Split or portable air conditioner: Which is right for your home?

What is a split air conditioner?

A split air conditioner, also known as a permanently installed or wall-mounted air conditioner, consists of two separate units (hence the name "split"):

1. The indoor unit: A slim, wall-mounted device that draws in warm room air, cools it via a heat exchanger, and distributes the cooled air quietly and without drafts throughout the room.
2. The outdoor unit: A compressor that is installed outside the building and releases the heat absorbed from the interior into the surrounding environment. Both units are connected by thin, insulated refrigerant lines that pass through a small hole in the wall.

Advantages of split air conditioning

• High cooling efficiency: Split units are significantly more powerful and cool rooms faster and more evenly. They are ideal for larger living areas or entire floors.
• Very quiet operation: Since the noisy compressor is located outside the house, the indoor unit operates whisper-quietly and does not disturb sleep or concentration.
• Energy efficiency and lower operating costs: Modern split air conditioners, especially those with inverter technology, are extremely energy efficient. They continuously adjust their output to the cooling demand, thus saving considerable electricity and resulting in lower operating costs.
• Additional features: Many models offer useful additional features such as heating, air purification, dehumidification and smart control via app.

Disadvantages of split air conditioning

• Higher purchase costs: The costs for the device and professional installation are significantly higher than for mobile devices.
• Professional installation required: The installation must be carried out by a certified specialist company, which incurs additional costs and requires planning.
• Permanent installation: As a permanently installed solution, they are often not an option for tenants, as structural modifications are necessary.

What is a portable air conditioner?

A portable air conditioner, also called a monoblock unit, combines all components in a single housing, usually mounted on wheels. It draws in warm room air, cools it, and blows the cooled air back into the room. The resulting waste heat is then expelled outside through a thick exhaust hose via a tilted window or a special window vent.

Advantages of the portable air conditioner

• Low purchase price: Mobile air conditioners are significantly cheaper to buy and are available for just a few hundred euros.
• Flexibility and mobility: You can move the device from one room to another as needed and store it in the basement or cupboard after the summer to save space.
• No installation required: Unpack, hang the hose in the window, plug it in – done. They are ready to use immediately.
• Ideal for tenants: Since no structural changes are necessary, they are the perfect solution for rental apartments.

Disadvantages of the portable air conditioner

• Reduced cooling efficiency: The cooling capacity is limited. Furthermore, the exhaust hose and the frequently tilted window create negative pressure, which draws in warm air from outside and reduces efficiency.
• High noise level: All components, including the compressor, are located in the room. The operating noise is therefore significantly louder and can be perceived as disturbing.
• Higher operating costs: Due to lower efficiency, mobile devices consume more electricity to cool a room, resulting in higher energy costs.
• Space requirements: The device itself and the unwieldy exhaust hose require a relatively large amount of space in the room.

Direct comparison: Which system wins?

criterion	Split air conditioner	Portable air conditioner	winner
Cooling capacity	+*+ (Very high)	+ (Limited)	Spit air conditioning
Efficiency & Operating Costs	+*+ (Very low)	+ (High)	Split air conditioner
Volume	+** (Very quiet)	+ (Loud)	Split air conditioner
Acquisition costs	+ (High)	+** (Low)	Portable air conditioner
Flexibility & Mobility	+ (Permanent installation)	+++ (Very high)	Portable air conditioner
Installation wall	+ (Professional)	+++ (None)	Mobile air conditioner

Conclusion: The right choice for your needs

The decision between a split air conditioner and a portable unit ultimately depends on your priorities:

• Choose a split air conditioner if:
• You are the owner of your property.
• You are looking for a long-term, high-performance and efficient solution.
• Quiet operation is a top priority for you (e.g., in the bedroom).
• They are willing to make a higher initial investment for long-term savings and greater comfort.
• Choose a portable air conditioner if:
• They live in rented accommodation and are not allowed to make any structural changes.
• You are looking for a quick, uncomplicated and cost-effective solution for occasional heat waves.
• You need the flexibility to cool different rooms at different times.
• The volume is a secondary criterion for you.

Need help deciding? The expert team at warm&cold will gladly analyze your living situation and recommend the system that's perfect for you. Contact us for a free consultation!