Comparing Portable vs Window Air Conditioners
- Noise. Comparing the data sets for both air conditioners, it appears clear that window air conditioners are typically noisier than portable versions for the same power ratings.
- Efficiency. The best way to look at efficiency is the area covered by the power of an air conditioner. ...
- Price. ...
- Portability. ...
- Looks. ...
- Floor Space. ...
- Installation Difficulty. ...
Which is better portable or window air conditioner?
What to consider before purchasing a portable air conditioner
- The main issue with portable units is their size. ...
- Portable air conditioners tend to use energy less efficiently, meaning they are often not as powerful as window air conditioners.
- The amount of noise produced by portable models is another common complaint, though different models sport different decibel levels.
What is the best portable home air conditioner?
These are the best portable air conditioners you can buy:
- Best Overall Portable Air Conditioner: Whynter Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner
- Best Value Portable Air Conditioner: Honeywell Portable Indoor Evaporative Air Cooler
- Best Portable Air Conditioner for Large Rooms: Frigidaire Cool Connect Smart Portable Air Conditioner
What is the best portable air conditioning unit?
- An 8,000-BTU portable air conditioner should cool a space of 200 square feet.
- A 10,000-BTU model is effective in a space of 300 square feet.
- A 12,000-BTU unit is usually sufficient in a space of 400 square feet.
- A 13,000-BTU portable air conditioner can usually cover a space of 450 square feet.
Are portable air conditioners worth the cost?
But the truth is, a portable air conditioner is very cost-effective. You don’t have to pay so much money for that. Also, by using this air conditioner, you can save your electricity bill. This portable device saves energy and reduces the cost. These features help people. It means you will get the best service at a minimum cost.
Which is better a window or portable air conditioner?
Generally speaking, window ACs are more affordable, more efficient, and more effective than their portable counterparts, so they are usually what you should get. The primary reason people look elsewhere is that they don't have the right windows.
What is the disadvantage of portable AC?
Some disadvantages of portable air conditioners include heavy units that are difficult to move, high noise levels, draining the water regularly and the limited cooling space the unit offers.
Is portable air conditioner worth it?
It's generally less efficient. Portable air conditioners often take more BTUs — and therefore use more electricity — to cool the same square foot space as a window unit. This is likely because they generate waste heat indoors instead of outside, creating more overall heat for the unit to deal with.
Can I use a portable air conditioner in a room without a window?
Every room has a door, and you can vent a portable air conditioner through the door. Using door venting is the most common way of venting a portable air conditioner without a window.
How long do portable air conditioners last?
5 to 10 yearsPortable air conditioners last from 5 to 10 years. Portable AC units can be moved from room to room and can generate anywhere from 8,000 BTU to 15,000 BTU of cooling output. Portable AC units have the lowest lifespan of all AC types because: They get moved around a lot.
Do portable air conditioners use more electricity than window air conditioners?
What's more, a window air conditioner actually uses energy more efficiently than a portable unit does. That means you get even more cooling power per BTU. When you are looking at window units, pay attention to the BTU rating. The higher that number is, the bigger the room the unit can cool.
Can a portable air conditioner cool a room?
A portable air conditioner can lower the temperature of a room by 5 degrees Fahrenheit in just 20 minutes. It is a very convenient air conditioner since it can provide cool air anytime and anywhere you want.
Where should I place my portable air conditioner?
You always need a power source, so make sure there is a plug socket nearby. It's always best to avoid running extension leads to your air conditioning unit if possible. Portable units (not window units) work best if they are as close to the centre of the room as possible.
Can a portable AC heat a room?
Can you use a portable air conditioner as a heater? Yes. Not all portable air conditioners can be used as heaters in the winter. However, a special category of 'heater and air conditioner in one unit' is capable of heating.
Do you have to drain water from a portable air conditioner?
Depending on the humidity in your space, you will need to drain your portable air conditioner as often as every 8 hours. However, you usually won't need to drain your portable air conditioner this often. If you live in a dry area, then you will rarely need to drain your portable air conditioner.
Why do portable air conditioners need to be vented?
A portable air conditioner uses its vent hose to remove heat, so venting it outside makes the most sense in almost every case. If the heat from the exhaust fan can come back through the intake of the air conditioner, you're wasting money.
Do portable air conditioners use a lot of electricity?
How Much Electricity Does A Portable Air Conditioner Use? Mid-sized portable air conditioners use an average of 2900 watts per hour. Particularly large units can exceed the electricity usage of even central air conditioners, expending about 4100 watts per hour.
How does a portable air conditioner work?
A portable unit uses an exhaust pipe that funnels the air out your window. A window unit is already outside and simply expunges the hot air that way.
What to consider when choosing an air conditioner?
Things to Consider When Choosing an Air Conditioner. Some people may decide that the noise level of the unit is important. Air conditioners are notorious for making a humming sound when they kick on. While there is no discernible difference between portable and window devices, you can find differences between specific models.
Why are window units banned?
