When it comes to cooling small homes, apartments, or specific rooms, homeowners often get confused about sizing. How do you know whether a 700 sq foot portable air conditioner is enough, or if a 600 square feet portable air conditioner will do the job? And if you’re considering a full AC unit for 700 sq ft, is a portable unit even a viable solution?
I’ve installed and serviced countless small-space AC systems over the years, and there’s a lot more to consider than just picking a number off a chart. Today, I’ll break down what works, what doesn’t, and why sometimes pairing your space with a high-quality central system—like the Goodman 3-Ton 14.5 SEER2 R-32 bundle—can still make sense even for relatively small spaces.
Let’s dive in.
Why Proper Sizing Matters for Small Spaces
Whether you’re trying to cool a studio apartment, a detached office, a garage, or a guest suite, size matters. Too small, and the unit will struggle, cycle constantly, and leave the room uncomfortable. Too large, and you’ll waste energy, experience short-cycling, and have poor humidity control.
For small spaces like 600–700 sq ft, there’s a common misconception: bigger is better. But the physics of air conditioning says otherwise.
According to Energy.gov, an air conditioner must match the cooling load of the space, which depends on:
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Square footage
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Ceiling height
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Window exposure and orientation
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Insulation quality
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Occupancy
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Electronics and appliances generating heat
A portable AC unit for 600 sq ft is generally sufficient for a well-insulated room with moderate sun exposure, but if the room has large south-facing windows or poor insulation, you might need a slightly higher-capacity unit.
Portable AC Units vs. Full AC Systems
Portable ACs are appealing because they’re relatively inexpensive, easy to install, and can move from room to room. But there are limitations.
Pros of Portable ACs for 600–700 Sq Ft Spaces
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Easy to set up and relocate
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No permanent installation required
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Generally lower upfront cost
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Good for renters or temporary solutions
Cons of Portable ACs
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Less efficient than central systems
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Heat must be vented through a window or exhaust hose
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Noise can be a problem in smaller spaces
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Limited to single rooms, not whole-house cooling
If you are considering a 700 sq foot portable air conditioner, make sure to check the unit’s BTU rating. For most small spaces:
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600 sq ft → ~8,000–10,000 BTU
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700 sq ft → ~10,000–12,000 BTU
Keep in mind, BTU ratings are ideal for standard ceiling height and insulation. Extra sun, poor insulation, or high ceilings will require higher capacity.
The Role of Airflow and Placement
Even the right-sized unit can underperform if not properly positioned. I always advise:
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Place the portable AC near the heat source (like large windows)
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Keep it away from walls that block airflow
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Ensure exhaust hose runs straight out the window, not bent or kinked
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Close doors and seal gaps to maximize cooling
For a 600 square feet portable air conditioner, these steps are critical. Portable units lose efficiency if the airflow is restricted or if the exhaust isn’t properly vented.
When a Small Central AC System Makes Sense
While portable units can handle single rooms, sometimes a small home or apartment—especially around 700 sq ft—benefits from a mini-split or central system. The Goodman 3-Ton 14.5 SEER2 R-32 bundle is overkill in tonnage for a single small room, but for multi-room small homes, it’s a long-term, efficient solution.
Some homeowners mistakenly think:
“I only have 700 sq ft, why would I ever need a central system?”
Here’s why:
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Even Cooling – Portable units often create hot and cold spots.
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Humidity Control – Central systems remove more moisture from the air.
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Energy Efficiency – Modern high-SEER2 systems save more money over time.
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Longevity – Portable units typically last 5–7 years; central systems can run 15–20 years.
Consumer Reports highlights that even small homes with multiple rooms often benefit from a zoned or ductless system for more consistent comfort.
Portable AC Options for 600–700 Sq Ft
If you’re committed to a portable solution, here’s what to consider:
Single Hose vs. Dual Hose Units
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Single Hose: Pulls air from the room, cools it, and exhausts hot air outside. Can create negative pressure, drawing warm air in from other rooms.
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Dual Hose: Pulls outside air for cooling, returns cooled air to the room. More efficient for larger small rooms.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Look for units with higher EER. A 600 square feet portable air conditioner with EER 10+ is more efficient and cheaper to run than older units rated below 9.
Placement Strategies for Portable ACs
Proper placement is often overlooked. For a 700 sq foot portable air conditioner, I recommend:
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Near the center of the room if possible
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Avoid blocking windows or vents
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Ensure a straight exhaust hose path
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Keep doors closed to prevent cool air from escaping
Maintenance Tips for Small Portable AC Units
Even small units need care:
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Clean filters monthly
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Empty water reservoir if not self-evaporating
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Check for hose leaks
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Store properly during winter
Neglecting these steps reduces efficiency, shortens lifespan, and increases energy consumption.
Energy-Saving Tips for Small Spaces
You can maximize performance and reduce costs with a few simple changes:
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Seal windows and doors
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Use curtains to block direct sunlight
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Run ceiling fans to circulate air
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Set the thermostat higher when you’re away
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Schedule unit maintenance before summer
Energy.gov emphasizes that proper insulation and air sealing can reduce cooling costs by 20–30%.
Mini-Splits as an Alternative
For homeowners or renters who want more than a portable AC:
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Mini-split systems are highly efficient, quiet, and can handle 600–700 sq ft easily
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No ductwork needed
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Often provide both cooling and heating
Mini-splits bridge the gap between portable units and full central AC systems, offering long-term savings and better comfort.
Understanding BTUs for Small Spaces
A BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating tells you how much cooling capacity a unit provides. For reference:
| Space Size | BTU Recommended |
|---|---|
| 600 sq ft | 8,000–10,000 |
| 700 sq ft | 10,000–12,000 |
Choosing the right BTU prevents overworking the system, reduces cycling, and maintains comfort.
ASHRAE recommends sizing small AC units carefully because oversizing in compact spaces can lead to humidity problems and short cycling.
The Case for Upgrading to a Central System
Even in small homes, a central system might outperform portable units:
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Consistent temperature throughout all rooms
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Better energy efficiency over time
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Less noise than portable units
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Longevity and durability
The Goodman 3-Ton 14.5 SEER2 R-32 bundle is a prime example. While it’s designed for larger spaces, for multi-room small homes or combined areas, it delivers reliable, even cooling and long-term efficiency.
Conclusion
For 600–700 sq ft homes or rooms, portable AC units work well if:
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The space is relatively enclosed
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You choose the right BTU capacity
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You maintain the unit and exhaust correctly
However, if you’re looking for long-term comfort, efficiency, and multi-room cooling, a properly sized central system—or a mini-split like the Goodman 3-Ton 14.5 SEER2 R-32 bundle—may make more sense.
Portable ACs are great for temporary or isolated use, but they have limits in efficiency, humidity control, and comfort consistency. Understanding the physics of air conditioning, proper placement, and the role of tonnage ensures you make the right choice for your space.
