When the summer heat intensifies, having the perfect air conditioning unit can make a big difference to how comfortable you are during the warm months.
The two big options are portable air conditioners and wall-mounted (split system) units. But how do you know which one’s the best fit for your home?
This blog looks at the pros and cons of each to help you decide which type of air conditioning unit suits you best.
What is a portable air conditioner, and how does it work?
Portable air conditioners are all-in-one units, usually on wheels, that sit on the floor in your designated space. They suck in warm air, cool it with refrigerant, blow the hot air out, and send the cool air back into the room.
They’re a flexible option that doesn’t need any permanent setup.
Here are a couple of the pros and cons of portable air conditioning units.
The pros of a portable air conditioner
Affordable
Portable air conditioners are cheaper than wall-mounted units as there’s no long installation process.
Mobile
As it says on the tin, they’re portable, meaning that you can use the AC unit in whichever room you need.
No installation
Portable air conditioning units don’t require professional installation, so you can simply plug and play without worrying about finding a trusted, local installer.
The cons of a portable air conditioner
Less efficient and noisier
Portable air conditioners are usually less energy-efficient and noisier than wall-mounted air conditioners.
Limited cooling power
Portable air conditioners aren’t ideal for larger spaces due to their smaller size. Also, because they’re less efficient, they’re not great for prolonged use, which can be inconvenient.
Ventilation is required
Portable air conditioner units also require a window or a vent for exhaust. Not only is this inconvenient, but it also reduces their effectiveness.
Space-consuming
Portable air conditioners can be fairly big units that take up quite a bit of floor space. It’s important that you consider the amount of space you have in the specific area(s) where you’d like the air conditioning unit.
What is a wall-mounted air conditioner, and how does it work?
A wall-mounted air conditioner, also called a split system air conditioner, is a type of air conditioning unit that cools a specific room or area.
It has two main parts – an indoor unit mounted on the wall and an outdoor unit, typically located on the ground or against an outside wall.
These units are connected by pipes that go through the wall, letting the system move heat from inside to outside, which cools the room.
Interested in knowing more about split system air conditioning and how it works? Keep reading: What is a split system air conditioner?
The pros of a wall-mounted air conditioner
More energy efficient and quieter
Wall-mounted air conditioners are energy-efficient, which, in the long run, leads to lower operating costs. They’re also quieter than portable air conditioners.
Powerful cooling
Unlike portable air conditioners, wall-mounted air conditioning units cool larger spaces effectively.
Space-saving
The indoor unit is mounted on the wall, which frees up floor space that would have been lost to a portable air conditioning unit.
Long-term solution
If you own your house, it’s a great permanent solution for air conditioning.
The cons of a wall-mounted air conditioner
Higher upfront cost
Generally, wall-mounted air conditioning units are pricier to purchase and install than portable air conditioners.
Professional installation
Wall-mounted air conditioners require professional installation from an engineer, which, depending on who you choose, can be expensive, adding to the cost.
Not portable
Once they’re mounted, they can’t be moved.
A summary of the key differences
It’s essential to recognise the key differences between the two. We’ve highlighted the pros and cons, but it’s crucial to understand what you’ll be getting for your money.
If you’re looking into portable air conditioning units, be aware that these units are flexible, allowing you to move the unit where and when you feel the need. They’re also cheaper upfront and require very little setup.
In terms of usage and effectiveness, these units are better for small rooms and shorter-term use.
Wall-mounted units, on the other hand, provide superior efficiency and cooling, are more energy-efficient, and are much quieter than portable units.
In contrast to portable units, wall-mounted air conditioners are ideal for larger spaces and longer-term use. However, they are generally more expensive upfront and are fixed to one specific area.
Which AC unit is right for you?
The best choice depends on your individual needs when it comes to aircon units. Take into consideration the pros and cons of each, and what you’re looking for in an air conditioner.
If you’re budget-conscious but want something that can provide temporary comfort, a portable unit is likely the better choice. But if you need something that’s going to cool a large area, you’ll likely need a wall-mounted unit to get the most out of it.
If you’re looking to move soon or if you’re renting your property, the flexibility of a portable unit would make more sense. On the flip side, if you need a permanent option, wall-mounted is the clear winner, and you’ll need to begin looking for professional aircon installation.
What type of air conditioning should you be looking for?
Keep in mind that purchasing an air conditioning unit that offers both heating and cooling functions means you won’t pay VAT on it until 2027.
Units like the Worcester Bosch air conditioning unit, the Bosch Climate 3000i, allow you to stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Making it a suitable option all year round and VAT-free.
Not just VAT-free, but we’re also now offering up to 3 years’ interest-free payment plans on new Worcester Bosch air conditioning units to save you from any financial stress.
A final thought
Both types of air conditioners serve different needs. If you’re after convenience and mobility, a portable unit is a practical choice.
If you want performance and efficiency, and are ready to invest in a more permanent solution, a wall-mounted air conditioner is likely the better fit.
