Best Portable Air Conditioners in Canada for 2024

If your basement is the only place to hide from the summer heat, then a portable air conditioner is the solution for you! Central air conditioning is a hefty investment, usually costing thousands of dollars to install. Since Canada doesn’t get super hot most of the year, a portable air conditioning unit is a great way to stay comfortable in someplace other than your basement, without paying the steep price for a traditional indoor air conditioner unit. Toronto Pool Supplies has compiled our own list of the top available portable ACs on the market. Whether you’re looking for one that is small, powerful, quiet, or just the most well-rounded, you’re sure to find the best portable AC unit for your home in this guide. 

Why Choose a Portable Air Conditioner?

A portable air conditioner is a great choice for cooling your home during the summer. These air conditioners are standalone units that can cool rooms of varying sizes without the need for a bulky window or central unit. Portable air conditioners take in hot air (either from your home or outside), push it over a cooling element, and blow it into the room. The result is cool, refreshing air that can help make your home more comfortable during the hottest months of the year. Portable air conditioners are also more energy efficient than window units, and they can double as dehumidifiers on humid days. As an added bonus, portable air conditioners can be moved from room to room as needed, making them a flexible and convenient cooling solution for your home. So if you’re looking for a summer cooling solution, consider a portable air conditioner.

How to Choose a Portable AC Unit

If you’re in the market for a portable air conditioner, there are a few factors you’ll want to consider before making your purchase. First, think about how often you’ll need to move the unit from one room to another. If you’ll be moving it frequently, you’ll want to choose a unit with wheels for easy portability. You’ll also want to consider the noise level of the unit. Portable ACs are available in a range of decibel ratings, so you can choose one that will best suit your comfort level. Additionally, BTUs and coverage area are important considerations. Choose a unit with enough BTUs to cool the space you want to use it in, and make sure the coverage area is large enough to accommodate the entirety of the room. Fan speed is another thing to keep in mind, as some units have multiple speeds for different cooling preferences. Many portable ACs also come with built-in timers, so you can set it to turn off automatically after a certain amount of time. And finally, be sure to check the power consumption and temperature range of the unit before making your purchase. 

By taking all of these factors into account, you’ll surely choose the best portable air conditioner to meet your needs. Now let’s look at our list of the 7 best portable air conditioners to buy in Canada for 2024:

  1. Whynter ARC-14S 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner
Price: $456.56

The Whynter ARC-14S portable air conditioner is a high quality and powerful air conditioning unit that offers a number of advantages over other units on the market. It features a dual hose design that allows for faster cooling and improved airflow. The unit is very energy efficient, making it an excellent choice for those who want to save money on their energy bills. This Whynter air conditioner is also eco-friendly because it uses a refrigerant that doesn’t damage the ozone layer. Additionally, it has three different fan speeds, as well as a dehumidifying function. As a result, it can effectively cool and dehumidify a room up to 500 square feet. The ARC-14S is very easy to install, making it a great option for those who are not handy with tools. Another positive feature that customers are drawn to just how quiet the unit operates, rest assured neighbours will not be disturbed. This portable AC comes with a remote control, making it very convenient to use. The ARC-14S also showcases a digital readout and full function thermostat with a 61°F – 89°F temperature range. With its sleek design and whisper-quiet operation, the Whynter ARC-14S dual hose portable air conditioner is perfect for use in bedrooms, offices, or anywhere else you need relief from the heat. One disadvantage of this unit however is that it does require a lot of space due to its relatively large size.

