Living in an apartment can have its difficulties – one of the biggest being climate control. In the summer months, apartments can become stiflingly hot and stuffy; in the winter months it can be hard to keep a consistent temperature. Portable air conditioners are becoming increasingly popular for those living in apartments, offering a way to drop temperatures when needed, without taking up too much space.
Here, we’ll take a look at the pros and cons of portable air conditioners for apartment living, so you can decide if this is the right choice for your home.
Pros
1. Easy To Install
Unlike window air conditioners that require installation into an existing window frame, portable units simply need plugging in and they’re ready to go. This makes them a great choice for those who don’t want the hassle of installation or don’t have suitable window space. Moreover, they make for very easy AC repair and maintenance.
2. Unique Designs
Portable air conditioners come in all shapes and sizes, meaning they can fit into even the smallest of apartments. You can get sleek modern designs that will look great against any background, as well as compact units that won’t take up too much space in your living area.
3. Flexible Cooling
With a portable AC unit you have complete control over where and when you need it most – whether it’s in the bedroom at night, or in the living room during the day. It also gives you flexibility over how cold you want the temperature to be, allowing you to adjust the thermostat as and when needed.
4. Portability
The biggest advantage of portable air conditioners is that they are completely portable, meaning you can take them from room to room as needed, or even move them outside in order to cool down a specific area. This makes them perfect for those who don’t want to be confined to one spot all summer long.
5. Cost
Portable air conditioners are usually cheaper than fixed window units, making them a great choice for those on a budget. They also don’t require permanent installation, meaning you can take them with you if you move or have to switch apartments. This makes them a highly attractive option for those who want to keep their cooling costs down without compromising on quality.
Cons
1. Higher Energy Use
Portable air conditioners tend to use more energy than window units, meaning they can push up your monthly electricity bills significantly. It’s important to factor this in before making your purchase and consider ways in which you can reduce energy usage such as using insulation, closing doors and windows when the unit is in use and setting it at a higher temperature.
2. Dehumidification
Although portable air conditioners can drop temperatures, they don’t always do well when it comes to dehumidifying the air – something that window units are better at. If you live in an area with high humidity, then this could be an issue for you if you opt for a portable AC unit.
3. Noise Pollution
Portable air conditioners tend to make more noise than their fixed counterparts as they are not installed into a wall or window frame, so bear this in mind when looking for one that fits your needs. Insulation can help reduce the noise level but will also add to the overall cost of the unit.
In Conclusion
Portable air conditioners can be a great option for those living in apartments and give you flexible cooling wherever you need it most. However, there are some drawbacks to consider such as higher energy use, challenges with dehumidification and noise pollution. Weigh up all the pros and cons to decide if this is the right choice for your home.