Mobile air conditioners without exhaust air hose in test and comparison

Air conditioners without an exhaust air hose are a cost-effective alternative to air conditioning. Air coolers do not require an exhaust air hose and can be used flexibly.

In this article, we take a look at the Advantages and disadvantages the air cooler on. I will then explain the Functionality and highlight the most important purchase criteria and differences to other appliance classes.

Finally, I'll introduce you to some air coolers that are recommended in my opinion:

If you want to jump straight to my assessment of the products mentioned above, simply click on the product name in the list.

Let's take a quick look at what exactly makes up an air cooler:

What is an air cooler?

An air cooler is an appliance that can be used to reduce the temperature of the air in a room. The purpose of the appliance is the same as that of an air conditioner.

However, there are a few key differences between an air conditioning system and an air cooler. We will look at these in a later section of the article.

The shape of an air cooler is not very reminiscent of a fan. The devices usually have a box shape. This is because they have to carry a water tank in the housing. The larger contact surface of a box shape ensures greater stability.

The ventilation slots for sucking in and blowing out air are usually located at the front and rear.

How an air cooler works

With many air coolers, cooling can be switched on as required. This means that the air cooler can be used as a simple fan. As soon as the temperatures require it, you can then switch on the cooling function. This cooling function works with the water in the tank.

The evaporation of the water lowers the temperature of the air.

The appliance utilises what is known as evaporative cooling. The principle can be explained using a simple example:

Suppose you have a pot of water and want to make it evaporate. Then you could place the pot on a hob and switch it on. This is because the water has to be heated in order to evaporate. Put simply, the water has to absorb heat in order to evaporate.

The air cooler utilises the thermal energy in the air to evaporate the water. This makes the air colder and Thermal energy is now in the water vapour saved.

To the point sthe appliance draws in warm air and blows out colder, but more humid air.

Advantages and disadvantages of the air cooler

The air cooler is cheaper and more flexible than the classic air conditioning system. However, as always, there are not only advantages:

In terms of price, air coolers are generally (far) below air conditioning systems. Installation and commissioning are also simpler. No exhaust air hose needs to be laid and ventilation shafts are also not required.

An air cooler can be used like a Tower fan can be easily transported from one room to another. However, a full water tank can make transport a little more difficult. However, many models are equipped with castors on the underside, allowing them to roll easily on smooth floors.

The disadvantage is that cooling is achieved by the evaporation of water. This increases the humidity in the room. On the other hand, with the appropriate Ventilation techniques be tackled.

Refilling the water tank is a rather small but present disadvantage.

The disadvantage is that cooling is achieved by the evaporation of water. This increases the humidity in the room. On the other hand, with the appropriate Ventilation techniques be tackled.

Refilling the water tank is a rather small but present disadvantage.

Purchase criteria

Here are what I consider to be the most important purchase criteria that you should consider before and when buying an air cooler:

• Performance
• Size
• Energy consumption
• Volume
• Extras
• Water tank capacity
• Price

Let's take a closer look at the individual criteria in brief:

Performance

Comparing the performance of air coolers is not always easy. For example, the power consumption in watts can be used for comparison. Or the number of square metres for which the appliance is suitable according to the manufacturer.

I find that the best way to compare appliances is by looking at the air circulation rate. This is the amount of air (usually specified in cubic metres) that the appliance can move in a certain period of time (usually one hour).

Size of the device

The dimensions of the housing determine where the appliance can be used. Models for private households are often smaller and have less power. However, they also cost less than the larger and more powerful versions for commercial premises. In an open-plan office, it is not uncommon for several of these devices to be used to cool the air and the employees.

Regardless of the dimensions of your air cooler, make sure that the housing is stable. It is good if the water tank is positioned close to the floor. This also increases stability, as the centre of gravity is closer to the floor.

You're probably thinking that you don't intend to bump into or knock over the appliance every day. But children and pets may be less considerate. That's why I always recommend the greatest possible stability.

Energy consumption

Keeping an eye on energy consumption is never a bad idea. As an air cooler can run for several hours a day in summer, it's worth doing the maths.