Specifications 
– Brand: Whynter
– BTU: 14,000 Rating
– Unit Dimensions: 19″ W x 16″ D x 35.5″ H
– Net Weight: 73 lbs
– Voltage: 115 Watts
– Eco-friendly CFC free Green R-32/16.5oz(468g) Refrigerant
– Temperature Range: 61°F – 89°F
– Maximum Power Consumption: 1300 Watts / 11.6 Amps
– Coverage Sq. Ft.: 500 sq. ft.
– Window Kit Dimension: 6.5″ W x 20″ L (minimum), 46″ (maximum)
– Exhaust/ Intake Hose: 5.9″ diameter
– Hose Connectors: 5.9″ diameter with 5.0″ diameter reducer
– Fixture and Window Kit: 5.0″ diameter
– Air Flow (at high speed): 430 m3/h / 253 CFM
– Air Flow Efficiency: 253 Cubic Feet Per Minute Per Watt
– Power Supply: 115 V / 60Hz / 1 Phase
– Noise level (dBA): <56
– Fan Speeds: 3 
– Lead free RoHS Compliant Components
– Dual Hose Operation
– Self-Timer Duration: 24 hours
– Special Feature: Dehumidifier  
– Casters for easy mobility
– Power Source: Corded Electric
  1. Whynter ARC-12SDH 12,000 BTU Dual Hose Cooling Portable Air Conditioner
Price: $447.35

The Whynter ARC-12SDH portable air conditioner is a powerful and mobile air conditioning solution that is perfect for small spaces. This unit features advanced auto drain technology, which recycles moisture collected during the cooling process to produce cool air. As a result, the self-evaporative system increases efficiency. The dual hose operation provides fast cooling, and the unit also includes a remote control for easy application. And the eco-friendly CFC free green R-410A refrigerant helps protect the environment. With all these features, this Whynter portable air conditioner is an ideal solution for keeping any small space cool and comfortable. One concern of customers is an issue regarding the draining system. They noticed condensated water builds up quickly. 

Specifications 
– Brand: Whynter
– BTU (Cooling): 12,000 Rating
– BTU (Heating): 11,000 Rating
– Unit Dimensions : 20″ W x 16.5″ D x 34″ H
– Net Weight: 71 lbs
– Eco-friendly CFC free green R-410A refrigerant
– Temperature Range – “Cooling: 61 to 89 F Heating: 61°F – 77°F”
– Maximum Power Consumption – 1100W/ 1020W Heating/ 10.5A
– Coverage Sq. Ft. : 400 sq. ft
– Window Kit: 6.5″ W x 20″ (min)/ 46″ (max) L
– Exhaust/ Intake Hose: 5.9″ diameter
– Hose Connectors: 5.9″ diameter with 5.0″ diameter reducer
– Fixture and Window Kit: 5.0″ diameter
– Air Flow (at high speed): 320 m3/h / 188 CFM
– Power supply: 115 V / 60Hz / 1 Phase
– Noise Level (dBA): <56
– Fan Speeds: 3
– Lead free RoHS compliant components
– Dual Hose Operation
– Self-Timer Duration: 24 hours
– Casters for easy mobility
  1. Danby 13,000 BTU (8,000 SACC) 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner
Price: $464.24

Looking for a powerful and portable air conditioner? Look no further than this 13,000 BTU (8,000 SACC) unit by Danby. It’s perfect for cooling spaces up to 400 square feet, and its 3-in-1 design – air conditioner, fan, and dehumidifier – helps ensure you feel comfortable no matter what the weather is like outside. Plus, its castors make it easy to move from room to room, and the single-hose design efficiently exhausts warm and humid air outside. The LED display with electronic controls makes adjusting settings a breeze, and the washable and reusable air filter makes it environmentally friendly. So don’t sweat it – cool down with this portable air conditioner! This dynamic and effective air conditioner is a great way to beat the heat and keep your cool all summer long! The main disadvantage of this Danby product is it can be loud, so be aware if high levels of noise are unsettling.

Specifications 
– Brand: Danby
– 13,000 BTU (8,000 SACC) 
– Unit Dimensions: 17.1″ W x 14.2″ D x 28.4″ H (43.43 cm W x 36.07 cm D x 72.14 cm H)
– Product Weight: 69 lbs , 31.30 kg
– Voltage: 115 Volts
– Wattage: ‎1250 watts
– R32 Refrigerant: R32’s GWP (Global Warming Potential) is 3x lower than R410a
– Coverage Sq. Ft.: 400 sq. ft
– Noise Level: 53 dB
– Fan Speeds: 3
– Single-Hose Operation 
– 24-hour timer
– Special feature: Auto Restart, Dehumidifier
– Convenient 3-in-1 design: air conditioner, fan, and dehumidifier
– Dehumidifier mode with direct drain for continuous operation
– Electronic controls with LED display, shine through chassis, and remote control
– Auto Restart feature
– Reusable, washable air filter
– Castors and Integrated handles for easy room-to-room transport
– Power Source: Corded Electric
– 24-month warranty on parts and labor with in-home service
  1. Goodman Air Conditioner 5 Ton, 16 SEER, R-410A
Price: $3,629.99

