In searching for the best portable air conditioner, the criteria should be to find a unit that effectively cools the coverage area, fits into the allotted space, and is affordable. Luckily, these priorities are met by the EdgeStar AP8000W, and it makes sense to dig deeper to assess all of its added features that set it apart from the rest. After all, a thoughtful and well-designed air conditioner can make life easier and more comfortable.
The EdgeStar AP8000W Portable Air Conditioner is the best alternative because it features a cool and powerful output and a company history of product quality and support. And it’s distinctive because it’s not window mounted, but instead, it is placed on the floor and can be moved out of sight.
Consequently, in this article, the pros and cons of purchasing this specific product, as well as the flaws and consumer FAQs, are examined. In particular, a number of features appraised are connectivity, energy-efficiency, drainage, style, environmental friendliness, company reputation, and maintenance.

Pros of the EdgeStar AP8000W Portable Air Conditioner
The Company
EdgeStar has been American owned and operated for over 20 years. Longevity in the industry with an eye toward quality and the customer experience has contributed to the success of the business.
Features
- Portability from room to room
- Rolling casters
- Exhaust hose flexibility
- Low noise level
- Carbon filter for contaminants and odor control
- EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) of 9.5
- Window kit
- Fits windows 26.5-48.4 inches (67.31-wide
- It is made of a soft plastic that can be cut with a hacksaw to reduce the size.
- Electronic control panel and remote control device
- Fan only mode
- Dehumidify the only mode, removing up to 50 pints (23.7 liters) per day
- Three air fan speeds: low, medium, and high
- Timer, 24 hour
- Temperature adjustment when in cooling mode
- RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliant
- R-410A CFC (chlorofluorocarbon) free refrigerant
Cons of the EdgeStar AP8000W Portable Air Conditioner
- The shipping weight is 62 lbs (28 kg). For some people, it may be too heavy to carry the box inside and lift the 56 lbs (25 kg) unit out of the box. A utility knife can be used to cut the box away if it is not possible to lift the unit. A dolly or a strong friend may be necessary to carry the box inside.
- When the compressor kicks on, the noise level is louder.
- A double-hose design cools the space more efficiently and requires less effort by the portable air conditioner than the single-hose design that the AP8000W provides. However, double hose units are more expensive and therefore are not as affordable.
- To vent through a sliding glass door, a compatible window kit is not included and is an extra purchase, the EdgeStar APPK2010 Upgraded Portable AC Vent Kit.
Should You Buy This?
If you live in a steaming hot climate and are uncomfortable, can’t sleep, or tend to become sick due to the heat conditions, then air conditioning is a logical solution, and yes, you should buy this unit.
Low tolerance to heat can cause illnesses such as heat edema or swelling, heat rash, heatstroke, or heat exhaustion. Symptoms vary among individuals, but some are very serious and even life-threatening. In fact, heatstroke can cause a loss of consciousness, while signs of heat exhaustion are listed here:
- Body temperature over 100℉ (38℃)
- Thirst
- Dizzy
- Extreme sweating
- Vomiting or nausea
- Headache
- Heart palpitations
- Tingling or numbness of the extremities
- Muscle cramps
Moreover, buying a non-permanent air conditioner makes sense because it is shipped directly to your residence and is quickly installed. Plus, it can easily be moved to a different room or stored in a closet during winter months.
Once the decision is made to purchase a non-permanent air conditioner, the EdgeStar AP8000W is a brilliant choice because it is a portable option, including a dehumidifier that will cool a decent sized room, 150 to 225 square feet (12 to 21 square meters), with minimal installation. The unit includes fan only or dehumidifier only modes, too, making it an extremely flexible buy.
Why It’s a Deal
Smart Design
The design is compact, weighing only 56 lbs (25 kg) and includes side cup handles to pick up the unit and rolling casters to rotate or move it smoothly and effortlessly.
The dehumidifier function can stand on its own. Up to 50 pints (23.7 liters) of excess moisture in the air can be removed and vented out the exhaust. Unless you are located in an extra humid environment, there is little chance that the drain system will become full due to the efficient self-evaporation system.
Ease of Drainage and Self-Evaporation
Consider the importance of draining for an air conditioner and dehumidifier. Many systems contain a collection pan to catch the condensation or water overflow. If left unattended, eventually, it will spill over, causing the air conditioner to short or shut down. The system may become damaged, or the spill could create a pool of water that accumulates on the floor causing expensive damage to the surface.
