Living in a tropical country has its perks, but heat is not one of them. And although wall-mounted or centralized air conditioning units are fairly common here in Malaysia, it could be too much of an investment for some. Thankfully, portable air conditioners exist.
Top 8 Portable Air Conditioners In Malaysia
Table of Contents
Why It's Our Top Pick:
"The only brand to appear twice in this list, Midea is here for a reason. The MPF-12CRN1 is a great option if you're looking for a 1.5 HP portable air conditioner. You don't need to break the bank as it has all the features necessary to cool your space."
Overview:
Similar to the Midea 1.0 HP mentioned earlier in this list, it has a no bucket design alongside a self-evaporative system, so that you wouldn’t need to manually drain the collected water in the unit. However, this series (PF) has omni-directional casters not found in the series (PH) mentioned earlier in this list.
Another feature this series has is the use of Ionizer technology. Air ionizers remove harmful particles and microbes from the air, making the air cleaner, especially for those suffering from asthma or other respiratory issues. Nevertheless, this technology is a good feature for overall well-being.
Performance:
Though not exactly silent, its noise level isn't too loud or distracting. This is a good alternative to a full-sized air con unit and can cool a room in approximately 15 minutes. While suitable for small to medium-sized rooms, its cooling effect may not be as impressive in a large room.
Specifications:
- Horsepower: 1.5HP
- Cooling Capacity: 12000 BTU/h
- Power Consumption: 1255W
- Warranty: 1 year
Key features:
- Sleep mode
- Auto swing(vertical)
- Auto restart function
- Self-evaporative system
- Self-diagnosis and auto protection
Yes, here we have another Malaysian brand, Morgan. Incepted in 2006, Morgan is a trademark owned by DKSH that provides a range of household appliances that are affordable and of top-notch quality.
Overview:
The wheels undoubtedly make it easier for you to move the unit around if needed. Of course, if you don’t intend to move your air conditioner around often, then one without wheels would suffice.
The Morgan MAC-091 comes with an additional accessory – a window mounting kit. If it’s your first time buying a portable air conditioner, it’s crucial to know that it needs to be placed nearby a window so that the hot air can be released via a hose. This mounting kit would help keep the hose in place.
Performance:
According to reviews, it is easy to use and effectively cools a small room. Overall, it functions well though it may be a little noisy.
Specifications:
- Horsepower: 1.0HP
- Cooling Capacity: 9000 BTU/h
- Power Consumption: 990W
- Warranty: 1 year
Key features:
- 4 modes (Cool, Fan, Dehumidifying & Sleep)
- High & low fan speeds
- 24 Hour On/Off Timer
Midea is one of those brands you frequently come across while browsing for home appliances on Lazada or Shopee. Not only are their products affordable, but they’re also of decent quality. If you’ve done enough research, you would find that this particular model is probably one of the most purchased portable air conditioners on Lazada.
Overview:
The Midea MPH-09CRN1 comes with all basic the basic features a portable air conditioner would have such as a timer, sleep mode, and an auto-restart auto function. It also has a self-evaporative system so that you won’t need to manually empty an outside container of collected water (this usually happens with air coolers). Though, it would be good practice to check on the bucket every once in a while.
This air cond uses Silver Ion Filter technology that effectively kills bacteria, or at least, prevents bacterial activity within the area, keeping you and your loved ones safe.
Performance:
A number of reviews pointed out that this air conditioner can be quite noisy because of its compressor. Something to consider if you’re planning on using this appliance during bedtime. However, given its affordability, coming in at under RM1K, this may not be a dealbreaker unless you're a light sleeper or easily distracted by any noise.
Specifications:
- Horsepower: 1.0HP
- Cooling Capacity: 9000 BTU/h
- Power Consumption: 1015W
- Warranty: 1 year
Key features:
- 24-hour timer
- Auto restart function
- Self-evaporative system
- Omni-directional caster
- Self-diagnosis and auto protection
Not to be confused with the Japanese brand Panasonic, Pensonic is in fact, a local Malaysian brand founded in Penang, 1965. One of the things we love about this portable air conditioner is that it has a dehumidifier function. In case you’re not familiar, dehumidifiers help to decrease the humidity level in areas with high moisture levels. Especially in tropical countries like ours, excessive humidity in a room can cause mold to form on clothes and furniture, making it an absolute nuisance.
Overview:
Like the Midea unit, this AC operates on 1.0 horsepower or 9000 BTUs, and can cover up 300+ square feet of space. Its vertical auto swing and airflow feature help to properly disperse airflow throughout the room, ensuring that the cool air isn’t entirely focused in only one direction.
