How Long Do Portable Air Conditioners Last?

Portable air conditioners are common in houses that do not have room for window AC units or even a split AC unit. The most redeeming feature of this cooling device is that you can place it anywhere around your house without worrying about additional fittings.

They prove to be a practical solution and a good investment for people who do not have the budget for other cooling devices. However, many people are concerned about the durability of these ACs.

If you in the market to buy a portable air conditioner and are wondering about their lifespan, it all depends on how you use them and their model quality. To understand the intricacies better, let’s read ahead.

Key Takeaways

• Portable air conditioners, also known as stand-up AC units, are versatile cooling devices that can be placed anywhere in a house without additional fittings.
• The average lifespan of a portable air conditioner is between 5 to 10 years, depending on usage and model quality, which is shorter compared to other types of AC units.
• Maintenance, including cleaning filters and the water reservoir, and selecting an appropriate BTU capacity, can help extend the lifespan of a portable air conditioner.

What Are Portable Air Conditioners?

Portable air conditioners, also known as stand-up AC units are devices that you can set up anywhere around your house. They come with wheels attached at the bottom so you can carry them from one room to another. They can cool rooms of any size and are especially useful for a stuffy and small bedroom.

These are perfect for homes that do not have great ventilation. If you live in a hot and humid region and do not have access to air conditioners, then stand-up AC units are your best bet.

All you need is a socket and access to a small window and you’re good to go!

How Do Portable Air Conditioners Work?

Portable air conditioners work in the way any old air conditioner would work. Their principle is to extract the air from a room and treat it until it is of your desired temperature which it releases into your surroundings.

It works exactly in the way window units or traditional split units do. They consist of the following elements:

• Condenser coil: Cools the refrigerant.
• Evaporator coil and the refrigerant: Cools the air.
• Fan: Manipulates air current.
• Compressor: Aids the condensation process by heating up the refrigerant.

These four components along with air filters are the most important parts of this complex machine.

The fan is responsible for pulling in the hot air from the room which then gets transferred to the cooled refrigerant so that it’s of the desired temperature. Thereafter, the vent continues to send warm air out through the window while the AC circulates the cooled air inside the room.

As such the vent needs to be positioned outside your home through a window.

How Do Portable ACs Remove Moisture?

There are three major ways that enable a portable air conditioner unit to remove moisture from the air. The self-evaporation method is very common as it can remove warm air along with moisture from the vent. This type of moisture removal is common in the newer models of portable units.

Another method is gravity drain. This type of unit is also known as a hose portable air conditioner for the moisture gets drained out with the help of a hose. Additionally, the oldest method of draining moisture is an internal bucket. The water is collected in a bucket which is manually emptied out later.

Most portable air conditioners work in the way other traditional air conditioners do. The only difference between them all is that portable AC units are very compact. All their machinery and components are in one place which makes them easy to transport.

How Long Does a Portable Air Conditioner Last?

A portable air conditioner can last you anywhere between 5 to 10 years. This is the average lifespan of most models you can find today. However, this could largely vary from person to person depending on how you use it.

You will notice that even though this type of ACs are affordable and has a ton of benefits, it has the shortest lifespan. This short lifespan could be due to a large number of reasons. A few of them are:

• They have a sub-par compressor which is prone to physical damage.
• The outer body is made out of cheap materials like PVC.
• The equipment is more prone to damage because it is moved around a lot.

When you compare this average to other air conditioners, you will notice a huge difference. A window AC unit can last you anywhere between 10 to 20 years. On the other hand, a split air conditioner has a lifespan ranging from 15 years to 20 years.

Common Issues You Might Face with Portable Air Conditioners

There are several factors you might face with your portable air conditioner that you need to watch out for:

Clogged Filters

Clogged filters are a pesky issue that can block the passage of air. This could result in a reduced output of cold air and are one of the most common causes of a portable air conditioner freezing up.

Power Supply

It is important to connect your portable air conditioner with a power supply that is compatible with your appliance. Make sure there is a continuous supply of electricity to your portable air conditioner so that there are no issues with the circuit in the future.

Condensation Tank

You will need to empty out the condenser bucket manually in an older portable air conditioner. Failing to do so will result in unit errors that could bring your portable air conditioner to a halt. This could also cause compressor breaks so you need to make sure that you empty out the condenser bucket regularly.

Maintenance of A Portable Air Conditioner

If you want your portable air conditioner to last, you will need to look after it and invest some time in its maintenance. You can start by keeping it clean. All you need to do is grab a washcloth and a bucket of soapy water.

You can clean the exterior surface with this cloth. Additionally, you will need to clean the filter out regularly. If you don’t clean them at least twice a month, you might have to get them replaced. This is important because the filter catches pet hair and dander that could block the passage of air.

You will also need to empty out the water reservoir. The reservoir needs to be cleaned so that your portable AC does not stop while working.

Another way to make sure your portable air conditioner does not burn out too easily is to factor in your room size. If you buy an AC with a lesser BTU, your appliance will have to run at 100% capacity at all times. This could mean a quicker burnout.

Instead, you could invest in a unit that has a higher BTU so it does not have to work as hard and effectively puts a low cooling load on your unit. If you look after the maintenance of your machine and make sure you keep it clean, it will last you years without giving you any trouble.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Portable ACs

While there are obvious benefits of using portable ACs, there are many downsides to it too. Here’s what they are.

Advantages

• You can move it from one place to another very easily, location is no bar.
• It does not take up too much space.
• The initial cost is lesser than other AC prices.
• Perfect for tight fit rooms where air circulation is a concern
• Store away easily once summer is over

Disadvantages

• The moving parts break during relocation
• Makes too much noise when filters are dirty
• The noise persists even with a clean filter
• It is not energy efficient
• It is not good for the environment
• Does not last very long and requires frequent maintenance

It is important to think about both the pros and the cons of portable ACs. It is essential to know about this and to weigh out both sides before you buy them. Additionally, analyze the different models available in the market before shopping for a portable unit.

Heat Pump Source: Reliable Heating and Cooling Solutions

At Heat Pump Source, we take pride in our unwavering commitment to serving the UK with top-tier HVAC solutions. From the efficiency of heat pumps and the cool relief of air conditioning to the warmth of boilers, radiators, and underfloor heating, our dedicated team is always at the forefront of innovation. We understand the unique needs of every household and business, and we strive to provide dependable health and cooling products and services that are tailored just for you. Ensuring your comfort and satisfaction is our utmost priority. Whether you have questions, need guidance, or require support, we’re always here to assist. Please don’t hesitate to contact us; we’re eager to be of service.

To Conclude

A portable AC comes with many benefits. Before buying a portable AC you must research its efficiency and see if it is a lucrative investment for your home.

You can expect these reliable companions to last you anywhere between 5 and 10 years. So, ensure regular maintenance of these units and enjoy a cool summer!