Portable air conditioners are great alternatives for rental properties, moving it from room to room or supplemental cooling for central HVAC systems. Once you’ve decided that a portable air conditioning unit is what you need, we’ve got five great tips and tricks to ensure you stay cool all summer long.

1. Straighten the Exhaust Hose

This is extremely important for the proper operation and maintenance of a portable air conditioner. The exhaust hose that is used to vent the hot air out, whether it be through a window, sliding door, or drop ceiling, should remain straight without any twists or kinks.

Do not try to extend the exhaust hose either—it should remain as short as possible to ensure maximum efficiency. Most exhaust hoses are 4-7 feet long which should provide you with sufficient room to reach a proper venting area. Keeping the hose short and straight will also prevent excess moisture from building up, which could seep inside and cause internal damage to the unit.