Keep Cool In Summer

Match the unit's kW/BTU rating to the size of the room: smaller bedrooms and home offices are well served by lower‑powered models such as the 2.6kW De'Longhi Pinguino (described as 10,500 BTU), while medium living rooms suit the 3.7kW Air Conditioning Centre iKool/Mobile systems and large open‑plan spaces benefit from the 4.5kW Air Conditioning Centre unit. If you have a particularly large or sunny room, aim for the higher kW model to maintain comfortable temperatures. When in doubt, pick the next size up rather than one that's underspecified so the unit doesn't have to run constantly.

Portable air conditioners actively cool and dehumidify, making them best for humid or mixed climates; they have exhaust hoses and higher kW/BTU ratings. Evaporative coolers use water to lower temperature, are very energy efficient and work best in dry climates. Fans (Status desk, stand and floor fans in 9", 16" and 18" sizes) simply circulate air and are ideal for quick, low‑cost relief or as a supplementary option with an AC unit.

Yes, models labeled "Silent" or "Eco Silent" — for example the De'Longhi Pinguino Silent and Eco Silent units — are designed to run more quietly than standard portable air conditioners, making them suitable for bedrooms. They still produce some sound from the compressor and exhaust, but typically less than non‑silent compressors and many floor fans. If you need near‑silence, pair a silent portable AC with a low‑speed desk fan (such as the 9" Status desk fan) for gentle circulation.

Yes — WiFi‑enabled models such as the De'Longhi Pinguino Silent WiFi and the Air Conditioning Centre 3.7kW WiFi unit let you pre‑cool, schedule cycles and change modes remotely, which saves energy by running only when needed. Multiple fan modes and eco settings tailor airflow and compressor duty, so you avoid overcooling and reduce electricity use. For example, set eco mode before bedtime to maintain a steady temperature without high power draw.

Portable air conditioners typically have washable filters that you should clean every few weeks in heavy use; also check and empty any condensate tray or ensure the exhaust hose is properly fitted. Evaporative coolers like the iKool and MasterKool series need regular water refills and periodic cleaning of the water tank to avoid scale or mould. Fans require only occasional dusting of blades and grills to maintain airflow and quiet operation.