Performance:
It has pretty much all the other basic functions a portable air-conditioner needs including sleep mode and memory function, timer setting, and a self-diagnosis function. It also comes with a 1-year local manufacturer warranty, but it would be best to confirm with the online seller or outlet you’re purchasing from.
While it is a pricier unit, you'll be saving some moolah as you won't need to buy a dehumidifier separately. Also, do note that the Pensonic PPA-109 uses a non-inverter technology which is less cost-effective than an inverter air-conditioner. This may be something you would want to consider before making the purchase.
Specifications:
- Horsepower: 1.5HP
- Cooling Capacity: 9000 Btu/h
- Power Consumption: 1300W
- Warranty: 1 year
Key features:
- LED
- Timer
- Easy to move
- Self-diagnosis function
- No installation required
Acson was established in 1984 and is Malaysia’s first local air conditioner brand. Back in 2006, the brand was acquired by Daikin and today, continues to manufacture high quality, Malaysian-made products.
Overview:
Operating on 1.0 horsepower, or 10,000 BTUs, it can effectively cool down an area of 450+ square feet. That’s about the size of a small room or bedroom and is probably not very ideal for a larger area like the living room.
Funnily enough, it doesn’t have a timer feature, which happens to be one of the most basic features of a portable air conditioner. That aside, it does come with a 3-fan speed mode for comfort and a power failure memory system to safeguard the unit.
Performance:
Although this unit’s design isn’t the best-looking, it wins in the practicality department. Not only does it have wheels for easier movement, but the Acson MOVEO A5PA10C also comes with a set of installation accessories for your convenience. Just follow the instructions in the manual and you’re all set.
Specifications:
- Horsepower: 1.0HP
- Cooling Capacity: 10000 BTU/h
- Power Consumption: 1130W
- Warranty: 1 year
Key features:
- 3-fan speed
- Remote control
- Touchscreen panel
- 4-direction air swing
Here we have another Malaysian brand – AUX, founded in 2004. They’re probably one of the lesser-known local brands but surprisingly export electrical appliances to over 20 countries. It has a premium-quality build and design and was reportedly designed in France. Not only does it look elegant, but it's the only unit on this list to have a touch-screen display.
Overview:
This 12,000 BTU unit can cover up an area of up to 550 square feet, making this the better pick if you want to cool a slightly bigger space. Also, its body is hardy and break-resistant so you wouldn’t need to worry too much about its exterior’s lifespan. We’re not saying you should take its sturdiness for granted, but if you’re a couple with young children running around, the likelihood of the unit breaking apart would be lower.
Performance:
This AC doesn't just look good but also works well. According to a review, it does indeed operate pretty quietly and it can cool a medium-sized room quite quickly. Though one user claims it's a little heavy, its 4-wheels counter this issue and make it easy to move.
Specifications:
- Horsepower: 1.5HP
- Cooling Capacity: 12000 Btu/h
- Power Consumption: 1500W
- Warranty: 2 year
Key features:
- Remote control
- Low noise operation
The Pensonic PPA-1510 is a good investment.
Overview:
The LED display control panel is easy to use and it comes with a remote control so its settings can be conveniently adjusted from a distance, and its swivel casters make it easy to move from one spot to another. Besides, the vertical auto swing function ensures more even distribution of airflow.
It has even got a dehumidifying function which is a great feature to have if you suffer from asthma or allergies as it can help relieve symptoms.
Performance:
Garnering 5-star ratings, this unit is worth the money. You can expect it to function well and not too loudly with a noise level of 64dB.
Specifications:
- Horsepower: 1.5HP
- Cooling Capacity: 12000 BTU/h
- Power Consumption: 1500W
- Warranty: 1 year
Key features:
- Sturdy and durable swivel caster
- Inner-grooved copper tube
- Centrifugal fan type
- LED control panel
- Vertical auto swing
Sure all these air conditioners are portable, but the more lightweight it is the more convenient it is to move around.
Overview:
With a net weight of 21.4kg and 360° universal wheels, the Hisense AP09KVG is the best pick if you’re looking for an AC that you might need to move around frequently. What sets this AC apart from the rest is its Smart Mode that automatically adjusts the settings to suit your surrounding temperature.
Apart from that, it’s got the basic functions that most portable ACs have including sleep mode, a 24-hour timer, and air swing for better airflow.
Performance:
It’s reasonably priced and is worth the money you’re paying given all the features you’re getting and its effective cooling effect.
