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7 Clever Ways to Hide Portable an Air Conditioner

Lowe's Editorial Team

By Lowe's Editorial Team
Published September 27, 2024

Portable air conditioners are essential for cooling but are not the most subtly designed appliances. They often disrupt your home's look and aesthetic. Here are seven clever ways to hide a portable air conditioner in your home.

Things to Consider Before Hiding a Portable Air Conditioner

Before hiding your portable air conditioner, here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • You will need to access the unit for maintenance, filter changes and adjustments.
  • Place the unit near a window for the exhaust hose and an electrical outlet for power.
  • The unit should be on a stable surface to prevent tipping or damage.
  • How you hide your portable air conditioner should not cause the unit to overheat or work inefficiently.
  • Accommodate the portable A/C size for better moveability within the space.

Use these considerations to ensure your A/C unit works well and doesn't overheat.

7 Effective Methods to Hide Your Portable A/C Unit

Add Custom Shelving

If you're short on shelf space, consider building one yourself. Building a shelving unit around your portable A/C will provide additional storage and display space. Design the shelving unit according to the requirements of your space. The shelf can double as a bookshelf or a shelf for all your collectibles and be a dedicated slot for the A/C.

Use Room Dividers Strategically

A room divider can serve a dual purpose. It conceals the A/C and is also a stylish piece of furniture. This is a very flexible solution and can be put in place when you have guests over. Choose dividers with a height that is enough to hide the portable air conditioner, sectioning it off from plain view. Place the divider at an appropriate distance from the A/C. You can select a room divider design that works best with your home's aesthetic.

Minimalist Curtain Enclosure

This is a quick and easy approach that allows you to access the unit by simply drawing the curtain aside. While installing the portable A/C unit, make sure to place it near your curtains. Use a lightweight, breathable material to ensure effective airflow and prevent the unit from overheating. Alternatively, you can create a shelf and section the unit with a curtain. This is a hassle-free to hide your portable air conditioner.

Use High and Low Decor

Sometimes, simply diverting attention can be an effective way to hide your portable A/C hose and unit. Based on your space, strategically place taller plants, sculptures, floor lamps or decorative screens around your portable A/C. This method draws the eye away from the AC and toward your curated decor. Arrange the items in a way that cleverly conceals the unit and does not block its airflow.

Design a Cabinet

Create a cabinet to hide the A/C. Design the cabinet door with a wire mesh insert instead of a glass insert. This will allow you to conceal the A/C unit and not compromise on ventilation. Place the unit in the centre of the cabinet and make a small opening at the back for optimal airflow.

Decorative Wooden Lattice

A lightweight wooden lattice can be an elegant and effective way to hide your portable air conditioner unit. You can build a slatted wood frame around the unit to allow unrestricted airflow. Space the slats according to the aesthetic you desire. You can use the space on top to place succulents or other items. Paint or stain this to match your room's décor.

Radiator Covers

Radiator covers are an aesthetic and functional way to hide your portable A/C tube and unit. These covers are typically used to conceal heaters and can be repurposed or custom-built to fit around your A/C unit. Select a design with ample ventilation to ensure efficient air circulation. Choose a style that complements your home and disguises the unit sufficiently. This method can also be a supplementary shelf or display surface for decorative items.

Streamlining Space and Style By Hiding a Portable Air Conditioner

Hiding your portable A/C correctly can make the room look better and feel more comfortable. The ideas above give you simple and smart ways to do just that. Choose what fits your room and style and you'll see that keeping cool can also look cool.

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