Tired of sweating through those long work-from-home afternoons because you don’t have air conditioning? A portable air conditioner could be just what you’re looking for.

Portable air conditioners are classified into two types: evaporative coolers and heat pump air conditioners. We explain how they work, how much they cost, and the benefits and drawbacks of each so you can make an informed decision.

What Are Portable Evaporative Coolers And How Do They Work?

Portable evaporative coolers are small, wheeled units that can be moved from room to room or even outside onto a deck as long as there is power.

When using a portable evaporative cooler indoors, keep a window open to prevent condensation from forming, just as you would with a built-in system.

How Much Power Do They Consume?

The amount of energy used will be determined by the size of the unit and the area to be cooled.

To get an idea of what size unit you need, divide the volume of the room to be cooled (floor width x floor length x ceiling height) by two – this gives you a final cubic meter output.

Are Portable Evaporative Coolers Effective?

Both yes and no. Their low purchase price, ease of installation, and low operating costs make them an appealing option, especially for renters, those on a tight budget, or those looking to cool a small room.

However, they are inefficient, especially if they are small. They must also be placed in front of an open window to exhaust air, which may not be ideal on a hot and windy day.

Maintenance

Portable evaporative coolers benefit from yearly inspections and maintenance, the majority of which can be performed by the owner.

What Exactly Is A Portable Heat Pump Air Conditioner?

Portable heater Air conditioners (sometimes called ‘portable air conditioners’) are tiny machines with all of their components in a single indoor system, as opposed to split system air conditioners, which have the compressor outside the home.

The machine is on casters and most variants have a 150mm flexible duct to exhaust air outside, commonly through a window.

What Is The Operation Of Portable Heat Pump Air Conditioners?

They function similarly to built-in air conditioners in that they draw warm air from outside, cool and dehumidify it with refrigerant, and then blow it into the room.

Models that include a window kit must have a flexible duct installed in a window to vent heat from the room. The disadvantage is that when hot air is exhausted through the duct, the change in air pressure can cause warm air from other rooms to be drawn in to replace it.

How Effective Are Portable Heap Pump Air Conditioners?

Because of their low purchase and installation costs, as well as their portability, portable heat pump air conditioning is an excellent choice for those on a tight budget or living in rented housing.

How Much Power Do They Consume?

Historically, portable air conditioners were inefficient and were not required to bear an Energy Rating Label.

Don’t be surprised if the unit has no energy stars: by definition, portable heat pump air conditioners aren’t particularly efficient at cooling a large space and are better suited to cooling a single person rather than an entire room.

How Much Upkeep Do They Require?

Air filters should be cleaned on a regular basis, preferably every two weeks.

Check for air leaks in any ducting and replace them if necessary. All air conditioners should be serviced and parts replaced according to the manufacturer’s instructions.