Haier HPP08XCR portable air conditioner review

The Haier HPP08XCR is a superb entry level portable air conditioner for smaller spaces.

Haier HPP08XCR Review
(Image: © Haier)

Top Ten Reviews Verdict

This compact Haier HPP08XCR unit is designed for smaller spaces and delivers a decent amount of cool air, right to where you need it. Though a little loud in operation, it is simple to control and light on your electric bills.

Pros

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    Thin design ideal for small spaces

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    Adjustable vents to direct air flow

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    Remote control

Cons

  • -

    Loud operation

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    No water hose

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    No auto air swing

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The HPP08XCR is Haier’s entry level portable air conditioner and offers an impressive performance for the money. It is designed to cool a modest 160 to 215 square foot space but consequently it needs less power and is quieter than many of its competitors.

This unit is thinner than most, with more of a tower structure, which takes up less floor space. The vents on the output can be adjusted vertically and horizontally, allowing you to focus the air flow from the unit. There’s also a remote and a sleep mode for night time operation.

Is the Haier HPP08XCR the best portable air conditioner for you? Read on to find out all you need to know.

Haier HPP08XCR review: Price

The Haier HPP08XCR has a list price of $329, which doesn’t make it the cheapest unit in its class but is not the most expensive either. Currently $329 is the lowest price it is available from the larger retail stores. However, Amazon marketplace does have units for $299, while Walmart has a few reconditioned units for as little as $220.

Haier HPP08XCR review: Features

Haier HPP08XCR: Key specs

BTU Performance (ASHRAE 128 STD) 8,000
BTU Performance (U.S. DOE STD) N/A
Dehumidify (Pt/Hr) 3.58
Dry Air Flow (CFM) N/A
dBA Level (Front) 46
Est. Cooling Area (SQ. FT.) 160-215
Remote Controller Yes
Timer 24 Hr, On/Off
Fan Speed Cooling 2
Fan Only Speed 2
Window Installation Kit Yes
Watts 900
Product (WxHxD) 12.1" x 28.1" x 13.3"
Net Weight 51 lbs.

While Haier’s own website doesn’t list a power rating for the HPP08XCR, most sites categorize this as an 8,000 BTU unit - less powerful than the LG LP1017WSR and Frigidaire Gallery FGPC1244T1. This would make its cooling estimate of a 160 to 215 square feet room conservative. According to the Energy Star website, an 8,000 BTU unit should be capable of 300 to 350 square feet.

Despite being a budget device, it does offer a range of handy features. There are two speeds for both cooling and fan modes and a dedicated dehumidifying mode for reducing the humidity without the cooling. There’s also a 24-hour timer, a full function remote and a digital display on the unit.

The device uses auto condensation to remove water from the unit, however, there is a water tank inside. This can be emptied using a draining cap at the bottom if it fills. A hose can also be attached to the central drain hole. This is not included though.

Haier HPP08XCR review: Performance

The conservative cooling estimations of this unit seem to have resulted in a high number of positive reviews. Reviews suggest it performs well in smaller spaces of 200 square feet and under, while those using it in larger spaces often find it a little under powered.

Haier HPP08XCR review: User reviews

From 178 reviews on Amazon, this model gets a solid 3.9 out of five, while home depot users give it an 84 percent approval rating. Most users are happy with its cooling power and how easy it is to have the device working straight out of the box.

Those that rated the device poorly complained that it was loud when operating (listed as 46dB) and that the unit is underpowered for their needs. Some also found that the tank regularly fills up with water, which could be a problem in particularly humid locations.

Should I buy the Haier HPP08XCR?

This is a handy unit if you only have a small space to cool, such as a study or small bedroom. There are no fancy features here, but the large front outlet means that you can direct the air to where you need it most. Though not whisper silent, it is energy efficient and performs well for the money.