Portable AC Vs. Window

Identification

• A portable air conditioner is a moveable, freestanding unit that doesn't require permanent installation. On the other hand, a window air conditioner requires permanent installation into a window. You might choose a portable unit if you don't want to bother with the process of installing a window unit.

Considerations

• A portable air conditioner has an exhaust hose that needs access to a window. So while the unit is portable, you must attach its removable window bracket in any window where you plan to use the unit. If the room doesn't have windows, you'll have to find an alternate outlet for the exhaust hose.

Warning

• According to LG Electronics, it's important to choose a window air conditioner that's the right size for the area you want to cool. A unit that's too large is likely to cycle off before it's done an effective job of cooling the area. On the other hand, a unit that's too small might run longer than necessary in an effort to cool an area that's too big for it.