Some homeowners’ associations ban the use of window units because they hang outside of a window. Portable air conditioners do not have any pieces that will protrude from your window, therefore will not violate such regulations.
Why do people use air conditioning units?
When the temperature starts to rise, most people rely on their air conditioning units to keep their homes and offices at a comfortable temperature. There are a number of options on the market when it comes to the type of unit you use. If you aren’t sure if you should use a portable or a window model, here are a few guidelines that might help you.
Can you install an air conditioner through the wall?
It is important to note that some window air conditioner can also be installed through the wall which does not require an actual window space. In order for this type of installation, you will need to purchase a Through-the-Wall Window Air Conditioner that has a specific kit that allows the unit to fit that particular type of area.
Is a window air conditioner good for cooling?
Either a portable or a window air conditioning unit is a great tool for efficiently cooling your home. Both devices can actually reduce your energy bills in warmer months. By assessing your needs and taking into account the benefits of each, you can make a right decision between the two.
Do window air conditioners use more energy?
What’s more, a window air conditioner actually uses energy more efficiently than a portable unit does. That means you get even more cooling power per BTU. When you are looking at window units, pay attention to the BTU rating. The higher that number is, the bigger the room the unit can cool. Window units, like portable units, can come ...
What is portable air conditioner?
Portable air conditioners are independent, movable units with exhaust hoses that are easy to install and vent out of a variety of window types . Window air conditioners are generally less expensive than portable air conditioners, but they are more difficult to install and only fit in standard-sized windows.
How much does a window air conditioner weigh?
Even with casters (wheels), some portable air conditioners can be very bulky and heavy to move. Likewise, window air conditioners can weigh up to 100lbs (45kg), making lifting difficult for most.
What is the EER rating of a room air conditioner?
Room air conditioners with a high EER rating are more efficient than those with a low rating. National standards require all air conditioners—including portable units—to have an EER rating of 8.0 or greater. Units with an EER rating of 10.0 or above will be very efficient.
What does BTU stand for in air conditioning?
BTU stands for "British Thermal Unit" and is the standard unit of measurement for air conditioners. It is the amount of energy required to heat or cool one pound of water by one degree in Fahrenheit. The higher the BTU/h, the larger and more powerful the air conditioner will be. Area of Room in Sq. Ft.
Is a window air conditioner loud?
Window air conditioners are usually quite loud as they work and rumble against window sills. The noise levels of portable air conditioners vary, with some models being as quiet as a fan and others being as noisy, if not noisier, than a window air conditioner. If noise is a major concern for the room that the air conditioner will go in, ...
Can you find an energy efficient window air conditioner?
However, EER ratings can be used to determine efficiency. It is easier to find an energy efficient window air conditioner than it is to find an energy efficient portable air condition er. It is possible to find window air conditioners with Energy Star ratings. Moisture. Water is collected in a tank or tray and has to be emptied regularly.
Is a portable air conditioner better than a portable air conditioner?
Portable air conditioners are independent, movable units with exhaust hoses that are easy to install and vent out of a variety of window types. Window air conditioners are generally less expensive than portable air conditioners, but they are more difficult to install and only fit in standard-sized windows. Both unit types must be vented to the outside to function properly and are better as a supplemental cooling source, rather than a home's sole source of cooling.
How much does a window AC unit cost?
Window AC units are a very inexpensive choice when it comes to interior cooling, as you can find reliable units for under $400.
Why are AC units loud?
Because part of the unit hangs outside the window, some homeowner’s associations ban or have restrictions on where you can place window units in your home, so be sure to check before purchasing one. Window AC units also can be loud, depending on the size and the model, so keep that in mind when comparing choices.
Do portable AC units need ductwork?
Both portable and window AC units are extremely energy efficient and don’t require any ductwork , but they do have a few differences.
Do portable AC units come with an installation kit?
Most portable AC units come with an installation kit that makes them quick and easy to set up. A small exhaust will need to be set up through a window, so you do have some limitations as to where you can place it, although most models do have wheels for easy transport from room to room.
Is central air conditioning expensive?
Central air conditioning can be expensive to install and use. Fortunately , there are alternatives if you’re looking for a permanent solution to cool your home or office. Portable and window air conditioning units are both economical and reliable solutions to make your indoor environment more comfortable in the warm summer months. ...
What is a Portable Air Conditioner?
A portable air conditioner is named as such for a reason: it’s portable! Think of a unit which can be moved from room to room or home to home. Portable air conditioners sit close to a window. This allows it to remove warm air from the room through a hose connected to the unit.
What is a Window Air Conditioner?
A window air conditioner can also be viewed as a type of portable unit. However, it’s a stationary one. They are literally installed in an open window. The trick to window air conditioners is finding the right size. Having a proper setup means that the unit should fit perfectly.
Comparing the Two
There are multiple benefits to each unit. Some of the benefits overlap. For example, each type of air conditioner is relatively inexpensive. The average price is a few hundred dollars. In contrast, central air conditioners cost thousands of dollars. Portable air conditioners are slightly more expensive than window air conditioners.
