With summer temperatures getting higher and higher, we all rely on air conditioning to help us survive. And even though most homes and offices have air conditioning installed, there is always that one room that seems to be hotter than anywhere else. Maybe it gets more sun than the rest of your space? Or perhaps the occupant likes a lower temperature that is comfortable for everyone else? Either way, if you find yourself in this situation you might want to consider getting some extra help in the form of a portable or a window AC unit. So which is better?

In order to help you make an informed choice between portable AC vs window AC, we’ll take a look at the pros and cons of both.

Portable vs Window Air Conditioner

While both systems have advantages if you are looking to cool a small space, there are some important differences. Here, we will take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of both.

Portable AC pros

  • Easy to install.
    All you need is a plug socket and somewhere to place the vent to release hot air to the outside.
  • Moveable.
    As the name suggests, they are portable so they can be moved from room to room as required. Most models come with wheels so they can be easily moved by any member of your family, making them ideal if one member of your family needs extra air conditioning due to a condition like asthma, for example.

Portable AC cons

  • Moisture.
    All AC units produce moisture while they are working. With other types of AC, including window AC units, this moisture is drained off and released outside. With a portable unit, on the other hand, the moisture has nowhere to go except a tank on the unit that needs to be emptied on a regular basis.
  • Price.
    Portable units are, on average, about $100 more expensive than window units with the same capacity.
  • Space.
    The portable unit sits in the middle of the floor and takes up space in your room.
  • Noise.
    While manufacturers try to make them as quiet as possible, there is no such thing as a silent portable AC unit. While it is working you will be aware of it. Although portable ACs seem to have more cons than pros, the answer to the question “Are portable air conditioners any good?” very much depends on your needs.

Window AC pros

  • Space.
    The unit only extends a few inches over the window frame and into your room.
  • Noise.
    Most of the noise from a window unit is directed outside, making them much quieter than a portable unit.

Window AC cons

  • Installation.
    While certainly easier and quicker to install than a central unit, installing a window unit does require some modification to your window frame, and you need to be sure the unit is securely fixed and will not work itself free and fall out. 
  • Loss of light.
    A window unit blocks up the window so you’ll have less natural light in the room where it is installed.
  • Fixed.
    A window unit cannot be moved from room to room.

Portable vs Window Air Conditioner Efficiency

These days, the main consideration when buying an AC seems to be efficient so we’ve saved this question till last. Overall, window units use electricity more efficiently than portable units and give you a higher BTU for your buck. There are, of course, differences between models so this is an area where you should do your research before making a decision.

If you need further information before making your decision, contact us today here at Chill’s Air Conditioning and discover the wide range of AC models available to you.