The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a measure of the level of air pollution and its potential health effects. It provides a numerical value to indicate the overall air quality in a specific area. An AQI of 80 generally falls within the "Moderate" range, which means the air quality is acceptable but could still be of concern for certain sensitive individuals.
When using a portable air conditioner that brings in outside air, it's generally recommended to ensure that the outdoor air quality is not significantly worse than the indoor air quality. In the case of an AQI of 80, it is still within a moderate range, and running your portable AC should be generally safe.
However, keep in mind that individual sensitivities may vary. If you or anyone in your household has respiratory conditions, allergies, or other health issues that can be aggravated by air pollution, it's a good idea to exercise caution and consider the specific needs of those individuals. In such cases, it may be better to rely on air purifiers or other indoor air quality improvement measures instead of bringing in outside air through the portable AC.
It's also worth noting that air quality can change rapidly, so it's a good practice to monitor the AQI regularly and adjust your usage accordingly. If the AQI worsens significantly, it's advisable to limit the use of the portable AC that brings in outdoor air or consider alternative cooling methods until the air quality improves.