As you flip the calendar pages toward summer and the temperature begins to rise, it’s time to think about how you’ll keep hot air from ruining your fun. If you’ve already got an effective central system, you don’t need to do much work at all — just change the filters and you’re ready to go.
If you don’t have adequate air conditioning, however, now is the time to make your plans so that you aren’t caught off guard by an early heat wave. If you’re thinking about cool air, you have a few options, including a portable air conditioner. These have become increasingly popular in the past decade, but are portable air conditioners worth it?
How a Portable Air Conditioner Works
Portable air conditioners function similarly to other AC systems, using chemical refrigerants to absorb indoor heat and release it outside. Unlike window units, which expel heat via their external portion, portable units use a flexible exhaust hose connected to a window.
While they are labeled “portable,” moving them between rooms requires relocating the exhaust vent. Though window kits simplify this process, it may not be as convenient as moving a space heater.
Factors That Determine Effectiveness
Cooling your home with an air conditioner isn’t cheap, and portable units are no exception. Their efficiency depends on factors like weather, room size, and electricity costs.
The Weather
The hotter it is outside, the harder your unit has to work. For example, cooling to 72°F on a 95°F day requires significantly more energy than on a 77°F day. You can reduce costs by raising the thermostat slightly on the hottest days and keeping blinds and curtains closed to block sunlight.
Room Size
To cool effectively, your air conditioner must be appropriately sized for your space. Smaller rooms (around 200 sq. ft.) need an 8,000 BTU unit, while larger spaces (600 sq. ft.) require 14,000 BTUs. Kitchens may need higher-capacity units due to the heat from appliances.
The Cost of Electricity
How much you spend to run your portable air conditioner will vary greatly based on the price of electricity in your area. These costs tend to rise with demand during the hottest summer months, so getting cool during a freak heat wave in May probably won’t cost you as much as seeking relief in August. If you’re subject to prices that fluctuate during peak periods, it may even be cheaper to run your portable AC at night than it is during the day. This is all to say that your mileage may vary as to whether you find the cost of running a portable air conditioner to be a reasonable concession on a hot day or if you’d prefer to stick things out with a fan or an evaporative cooler instead.
The Pros and Cons of Portable AC
Pros
- Access to windows: Portable units don’t block your windows, preserving natural light and ventilation.
- Easy setup: No tools or assistance are required to set up the exhaust hose with a window kit. Just plug it in and enjoy cool air.
Cons
- Lower efficiency: Portable units often use more electricity to cool the same space as window units.
- Noise: All working components are inside the room, which can be disruptive. Adjusting fan speed or positioning the unit farther away can help.
Best Uses for Portable Air Conditioners
Portable AC units are ideal in certain scenarios:
- Challenging windows: They work well in rooms with small or non-functional windows.
- Preserving natural light: Unlike window units, they don’t block windows.
- HOA restrictions: Portable AC units comply with strict HOA or historic preservation rules.
- Spot cooling: They supplement central air in hot spots or small, enclosed rooms.
- Better sleep: Use them in bedrooms for nighttime cooling without running central air all day.
- Dehumidification: They remove humidity in muggy climates, adding to comfort.
Conclusion
Portable air conditioners are a convenient and affordable option for cooling small spaces or supplementing existing systems. Ensure you choose the correct size for your room and enjoy a cool, comfortable home all summer long.