The Goodman air conditioner 5 ton, 16 SEER, R-410A is one of the best air conditioners on the market. It offers quiet operation, a long lifespan, and comfort bridge technology. This air conditioner was designed for those who want their air conditioner to run smoothly without needing constant repairs or replacements. The in-line filter drier protects the refrigerant system from dirt and moisture, and the heavy-gauge, galvanized steel protects from outdoor elements. The smart speed technology automatically adjusts the temperature for you, making it ideal for those who want an air conditioner that is low maintenance. This Goodman AC unit will provide years of reliable service and unmatched comfort. One issue that may discourage homeowners is the hefty price tag. 

Toronto Pool Supplies also has the same Goodman air conditioner, 16 SEER, R-410A in the following sizes: 1.5 Ton, 2 Ton, 2.5 Ton, 3 Ton, 3.5 Ton, and 4 Ton.

Specifications 
– Brand: Goodman
– Condenser Dimensions: 35 ¾” W x 35 ¾” D x 42 ¼” H
– Modular Blower Dimensions: 24 ½” W x 21″ D x 30″ H
– Cased Coil Dimensions: 24 ½” W x 21 ⅛” D x 26″ H
– Weight: 279 Pounds
– Voltage: 208/240
– Condenser pre-charged with R-410A refrigerant
– Hertz: 60
– EER: 12.5
– Liquid Line Valve Connection:  3/8″ outside diameter
– Suction Line Valve Connection:  7/8″ outside diameter
– Energy Star Certified: Yes
– AHRI Certified; ETL Listed
– Single Phase
– Variable speed ECM indoor blower motor
– Two-stage scroll compressor
– All aluminum factory-installed evaporator coil
– Two speed PSC condenser fan motor
– Insulated air handler blower compartment optimizes thermal and sound performance
– High density foam compressor sound reducing jacket
– Factory-installed sensors monitoring coil and ambient temperature
– Charged for up to 15′ of tubing length
– Copper tube / aluminum fin coil
– Lifetime warranty on compressor, 10 year warranty on parts
  1. Danby 14,000 BTU 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner 
Price: $729.99

The Danby 14,000 BTU portable air conditioner excels at cooling spaces up to 550 square feet. The 3-in-1 design includes an air conditioner, fan, and dehumidifier, making it a versatile unit that can be used for a number of reasons  and stationed in a variety of settings. The castors make for easy mobility, and the single-hose design efficiently exhausts unwanted humid and warm air out of the room. The 24-hour programmable timer allows you to set the unit to turn on and off at your convenience. If you’re looking for a powerful, portable air conditioner that can keep you comfortable all season long, the Danby 14,000 BTU portable air conditioner is a great choice! One downfall of this portable AC is it is not as powerful as other Danby models.

Specifications 
– Brand: Danby
– BTU: 14,000 Rating (10,000 SACC) 
– Unit Dimensions: 17.7″ W x 15.6″ D x 29.3″ H (40.51 cm W x 45.01 cm D x 74.5 cm H)
– Product Weight: 75.4 lbs, 36.9 kg
– Voltage: 115 Volts
– Wattage: ‎1370 watts
– R32 refrigerant: GWP (Global Warming Potential) is 3x lower than R410a
– Coverage Sq. Ft.: 550 sq. ft
– Noise Level: 54 dB
– Fan Speeds: 3 
– Single Hose Operation 
– Self-Timer Duration: 24 hours
– Special Features: Auto Restart, Dehumidifier
– Convenient 3-in-1 design: air conditioner, fan, and dehumidifier
– Dehumidifier mode with direct drain for continuous operation
– Electronic controls with LED display, shine through chassis, and remote control
– Auto Restart feature
– Reusable, washable air filter
– Castors and integrated handles for easy room-to-room transport
– Power Source: Corded Electric
– 24-month warranty on parts and labor with in-home service
  1. DeLonghi 12,500 BTU Portable Air Conditioner 
Price: $795.16

