REVIEW – BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
The BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is designed to cool rooms up to 700 square feet, making it suitable for large bedrooms, living rooms, or offices. This model combines portability, powerful cooling, and convenient features to provide a comfortable environment in hot weather.
Design and Build Quality
The air conditioner features a sleek, modern design with a white finish that blends well with various decor styles. It measures approximately 17.1 x 13.8 x 28.1 inches and weighs around 68.3 pounds, making it relatively easy to move between rooms with the help of the built-in casters and side handles. The unit includes an LED display and easy-to-use controls on top, along with a remote control for added convenience.
Cooling Performance
With a cooling capacity of 14,000 BTU, this portable air conditioner is capable of cooling large spaces efficiently. It uses a combination of cooling, fan, and dehumidifying modes to provide versatile climate control. The unit features an adjustable thermostat with a range of 62°F to 88°F, allowing you to set your preferred temperature easily.
Key performance features include:
- Three-in-One Functionality: The unit offers cooling, fan, and dehumidifier modes to cater to different needs.
- Adjustable Fan Speed: Choose from three fan speeds to customize airflow.
- 24-Hour Timer: Set the timer to turn the unit on or off after a specified period, enhancing energy efficiency.
- Sleep Mode: Gradually increases the temperature setting over the course of the night for energy savings and comfort.
Ease of Use
The BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is designed for user convenience. The remote control allows you to adjust settings from across the room, and the top-mounted control panel is intuitive and easy to navigate. The unit also features an auto-restart function, which automatically restarts the appliance with your last settings after a power outage.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation is straightforward, with a simple setup process that doesn’t require professional assistance. The package includes a window installation kit suitable for double-hung and sliding windows. Maintenance is also hassle-free, with a removable and washable filter to ensure clean air circulation.
Noise Level
The noise level is an important consideration for any air conditioner, especially for use in bedrooms or living areas. The BLACK+DECKER unit operates at a noise level of around 55-57 decibels, which is relatively quiet for a portable air conditioner of this capacity. While not completely silent, it should not be overly disruptive in most settings.
Energy Efficiency
Portable air conditioners are generally less energy-efficient than window units, but this BLACK+DECKER model aims to balance performance with energy use. It includes an Energy Save mode to help reduce power consumption. While not ENERGY STAR certified, its energy-saving features and programmable timer contribute to more efficient operation.
- High cooling capacity suitable for large rooms up to 700 square feet.
- Three-in-one functionality: cooling, fan, and dehumidifier modes.
- User-friendly controls with remote operation.
- Portable design with casters for easy movement.
- Quiet operation compared to similar models.
Conclusion
The BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a solid choice for those needing a powerful and versatile cooling solution for large spaces. Its combination of high cooling capacity, multiple operating modes, and user-friendly features make it a practical and convenient option. Its performance and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for staying cool during the hot months.
