Portable Air Conditioner vs. Wall-Mounted Air Conditioner: What to Choose?
In Quebec, it’s hard to do without a cool breeze in your home during summer heatwaves. When it comes to choosing an air conditioner, the question arises: portable air conditioner or wall-mounted air conditioner? The advantages of the latter are considerable.
Distinguishing Between a Portable Air Conditioner and a Wall-Mounted Air Conditioner
A portable air conditioner is a mobile electrical device that cools the ambient air. It needs to expel the hot air it produces through a hose connected to the window of the room to be cooled. A wall-mounted air conditioner, on the other hand, is a device divided into two parts: a fixed external unit containing the compressor, and a fixed internal unit that blows cool air into the house.
Disadvantages of a Portable Air Conditioner
The compressor of an air conditioning unit is noisy. That’s why having a wall-mounted air conditioner is advantageous, as its compressor is outside, whereas that of a portable air conditioner is inside the room being cooled. Although inexpensive in the short term, a portable air conditioner is very energy-intensive in the long term compared, for example, to a heat pump. Indeed, a heat pump, which serves as both an air conditioner and a heating system, is the most cost-effective option in terms of energy savings.
A wall-mounted air conditioner can quickly cool an entire house, while a portable air conditioner has a low cooling capacity per volume. It can only cool one room at a time. Additionally, its installation, usually done by homeowners, can cause air or water leaks, reducing its efficiency and increasing inconveniences. This type of device also cannot be repaired.
Wall-Mounted Air Conditioner: A Smart Choice
Purchasing a wall-mounted air conditioner or a wall-mounted heat pump allows for long-term electricity savings, in addition to being able to quickly and silently cool the entire house. The heat pump is even more cost-effective as it can be used in summer as an air conditioner and in winter as a supplemental heating system. In case of issues, most heat pumps are subject to a warranty and, if necessary, can be repaired by a qualified installer. When properly maintained, a heat pump can last for decades.
Looking for the air conditioner or heat pump that’s right for your home? Contact Gestion Air for a quote.
