When it comes to cooling off one or two rooms, you may wonder whether a portable air conditioner or a ductless mini-split is the better option. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will explore both to help you make an informed decision.
For quick access to the sections in this article, click the links below:
- What Is A Portable Air Conditioner?
- What Are The Pros Of A Portable Air Conditioner?
- What Are The Drawbacks Of Portable Air Conditioners
- What Is A Ductless Mini Split?
- What Are The Benefits Of A Mini Split?
- Are There Drawbacks To Mini Splits?
- The Bottom Line
What Is A Portable Air Conditioner?
A portable air conditioner is a self-contained system that provides comfort and is suitable for cooling and occasionally heating individual rooms. Unlike window air conditioners, mini splits, and other air conditioning options, portable air conditioners do not need permanent installation. However, they usually require access to a window or sliding glass door to ventilate the system's exhaust.
Portable air conditioners have wheels on the bottom, making them simple to move around as needed. Their ease of placement and mobility make them one of the most convenient types of air conditioners available.
What Are The Pros Of A Portable Air Conditioner?
If you're looking to cool a single room, portable air conditioners are a cost-effective option compared to central air conditioners or ductless mini-splits. Their portability allows for zoned spaces within a home, and some homeowners even use a portable AC unit in each bedroom to create individual zones that can be controlled for individual comfort.
Additionally, portable air conditioners consume little power and use only a fraction of the electricity needed by traditional air conditioners. However, they are not as efficient as ductless systems.
What Are The Drawbacks Of Portable Air Conditioners?
The biggest disadvantage of portable air conditioners is the amount of space they take up. Due to the dimensions of the unit, you'll lose floor space, and depending on how you choose to vent the air conditioner, you'll also lose use of your window or sliding glass door.
Another significant drawback of using portable air conditioners is the noise they generate. The compressor and fan are housed within the unit, making it problematic for some users, particularly if it's installed in a bedroom.
All portable air conditioners release hot air as part of the cooling process. This air is typically expelled from the area being cooled via an exhaust hose that can be directed out of a window or sliding glass door. As a result, window kits will be present in your space, which can be unsightly for some individuals.
The last major drawback is that they are not very efficient or long-lasting. Most portable air conditioners have an Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) of less than 10, which is not very efficient when compared to a ductless mini-split. Moreover, most portable ACs are either on or off, not featuring the variable-speed compressors common with many mini splits, which can contribute to faster wear and tear.
Portable air conditioners are a great choice if your space doesn't allow for more permanent options like window air conditioners or ductless mini splits.
What Is A Ductless Mini Split?
Compared to portable ACs, ductless mini splits resemble central air conditioning systems more closely, as they both have indoor and outdoor units. While mini-splits are permanent comfort solutions, meaning you won't have to constantly set up and move them like a portable air conditioner, ductwork is not required for mini-splits, unlike central air conditioning units.
Ductless mini splits are composed of an indoor air handler and an outdoor condenser unit. Some outdoor units can operate multiple indoor air handlers or zones. The operation of a ductless system is based on the same principles as larger HVAC systems. The exterior unit draws in air through vents, and a small, flexible tube is used to transport air from the exterior unit to the indoor air handler through the wall. Once inside the interior unit, the air is either cooled or heated (depending on the selected operating mode and model) before it's released into the space.
Many ductless systems also provide heating, using the same technology as heat pumps.
What Are The Benefits Of A Mini Split?
Ductless mini-split systems are a highly advantageous cooling and heating option. They can efficiently cool and heat a space and are versatile since they are installed on walls. With impressive SEER 2 ratings ranging from 15.0 to over 25.0, ductless mini splits are considered hyper-efficient and the most efficient cooling option when compared to portable air conditioners or other options.
Another benefit is their variable speed technology, which enables precise temperature control and optimal comfort. Additionally, these systems operate quietly since the compressor and fan are located in the outdoor unit. These advantages make ductless mini-split systems perfect for homeowners looking for energy-efficient, customizable, and cost-effective cooling and heating solutions. They are also environmentally friendly since they have no ducts for energy loss.
Are There Drawbacks To Mini Splits?
Ductless mini splits have one major drawback: the initial cost of the system. While portable air conditioners can be found for less than $400, the cheapest mini split starts around $800–$1,000. This higher setup cost can deter some buyers from ductless systems. However, it's important to consider the long-term energy savings that mini splits offer compared to portable air conditioners.
Another issue with mini splits is that they are permanently fixed and require professional installation, which can take a few hours to a day. They also take up space along a wall and require unsightly refrigerant lines and power cables between the two units. Additionally, mini splits require drainage as the indoor unit produces moisture that must be handled via a gravity drain outside.
What's The Bottom Line?
Choosing between a portable air conditioner and a ductless mini split depends on your specific needs. If you only need to cool a single room, don't mind sacrificing floor and window space, and don't want to spend a lot of money up front, a portable air conditioner is a good option.
However, if you're building a new house or addition without existing ductwork or if you're looking for the most efficient cooling and heating available, a ductless mini split is the right choice. While they may cost more initially, the efficiency, money savings, and ability to cover multiple zones mean mini splits will pay for themselves over time.
It's important to consider all factors, such as upfront cost, efficiency, portability, noise level, and professional installation requirements, before making a decision.
Still Have Questions?
If you have any questions about whether a mini-split system or portable air conditioner is the right choice for you, our product experts can help take the guesswork out of the decision-making process. Contact us toll-free at 1-800-934-9194, and we'll provide the information you need to create a comfortable indoor environment.