Assuming a 70 watt appliance is operated for six hours a day. At a price of 30 cents per kilowatt hour, this results in the following costs:

You can change the values of the input fields and adapt them to your desired device and the expected use.

Volume

The volume is an important factor when appliances are running continuously. An air cooler should make the atmosphere in the room more pleasant and not disturb it with too loud a humming or hissing noise.

In a private household, I would use appliances that can run at a noise level of less than 60 dB. They can also get louder on higher settings. The important thing is that you have the option of setting them to a low, quiet level.

In the workplace - for example in the office - there is usually a certain amount of background noise anyway. In my opinion, models up to 70 dB are a good choice.

Extras

Additional functions are always nice to have. For air coolers, for example, built-in timers are a good option.

Timer

Assuming you already know that today will be a hot day, you can set the operating time of the cooler to 6 hours at 11 am. The appliance will then work for you until 7 p.m. and the hottest phase of the day will be largely covered.

Optional cooling function

In addition to a timer, the option to switch on the cooling function separately is very practical. This means that the air cooler can also be operated as a normal fan. You can only switch on the cooling function when it is really needed. In this way, you have a combined appliance that is an air cooler and a pure fan in one. The cooling function consumes more energy. Switching on the cooling function separately gives you more control over energy consumption.

Air filter

With a high air turnover per hour, an in-built air filter becomes interesting. With the built-in filter, the appliance can filter dust and other substances from the room air and clean it. HEPA filters are recommended. You can find out more about air purification in this article:

Recommended air coolers without exhaust air hose

Here is a list of air coolers that are recommended in my opinion. If you have any questions about the list, are missing products or think that one is wrongly listed, please write to me: maxmarx1991@gmail.com

Powerful cooling and practical features for hot summer days

The Woleix mobile air conditioner with 9000 BTU really impressed me in everyday use. It provides pleasant cooling in a short space of time, especially in medium-sized rooms up to around 30 m², which is a real blessing on hot summer days. With its compact dimensions (29.4 x 33 x 68.6 cm), the appliance is quite slim, which makes it easy to use even in smaller flats or rooms. The white design has a modern look and blends unobtrusively into the room.

What is immediately noticeable is the noise level of around 60 dB - it is audible, but not disturbingly loud. I left the appliance running at a low setting at night and was able to sleep without any problems, which I see as a big plus point. The remote control works reliably and makes it easy to make settings from the sofa or bed.

The adjustable air outlet is practical, as it allows the cool air to be directed exactly where it is needed. The mesh filter is washable, which makes it easy to clean. The dehumidification mode is particularly useful for me - especially on humid days in summer, it ensures a pleasant room climate without the need for constant ventilation.

The exhaust air system with the flexible hose and the window adapter is a clever solution: the adapter is simply clamped between the roller shutter and the window sill so that no warm air penetrates back into the room. This keeps the cooling efficient. The only small disadvantage in everyday use is the condensation that has to be drained occasionally. Although this works well, the weight of the appliance makes it difficult to move if you want to put it near a drain.

The appliance runs on environmentally friendly refrigerant R-290 and has energy class A+, which keeps its power consumption manageable. The Woleix is a very good choice for anyone looking for a mobile air conditioner that cools and dehumidifies quickly and reliably and even acts as a fan - especially for flats and rooms up to 30 m².

Comfee 9000 BTU mobile air conditioner - flexible & effective

The Comfee MPPH-09CRN7 is a 9000 BTU (2.6 kW) mobile air conditioner designed for rooms up to around 33 m². The first time you try it out, you will notice that the device is comparatively compact yet robust. At just under 28 kg, it is not a lightweight, but it is easy to move thanks to its castors.

The white housing has a sleek and modern look and is easy to operate. In addition to the cooling function, the appliance also offers ventilation and dehumidification - the dehumidification function in particular is noticeably pleasant on humid summer days as it significantly reduces the humidity.

In everyday use, the device delivered a solid performance: in a typical living room of around 20-30 m², it was able to noticeably reduce the temperature by a few degrees. At the same time, it operates with a certain background noise of around 63 dB - still acceptable for a living room or study, but less suitable for sleeping without headphones or sound insulation.