The EdgeStar system includes a self-evaporation system that indicates when the air conditioner needs to be drained, thereby eliminating the need to constantly check the water pan.
When the drain system is full, the indicator lights up in the electronic control panel, and the air conditioner turns off. The unit can be disconnected, rolled over to a drain, and the water poured out. The drainage hole is located at the bottom of the backside and is sealed with a plastic cap with a rubber plug underneath to prevent leakage.
Alternatively, there is a direct drain option. A ¼ inch (63.5 mm) drain hose can be attached to the drainage hole and fed to a drain to constantly remove any liquid condensation.
Ventilation
The exhaust system included in the box is a sturdy, high-quality exhaust hose that extends up to 49 inches (124 cm). When attached, it will expel the hot air and condensation out through the window, using the window kit system included.
Air Filter and Optional Carbon Filter
The filter is a multi-part structure in front of the air conditioner. There is a plastic louver grate on the outside, which can be removed and washed to keep it clean and lint-free. After popping out the plastic grate, remove the reusable filter in the same manner.
The air filter is constructed of a plastic material and is similar to a sieve. Wash the filter with warm water occasionally to keep it free and clear of dust.
Before reconstructing the air filter system, pull the carbon filter from the box and remove it from its plastic wrapping. It is an activated charcoal sheet used for the purpose of controlling odor. Place the carbon sheet between the filter and the coils in the front of the unit before snapping everything back into place.
Energy Saving
For energy efficiency, the digital thermostat is adjustable, and the louvered directional airflow output is controlled by a three-speed fan. Additionally, the timer is programmable on a 24-hour clock, and an environmentally friendly washable pre-filter is included.
Environmentally Friendly
RoHS
The AP8000W meets European RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) standards. The RoHS directive was originally created with the goal of reducing toxins in the electronics industry, allowing for a safer product for general use and for recycling purposes.
RoHS has been revised and is currently on version three, which includes the following banned toxic substances. Items or products that fall under RoHS are many, and some examples are cell phones, drones, and printers.
Substance | Element |
Benzyl butyl phthalate | BBP |
Bis(2-Ethylhexyl) phthalate | DEHP |
Cadmium | Cd |
Dibutyl phthalate | DBP |
Diisobutyl phthalate | DIBP |
Hexavalent Chromium | Cr VI |
Lead | Pb |
Mercury | Hg |
Polybrominated Biphenyls | PBB |
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers | PBDE |
R-410-A
Also, AP8000W does not use ozone-depleting substances. R-410A is a highly efficient refrigerant that will not damage the ozone with chlorofluorocarbons and is compliant with environmental agreements.
EER
The Energy Efficiency Ratio can be found on air conditioner specification sheets and is a tool used to compare air conditioners under like conditions by dividing the capacity by the power.
Formula: EER rating = Capacity (in BTU) / Power (in W)
A higher EER means a more efficient cooling system. The rating ranges from 0 to 12, with 8.0 or higher being considered an above-average score. AP8000W has a very good ratio of 9.5.
Quiet
The noise level is low, 53 to 56 decibels, which is in the range of the sound of a household refrigerator by comparison. According to Yale University’s Environmental Health and Safety website, the decibel level at which a hearing loss may be realized is 80 to 90 decibels. Therefore, the air conditioner is well below that level.
Everything Is in the Box
- Three plates for window kit
- Duct connectors
- Cap
- Grated adapter
- Grated adapter cap
- Remote
- Manual
- Carbon filter
- Exhaust hood
Ease of Set-Up
Assembly is very simple if your window fits within the provided window kit measurements. If not, there may be a bit of work to manipulate the placement of the exhaust hose, but otherwise, it isn’t time-consuming or complicated.
Dave Sugarman from EdgeStar’s technical support very thoroughly demonstrates how to put together the unit in an 18-minute video:
EdgeStar Tagline: We Give You More
Prices are competitive, and product selection is vast. The AP8000W is the smallest portable air conditioner in EdgeStar’s array of products. A larger unit is also available, as well as a variety of window units. Shipping is free, and returns are offered within 30 days.
As with any product, the normal procedure is to complete registration. An informational label, which includes the model number and serial number, is located on the back of the system. The owner’s manual is included in the box and describes the warranty for your specific model. But don’t worry if you misplace the owner’s manual.
