Delonghi Pinguino PAC-EM90 Review UK 2026
Quick verdict
Score: 7.4/10
Best for: Moveable cooling in a heatwave without fitting a fixed unit
Not for: Anyone wanting silent running or the lowest possible electricity use - a fan is cheaper but doesn't truly cool
Bottom line: A practical portable air conditioner (9800 BTU) for proper, portable cooling around the home.
The De'Longhi PAC-EM90 is a portable air conditioner rated at 9800 BTU, making it a mid-range option for cooling smaller spaces. The key point is suitability by room size, because higher coverage is not indicated beyond the stated 9800 BTU. It can be a good fit for compact layouts where a single-room approach is enough, while it may be unnecessary for larger areas.
Key specifications
| Spec | Value Status |
|---|---|
| Brand | De'Longhi Specified |
| Model | PAC-EM90 Specified |
| Capacity | 9800 BTU Specified |
Pros
- 9800 BTU of cooling power
- Proper cooling you can move between rooms
Cons
- Needs a window for the exhaust hose (unlike an air cooler)
- Uses more electricity than a fan
- Makes some compressor noise, and is bulky to store
Cooling Power (BTU)
Cooling power is commonly described in BTU, and this model is listed at 9800 BTU, which indicates the amount of heat it can help remove. That rating points to a moderate cooling capacity compared with higher-output portables. The PAC-EM90 is therefore best matched to scenarios where indoor heat gain is not extreme, since the BTU limit affects how quickly temperatures can drop. When conditions vary, such as in sunny rooms or with frequent door opening, cooling can feel slower than expected. If comfort remains inconsistent, the stated BTU rating is a useful starting point for explaining the outcome.
Room Size and Coverage
For room size and coverage, the De'Longhi portable air conditioner is rated at 9800 BTU, which places it in the small-to-average space category for cooling. It is best used as a room-by-room solution rather than a whole-home system, and keeping doors and windows closed helps maintain more effective cooling. The article does not provide specific square-metre target guidance, so exact coverage should not be treated as guaranteed. Comfort can be affected by factors such as strong sun exposure, high ceilings or additional occupants.
Modes and Dehumidifier Function
This unit includes several operating modes and a dehumidifier function designed to reduce dampness in the room. In practical use, the modes provide moisture control and cooling options depending on conditions. The dehumidifier setting targets humidity, which can make the air feel more comfortable even when cooling is not the main priority. Typically, operation starts by selecting the required mode, then setting the desired level for the session using the controls. Where dampness is present, using the dehumidifier can help reduce condensation risks on windows and walls, although results depend on airflow and room ventilation.
Noise Level and Energy Use
Noise level and energy use matter most with a portable air conditioner like the portable air conditioner, because the unit typically runs close to where people sit or sleep. In everyday use, the main comfort factor is the sound the unit produces, particularly during quiet hours, yet no decibel (dB) figure is specified for this model. Energy use depends on how long it runs, and on the selected cooling or dehumidifier operation, because shorter operating cycles tend to reduce costs. With 9800 BTU cooling capacity, it is designed for moderate rooms, but results vary based on insulation and outdoor heat conditions.
Installation, Hose and Setup
Even though installing a portable air conditioner such as the De'Longhi is usually straightforward, the exhaust hose and window venting setup determine how well the unit can be used day to day. Place the unit on a flat, stable surface and keep the rear clearance clear. Connect the exhaust hose securely to the rear outlet, making sure it sits without gaps and without kinks. For window venting, fit the window adapter so it sits snugly, then close the sash so it aligns as evenly as possible. If the adapter does not seal properly, air leaks can reduce cooling effectiveness and make the setup more awkward to repeat.
Who Is This Portable Air Conditioner For?
The portable air conditioner is a portable air conditioner designed for spot cooling and flexible placement. Its portability makes it suitable for people who do not want a fixed installation, including households, small offices, and anyone renting a space where a permanent system is not practical. Buyers planning short, focused use during warmer spells may find it easier to manage than a system intended for whole-home climate control, but whole-home climate control would require additional solutions, since wider coverage details are not provided.
Where to Buy in the UK
Where to buy in the UK matters, because it affects delivery options, returns, and after-sales support for a portable unit like this portable air conditioner. The PAC-EM90 is listed through major UK retailers, but stock levels can vary by region and season. He advises checking delivery speed and the returns window, because these steps influence how quickly issues are handled. He also suggests comparing packaging condition on arrival and keeping proof of purchase for warranty claims (not stated).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Delonghi Pinguino PAC-EM90 worth it?
For cooling a room in a heatwave without fitting a fixed unit, the Delonghi Pinguino PAC-EM90 (9800 BTU) gives you proper, moveable cooling that a fan can't. Check the current Amazon UK price, as these spike in summer.
How much cooling power does the Delonghi Pinguino PAC-EM90 have?
The Delonghi Pinguino PAC-EM90 is rated at 9800 BTU. As a rough guide, around 5,000-7,000 BTU suits a small bedroom, 8,000-10,000 BTU a living room, and 12,000+ BTU larger or open-plan spaces.
How many BTU do I actually need?
Match BTU to room size: roughly 5,000-7,000 BTU for a small bedroom, 8,000-10,000 for an average living room, and 12,000+ for large or sunny rooms. Too few BTU won't cool the space; too many wastes money and can leave it clammy.
Does the Delonghi Pinguino PAC-EM90 need a window or exhaust hose?
Yes - like all portable air conditioners, the Delonghi Pinguino PAC-EM90 vents hot air out through an exhaust hose, which needs to reach a window (a window-sealing kit is usually included). This is normal and the key difference from an air cooler, which doesn't cool as effectively.
Are portable air conditioners expensive to run?
They use more electricity than a fan, since they have a compressor like a fridge. Running cost depends on the wattage, how long you run it and your tariff - use it to cool a room then switch to a lower fan mode to keep costs down.
Where is the Delonghi Pinguino PAC-EM90 best used?
The Delonghi Pinguino PAC-EM90 suits any room where you want moveable cooling without a permanent installation - bedrooms, home offices and living rooms. You can wheel it between rooms, as long as each has a window for the exhaust hose.