One practical point is its flexible use: the appliance is relatively easy to set up and the exhaust air hose is routed to the window. However, the window insert supplied is not perfectly sealed, so some heat can penetrate through the opening. We recommend adding window seals or foam to make cooling more efficient.

The tip from a customer review to convert the appliance into a two-hose system with a second hose is particularly exciting. This should noticeably improve the cooling performance, as warm air is removed and fresh outside air is supplied at the same time. Anyone who can do a bit of DIY will benefit from a significant increase in efficiency.

Dehumidification is another plus point: in practice, several litres of water accumulate every day, which can be collected in a container - or the hose connection can be used for permanent drainage. This increases comfort in damp rooms.

Electricity consumption should not be underestimated. Daily use of around 10 hours can quickly result in electricity costs of 2-3 euros per day, which is significant during longer summer periods.

Overall, the Comfee MPPH-09CRN7 is a reliable device for single rooms or smaller flats that provides noticeable relief, especially on hot days. It is less suitable for larger flats or very high temperatures. The noise level and the effort involved in installing the hose should be taken into account. If you are looking for a practical, mobile solution with a good price-performance ratio, this is a solid product with room for improvement in terms of energy efficiency and noise levels.

Bosch Cool 4000 mobile air conditioner for rooms up to 35 m²

The Bosch Cool 4000 is a mobile air conditioner with a cooling capacity of 2.6 kW, designed for rooms up to around 35 m². In addition to the cooling function, it also offers dehumidification and ventilation in one device - ideal for versatile use on warm summer days.

The appliance is equipped with a fairly large water tank (50 litres), which enables long dehumidification cycles without having to drain water frequently. The dimensions are slightly larger than some of its competitors, which benefits the cooling capacity and functions.

Operation is uncomplicated. The Auto, Silent and Sleep modes, which adjust comfort and volume depending on the situation, are particularly practical. During operation, the appliance cools rooms surprisingly quickly: at moderate temperatures, it manages to reduce the temperature by several degrees Celsius within an hour. As soon as the desired temperature is reached, the volume is noticeably reduced and it continues to run pleasantly quietly.

A frequently mentioned topic in the reviews is window sealing: the kit supplied is often not ideal for typical German windows, especially for bottom-hung or sliding windows. Here it is advisable to help with additional seals or special plates to avoid thermal bridges and increase efficiency.

The noise level is around 63 dB, which is good compared to other appliances, but can still be a nuisance in the bedroom. However, the appliance can be used well in living and working areas.

The power consumption is moderate and the cooling performance is impressive, even in continuous use. Another plus point is the simple emptying of the condensation water, although a sufficiently large container is advisable as a lot of water is collected in a short time.

Overall, the Bosch Cool 4000 is a very reliable and powerful mobile air conditioner that scores highly with its good range of functions and proven Bosch quality. If you are prepared to put a little more effort into sealing your windows, you will get a powerful appliance that provides noticeable relief on hot days.

Modern tower fan with water cooling and remote control

The Lofrritp air cooler with water cooling is a modern alternative to classic mobile air conditioners that does not require an exhaust air hose. With its slim, high tower design (115 cm), it fits well into rooms without taking up much floor space.

What is immediately noticeable is the combination of a 4-litre water tank and four cooling batteries supplied, which significantly increase the cooling capacity. This cools the air down pleasantly and noticeably - not with icy cold as with air conditioners with a compressor, but in a natural way via evaporative cooling. This is particularly pleasant on hot summer days and ensures a fresh indoor climate.

Operation is very convenient thanks to the touch panel and remote control. There are four different modes and three fan speeds that can be easily customised to suit your needs. The timer function (up to 24 hours) enables energy-saving operation, and the appliance is also pleasantly quiet at night in sleep mode.

At around 56 dB, the air cooler operates more quietly than many compressor air conditioners and is therefore less disturbing. The appliance even has two independent ventilation openings that can be controlled separately, which makes the air circulation particularly flexible.

The appliance does not require an exhaust air hose, which makes the installation location very flexible and installation child's play. The light weight (less than 5 kg) also means it can be moved around the home quickly.

In everyday use, the air cooler is particularly impressive in small to medium-sized rooms and is ideal for users who are looking for simple, energy-saving and low-noise cooling without major installation effort.

