Portable AC vs Window AC: Which Is Better?

Deciding which air conditioning unit to invest in for a residential space might not sound like a problem to some. However, when it comes to choosing between either a portable air conditioner or a window AC unit for a facility like a Multifamily or a nursing home, it is a different game altogether.

Most facilities have central air conditioners, but if this isn't the case with your facility, you might be considering relying on a different type of air conditioner to keep indoor comfortable.

Portable air conditioners and Window air conditioners are two of the most popular options in the market today. Both of the appliances have their own selling points. The best way to compare two similar appliances is to consider each aspect of owning them. In this blog, we will deconstruct the key differences to help you decide which one makes the most sense in your facility. Consider which aspects will be most important for you – knowing which type is better will help you decide what suits you best.

Advantages of Window Air Conditioners

Efficiency

Window Air Conditioners' hot components like condenser coil and compressor sit outside in free-moving air, which is an ideal situation to take heat from your room air and move it outside. Furthermore, since Window AC is one connected unit, the water collected on the indoor coil helps cool off its outdoor components!

Noise

The compressor and the fans moving air past the two coils are the loudest parts of an air conditioning system. Since a Window AC keeps the compressor and one fan outside, it’s much quieter than a portable.

More floor space

Unlike with Portable Air Conditioners, you don’t have to lose any floor space, and no bulky hoses are hanging off your window with a window air conditioner. However, it does block part of a window and one outlet, but that’s really it.

Advantages of Portable Air Conditioners

Installation

The biggest edge of a portable air conditioner over a window air conditioner is that it can be adapted to vent using almost any window. Although the installation isn’t exactly easy, yet it’s definitely less nerve-racking.

Portability

The best thing about a portable air conditioner is that you can aim it exactly where you need it. Not only can you adapt it to nearly any window or door in your house, but you can also turn it directly toward your desk chair, your sofa, or wherever else you need a cool breeze.

More window space

Although a portable air conditioner takes up more space on the floor, it only blocks about 6 inches of your window. You’ll have more of your window to look out of.

Related Article: Are Portable Air Conditioners Worth Your Money

Moving into a larger space?

If you plan to move, an advantage of window and portable air conditioners is that you can take them with you. However, if you're moving into a bigger place, you may want to switch to a more efficient, quiet, and permanent solution. Ductless mini split AC systems provide several advantages over window and portable AC units because their noisy parts are located outside where you can't hear them. They keep you safer from outside threats since they only require a small opening.

Related Article: Ductless Mini Splits - All You Need to Know

Conclusion

When choosing between a window and a portable air conditioner, the most important factor to consider is the size of your facility's room. If your facility's room is small and you expect you'll need to cool different rooms at different times of the day, choose the portable air conditioner. The window air conditioner is the better choice for larger spaces. The window unit will cool your entire facility's room, and you won't have to worry about losing important space.

Shop At ProServices Supply

If you've decided which air conditioning unit you would invest in, check out ProServices Supply's online store to shop Window and Portable Air Conditioners by size or brand. We offer an array of machines with features to suit your needs. Or you can place your order by giving us a call at (877) 776 - 8228.

Need help?

Want a professional opinion on which air conditioning system is right for you? Contact a ProServices Supply technician to determine which AC system is best for your space or additional cooling services, including AC installation, repair, and maintenance services.