Specifications:
- Horsepower: 1.0HP
- Cooling Capacity: 9000 BTU/h
- Warranty: 2 years
Key features:
- 2-Speed fan
- Supercooling
- Auto-evaporative system
What is a portable air conditioner and how does it work?
A portable AC works the same way a wall-mounted one does, just that it’s, well – portable. They’re small and usually weigh around 20 – 30+ kg, allowing you to move them around as and when needed. For instance, if there’s a particular room (with no AC) in your home that’s hotter than usual, you can move the unit over to cool the room down.
So, how does a portable AC work? All portable air conditioners require a window to expel exhaust via a hose, so first things first - you'll need to place your AC near a window and stick the hose out.
- First, it pulls stagnant air from inside the room
- Then, the motor cools the air for circulation throughout the space
- Finally, it funnels excess warm air and moisture outside via the hose
HomeDepot also explains that there are two types of portable air conditioners - single hose and dual hose. All the units listed are single hose ones as dual hose ACs aren't available here in Malaysia.
How to choose the right portable air conditioner
Portable ACs may be cheaper than its regular wall-mounted cousins, but this doesn’t mean you should spend less time doing your research. Here are a few things to factor in when looking for the best portable air conditioner.
Size of the room and horsepower/BTU
These are probably the two most important factors to consider, simply because your unit should have enough power to cool the designated area. The horsepower and BTUs of all the ACs listed above range from 1 hp (9,000/10,000 BTUs) to 1.5 hp (12,000 BTUs), which can cover around 400 and 550 square feet respectively. If you'd like to learn more, CompactAppliance.com has a useful chart that lists some general BTU recommendations based on room size
Your needs
Sounds pretty straightforward but many don’t usually take this factor into consideration. Sometimes we end up getting things we fancy functions that we don’t actually need. Some of the air conditioners we recommended have features like dehumidifiers, touchscreen display and even having cool air following you around. Ask yourself if these are necessary, because if they aren’t, then you’re just forking out more for a feature you’d probably use once and never again.
Installation area
Portable ACs are a bit more complicated than you think. Unlike air coolers, these units have a hose that you’ll have to stick out a window in order to get cool air. This is why some portable ACs come with window installation kits for a better fit and less hassle. Also keep in mind that the unit may take up some space on the floor, depending on its size. Take down its measurements to see if it fits your designated area or room.
How to install a portable air conditioner?
- Carefully read the instructions included with your portable air conditioner
Keep these instructions, as well as any warranty information, for future reference.
- Pick a spot near a window and an outlet
Place the air conditioner near a window as well as a power outlet. If your unit has a long ventilation hose, it’s best to place it closer to the window to allow warm air to be vented outside.
Make sure that the airflow isn't hindered by furniture, plants, or other obstructions, and that the air conditioner isn't a tripping hazard.
- Check to see if the window adapter kit is compatible with your window
Almost all portable air conditioners come with a working window adaptor kit. However, in some situations, the equipment is missing or not the proper size for the window, in which case, you'll have to improvise.
- The ventilation hose should be connected
Connect your hose to the window adapter kit and check that it's a good fit. Wrap duct tape around the connection point if it's a bit loose. Then attach the other end of the ventilation hose to the portable air conditioner. If necessary, use duct tape.
- Connect the drain hose
If your portable air conditioner has a drainage hose, connect it to the unit and tie it to the drainage point. Whether you’re draining it into a sink, tub or bucket, do secure the hose with tape to prevent it from becoming dislodged and draining on the floor.
- Connect your portable air conditioner to an electrical outlet
After you've connected everything, turn on your portable air conditioner, and just like that, you're good to go!
Are portable air conditioners quiet?
For most, a portable air conditioner as loud as a white noise machine is fine – even ideal for those who enjoy the background noise.
However, if you’re particularly sensitive to sounds, you’ll find it noisy even at a noise level of 60 dB(how loud a typical conversation sounds). "Each 10 point rise in dB equals a tenfold increase in sound intensity (energy), and this is regarded as twice as loud by humans," according to the Hearing Health Foundation.
20 points separate the quietest and loudest units in the survey. This means that the quietest and noisiest areas are significantly different. As a result, even slight increases in decibel levels have a significant impact.
Conclusion
Almost like making a big purchase decision for anything else, lots of thought should be put into getting a portable air conditioner. Based on my own experience, these units end up being much more of a hassle than a relief, mainly because of the tube that needs to be placed outdoors. Hence, if you have a more flexible budget (or situation), it would be better to get a wall-mounted air conditioner instead. Otherwise, we’d recommend the Midea MPH-09CRN1. It’s affordable (below RM 1,000), has good reviews, and most importantly – keeps your crib cool.
