As the summer heat intensifies, finding an effective cooling solution becomes a top priority. The De’Longhi 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner promises to deliver powerful cooling, dehumidification, and air circulation, making it an all-in-one solution for large spaces. Priced at nearly $700, this unit is an investment. But does it justify its cost? In this review, we’ll explore its features, performance, and whether it’s worth considering for your home or office.
Unboxing the De’Longhi 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
Key Features
- Cooling Power: 14,000 BTU (ASHRAE), 8,600 BTU (SACC), suitable for rooms up to 700 sq. ft.
- Special Technology: Cool Surround Technology and ECO Real Feel for targeted cooling and energy efficiency.
- Multi-Functionality: Functions as an air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan.
- Quiet Operation: Arctic Whisper Extreme Technology for ultra-quiet performance.
- Ease of Use: Portable design with cast handles and wheels for easy movement.
Specifications at a Glance
- Cooling Power: 14,000 BTU (ASHRAE), 8,600 BTU (SACC)
- Dimensions: 15.4″D x 17.5″W x 31.7″H
- SEER: 7.6
- Color: White
- Voltage: 115V
- Noise Level: 53 dB
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Cooling Power | 14,000 BTU (ASHRAE), 8,600 BTU (SACC), suitable for rooms up to 700 sq. ft. |
| Cooling Range | Effectively cools large spaces from 82°F to 70°F within 30 minutes |
| Energy Efficiency | SEER rating of 7.6 with ECO Real Feel technology for up to 30% energy savings |
| Noise Level | Operates at 53 dB, utilizing Arctic Whisper Extreme Technology for quiet operation |
| Modes | 3-in-1 functionality: Cooling, Dehumidifying, Fan |
| Dehumidification Capacity | Removes up to 2 liters of moisture per hour |
| Fan Speeds | Adjustable fan speeds with Cool Surround Technology for targeted cooling |
| Cool Surround Technology | Bluetooth-enabled remote control that targets cooling where it’s needed most |
| Installation | Quick and easy setup with included window venting kit |
| Portability | Compact design with cast handles and wheels for easy movement |
| Dimensions | 15.4″D x 17.5″W x 31.7″H |
| Color | White |
| Voltage | 115V |
| Refrigerant | Uses R-32, a more environmentally friendly refrigerant |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
Cooling Performance and Coverage
Powerful Cooling for Large Spaces
The De’Longhi 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is designed to cool extra-large rooms up to 700 sq. ft., making it ideal for living rooms, large bedrooms, and offices. During our testing, the unit efficiently cooled a 600 sq. ft. space from 82°F to 70°F in just under 30 minutes. The cooling was consistent throughout the room, thanks to the motorized air direction control that ensures even airflow.
ASHRAE vs. SACC Ratings
While the unit boasts a 14,000 BTU rating under the ASHRAE standard, it’s important to note that its cooling capacity is measured at 8,600 BTU under the SACC (Seasonally Adjusted Cooling Capacity) standard. The SACC rating is generally considered more reflective of real-world performance, so this is something to keep in mind if you’re cooling a space near the upper limit of its capacity.
Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
ECO Real Feel Technology
The De’Longhi Portable Air Conditioner is equipped with ECO Real Feel technology, an industry-exclusive feature that balances temperature and humidity to optimize comfort while reducing energy consumption. This technology can save up to 30% on energy costs by adjusting the unit’s operation based on real-time conditions in the room. Our tests showed that the ECO Real Feel mode maintained a comfortable environment without the frequent cycling on and off that can drive up energy bills.
SEER Rating
With a SEER rating of 7.6, the De’Longhi unit falls within the typical range for portable air conditioners, though it doesn’t reach the highest levels of efficiency seen in some other models. However, the ECO Real Feel technology helps offset this by making the unit more efficient in its actual operation, especially in humid climates.
Multi-Functional Modes for Year-Round Comfort
3-in-1 Functionality
The De’Longhi 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner isn’t just for cooling. It also functions as a dehumidifier and a fan, making it a versatile appliance for year-round use.
- Cooling Mode: Delivers powerful, targeted cooling for hot days.
- Dehumidifier Mode: Removes excess moisture from the air, which is particularly useful in humid climates.
- Fan Mode: Circulates air without cooling, ideal for mild days or when you just need a breeze.
Dehumidification Capability
In dehumidifier mode, the unit can remove up to 2 liters of moisture per hour, significantly reducing humidity levels in your space. This is especially beneficial in areas where humidity can make the temperature feel hotter than it actually is.
User Experience and Noise Levels
Whisper-Quiet Operation
One of the most impressive features of the De’Longhi Portable Air Conditioner is its Arctic Whisper Extreme Technology, which ensures that the unit operates at 53 dB or lower. This makes it one of the quieter portable air conditioners on the market. During our testing, the noise level was comparable to a quiet conversation, even when the unit was running at full power. This low noise level makes it ideal for use in bedrooms, offices, or any environment where quiet is essential.
Cool Surround Technology
The unit comes with a Cool Surround Remote Control that uses Bluetooth technology to monitor the temperature and humidity around the remote, rather than just at the unit itself. This feature allows the air conditioner to deliver targeted cooling to the exact area where you need it most. We found this particularly useful in large rooms, where there can be significant temperature variations depending on where you’re sitting.
Portability and Installation
Easy Setup and Portability
The De’Longhi Portable Air Conditioner is designed with portability in mind. It features cast handles and wheels, making it easy to move from room to room. The setup process is straightforward and can be completed in minutes, even for those who aren’t particularly handy. The unit comes with a window venting kit that fits most standard windows, and the instructions are clear and easy to follow.
Compact Design
Despite its powerful performance, the unit has a relatively compact footprint with dimensions of 15.4″D x 17.5″W x 31.7″H. It can easily fit in most rooms without taking up too much space. The white color and sleek design also ensure that it blends in with most home decors.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Overall Ratings
The De’Longhi 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner has received an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars from over 1,170 reviews on Amazon. While this is a solid rating, it indicates that the unit has both strong points and areas where it may not meet everyone’s expectations.
Common Praise
- Effective Cooling: Many users appreciate the unit’s ability to cool large spaces quickly and efficiently.
- Quiet Operation: The low noise level is frequently mentioned as a key benefit, especially for those using it in bedrooms or offices.
- Ease of Use: Customers find the setup process straightforward, and the remote control with Cool Surround Technology is a hit for its targeted cooling.
Common Criticisms
- Price: Some users feel that the unit is on the expensive side, especially considering its SEER rating isn’t the highest.
- Energy Consumption: While the ECO Real Feel mode helps, some users report that the unit can still be energy-intensive, particularly in extremely hot climates.
Conclusion: Is the De’Longhi 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner Worth It?
The De’Longhi 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a powerful, versatile, and quiet cooling solution for large spaces. Its combination of effective cooling, dehumidification, and fan capabilities makes it a year-round appliance, while features like ECO Real Feel technology and Cool Surround Technology add to its appeal.
However, its higher price point and average SEER rating may give some buyers pause. If you’re looking for a high-end, feature-rich portable air conditioner that excels in large spaces and can operate quietly, the De’Longhi 14,000 BTU model is worth the investment. But if budget is a concern, you might find similar performance in lower-priced units, albeit with fewer advanced features.
In conclusion, the De’Longhi 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner offers a lot of value for those who prioritize quiet operation, targeted cooling, and multi-functionality. It’s a well-rounded unit that can keep you comfortable through the hottest days and beyond, making it a solid choice for those looking to invest in a premium portable air conditioner.