Which You Should Choose
Efficiency, price, versatility—these are the factors you’ll consider before choosing a unit. If you think you’ll be moving the unit from room to room you might want a portable air conditioner. If you are looking to save space in a room you might want a window air conditioner.
Where to Buy Them
My favorite place to shop is Amazon. I’m able to easily compare models and types without leaving my home. And you can too. For portable air conditioners, a great starting point for you would be Amazon. If you are interested in window air conditioners, you will want to shop at Amazon for the best ones.
Conclusion
Reading this has made you better prepared to face to face a hot summer. It’s important to note that, even if you have central air, you’ll want to get it checked before a hot an humid day. You may not have used your air conditioner since last year and you’ll want to make sure it’s working properly.
What is portable air conditioning?
A portable air conditioning unit is, as the name implies, a portable unit that uses a hose to exhaust air from the room, then run that air out through a window or wall. There are also dual-hose models, with one hose that can bring in air from outside to cool the condenser, and a second hose to exhaust the heated air out.
What is a window AC unit?
Window-based AC unit. A window AC unit fastens to a standard-sized window (or even a cut-out in the wall) and provides cool air within a room. These models are typically more affordable than portable AC units, and sometimes less noisy, too. They can also, in most cases, cool a larger room than a portable AC unit: figures vary depending on ...
How Does an Air Conditioner Work?
Understanding the basics of air conditioners will make it easier to choose the right one. Heat exchange is the basis of all air conditioners. The unit absorbs heat from the air. This is done by compressing the gas into a liquid and then allowing it to decompress.
What size air conditioner do I need? How many BTUs?
BTU ratings are used to size air conditioners. British Thermal Units (BTUs) are used for heat transfer measurement. They represent the energy required to heat 1 pound of water at sea level by 1 degree Fahrenheit. Air conditioners are cooling and heating. However, the principle is still valid in reverse.
What is the difference between a window unit and a portable unit?
A window unit uses chemicals called refrigerants that absorb the heat from the air when it passes over a set of coils, resulting in chilled indoor air. A portable unit, on the other hand, utilizes an exhaust pipe, ...
What is the drawback of portable AC?
The biggest drawback, however, is surely the energy rating. While some portable ACs meet or exceed the governmental minimum requirement for AC energy usage to be 10 SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio), many don’t. And for the ones that do, you can expect to pay more. And if you don’t want to go with a portable or window AC, ...
Can portable AC be installed on windows?
A shortcut would be to weed out the portable option altogether. Portable ACs may provide you access to your windows and require no installation, but they come with some issues.
Do window AC units use more energy?
Window AC units are tucked away in a window, making them less noticeable and freeing up morel living space. They also use energy more efficiently, so you can get more cooling power per BTU.
Is central AC needed in older homes?
It makes your home feel more comfortable when the mercury spikes. However, central AC isn’t an option for some living in older homes or in parts of the country where it hasn’t traditionally been included in residential buildings. It’s also an expensive, impractical addition to houses without it. That’s why you may want to consider ...
Do portable air conditioners have condensation?
Condensation is another issue associated with portable air conditioners . While some of the newer and/or pricier models remove the condensation through the vent exhaust, many still rely on a drip pan, which quickly fills up and must be manually emptied.
Design
Pricing
- The larger and more powerful the air conditioner, the more it will cost upfront. A high upfront cost is worth it, though, if it means buying the right size air conditioner. Portable air conditioners are usually around $100 more expensive than window air conditioners of the same cooling capacity. Also, because portable air conditioners are generally larger and start at a higher BTU/h, they will …
Installation
- Portable air conditioners are typically easier to install than window air conditioners, even with "easy install" kits that now ship with most good A/C units. One possible issue for those installing a unit alone is weight. Even with casters (wheels), some portable air conditioners can be very bulky and heavy to move. Likewise, window air conditioners can weigh up to 100lbs (45kg), making lift…
Efficiency and Power Consumption
- It is easier to find an energy-efficient window air conditioner than it is to find an energy-efficient portable air conditioner. In the U.S., there are no federal regulations to mandate the energy efficiency of portable air conditioners, and so no portable air conditioner is given Energy Star ratings. This does not mean portable air conditioners cannot be energy efficient or that other la…
Noise
- Air conditioners are noisy—there's no way around that. Both portable and window air conditioners are equally noisy but noise levels vary by manufacturer and model. So look for the decibel rating (dB) of a unit before buying; the lower the dB level, the quieter the unit will be.
Summary
- The pros of portable air conditioners are: 1. portability: can be moved from one room to another very easily 2. easier to install: there is some work involved in getting the exhaust hose properly venting outside the window but it's easier than installing a window AC unit. 3. more venting options: special install kits are available for portable air conditioners to vent through a door or th…
References
- Are there Energy Star qualified portable air conditioners? - Energy Star
- BTU and EER - HowStuffWorks
- Common Portable Air Conditioner Mistakes - Air & Water
- Common Questions About Window Air Conditioners - Overstock.com