BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner: In-Depth Review

If you’re looking for a portable AC that offers convenience, smart features, and decent cooling performance, the BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner might be a great option to consider. In this review, we’ll delve deep into the features, performance, ease of use, and more to help you determine if this portable air conditioner is the right choice for your needs.

Key Features of the BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner

The BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner is a multifunctional unit that offers several features, including cooling, dehumidification, and fan functionality. Below are some of its key highlights:

Feature	Details
Capacity	44.2 Liters (water tank capacity)
Cooling Power	14,000 BTU (ASHRAE) / 10,200 BTU (SACC)
Special Features	Remote control, 3-in-1 functionality, Wi-Fi connectivity, Follow Me remote
Dimensions	14.06″D x 16.5″W x 27.09″H
Voltage	115 Volts
Seasonal Energy Efficiency	6.2 SEER
Room Coverage	Up to 700 sq. ft.
Color	White
Additional Features	Mobile app control, Voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant

Design and Build Quality

The BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner has a sleek and modern design. It comes in a clean white color that fits seamlessly into most room decors. Its compact size (16.5 inches wide, 14.06 inches deep, and 27.09 inches high) ensures that it can be easily placed in various room settings, whether in a living room, bedroom, or office.

The unit features a large, easy-to-read LED display that shows the current temperature, mode, and other settings. The control panel is top-mounted, making it easy to access without needing to bend down or strain. For convenience, the air conditioner comes with a full-function remote control, which includes the Follow Me feature for precise temperature regulation.

In terms of portability, this AC is lightweight compared to some other models in the same category. It comes with casters, which make it easy to move from room to room. The installation kit, which includes a window kit for venting hot air out, is easy to set up, making it a suitable choice for renters or anyone who needs a temporary solution.

Cooling Performance

The primary function of any air conditioner is its cooling performance, and the BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU model is no exception. Rated at 14,000 BTU (ASHRAE) or 10,200 BTU (SACC), it is designed to cool spaces up to 700 sq. ft., making it ideal for medium to large rooms.

The cooling power is generally effective in smaller or medium-sized rooms, and the air conditioner delivers cool air quickly. In rooms of around 400–500 sq. ft., the cooling effect is noticeable within minutes, and it can significantly drop the room temperature. However, in larger spaces near the 700 sq. ft. maximum coverage, the cooling effect may be less intense, and it might struggle to keep up with very high temperatures, especially in rooms with direct sunlight.

Several customers report that the AC unit blasts cold air and operates efficiently. However, some users have experienced inconsistent cooling in larger rooms, noting that the unit struggles to cool all areas evenly. This could be due to the air conditioner’s size and the specific environmental conditions of each room.

Dehumidification and Fan Modes

Aside from cooling, the BLACK+DECKER portable air conditioner can also function as a dehumidifier and fan. The dehumidifier works by extracting moisture from the air, which can be beneficial in high-humidity climates, especially during the summer. Users have generally found the dehumidification feature to be effective, with the unit removing a considerable amount of moisture from the air. It helps improve comfort levels in humid conditions and can assist in preventing mold and mildew growth.

The fan mode provides an air circulation option without cooling. It is particularly useful during cooler evenings when air conditioning is unnecessary but a breeze is still desirable. While the fan mode doesn’t cool the room, it helps with air circulation and can be a good option for energy saving when cooling isn’t required.

Smart Features and Connectivity

One of the standout features of the BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is its smart functionality. With Wi-Fi connectivity, the air conditioner can be controlled remotely via the mobile app available on both iOS and Android platforms. This means you can adjust the temperature, fan speed, and other settings without having to be physically near the unit. The app is user-friendly, and it allows you to set schedules and preferences for maximum convenience.

In addition, the air conditioner is compatible with voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, which enables you to control the unit with simple voice commands. Whether you’re busy in the kitchen or relaxing in bed, you can adjust the settings hands-free, which is a highly desirable feature for tech-savvy users.

Follow Me Remote Control

The Follow Me remote control is a unique and helpful feature of this portable air conditioner. This remote has a built-in sensor that detects the temperature around it. When you use the Follow Me function, the air conditioner adjusts its cooling settings based on the temperature readings from the remote, rather than the main unit. This ensures that the cooling is more focused around the area where you are, providing a more personalized experience.

For example, if you’re sitting on the couch or lying in bed, the air conditioner will adjust its settings to keep you comfortable, even if you move around the room. This feature helps ensure that the room temperature remains consistent, and it can be especially helpful in large rooms or areas with poor airflow.

Noise Levels

When it comes to air conditioners, noise is often a concern for many users, particularly for those who plan to use it in a bedroom or quiet environment. The BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner operates at a noise level of about 52-56 decibels, which is relatively moderate. Some customers report that the noise level is not intrusive, and the unit is quiet enough to sleep through. However, others have mentioned that it can be a bit louder, especially on higher fan speeds.

The noise level largely depends on the fan setting and the room’s acoustics. While it may not be as silent as some high-end models, it’s relatively average for a portable AC unit. The trade-off is that it delivers solid cooling performance and versatile features for the price.

Installation and Ease of Use

Installing the BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is straightforward, thanks to the included window installation kit. The kit comes with everything you need to vent the hot air outside, and the process is quick and simple. Even if you’re not particularly handy, you can get this unit up and running in less than 30 minutes.

Once installed, the unit is easy to use, with simple controls on both the LED display panel and the remote control. The Follow Me feature is a particularly helpful addition that allows for a more personalized and efficient cooling experience.

Value for Money

The price of the BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is somewhat higher than some comparable models, but it offers good value for money considering its performance and features. It combines cooling, dehumidification, and fan modes in one compact unit, and the inclusion of smart functionality and a remote control adds a level of convenience that many other portable air conditioners lack.

However, as with many consumer products, there are mixed reviews regarding its value for money. Some customers find that the price is justified by the cooling performance, features, and overall convenience, while others feel that it’s not quite worth the cost, particularly if it struggles to cool larger rooms effectively.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Effective cooling for medium-sized rooms
• Multi-functional (AC, fan, dehumidifier)
• Wi-Fi connectivity and voice control
• Follow Me remote for personalized temperature control
• Easy to install with an included window kit
• User-friendly mobile app and remote control

Cons:

• May struggle to cool larger rooms effectively
• Noise levels may be higher than expected on some fan settings
• Some users may find it expensive compared to similar models

Final Verdict

The BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner offers a solid mix of features, performance, and convenience. With a strong cooling capacity for medium-sized rooms, the added benefits of dehumidification, fan modes, and smart connectivity make it a versatile option. The Follow Me remote control and the ability to control the unit with a mobile app or voice commands provide excellent ease of use.

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