Top-rated air conditioning units (under £50) to buy now and use during every heatwave
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If you're struggling to sleep during the UK heatwave and have been fantasising about sitting in an air conditioned home, we're here to make that dream a reality
Some of us have already kitted out our homes with cooling devices, including the top-rated Dyson fan and mini desk fans to keep cool in our home office. Others have sought out paddling pools to relax in. And this cooling pillow insert is doing a roaring trade on Amazon.
Purchasing an air conditioning unit likely isn't something you've considered. They seem costly, cumbersome and probably a little pointless considering how many sweltering days we experience a year.
But with global temperatures rising it's looking to be a good investment. According to a 2021 Met Office study, if global warming continues at its current rate, the number of extremely hot days in the UK could increase four-fold from around 10 days a year now to 37 days a year.
With that in mind, we've hunted down six top-rated miniature air conditioners on Amazon for under £50 - which are not only effective but also don't take up much space.
And, bonus, many have been slashed further in Amazon's early Prime Day sale, so you can save some extra cash. Want to browse more heatwave essentials?Check out our round-up of discounted desk fans, paddling pools, pet cooling mats and more.
Shop 6 top-rated air conditioning units under £50
Portable Air Cooler | £28.99 (Was £37.99) from Amazon
This mini air conditioner is chargeable via USB, and is also a humidifier, air purifier and has an aroma diffuser function, too. It has three speeds and a built-in soft, LED light that can help with better sleep (it has seven colour modes).
You simply add chilled water and let it work its cooling magic.
The Prem-I-Air compact Air Cooler | £44.99 (Was £49.99) from Amazon
The Prem-I-Air compact Air Cooler is more of a traditional-looking air cooler, this bigger design is ideal for cooling homes, workshops or small offices.
It has three speed settings, is a lightweight design and is fitted to four wheels to make it easy to manoeuvre.
Portable Mini Air Cooler | £21.99 (Was £29.99) from Amazon
This Portable Mini Air Cooler is also air-purifying. It is simple to use, all you have to do is connect to a USB and switch it on, no batteries are needed. It's been upgraded for 2022 with a stronger wind speed.
It has a rotating feature, adjustable speed and claims to be ultra quiet, so your sleep won't be disturbed if left on overnight.
BLACK+DECKER Personal USB Mini Air Cooler | £31.99 ( Was £34.99) from Amazon
For those looking for a smaller and more compact design to take on the go, look no further than the BLACK+DECKER Personal USB Mini Air Cooler.
It features an advanced cooling system, which evaporates water through the filter. Similar to the above coolers, this can be used as a fan, as well as an air purifier and dehumidifier. It has three speed settings, which, combined with adjustable vertical front shutters help to direct the cool air to suit your needs.
It also features a detachable water tank and ice packs for an even cooler temperature.
Portable Mobile Air Conditioner | £48.99 from Amazon
This handy unit is a four-in-one air cooler, humidifier, air purifier and has seven LED lights. With a 300ml tank, it'll keep you cool for around 4-5 hours when filled with water and ice.
It's chargeable, wireless and portable so you can use it at home or take it to your next picnic, or even on camping trips.
Portable Air Cooler | £33.99 from Amazon
This mini air cooler doubles up as an air purifier, humidifier and night light.
It has a detachable cotton filter (which is stain-resistant and reusable), three speed settings and simply needs to be plugged in to start the cooling process. There is the option of adding water and ice for an extra cold blast of air.
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