The time it takes for a portable air conditioner (AC) to cool a room depends on several factors, including the size of the room, the ambient temperature, the cooling capacity of the portable AC unit, and the insulation of the room.
Here are some general guidelines to give you an idea of how long it might take:
Room size: The larger the room, the longer it will take to cool it. A portable AC's cooling capacity is typically measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) per hour. A higher BTU rating means the AC can cool a larger area more quickly.
Cooling capacity: Portable AC units come in various sizes and cooling capacities. Higher BTU units can cool larger rooms more efficiently and faster.
Ambient temperature: If the room is already very hot, it will take longer for the portable AC to bring the temperature down to a comfortable level.
Insulation: The insulation of the room plays a significant role in how effectively the portable AC can cool it. Well-insulated rooms will retain cool air better, while poorly insulated rooms may experience more heat exchange with the outside environment.
Ventilation: Proper venting of the portable AC unit is essential for its efficiency. Make sure the exhaust hose is vented out of the room, allowing hot air to be expelled outside.
As a rough estimate, a portable AC can cool a small to medium-sized room (around 150 to 300 square feet) in about 10 to 30 minutes after it starts running. However, it may take up to an hour or more to cool larger rooms (400 square feet or more) effectively.
Remember that these are approximate estimates, and actual cooling times can vary based on the factors mentioned above. If you want to cool a room efficiently, it's best to choose an appropriately sized portable AC unit for the room and ensure proper insulation and ventilation.