats is known as a heat pump; this is not the same as a window AC unit or an air conditioner and heater combo.
How much does a new air conditioner and heater cost?
The cost of a new air conditioner and heater will vary. Your price will depend on the size, type, and brand, and when you buy.
The heater won’t turn on, but the AC works, what should I do?
If the heater won't turn on, but the AC works, ensure the thermostat is set to a sufficiently high heating temperature. You can also inspect and clean the filter to ensure proper airflow and check for any blockages at the air registers. If these checks are clear, examine the thermostat wiring, circuit breaker, and heating unit for electrical issues.
How many BTUs should an AC and heater unit have?
The amount of BTUs an AC and heater unit should have depends on the size of the room, type of room, and if the room is shaded or open to direct sunlight. This chart from EnergyStar will show you how to calculate your room or space and what to look for when deciding the BTU rating needed.
Related Article – How Many BTUs in a Ton?
Source: ENERGY STAR
How difficult is it be to install these heater units?
These heater units are not difficult to install. Most can be installed by one person.
Related Article – Here’s How to Install a Portable AC Though a Sliding Window
Does it matter if I don’t vent my portable AC heater?
It does matter if you don't vent your portable AC Heater. Improper venting will circulate the hot air back into the unit. This causes the air conditioner to work harder, longer, and be less effective.
Related Article – What Are My Venting Options for My Portable AC?
Conclusion
If you are looking for heating and cooling from a single air conditioning system, you are not without options. The best portable AC heater for you is the one that fits your room and has enough BTUs to cool or heat the space efficiently.
If you are unsure where to go from here, I recommend you start with our top pick, the SereneLife 4-in-1 AC combo unit. It will heat and cool with 9,000 and 10,00 BTUs (respectively) and dehumidify the space it is in. In addition, this portable air conditioner is also easily portable to cover other rooms as needed.
Our #1 Product For
AC Heater Combos
SereneLife
Ease Of Use
4.5
Cooling Ability
4.2
Value For Money
4.2
Overall Rating