Portable Vs. Window Air Conditioners: Which Is Better?

Once June swings around, you know it’s going to be a couple of months of scorching heat. And you probably have your ways of dealing with the furnace-like temperatures. Staying hydrated, more dips in the pool, or simply staying out of the sun for long periods at a time. It’s a matter of the end justifying the means.

But what better way to keep cool than a good old fashioned air conditioner. During those summer months, these remarkable devices become a critical part of any living space. Portable and window air conditioners have emerged as popular choices in recent times. Without further ado, here’s a quick guide to picking which of the two would work better for you.

The Pros of Portable Units

Keep the Light Coming in with Portable A/Cs 

Natural light plays a significant role in the ambiance of a room. A dull or poorly lit room creates a gloomy feel and tends to suck away the life of the room. A well-lit room, on the other hand, creates a delightful atmosphere where everyone feels cozy and relaxed.

Portable air conditioners find their niche on the floor rather than on your window. That means that these mobile devices won’t interfere with your room’s lighting. So you’ll have the benefit of a fresh, well-lit place for your needs. That’s a massive bonus for any room.

Cheaper Than Your Central A/C

When compared to a central air conditioning system, portable air conditioners are way more economical. Central air conditioners actively work to cool your entire house, and that means they draw loads of power. That’s great if you want an overall cooling effect on your home, but it can often be wasteful.

There are days when you want to cool a specific room. Say you have someone coming over, and you want the guest bedroom in prime condition. Instead of revving up your entire central A/C, pop your portable device into the bedroom and have it ready for them when they arrive. Portable air conditioners are a great supplement to your central A/C when the need arises.

Keep Things Less Humid

Portable air conditioners not only cool your living space, but they also have the added feature of dehumidifiers. A mobile unit can suck the moisture out of any room leaving your space both dry and cool.

This amazing feature is useful, particularly if you or anyone of your loved ones suffer from allergies. Keeping humidity levels low could help alleviate allergy symptoms and make for more natural breathing. Also, if you live in humid areas, say by the beach, then a portable air conditioner could be the perfect solution for lowering the moisture levels in your home. That way, you can sleep without feeling like you’re in a perpetual sauna.

Portable Air Conditioners Offer Mobility

Imagine an air conditioner that could follow you anywhere. Well, wonder no more. Portable air conditioners provide precisely that. So, whether you’re catching up on your favorite show in the living room, whipping up some food in the kitchen, or doing some reading in your room, a portable air conditioner offers cooling wherever you want it to.

If you’re on the lookout for a portable A/C, what should you go for? The best portable air conditioners come with adjustable timers and settings to allow for convenient control. Also, look for a device with a sufficient BTU rating to get a broader cooling effect. Ideally, go for a unit that has a good range of temperature that allows you the luxury of setting a temperature you feel most comfortable with.

The Pros of Window Units

Window Air Conditioners Create Less Clutter

If you’re the type who loves their space neat and tidy, then a window air conditioner is the right fit for you. Window A/Cs are installed completely outside your living space, meaning that they take up less space. Some window air conditioners can even be installed through your wall, eliminating the need for actual window space.

When you’re looking for a suitable window air conditioner, pay attention to its BTU rating. The best window air conditioners come with a decent BTU rating, cooling large areas. A good window A/C should also offer a couple of features such as digital thermostats and timers for more comfortable use.

Save with a Window Unit

Window air conditioners are more energy-efficient than their portable counterparts, meaning a lower power bill at the end of the month. So, if you’re big on saving, then a window A/C is your best bet. And, it’s not just their efficiency but their overall cost as well. Window units are generally cheaper than portable A/Cs, although that’s down to the brand, BTU capacity, and a couple of features that the device comes with.

If the lower price point isn’t enough to sway you then consider that window A/Cs are also easier to maintain. The average cost of repairing a window air conditioner is often less than a portable A/C, given their simplicity. A window A/C is a sure way to get value for your hard-earned cash.

It’s Easier to Install a Window Air Conditioner

Another merit that window units come with is their easy installation. The installation process may vary slightly depending on the model you purchase, but it’s generally a straightforward process. So, even if you’re not the most tech-savvy person in the world, a window A/C shouldn’t be hard to get running.

And, it’s not like you’ll be guessing your way along as you attempt to install yours. Each purchase should have an instruction manual on how to get the job done. It’s all down to following the steps outlined, and you’ll be done in no time.

Have Some Peace

Window A/Cs are significantly quieter than portable A/Cs. So, if you value your silence, then go for a window unit. Window units produce around 20 decibels less than portable units meaning less noise.

If you were sweating it over which unit to choose, hopefully, this guide will help you cool down and make the right choice for your home.

Resources— Compact Appliance, Home Air Guides, Family Handy Man