Why Are Portable Air Conditioners Less Efficient

Beating the heat, especially in summer, can be a real challenge, but finding the best type of air conditioner is the first step to keeping your home or workspace cool and comfortable. As with most things, choosing the right air conditioner is a balance between cost and function.


Portable air conditioners are the real winner when it comes to initial outlay – they are by far the cheapest – but are they a genuine alternative to a fully installed system? 

A White Air Cooler is Sitting in a Living Room Next to a Couch — Davies Refrigeration & Air Conditioning in Warana, QLD

Why are portable air conditioners less efficient?

When we look at the figures, like these from the Consumer Reports organisation, we learn that a portable air conditioner takes an average of 20 minutes to cool a room to 25°c. In comparison, the most efficient window model can achieve this in 15 minutes or less.
 
The nature of a portable air conditioner means that all its components are inside – so the air being used to cool the room is already warm, and the machine itself creates more heat whilst working – the opposite of what you’re trying to achieve. This, in turn, means the machine has to work extra hard to reach the desired temperature, which uses more energy and is thus less efficient. Plus, they make a lot of noise. In comparison, ducted and split system air conditioners have an outdoor unit where heat is released.

Variable standards

Unlike regular air conditioners, portable air conditioning units have only been subject to regulation since April 2020. This means consumers have to be extra vigilant when looking for a new portable air conditioner – any units built before April 2020 do not have to display a MEPS rating, so it can be hard to know how efficient your machine will be. 

How portable are they?

Portable air conditioners aren’t as 'portable' as they might sound. For a start, they’re pretty heavy, weighing in at around 40 kilos, and whilst they’re usually on wheels, manoeuvring something of that weight over carpet and thresholds can be a challenge. They also have an outlet hose that needs a clear path away from furniture and other obstacles. All of these things mean that finding the right spot for your portable air conditioning unit can be a bit of a challenge.

What to consider if you have to choose a portable air conditioner

Consider your room. Things like blackout blinds will make a huge difference to how your room feels, and a ceiling fan is a great way to help you feel cooler. It's also essential to install your portable air conditioner correctly to get the maximum benefit. Check the connections are tight and take care to seal any gaps around the outlet hose.

Get in touch

To find out more about ways to keep your home cool, just get in touch. We have 25 years of experience in keeping homes and offices across the Sunshine Coast at just the right temperature. You can give us a call on 0412 846 854 or complete our contact form to arrange a free quote.