DeLonghi is a trusted name in the world of portable air conditioners, and the 12,500 BTU model is one of the most popular units on the market. This 4-in-1 unit offers cooling, heating, dehumidifying and fan modes, making it a versatile choice for any home. The 3-in-1 design also makes it a space-saving option, as it can be used as an air conditioner, fan, or dehumidifier. With a capacity of up to 550 square feet, this unit is ideal for larger rooms. The Eco Real Feel technology reduces the temperature while controlling humidity, creating a comfortable atmosphere conducive for any climate. And the handy heat option is perfect for taking the chill out of cool nights and mornings. By raising your household thermostat setting and lowering your energy bills, this portable air conditioner can help you save money and stay comfortable all year long. This compact unit is easy to set up and includes an LED remote control, window venting kit, electronic controls with LED display and a 24-hour timer. Don’t suffer through another hot summer or cold winter with this DeLonghi portable air conditioner! One problem some customers noted in their review was their dislike for the window kit.

Specifications 
– Brand: DeLonghi
– BTU: 12,500 Rating (ASHRAE)/7200 (SACC) 
– Unit Dimensions L x W x H: 44.7 cm x 38.4 cm x 74.2 cm
– Item Weight: 71 lbs
– Voltage: 115 Volts
– Wattage: 1242 watts
– Coverage Sq. Ft.: 550 sq. ft.
– Fan Speeds: 3
– Self-Timer Duration: 24 hours
– Special Features: Portable, Heating And Cooling Function, Remote control
– 4-in-1 unit features cooling, dehumidifying, fan and heat.
– Dehumidification Mode: Yes
– Control Panel: Sensor Touch Lighted With Display
– Front-facing lighted display that dims automatically within seconds.
– Eco Real Feel technology 
– Air Filtration: Washable Filter
– Wi-Fi Feature: Yes
– Castors and integrated handles for easy room-to-room transport
– Power source: Corded Electric
  1. BLACK+DECKER BPP05WTB 8,000 BTU ASHRAE Portable Air Conditioner
Price: $445.99

The BLACK+DECKER BPP05WTB 8,000 BTU ASHRAE portable air conditioner is excellent for small apartments, dorms, bedrooms, and garages. The unit has easy-to-use electronic LED controls and a sleep mode for quiet operation. Additionally, the 4 wheels and compact size provide transportability and the quick install allows for a straightforward set up. This portable AC also comes with a remote control so you can adjust the temperature from anywhere in the room. Overall, this BLACK+DECKER model is perfect for anyone looking for a compact and portable air conditioner. Whether you’re wanting to escape the heat or create a more comfortable indoor environment, this air conditioner is superb for the job! One notable concern from customers was the constant cycling between cooling and fanning made operations a bit slow for their liking.  

Specifications 
– Brand: BLACK+DECKER
– BTU: 8,000 Rating (ASHRAE)/5000 SACC/CEC 
– Unit Dimensions: 17-1/3 in. x 13-1/5 in. x 27-1/5 in. (69.1 cm x 44 cm x 33.5 cm)
– Item Weight: 51.1 Pounds
– Voltage: 115 Volts
– Temperature Control as low as 61° F to as high as 88° F
– 6.7 oz. of R32 refrigerant: zero impact on the ozone layer
– Coverage Sq. Ft.: 150 sq. ft.
– Noise Level: 52 dB
– Fan Speeds: 3
– Self timer duration: 24 Hours
– Special Feature: Follow Me Function
– 3 in 1 Utility: Energy-efficient cool, fan, and dehumidifying modes with bucket-less, self-evaporating operation 
– Top-mounted LED display and remote control capability allows for temperature control
– Included is the 4-9/10 ft. hose and window adapter
– Power Source: Corded Electric

Summary

When the weather outside is hot and humid, the last thing you want is to be stuck in a stuffy room. Portable air conditioners can provide a convenient and energy-efficient way to keep your space cool and comfortable. They are easy to install and can be moved from one room to another, making them ideal for small apartments or homes. When choosing a portable air conditioner, it is important to keep the size of the space in mind. The larger the room, the more power is required of your air conditioner to fill the area with cool air evenly and comfortably. 

