Portable A/C Units Suck (Literally!)

As I sit here writing this blog post, Halifax is yet again experiencing another hot and humid day. Our home, like many others in this region, boasts a design suited for colder climates to keep those pesky heating bills in check. However, the downside to this setup becomes apparent in the months of July and August. While Nova Scotia's climate typically doesn't necessitate air conditioners (A/C), having one makes sleeping at night a breeze.

To combat the heat and lower our winter heating bills, we installed a heat pump system, essentially a reversible air conditioner, in our home. Unfortunately, due to some limitations, we couldn't set it up in the bedroom areas, and window units weren't an option either. Therefore, we rely on a portable air conditioner to keep the temperature as comfortable as possible. Though it does help to some extent, let me be clear that these portable units are far from being ideal solutions. I won't delve into technical jargon about the vapour compression cycle and A/C physics to avoid putting you to sleep, hopefully in a cool and air-conditioned space!

Now, let's talk about the flaws of portable A/C units. One of the most obvious downsides is their noise level. Unlike typical air conditioners that have their compressors and fans located outside, portable units have all the noise-generating components inside the home, contributing to a less peaceful environment. As with any air conditioning system, a source of air intake is necessary for these portables to function and unfortunately it's the very same air we're desperately trying to cool on the hottest days of the year!

Another issue with portable A/C units is the hot and poorly insulated hose that leads outside when the unit is running. My infrared image reveals that on this particular the A/C hose reached close to 40 degrees on the outside, and unfortunately, some of this warm air returns to the cooled room through radiation. This further reduces the unit's efficiency and adds to your power bills.

Now, the big question: Are these portable A/C units worth the investment? To be honest, even though we still have one ourselves despite having a heat pump system, they are a great value for limited use. However, these units should be your last resort rather than your first. I understand that some households may face limitations in installing window A/C units for various reasons, but if it is a feasible option, they are much more efficient and quieter.
​
Without a doubt, if you have a home that is heated by electricity like ours, your top choice should be a heat pump, preferably a ductless mini split. However, we know it's not always feasible to snap your fingers and have a new system in place instantly. In the meantime, keep in mind that portable A/C units come with their downsides – they are noisy, inefficient, and shouldn't be your primary cooling choice.