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BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner Review: Is It Worth the Buy?
Okay, let’s talk about staying cool. Summer is here, and for many of us, that means battling the heat. I recently got my hands on the BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Smart Portable Air Conditioner (model BPACT14WT) and I’ve been putting it through its paces. I was looking for something that wasn’t going to break the bank – a good, solid, budget-friendly option – but still offered some smart features. So, is this the best portable AC out there? Let’s dive into a detailed review and find out.
First Impressions & Setup
Out of the box, the unit feels surprisingly well-built. It’s not featherlight, but it’s manageable to move around. The white finish is clean and modern, and it doesn’t look out of place in my living room. The included window kit was a bit daunting at first – honestly, window AC installation always is! – but the instructions were clear enough. It took about 30 minutes to get everything set up, and I appreciated that all the necessary hardware was included. I’ve seen some cheap portable ACs skimp on this, so that was a nice touch. It’s definitely a step up from some of the more basic models I’ve encountered.
Performance: Cooling Power & Features
This AC boasts 14,000 BTU (ASHRAE rating, 10,200 BTU SACC), which BLACK+DECKER claims is good for rooms up to 700 sq. ft. I’m using it in a roughly 500 sq. ft. space, and it cools the room down quickly and efficiently. I was genuinely impressed. It’s not a whisper-quiet machine – no portable AC really is – but the noise level is acceptable, especially on the lower fan settings. The three-in-one functionality is a real bonus. It’s not just an air conditioner; it also works as a dehumidifier and a fan. I’ve used the dehumidifier function on a couple of particularly humid days, and it made a noticeable difference.
Now, let’s talk about the “smart” part. Connecting to Wi-Fi was straightforward using the BLACK+DECKER app (available on both iOS and Google Play). Once connected, I could control the AC from anywhere, which is incredibly convenient. And yes, it integrates with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. “Alexa, turn on the AC” feels pretty futuristic, honestly! The “Follow Me” remote is a standout feature. It has a temperature sensor built-in, so you point the remote at where *you* are, and the AC adjusts the cooling based on your location. This is a huge improvement over traditional ACs that rely on a single thermostat location. For someone like me who moves around a lot, this is a game-changer. It feels like a premium feature on a unit that’s still reasonably priced.
Is This the Top Contender?
When considering a portable AC, you’re often weighing price against performance and features. There are certainly more expensive, higher-end models available, but the BLACK+DECKER BPACT14WT strikes a really good balance. It’s not the absolute top of the line, but it offers a lot of value for the money. It’s a solid contender, especially if you’re looking for smart features without spending a fortune. I’ve been comparing it to other models in the same price range, and this one consistently comes out on top in terms of features and ease of use. It’s a great buy for anyone who wants to stay cool without breaking the bank.
Detailed Look at the Controls
The unit itself has a fairly intuitive control panel on top, with buttons for power, mode (cool, fan, dry), temperature adjustment, and fan speed. The LED display is clear and easy to read. However, the app really unlocks the full potential of this AC. You can create schedules, monitor energy usage, and receive alerts if there’s a problem. It’s a well-designed app that adds a lot of convenience.
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Long-Term Reliability & Maintenance
I’ve only been using this AC for a few weeks, so I can’t speak to its long-term reliability yet. However, BLACK+DECKER is a reputable brand, and the unit feels well-made. The filters are easy to access and clean, which is important for maintaining performance and air quality. Regular filter cleaning will definitely extend the life of the unit. I’ll update this review if I encounter any issues down the road.
Final Verdict
The BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Smart Portable Air Conditioner is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a powerful, feature-rich, and relatively affordable way to stay cool this summer. It’s not perfect – it’s a bit noisy, and the window kit installation can be a little tricky – but the pros far outweigh the cons. The smart features, especially the “Follow Me” remote, are a real game-changer. If you’re on the hunt for a portable AC that delivers on both performance and convenience, this is definitely one to consider. It’s a solid investment that will keep you comfortable all season long. For the price, it’s hard to beat.
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links.
