As parts of the United Kingdom experience temperatures reaching 32°C, the De'Longhi Pinguino GentleJet Inverter portable air conditioning unit has been evaluated for its effectiveness during a heatwave. The unit, priced at £999.99, is presented as a potential solution for increasingly frequent and intense hot spells, which studies suggest are becoming more common in the UK. The Pinguino GentleJet Inverter is described as a "next generation in home air conditioning" capable of cooling rooms up to 54 square meters.
Performance and Technology
The unit utilizes what De'Longhi terms "180° Arctic Gentle Surround" technology, designed to distribute cooled air across the entire room, preventing hot spots. During testing, the unit was found to cool a bedroom effectively, including areas further from the direct airflow. A dedicated Quiet Mode aims to reduce noise levels by 50%, with De'Longhi claiming sound levels as low as 43 decibels in this mode, comparable to a quiet library. The device also features "Inverter Technology," which automatically adjusts the operating mode for efficiency, potentially saving up to 45% on energy consumption compared to non-inverter models. The unit offers cooling, fan, and dehumidifying modes, alongside an energy-saving mode.
Design and Portability
The Pinguino GentleJet Inverter measures 457x363x814 mm and is available in white and grey finishes. Its design is noted as simple and inoffensive, intended to blend with most home decors. The unit weighs 30.8kg and includes a 4ft pipe for venting. De'Longhi advises against extending this hose, as it may damage the product. The device collects moisture from the air into an internal tray, which is then used to cool the system, maximizing performance. The unit comes with various fittings to accommodate different window types.
Value and Comparison
At £999.99, the De'Longhi Pinguino GentleJet Inverter is positioned at the higher end of the portable air conditioner market in the UK. For comparison, other models mentioned include the Meaco Cool MC Series 12000 at £509.99 and the Pro Breeze PB–AC01 Smart PAC at £599.99. De'Longhi also offers less expensive models, such as the Pinguino Compact PAC ES72 Classic and the Pinguino PAC EL112CST Smart Air Conditioner. Online reviews for the Pinguino GentleJet Inverter on De'Longhi's website show an average score of 3.9 out of 5, with some users praising its quiet operation and others finding it slow to cool and not worth the cost.
Testing Methodology
Product testing involves using appliances for at least a week under typical household conditions. Evaluations consider performance, ease of use, build quality, reliability, and value for money. Reviews are compiled and compared by a group of expert reviewers.