Portable AC Guide for Australian Renters

Renting in Australia often means dealing with summer heat without the benefit of installed air conditioning. Many rental properties, particularly older ones, lack built-in cooling systems, and installing a split system requires landlord approval and often comes at your own expense—only to leave it behind when you move. This is exactly why portable air conditioners have become the go-to solution for millions of Australian renters.

This guide addresses the specific considerations renters face when choosing and using a portable AC, from navigating landlord relations to maximising cooling in properties you can't modify.

Why Portable ACs Are Perfect for Renters

Portable air conditioners offer renters several unique advantages:

• No permanent modifications: Everything is reversible—when you move, you take it with you
• No landlord approval needed: In most cases, you can install without permission
• Investment protection: Unlike split systems, your cooling investment moves with you
• Flexible placement: Cool your bedroom at night, living room during the day
• Immediate solution: Set up and start cooling within an hour of purchase

Understanding Your Rights as a Renter

Do You Need Landlord Permission?

Generally, no. Portable air conditioners don't require any permanent modifications to the property. The standard window kit simply sits in a partially opened window, much like placing a box fan in a window. When you remove the unit, there's no evidence it was ever there.

However, there are some exceptions where you should consult your landlord or property manager:

• If you want to install a more permanent window solution (cutting, drilling, or modifying the window frame)
• If body corporate rules restrict items visible from outside (some apartment buildings)
• If you're concerned about electricity costs being included in rent
• If your lease has specific clauses about portable appliances

Choosing the Right Unit for Rental Living

Consider Your Moving Timeline

If you move frequently, factor in portability:

• Weight matters—units range from 25kg to 45kg+
• Built-in caster wheels are essential for moving between rooms and homes
• Compact dimensions are easier to transport and store
• Consider the included accessories—will the window kit work in your next place?

Apartment-Specific Considerations

If you're renting an apartment, pay attention to:

• Noise levels: Thin walls mean neighbours may hear your AC. Look for units under 52dB.
• Window type: Many apartments have sliding windows (easy) but some have awning or casement windows (require creative solutions)
• Single room focus: Apartments often have smaller rooms—don't overbuy on BTU capacity
• Storage space: Consider where you'll store the unit during winter months

House Rental Considerations

Renting a house presents different factors:

• Larger rooms may require higher BTU capacity
• Multiple rooms might benefit from a unit on wheels for easy repositioning
• Older houses often have poor insulation—factor this into your BTU calculations
• More window options for exhaust placement

Installation Without Property Damage

Standard Window Kit Installation

The standard approach works for most sliding windows and requires no modifications:

1. Open the window partially
2. Extend the adjustable window panel to fit the opening
3. Place the panel in the window track
4. Close the window against the panel
5. Insert the exhaust hose adapter

When you leave, simply reverse these steps—no damage, no marks, no issues with your bond.

Alternative Window Solutions

For challenging window types or if you want a more secure fit:

• Foam board panels: Cut rigid foam insulation to fit your window opening. Cheap, effective, and completely removable.
• Acrylic/perspex sheets: Can be custom-cut for a more polished appearance.
• Universal window seal kits: Fabric or plastic seals that work with casement and awning windows. Attach with Velcro strips—no damage when removed.

Sealing Gaps Without Permanent Fixes

Use renter-friendly methods to improve your window seal:

• Removable caulk: Specifically designed to peel off cleanly
• Foam weather stripping: Adhesive can be removed with heat from a hair dryer
• Blue painter's tape: Temporary but effective gap sealing
• Pool noodles: Cut to fill gaps around exhaust hoses

Managing Energy Costs in Rentals

Electricity bills are your responsibility as a renter, so efficiency matters:

Maximise Efficiency

• Close doors to the room being cooled
• Use curtains or blinds during hot afternoons
• Set reasonable temperature targets (24-25°C is comfortable and efficient)
• Use timer functions to avoid cooling empty rooms
• Clean filters regularly for optimal performance

Work With Your Rental's Limitations

You can't upgrade insulation, but you can:

• Use draft stoppers under doors
• Hang thermal curtains (removable when you leave)
• Use rugs on hard floors to reduce heat transfer
• Place reflective material (emergency blankets work) behind curtains on sun-facing windows

Moving With Your Portable AC

Preparing for the Move

1. Drain completely: Remove all water from the unit at least 24 hours before moving
2. Run in fan mode: Dry internal components thoroughly
3. Clean filters: Fresh filters are ready for your new home
4. Disconnect carefully: Coil the power cord loosely to avoid damage
5. Store exhaust hose: Keep it loosely coiled, not tightly compressed

Transportation Tips

• Transport upright whenever possible
• If transported on its side, wait 24 hours before operating at your new home
• Secure well in the vehicle to prevent movement
• Keep window kit pieces together in a labelled bag

At Your New Rental

• Assess window options before setting up
• Let the unit stand upright for several hours if it was transported horizontally
• Check that your window kit fits—you may need adjustments
• Test operation thoroughly before your first hot day

Common Renter Scenarios

Scenario: No Suitable Windows

Some rentals have windows that don't accommodate standard exhaust setups. Options include:

• Venting through a sliding door with a custom panel
• Using a dryer vent if one exists
• Creating a temporary vent through a foam board in a window
• Discussing a small, reversible modification with your landlord

Scenario: Body Corporate Restrictions

Some apartment buildings restrict visible items from windows. Solutions:

• Use window kits that sit mostly inside the window frame
• Apply for an exemption, noting the temporary and reversible nature
• Consider floor-mounted setups that minimise external visibility

Scenario: Multiple Roommates

When sharing a rental:

• Discuss AC purchase and placement with roommates
• Consider a unit with wheels for easy room-to-room movement
• Establish usage guidelines and cost-sharing for electricity
• Choose a quieter unit if it will operate near shared spaces

Final Thoughts for Renters

A portable air conditioner is one of the best investments an Australian renter can make. It provides comfort during brutal summers, moves with you from rental to rental, and requires no permanent modifications that could jeopardise your bond. With proper selection, installation, and maintenance, your portable AC can serve you through many rental properties and many Australian summers.