Evaporative Air Cooler vs Portable AC
An evaporative air cooler is a great option for naturally cooling the air. It utilizes cooling pads that are continuously soaked with water. The cooler pulls the air inwards and as the air passes through these cooling pads, it cools down. This cool air is then blown into the room to lower the overall temperature naturally.
A portable air conditioner (A/C) utilizes certain chemicals to maintain the cooling. It has a series of coils with chemical refrigerants that cool down the air. While the cool air is blown into the room, the hot air is vented out through an exhaust hose. The cool air is then maintained inside the room.
Portable A/Cs are better suited for people with allergies, since they operate in a closed room. Unlike coolers, which need the windows to be open to circulate air.
Difference between Air Cooler and Portable Air Conditioner
Cooler and A/C are no just different in the way they function but in several other ways. You must understand the difference between air cooler and portable air conditioner before choosing one.
Humidity
Portable coolers increase the humidity inside a room. Hence, you must keep a few windows or doors open to manage this. It will allow a steady flow of dry air inside. Or else, the high humidity can cause clamminess and discomfort.
On the other hand, portable A/Cs must be operated with closed doors and windows. They keep cold air inside and maintain the temperature. A portable A/C provides dry and cool air into the room and thus doesn’t lead to humidity.
Versatility
Coolers require a constant airflow to work efficiently. They are also more energy efficient when compared to portable A/Cs.
Hence, coolers can be used indoors (with open windows) as well as outdoors. Evaporative coolers can make a great addition to your patio.
However, this is not possible with portable air conditioners. They can only be used for cooling closed rooms.
Installation
It takes little effort to install a cooler. They generally come with cooling pads and wheels attached. To operate the cooler, you just need to fill the water tank and plug it in.
Consider buying a portable evaporative cooler with a remote control. This feature improves convenience by allowing you to adjust the cooling settings from a distance.
For best results, place the portable cooler in front of an open window.
Unlike coolers, most portable air conditioners require an additional step. This includes installing an exhaust hose to vent out the hot air. The hose can be installed on a window or made to go through a wall. Hence, it might take some time to set up the portable A/C.
Things to Consider Before Buying Portable Evaporative Cooler vs Air Cooler
You must consider these key factors before selecting between an evaporative cooler vs portable A/C.
Usage
Carefully consider which spaces of your home you want to cool. Go for a portable cooler if you want to use it within the home as well as outdoors. The indoor/outdoor coolers are both UV and weather-resistant. You can also select coolers with washable air filters for added convenience.
Choose a portable A/C if you need cooling indoors. They are also suitable for rented apartments. You can install the exhaust hose on a window without damaging the apartment.
Weather
Coolers are best suited for areas with low humidity. Consider buying one if you reside in an area with dry weather conditions. On the contrary, a portable air conditioner is best for areas that experience high humidity.
Room Size
Buying the correct size of cooler or portable A/C can help you save on your bills. The undersized ones will not cool the room, while oversized ones can lead to unnecessarily high utility bills.
Portable coolers come in various sizes suited for rooms of below 249 square feet to more than 2000 square feet. Portable A/Cs with vents can cover anywhere from 299 square feet to 700 square feet.
Personalization
A portable A/C allows you to set a specific temperature. It maintains the desired cooling and comfort level in your room. Hence, a portable A/C offers a higher level of personalization. On the contrary, this is not possible with evaporative coolers.
The bottom line is, coolers can be used in open spaces. Portable A/C can help you dehumidify and cool the room. Choose the one that suits your local weather conditions and effectively fulfills your purpose.