EdgeStar maintains a dedicated support site. Manuals, registration, and service requests can all be handled online. Remember to flag your receipt because proof of purchase is needed to request warranty service.
EdgeStar is an innovative leader in the compact appliance industry and is an American owned company that has been in business since 1999.
Low Maintenance
At the end of every season, the coils should be vacuumed to remove any dust or particles. Access them by removing the plastic grate in the back of the air conditioner. Give the plastic grate a wash with soapy water and dry it well. Snap it back in after vacuuming the coils.
The same goes for the air filter in the front of the system. Pop-out the plastic grate and the reusable filter and wash and dry them both. Reattach them, and you are worry-free for a month or two, depending on how often your unit is used and how much dust and debris it collects.
If a part becomes worn out or broken, a replacement is available. Call customer service at 1-866-319-5473 with the model and part number. Service representatives are available and happy to assist. Email is also an option at service@edgestar.com or submitting a service request online using the EdgeStar support website.
Flaws but Not Dealbreakers
Floor Space
While there aren’t many limitations, one is that the system cannot be installed in a window, therefore using valuable floor space is a necessity. Consequently, measure your area before purchasing; the dimensions are 13.25 x 19.25 x 24.75 inches (33.66 X 48.90 X 62.87 cm).
Another consideration is that the appliance does not align flush against the wall due to the exhaust hose apparatus in the back.
Although the system weighs 56 lbs (25 kg), if safely managed, the unit could be placed on a tabletop if the rolling casters are anchored, and the table surface is steady. If floor space is at a premium and a window unit is needed, the Midea U Inverter Window Air Conditioner is an excellent choice.
Drainage
Since the drainage occurs via gravity, not a pump, the air conditioner needs to be slightly higher than the drain hose if you are using the direct drain option. The unit could be placed onto a stable surface, anchoring the casters. However, if humidity is low, there may not be any moisture to drain, and this would be a non-issue.
Style
White is the only color that is offered and may not fit in with the room decor. The side panels are a contrasting light grey shade, and the corners are rounded. In comparison, other brands offer black units that have angular lines with a more contemporary look.
Carbon Filter
An activated charcoal carbon filter is included in the purchase and lasts about 30 days before needing replacement. Since its purpose is to filter contaminants and for odor control, it’s not a mandatory part. If used, keep in mind the additional maintenance cost.
If interested in purchasing a new one, there are plenty of activated charcoal pads such as these, the PUREBURG 1-PACK Cut-to-Fit Carbon Pad for Air Filters Charcoal Sheet, that can be cut to the correct dimensions, eliminating the need to measure before buying.
Alexa App
In addition, for a higher cost, an extremely convenient perk some portable air conditioners are including is smart technology using Alexa integration for voice control. The Rollibot ROLLICOOL Portable Air Conditioner includes this feature for either Android or iPhone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can the fan mode be used when not vented?
Yes, the exhaust hose can be detached from the air conditioner, capped, and the fan only mode can be turned on.
Q: Is this unit 220/240v capable?
No, the input voltage is 115 V/60 Hz.
Q: Do I need to have the vent hose hooked up for dehumidifying only service?
Yes, excess moisture vapor is removed from the room via the hose.
Q: Does the back of the unit create heat and make the room feel humid?
No. While the exhaust hose feels warm to the touch, it is actually blowing the hot air outside. The AP8000W is a dehumidifier in addition to being an air conditioner. The self-evaporation system is evaporating up to 50 pints (23.7 liters) per day and contains any extra condensation liquid to be drained if needed.
Q: What are the dimensions of this unit with and without the casters?
The EdgeStar website includes a Dimension Guide with illustrations. With the casters, the height is 24 13/16 inches (630 mm), and without the casters, it is 23 7/8 inches (607 mm).
Final Thoughts
The EdgeStar AP8000W Portable Air Conditioner has been expertly designed by a longstanding company with integrity and a history of customer satisfaction. Assuming the size of the room is within the specifications for cooling, the list of features for this unit are endless.
Notably, the unit is safe, environmentally friendly, and energy conscious. Furthermore, with three fan speeds, a dehumidifier, a fan mode, and a flexible window kit, this product can be rolled on its caster wheels to multiple rooms for different purposes. As a result, this is a smart, value-added purchase.
Vincent is a freelance writer based in Santa Ana, California. When he isn’t writing articles for Temperature Master, he can be found biking or hanging out with his cat, Shelly.