Both types of room air conditioners–portable and window–cool rooms efficiently. Choosing the best one for your circumstances requires some research. Here are some of the pros and cons of each type of unit.
This side-by-side chart provides an easy reference to the more important room air conditioner features.
| Portable Air Conditioner | Window Air Conditioner | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Movable units. Many are equipped with wheels for easy transport. Exhaust hoses fit easily and securely into many window designs. | Usually a one-time permanent installation. Heavy and more difficult to install. Do not fit into every style of venting window. |
| Energy Ratings | Have no federal regulations on energy efficiency so no Energy Star ratings. Use Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) to rate energy use. | Many window air conditioners have an Energy Star Rating. Usually more energy efficient than portable air conditioners. Up to 15% more efficient. |
| Noise Levels | 55 - 60 decibels of noise - about the sound of light traffic. | 53 - 58 decibels of noise - also about the sound of light traffic. |
| Moisture Control | Moisture collected in a tank that requires regular emptying. | Self-draining to the exterior of the building. No tank. |
| Cost | Average about $100.00 more than window air conditioners of the same cooling capacity. Cost about $90.00 - $500.00. | Usually less expensive than portables. Larger cooling capacity units cost more. Cost about $150.00 - $500.00. |
| Cooling Capacity | Common sizes from 8000 BTU - 14,000 BTU. Cools 200 - 700 Square feet. | Common sizes from 5,000 BTU - 25,000 BTU. Cools 150 - 2500 square feet. |
| Venting | As simple as hanging a hose out of a window. Usually available with attachment plate that fits into window opening. | Once mounted, no additional venting is required. |
| Installation | Easy simple installation. | Installation can be difficult because of weight and sill conditions. |
Portable AC
Portable AC units offer versatility. They have other pros and cons worth considering before purchasing.
Pros:
- Fit in any venting window. Most portables come with a venting kit that fits the window opening.
- Use up only a small portion of window area–leaving sunlight and view virtually unobstructed.
- Exterior screens can be left in place and window continues to operate normally.
- Easy to move from room to room. Simple installation.
- Can be stored when not in use.
Cons:
- Take up floor space.
- Not effective for larger rooms. Available machine size limits effective cooling to under 700 square feet.
- Can be a little noisier than window units.
Window AC
Window AC units can cool larger spaces but lack versatility.
Pros:
- Cool larger areas because some machines are more powerful.
- Save floor space. Fit in window opening.
- A little quieter than portables.
- More energy efficient.
- Usually have a longer lifespan than portables.
Cons:
- Difficult installation. They are heavy–usually over 50 pounds. Often require external support of mounting hardware installed on the exterior wall. Second story windows require ladders and taller buildings require mounting from the inside while leaning out. Window sill must be smooth and level.
- Some apartments and condos require professional contractor installation–adding to cost.
- Many older units leave stains on outside walls where water runs out of unit.
- Windows may not operate after installation.
- Decreases amount of sunlight entering the room.
- Do not work on casement or awning windows without removing the sash and modifying the opening.
How Big Should My Air Conditioner Be?
Use the chart below to determine the size of air conditioner that will suit your needs. Portable AC units are only large enough to cool up to 700 square feet. Any area larger requires more powerful window AC units or a whole-house HVAC system.
| Area To Be Cooled (square feet) | Capacity Needed (BTUs per hour) |
|---|---|
| 100 up to 150 | 5,000 |
| 150 up to 250 | 6,000 |
| 250 up to 300 | 7,000 |
| 300 up to 350 | 8,000 |
| 350 up to 400 | 9,000 |
| 400 up to 450 | 10,000 |
| 450 up to 550 | 12,000 |
| 550 up to 700 | 14,000 |
| 700 up to 1,000 | 18,000 |
| 1,000 up to 1,200 | 21,000 |
| 1,200 up to 1,400 | 23,000 |
| 1,400 up to 1,500 | 24,000 |
| 1,500 up to 2,000 | 30,000 |
| 2,000 up to 2,500 | 34,000 |
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