How To Install A Black And Decker Portable Air Conditioner [In 5 Easy Steps!]

A Black and Decker portable air conditioner can offer users features like a 24-hour timer to help save energy and reasonably compact dimensions. Now that you might find it interesting to purchase one, the next step is to install it. But how can you install a Black and Decker portable AC for your home? We researched for you and consulted with experts to give you the following answer.

The typical installation for a Black and Decker portable air conditioner generally follows these steps:

1. Connect both ends of the air exhaust hose to the AC's air inlet and outlet ports.
2. Attach the window bracket or air intake hose connector.
3. Line up the air outlet opening hook to the hose inlet.
4. Connect the air intake hose connector to the window bracket opening.
5. Bring power to the portable AC unit and check for faults from the installation.

An error code during a Black and Decker portable AC unit's operation may indicate an improper setup procedure. Continue reading as we talk about these error codes in greater detail. We'll also discuss the proper way to install this brand's portable air conditioner to help ensure malfunctions don't occur.

How Do You Set Up A Black And Decker Portable Air Conditioner?

Before proceeding with the installation, make sure that your Black and Decker portable air conditioner has a complete set of parts. This package will typically include the following:

• Control panel
• Intake and air outlet grills
• Filter
• Air exhaust hose and housing
• Hose outlet and inlet
• Castor locks
• Metal locking screw
• Condensation drain
• Remote control
• Drain hose

Something to note, you want to refer to your owner's manual to verify that your portable air conditioner from this brand is complete.

Next, ensure that you place the appliance in a suitable location. Black and Decker recommend users choose a place such as these:

• With a flat, firm, and sturdy floor.
• With a properly-rated grounded electrical socket is nearby.
• With a 12- to 36-inch clearance from a wall with a window.

Assuming that you completed the measurements to ensure the AC's vent hose fits the window and finished the other preparations, you can continue the rest of the setup process.

The Installation Process

1. Attach the air exhaust hose to the air inlet. Then, attach the other end of the hose to the air outlet.
2. Line up the window bracket or air intake hose connector. You should hear a 'click' that signifies the two parts are secure.
3. Connect the air outlet opening hook to the hose inlet. Rotate the hose inlet counter-clockwise to secure it in place.
4. Insert the air intake hose connector to the window bracket opening. Again, you'll hear a clicking sound to confirm the secure connection.
5. Connect the power plug of the appliance to the nearby electrical outlet.
6. Press the power button on the control panel to turn on the air conditioner to identify faults from the installation.

Note that a portable Black and Decker air conditioner will generally fit most vertical and horizontal windows.

However, some window designs may require modifications for the appliance to fit correctly and provide optimal efficiency.

You might also be wondering about the size of portable air conditioners. We have a post on that subject matter for you to know the different sizes of portable AC units available on the market.

See this portable AC unit on Amazon.

What Are The Black And Decker Portable AC Error Codes?

Specific error codes may appear on a Black and Decker portable AC, indicating an improper installation. Take note that you should apply the correct troubleshooting steps to supply the unit with the appropriate solution.

Some of the error codes you might encounter with a Black and Decker portable cooling unit and their possible solutions include:

Low Temperature (LE)

No need for human intervention when this error code appears. If the letters' LE' appear on the control panel's display, it means that the appliance is currently undergoing its automatic defrosting process.

The error should disappear once the air conditioner finishes this operation.

Probe Failure (PF)

The installation of the probe is incorrect. In serious cases, this component might be damaged and needs replacement.

Keep in mind that an authorized technician might not provide sensor probe repairs and replacement without additional costs, even if the unit is still under warranty.

That is because installing the probe incorrectly may indicate mishandling, voiding the coverage.

Full Tank (FT)

The condensation pan in your portable air conditioner is now full and needs draining. After removing the excess water, reset the temperature control on the unit.

This error code also indicates the possibility of the unit's automatic draining system malfunctioning. Dubbed the MIST technology, this feature should run persistently to ensure the appliance's condensation pan and water tank never fills.

Furthermore, contact Black and Decker's customer or technical support service to help you if you confirm that the MIST technology on your portable AC unit is faulty.

Other Problems

Aside from these error codes, your Black and Decker portable air conditioner may also run into other problems from an improper installation procedure. These issues may include:

• Failure to provide cold air: The door or window in the room might not be closed during operations. Otherwise, the air filter is dusty and needs cleaning.
• Noisy operations: The surface where the portable AC sits isn't flat or level.
• Gurgling sound: Not a cause for worry as it's only the refrigerant flowing into the air conditioner.

How Often Do You Drain A Black And Decker Portable Air Conditioner?

Unless the property with the Black and Decker portable air conditioner is exceptionally humid, this particular appliance doesn't need manual draining.

Like we said, with the MIST technology, the unit should drain the excess moisture by itself.

Do All Portable Air Conditioners Need An Exhaust Hose?

Most portable air conditioners, including models from Black and Decker, need an exhaust hose for proper venting.

Without this venting system, a portable AC can't release the hot air it collects. In turn, it won't also provide the cooling effect that should be present in most if not all air conditioners.

However, some appliances, mainly evaporate coolers (also called ventless air coolers), may not demand much ventilation for them to provide cold air to indoor spaces. Again, these devices are typically only ideal in low-humidity locales.

Additionally, if your portable air conditioner's venting system is faulty, make sure to replace the components with compatible models.

Check with the manufacturer if you're planning on purchasing an aftermarket or third-party venting system for your portable cooling unit.

See this replacement vent hose on Amazon.

Do Portable Air Conditioners Use A Lot Of Electricity?

The costs to run a portable air conditioner are often fewer than using other cooling systems like ductless mini-split systems. For example, a typical 8,000-BTU mini-split AC costs about $0.30 per hour.

On the other hand, a portable AC unit with roughly the same potency will only cost $0.11 per hour.

As for Black and Decker's portable air conditioners, the company offers models that range from 4,000 to 10,000 BTU. That span should expect users to spend about $0.06 to $0.14 per hour of portable AC running time.

You might also be wondering about the length of time it takes for a portable air conditioner to cool a room. If so, read our post on that topic to learn the answer.

Are Black And Decker Portable Air Conditioners Good?

Black and Decker portable air conditioners are usually good choices to provide sufficient cooling to different indoor spaces. For example, the company's portable 5,000-BTU model supplies more-than-adequate cooling performance despite outside temperatures reaching 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

However, it doesn't mean that the portable cooling systems from this company are perfect. Users should expect some shortcomings from these models.

For instance, certain Black and Decker portable ACs may demand extra steps for their initial setup procedures.

It should take about 30 minutes to install some of these units into rooms. Often, the assembly operation may take longer if the individual handling the job might be a DIY beginner.

To Wrap It All Up

Like other portable air conditioners, Black and Decker's moveable cooling unit needs a proper installation for it to provide optimal efficiency.

Homeowners should install these units on flat surfaces near supported electrical outlets and compatible windows. Also, ensure that the connections are secure to prevent mishaps during and after the setup process.

Regardless of your expertise, remember to follow our steps above and be safe when installing your portable air conditioning system!