MobilComfort KY-80

The MobilComfort KY-80 is an 8,000-BTU portable air conditioner designed to cool a small room of up to about 150 square feet. Like most portable AC units, it can be used as an air conditioner, dehumidifier or simply a fan. User feedback is largely positive -- some owners go so far as to say it's among the best air conditioners they've ever owned. That's mainly because the MobilComfort KY-80 largely delivers what it promises and then some. Still, if you have a space that's much bigger than what an 8,000-BTU portable air conditioner can reasonably be expected to handle, a larger-capacity unit might be a better choice. One option is the 10,000-BTU NewAir AC-10000E (*Est. $350), which can cool a space as large as 250 square feet.

While owners generally like the KY-80, a few negatives do pop up in reviews. Some owners say the drain pan can quickly fill up with condensed water and overflow, although others report no problems. Some find the MobilComfort KY-80 to be louder than they'd like, partly due to a fan that runs continuously. However, others say the KY-80 is actually pretty quiet. Most note that this portable air conditioner is easy to set up and use, but a few report problems attaching the exhaust hose. Many like the slim/compact design.

Professional reviewers don't provide much guidance when it comes to portable air conditioners. Owners often have their say at retailer sites with very helpful reviews. We found the most feedback at Air-n-Water.com, Air-Conditioner-Home.com and Amazon.com.