In addition, look for any features that could make your life easier. Some portable air conditioners have timers, so you can set them to turn on and off at specific times. Others have remote controls, so you can adjust the temperature without getting up from your seat. With such a vast array of options on the market, it can be difficult making that final decision. However, we’re sure that you’ll find the best portable air conditioner in Canada 2024 for your home on our list. Check out our AC catalog and buy from Toronto Pool Supplies today!

The 10 Most Common Furnace Problems

Why Won't My Furnace Start? - Pickerington Heating & Cooling

Homeowners’ everywhere wonder, “What is wrong with my gas furnace?”  If you are one of them, read this article.  Before you call a professional, empower yourself with information.

Every year, thousands of homeowners ask, “What’s wrong with my gas furnace?” If you’re in that situation, this article will arm you with information before you call a furnace company.  Knowledge is protection against being taken advantage of – though most repair professionals have sound ethics.  You will learn how to deal with some common furnace issues.

We are providing you with a furnace problems troubleshooting guide that you can use to understand what is wrong with your furnace.  It also will allow you to be proactive in ensuring that the furnace is repaired before it stops working.   Diagnose furnace problems on your own.

  1. Furnace not working 

This is one of the most common furnace problems and is very frustrating.  If you attempt to set the temperature above what the temperature is currently set in the home and it doesn’t work, make sure the switch is turned on.  If it doesn’t work, the following may be why:  

  • The circuit breaker is turned off; if the circuit continues to trip when it is put back on, the furnace most likely has a mechanical short.  The circuit breaker is off, and if the circuit continues to trip after it is turned back on, there is likely a wiring short in the furnace
  • It’s possible that the thermostat isn’t set on “heat,” which is simple to check and fix.  The thermostat isn’t set to “heat,” which is easy to check and remedy
  • If nothing else works, the furnace’s main circuit board/control board is faulty, which may be evaluated by an HVAC specialist.  The furnace’s main circuit board/control board is bad, an issue that can be diagnosed by an HVAC technician if nothing else solves the issue.
  1. Change the furnace filter

One of the first things you want to check is the air filter.  Over time, furnace filters get dirty.  Dirt and dust can quickly clog the filter, which impedes airflow, worsens indoor air quality, and can even prevent the furnace from turning on in some cases.  If the furnace is not working, this can be why.  It must be installed properly as well. 

  1. Check the thermostat

To test the furnace, make sure the thermostat is set to “heat,” and attempt to set it higher than the current room temperature.  Make sure it is set to “heat,” and try setting the temperature at least 5 degrees higher than the current room temperature.  If it does not turn on, try replacing the batteries.  You may also need to give it a good dusting inside with a paintbrush.  This is part of the annual furnace problems troubleshooting.  

Make sure your thermostat isn’t getting any misleading readings from sunshine, lights, ovens, space heaters, or any other heat source.  This may cause it to think the room is warmer that it is and not turn on.  

Check the location of your thermostat and make sure it isn’t receiving any false readings from sunlight, lamps, ovens, space heaters, or any other heat source.  If the thermostat is receiving the wrong input, it will send out the wrong output. 

  1. Furnace is blowing cold air

This is another common gas furnace problem.  One more thing to try if the furnace is not producing heat, is to verify that it is receiving electricity by switching the fan switch from the “Auto” to the “On” position.  If the fan begins to spin, the furnace is receiving electricity.  If the furnace won’t produce heat, you can check to see if it is getting power by moving the fan switch from the “Auto” position to the “On” position.  If the fan comes on, then the furnace is getting power. The likely issues then are:

  • The gas is turned off, so check the gas cock near the furnace to make sure it is parallel to the gas line, set to the on position
  • You need a new gas control because it not working 
  • The gas control valve isn’t opening and must be replaced
  • The ignitor is failing and must be replaced
  • The draft motor isn’t functioning, or the fresh-air intake is blocked, perhaps by snow or debris, and needs to be cleared

You may need to hire a professional to replace any parts that aren’t working but you can do the diagnosing of furnace problems yourself first to see what you can repair on your own.

