If you currently live or work in a condominum or building that restricts you from have a window air conditioner or a ductless mini split then a portable air conditioner is just what you need. This type of cooling/heating system normally comes with wheels which makes is easy to manoeuver from room to room when needed. Portable air conditioners are not as productive as the other types. In some ares in North America when it too hot or cold consumers notice the poor performance of the unit they have invested in.
It should never be your main source of heating specially if you see temperatures as low as -10/14F. When it comes to alarming hot temperatures, it is also not recommanded to be your primary unit. Nowadays one can find different models with capacities ranging from 5000BTU to 60000BTU and they come in two types : evaporative and refrigerative.
Refrigerative Type
The refrigerative type comes with a duct that is attached to the rear of the unit and the other end should be connected to outside. The technology consists of using the air in the room to cool the condensor and then rejecting it outdoors. Many have argued that it is not efficient since the air it takes from the room must be replaced and it will come from outside(hot air) or from other rooms.Basically, maintaining a precise temperature means your portable air conditioner will be running for a while.
Evaporative Type
An evaporative portable air conditioner does not come with a compressor or a condensor the technology behind it is the following: Water is evaporated on the cooling fins when afterwards it releases a vapour drawing the heat and cooling the area. It is not as reliable as the refrigerative portable air conditioner but when it comes to energy the running cost is 50-70% less. Tip: Do not use it in areas that are too humid.
Pros & Cons of a Portable Unit
Before purchasing your next unit you must keep in mind that there are advantages and disavantages like most situations in life. Buying an air conditioner demands serious thinking and planning speacially if you plan on operating it during 8-12 months/year like residents in certain states and provinces.
Pros:
- Affordable Pricing
- Easy Installation
- Easy Manoeuvering
- Permitted in all buildings
Cons:
- Not reliable in certain temperatures
- Bad consumer reviews
- Not for large areas
- Possibly not efficient ( Refrigerative)
- Potential for damage to Home/Property
Conclusion
If you can afford to purchase and install a split air conditioner then i suggest you do so and if not a window air conditioner would not be a bad idea since it is cheaper and performs to expected standards. If you live or work in a very large area and a portable air conditioner is your only result than you should consider buying more than one. Keep in mind central air conditioners hike up the value of your property.
0 Response to "Portable Air Conditioners"
Post a Comment