Functioning of a Portable Air Conditioner Explained
In the quest for comfort during the warm summer months, homeowners are often faced with a choice between portable and fixed air conditioning units. Here's a comparison of the two, based on key factors.
Portable Air Conditioners
Portable air conditioning units, similar in size to large vacuum cleaners and equipped with wheels for mobility, are a popular choice for those seeking flexibility. They draw air from a room, extract heat, and blow cooled air back into the room.
These units are self-contained, meaning they don't require any permanent installation. However, they do need a means to vent waste heat, which can be accomplished through a window, door, cat flap, or purpose-made duct hole.
Modern portable air conditioning units use environmentally friendly refrigerants that are hermetically sealed and do not require regular topping up. They are operated via remote control and, in some cases, apps, offering convenience and ease of use.
It's worth noting that these units consume between 600W and 1300W per hour, producing nearly three times that in cooling effect. The cost to run a portable air conditioner unit per hour ranges from 13p to 29p, with electricity costs approximately 22p per kWh.
Fixed Air Conditioning
Fixed air conditioning units, on the other hand, are installed permanently and require professional installation. They consist of an outdoor fan unit and an indoor fan unit, connected via refrigerant pipes.
These units can be installed in multiple rooms, providing cooling for the entire house if needed. However, they are fixed in place and cannot be moved without the assistance of a qualified engineer.
The cost for an installed single room fixed air conditioning unit starts at around £1000, while a multi-split unit starts at around £1100 per room. Fixed air conditioning units exhaust the extracted heat into a second flow of air, which needs to be ducted out of the building.
In contrast to portable units, fixed air conditioning units offer more options for customisation, with some models featuring up to 10 indoor units connected to one outdoor fan unit. New models also offer 4 operating modes, including sleep mode and dehumidifying function.
A suitable size for a white portable air conditioning unit is for room sizes up to 9-14m2, while fixed air conditioning units can cool larger spaces.
For those seeking a smart and flexible solution, the Midea PortaSplit, a portable mobile split air conditioner, is set to launch in Germany in 2024. This unit offers smart control with app operation, ideal for flexible use in rooms up to 42 m².
For more advice on different models available, consult the guide to the best portable air conditioners. Whether you choose a portable or fixed air conditioning unit, both options can help you stay cool and comfortable during the summer months.
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