Echos 9000 BTU mobile air conditioner - smart & versatile

The Echos 3in1 air conditioner is a mobile device with an output of 9000 BTU that can cool, dehumidify and ventilate. The Wi-Fi control, which enables operation via app, is particularly practical, and a remote control is also included. This makes handling convenient, especially if you want to control the appliance from the couch or bed.

The appliance is well made and looks robust. The dimensions are compact enough to use it flexibly in medium-sized rooms up to around 40 m². The unit feels particularly at home in attic flats or similarly warm rooms. The supplied window seal with exhaust air hose ensures that the hot air is reliably channelled outside, which effectively supports the cooling performance.

Operation is audible, but within an acceptable range for the power. In normal operation, the device works relatively quietly, but at full power it gets a little louder - which is normal for a mobile air conditioner. The temperature is reduced quite quickly and the dehumidification function noticeably improves the room climate.

It is important to note that the installation of the exhaust air hose and the window seal may require some effort depending on the window type. The kit is usually suitable for sliding windows, but additional accessories are often required for roof windows. Control via Wi-Fi is reliable, but integration into Google Home does not work; everything runs via the dedicated "Smart Life" app.

All in all, the appliance is a solid and practical solution for anyone who wants flexible cooling in summer and appreciates the modern smartphone control. However, its performance is limited for very small or poorly insulated rooms, which buyers should bear in mind.

Efficient, smart and flexible: the Dreo 10,000 BTU air conditioning system

The Dreo portable air conditioner impresses above all with its combination of performance, modern technology and user-friendliness. The comparatively light but solid housing is immediately noticeable when carrying it, and with dimensions of approx. 40 x 44 x 72 cm, it can be easily positioned in small to medium-sized rooms.

In everyday life, the quick cooling function is a real plus point. Within around 10 to 15 minutes, a warm bedroom becomes a cosy retreat, even in the summer heat. At around 46 dB, the background noise is pleasantly quiet - ideal for sleeping undisturbed at night. Operation is never intrusive or disturbing.

Operation is modern and versatile: the air conditioning system can be conveniently controlled from a smartphone via the app, and functions such as switching on and off or changing the temperature can even be carried out by voice command via Alexa. This is particularly practical when you're lying in bed or have your hands full. The remote control with illuminated buttons is also very user-friendly.

The drainage system is particularly well thought out. Unlike older models, you don't have to constantly collect or drain water. The appliance recycles the condensation water itself, which makes it much more convenient to use.

The supplied window kit is solidly made and easy to fit so that the exhaust air hose can be attached quickly and securely. The clips and fasteners are stable and keep the system tight, which is not a given with portable air conditioning systems.

As a fan and dehumidifier, the appliance is also suitable for everyday use: Especially in damp rooms or during transitional periods, several problems can be solved at the same time.

All in all, a smart, powerful and quiet solution that is ideal for bedrooms, studies or small living rooms - especially if you value flexible control and simple installation.

Mobile air conditioner with dehumidifier and fan

With its 3-in-1 functionality - as an air conditioner, dehumidifier and fan - the Bosch Cool 4000 mobile air conditioner offers a versatile solution for the summer. The combination is particularly practical, as the appliance not only cools, but also significantly reduces the humidity in humid rooms.

The design is classic and compact with dimensions of 46 x 40 x 80 cm, which means it can be used in a wide variety of rooms up to approx. 35 m². It is stable and looks well made, although the window kit supplied does not fit most German windows perfectly. This means that you often have to make do with an additional solution for optimum sealing, such as an acrylic panel with a tube opening or another sealing kit. Although this is a minor disadvantage, it can be solved.

The cooling performance is impressive: rooms can be cooled down noticeably within a short space of time - for example from 23 to 16 degrees in less than an hour. The noise level of approx. 63 dB is not completely quiet, but acceptable for a powerful mobile air conditioner. In silent mode, the fan noise is quieter, but it is a pleasant, natural noise that some even find soothing.

The condensation container is quite large at 50 litres, but must be emptied regularly as the appliance does not have a drainage function. You should therefore plan to collect and empty the condensate. The connection for the condensation hose is well designed to prevent water damage.

