Portable air conditioner vs split system: pros and cons

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Stepping into an air-conditioned room on a hot summer day is always a relief, and with temperatures across Australia warming up it’s an excellent time for anyone in the market for a new air conditioner to consider their options. For many Australians, split cycle air conditioners are the gold standard, but if you’re looking for something more affordable and mobile, a portable air conditioner could be the right fit.

Portable air conditioner vs split system

When purchasing a new air conditioner, there are several factors to consider, including room size, energy-efficiency rating and budget.

Portable air conditioners

Portable air conditioners are excellent at cooling smaller rooms in the home.  They’re also a convenient option for those who rent and want to take the unit with them if they move house, or if you need a mobile cooling option you can take from one location to another. Here are some of the pros and cons of portable air-conditioning units:

Pros:

• Mobile – most models stand under a meter tall and are on castor wheels, so they can be moved between rooms.
• More affordable – most units cost between $500 and $900.
• Multi-functional – many portable units also come equipped with heating and dehumidifying capability.

Cons:

• Performance – most only have a power level of around 2kw, which is significantly less than other split system air conditioners or ducted air conditioning.
• Only suitable for small rooms – most units are best utilised in rooms 20m² or smaller.
• Not energy efficient – these units generally cost more to run, which can get pricey in the summer months.

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Split system air conditioners

Split system air conditioners are increasingly popular in Aussie households.  Not only are they easy to use, but advancing technology means energy-efficiency ratings are improving and features like air purification and dehumidifying are commonplace. They’re also designed to cool large rooms and have timer and fan-speed settings to help reduce running costs. Here are some common pros and cons of split system air-conditioning units:

Pros:

• Suitable for cooling and heating most houses and apartments.
• Powerful for their size – expect anywhere from 3kw to 9kw of power in most models.
• Convenient and accessible – most units are easily controlled via a wireless remote.

Cons:

• Expensive to purchase – unit costs can range from $500 to over $2,000.
• Installation costs – a licensed technician must install one of these units, which will generally cost between $600 and $800.
• Power consumption – split system units can be expensive to run constantly.

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Purchasing an air conditioner

There are many factors to consider when purchasing an air conditioner. Aside from the pros and cons we’ve covered, consider things like:

• Your budget (include power usage, maintenance and installation costs).
• Your cooling needs and the size of the room.
• Whether you’re renting, owning, want a permanent cooling solution or a flexible option.

To help decide which appliance is the best fit for you and your home, check out some of Canstar Blue’s best-rated air conditioners.

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Original Author: Veronika Hleborodova