Our priority is comparing the models you'll see in stores and major online retailers. To do this, we check current market data to see what's most popular. We'll also look at models that a lot of members have requested.

We rate portable air conditioners based on their cooling performance, as well as energy efficiency, estimated running costs and noise levels. Using our ratings, you should be able to work out the model that's best for you.

While they're convenient and often comparatively cheaper than split-systems, single-duct portable air conditioners aren't as effective or efficient. They're only really worth considering if you're a renter and can't make modifications to your building, or if you can't afford the upfront costs of the built-in option. If you use your air conditioner a lot, a split-system model is likely to be more cost-effective in the long run.

Portable air cons work the same way as built-in air conditioning. They suck in warm and humid air, cooling and dehumidifying it, then blowing it back into the room. Single-duct models (with a duct connected to an open window) draw the air from the room to cool it and vent some of it outside. These units also condense water from the air while cooling. Generally, this is collected in a tank or drained away in a tube. A venting kit is usually included so you can seal the gap around the duct to stop the cool air escaping.

Portable air conditioners can cost about twice as much to run as a split-system air conditioner of a similar size. We found the average running cost for portable air conditioners over a summer was $136, compared with $70 for a small split system. That's based on running the cooling mode for 4 hours a day, over 3 months, at an electricity cost of 30c/kWh.