Operation is convenient with several modes (Auto, Silent, Sleep) and easy-to-understand settings. Only the fan speeds seem a little less differentiated to some users, as the temperature control is partially prioritised over them. Nevertheless, the climate can be adjusted effectively and individually.

Conclusion: The Bosch Cool 4000 is a reliable and solid choice for anyone looking for a powerful and multifunctional mobile air conditioner who is prepared to put a little more effort into sealing their windows. It cools quickly, dehumidifies well and is robustly built.

Compact 3-in-1 air conditioner with good performance and timer

The EUHOMY 12,000 BTU mobile air conditioner is a solid appliance for small to medium-sized rooms that need to cool down quickly on hot days. The appliance looks compact with its dimensions (approx. 36 x 42 x 69 cm) and is relatively heavy at around 27 kg - transporting it therefore requires some strength or two people.

In everyday use, the air conditioner is particularly impressive thanks to its triple function as an air conditioner, dehumidifier and fan. The refrigerant R290 ensures good energy efficiency (class A) and more sustainable cooling. The room becomes noticeably cooler within a few minutes, especially in smaller areas such as bedrooms or offices.

It is easy and convenient to operate using a remote control, which is very practical in everyday life. The 24-hour timer offers additional convenience to customise the appliance to individual daily routines.

At around 49 dB, the system is somewhat audible, but comparatively quiet for a mobile air conditioner. Nevertheless, the operating noise should be taken into account, especially during rest periods.

Emptying the condensation water requires some attention: there is no removable water tank, but two drain plugs that you have to empty manually or connect a hose for continuous drainage. This is not quite as convenient as with some models with automatic evaporation.

Overall, the EUHOMY air conditioner offers good value for money with solid cooling performance and practical additional functions, especially if you want to cool and dehumidify small rooms efficiently.

Mobile air conditioning with Alexa, good cooling & quiet technology

The Midea Silent Cool 26 Pro is a versatile mobile air conditioner that, with 9000 BTU, can also cool medium-sized rooms up to around 33 m² well. The energy efficiency class A and the modern refrigerant make it relatively economical in terms of consumption.

A real plus point is the flexible control via app, Alexa and Google Home, which makes the device very smart and user-friendly. It is easy to set up and the supplied window kit is versatile, even if you sometimes have to upgrade for special window solutions.

The cooling performance is impressive: in a 9 m² room, we were able to achieve a temperature reduction of 2 to 2.5 degrees in 30 minutes. The fan mode and the dehumidification function significantly extend the benefits, which is particularly pleasant on humid or muggy summer nights.

The operating noise of around 57 dB is typical for mobile air conditioners - not whisper-quiet, but significantly quieter than many older models and easily tolerable for conversations or watching TV. For the bedroom, however, users recommend the silent model or additional sound insulation.

A particularly positive feature is that the exhaust air hoses can be extended modularly - this minimises heat loss and reduces the noise level through better insulation. This also makes the appliance suitable for complicated room situations.

A small disadvantage is the occasional risk of kinks in hoses, which must be corrected manually, but overall the appliance appears robust and well made.

For users who value smart control, good cooling performance and a quiet basic volume, the Midea Silent Cool 26 Pro is a highly recommended choice.

Mobile heat pump with 12,000 BTU and smart silent mode

The Midea Portasplit is a modern mobile air conditioner with an integrated heat pump that can both cool and heat - a clear advantage for users who want to use the appliance all year round. With a cooling capacity of 12,000 BTU, it is suitable for medium-sized rooms up to 42 m² and offers strong and reliable performance.

The design is compact and modern, with dimensions that allow the appliance to be positioned flexibly. The weight of 45.5 kg makes transport a little more difficult, but the compact design compensates for this.

The Midea Portasplit particularly impressed with its comparatively low noise level of 56 dB in operation - in silent mode even only 39 dB - which is very pleasant for a mobile air conditioner. Users report that the device hardly disturbs even in the bedroom, which is not the case with many other models.

Control via the app is intuitive and comprehensive: from remote control and self-cleaning functions to energy monitoring, everything is included to make everyday life easier. The option to also use the appliance as a heater and dehumidifier noticeably increases its utility value.