  1. Draft motor running but furnace won’t start

This common furnace issue can be troubleshot as well with a few simple steps. Sometimes referred to as an inducer motor, the draft motor draws gas from the furnace and releases it out the exhaust stack. The draft motor is also called the inducer motor. It pulls hot combustion gases through the furnace and out the exhaust stack. If it starts and then the furnace shuts down, the following may be the problem:

  • You may need to get a new circuit board if the furnace motor has failed The motor or the board that controls it has failed and must be replaced.
  • Check for a blocked exhaust chimney and remove any debris A blocked air intake or blocked exhaust chimney (snow, debris and bird’s nests are common causes) must be cleared.
  • One of the issues discussed above with gas, gas valve and ignitor must be addressed.
Common Furnace Problems & How to Troubleshoot Those Problems
  1. Draft motor won’t start

The next step in our home furnace troubleshooting is to address the draft motor not working.  If the draft motor does not start, then you probably either have a thermostat issue, thermostat wiring problem, electrical issue, control board problem or a bad draft motor.  You may need professional advice. 

  1. The flame starts but the furnace shuts off

If the burner starts making heat but soon shuts off without warning, the flame sensor isn’t working.  The senser may simply need to be cleaned well.  Alternatively, you may need to purchase a new one.  If the sensor has corrosion on it, sanding it might work, though replacing it is a longer-lasting fix.  This common furnace issue requires a little troubleshooting.  If it just needs to be cleaned, the homeowner can do it.  Otherwise, a repairman will need to be hired. 

  1. The furnace turns on but the house isn’t warm

Your home should be very warm if you have the right sized furnace.  Ensure that the issue is not just that the furnace is too small.  If your furnace is properly sized for your home, then it should keep your home warm even in extreme cold.  If it runs constantly but isn’t providing enough heat, this is another common furnace problem.  The likely cause is:

  • That you need to make certain your air filter is installed properly.  You may need a new one  The filter is the wrong type for your furnace and restricts airflow, so should be replaced.
  • The filter is installed backwards, an issue that can be checked by looking for the arrows on the filter frame that show proper installation direction with the flow of air.
  • Your air ducts may be leaking if they are making a lot of noise.  Have them sealed as soon as possible Air ducts are leaking, sometimes producing telltale whistling noises, and it is time to have them sealed.
  1. Check the furnace flame

Your furnace flame should be a healthy blue colour, with perhaps a small yellowish tip.  If you see a blue flame, you can be confident that your furnace is using gas properly. The blue flame indicates that your gas furnace is burning the fuel safely and efficiently.

If the flame is red, yellow, purple, green, or any other colour than blue, contact a professional right away.  Never attempt to fix your furnace flame colour on your own. This is a common gas furnace problem that a homeowner should not repair. 

  1.  Pilot light and gas valve

If your furnace is not working, this may be why.  If you check the furnace flame and it is out, you will need to relight it.  While you may manually relight the pilot, use caution and check your owner’s handbook for correct procedures.  While you can relight the pilot on your own, be extra careful and consult your owner’s manual for proper instructions.

Never try to relight the pilot without first turning off the gas for about 10-15 minutes.  Don’t forget to turn off the gas for around 10-15 minutes before attempting to relight the pilot.  If you continue to smell any gas, do not continue.  You may have a leak.  In which case, you should evacuate the household immediately, then call your gas company and the fire department from a safe distance.  This is one time you should not be diagnosing furnace problems. 

Your furnace is one of the most important items in your home.  It keeps you and your family warm and safe if it is running properly.  Do some routine furnace problems troubleshooting, and you will save a lot of money.  You will also have peace of mind.  

Sources

Guide to Affordable Home Heating with Ameristar Furnaces

As you know, a furnace is one of the most essential appliances in your home, especially during cold Canadian winter. Furnace also keeps your home at a temperature that protects all of your other appliances and investments. When it comes time to purchase a new furnace it’s essential to find an option that is reliable, efficient, and affordable. Ameristar Furnaces are some of the most popular home heating solutions in Canada. With a great range of home furnaces, Ameristar provides the right heating option to protect your family and your home. Continue reading Guide to Affordable Home Heating with Ameristar Furnaces