The only fly in the ointment are reports of quality controls in which individual devices were delivered with defects or noticeable noises. However, this seems to be the exception rather than the rule.

Overall, the Midea Portasplit is a very successful, versatile air conditioner with high ease of use, good cooling performance and pleasantly quiet operation for this appliance class. It is a clear recommendation for anyone who wants more than just cooling and values quiet operation.

Mobile air conditioning with powerful cooling and heating function

The Remko RKL 300 Eco room air conditioner impresses with its powerful cooling capacity of 3.1 kW and is ideal for rooms of up to approx. 90 m³. With dimensions of 38 x 45 x 84 cm, it is somewhat bulky, but compact enough to be installed in many living spaces.

In operation, the appliance impresses with its solid performance: the air is cooled quickly and, thanks to the integrated heating function, it can also be used in colder seasons - a real all-round talent for the whole year. The remote control makes it easy to operate so that all functions can be conveniently controlled.

It is particularly practical that the appliance works without condensation puddles or mess, which is not a matter of course with mobile air conditioners. The exhaust air connection is well thought out and ensures reliable air flow.

The noise level of around 64 dB is typical for an appliance in this performance class - it's not whisper quiet, but it's not disturbingly loud either. This is an acceptable noise level for living rooms or offices.

The weight of around 40 kg including packaging makes transport somewhat challenging, which is why it is best to have support when moving it.

Overall, the Remko RKL 300 Eco is a reliable and powerful air conditioner that is suitable for many areas of application with its heating and cooling function - ideal for users who value high performance and ease of use.

Alternatives: Split air conditioning unit & compact air conditioning unit

This article has now dealt specifically and in detail with air coolers without a hose. This refers to the exhaust air hose that other air conditioners use to transport the warm air outside (or at least to another room).

For the sake of completeness, let's take a look at the alternatives so that this page gives you as comprehensive an insight as possible into your options for cooling indoor air.

Monobloc air conditioners

The monobloc air conditioner does not work with water, but with a refrigerant. This agent is used to extract the heat energy from the room air and channel it out of the room via an exhaust air hose.

A monobloc air conditioning unit requires a hose and must be positioned so that this hose is laid out of a window, for example. Such an appliance is still one of the more flexible air conditioning units and can be set up or converted in a few simple steps become.

It should be noted that compared to the air cooler Slightly higher volume.

Compact air conditioning unit & window air conditioner

Compact air conditioning units, which also include window air conditioners, are mounted on windows or external walls. Unlike monobloc units, they do not require a hose to dissipate the heat.

The window air conditioning units and compact air conditioning units are Fixed to the wall or window and conduct the heat energy absorbed from the room directly to the outside.

The Assembly is more complex and the appliance can then no longer be carried flexibly from room to room, as it is permanently installed.

On the other hand, it insulates better than a hose laid loosely through the window gap, as is the case with monobloc air conditioning units. This is why window air conditioners and compact air conditioners work so efficiently. More efficient than monobloc air conditioners.

Climate split unit

The split air conditioner is the air conditioner as most people know it. It essentially consists of two components: One in the house, which absorbs the heat energy from the room air and passes it on to the second component.

The second component, the compressor, is located outside the house. It can be installed in the garden or mounted on the façade.

The installation of an air conditioning split unit is more complex than that of compact air conditioning units. However, the split unit works even more efficiently than a compact air conditioning unit or a window air conditioner.

Split units are recommended where frequent cooling is required. If you only want to cool a living space occasionally (e.g. a few days a year), then the purchase and installation of an air conditioning split unit is hardly worthwhile. In this case, a compact air conditioning unit or a monobloc air conditioning unit is more suitable.

Difference between mobile air conditioner and split air conditioner

Conclusion

There are a variety of product classes that will cool you down on hot days. Air coolers are one of the most flexible options. They are cheaper than other air conditioners and are suitable for occasional use.

If the summers in your area are very long and hot, then it may be worth buying a compact air conditioning unit or an air conditioning split unit.

If you only need additional cooling for a few days or a few weeks a year, then the air cooler is a good choice in my opinion.

You can find out more about fans without a water tank here experience. One of the most interesting fans, for example, are the rotorless fans: