Tower AC vs Split AC: What is the Difference?

Beginning of the summer is a promising time. Our expectations are great. We are looking forward to the holidays and trips. However, this extreme heat! It’s coming soon. Air conditioning is a must. So, let’s compare tower AC vs split AC. Which technology is more efficient? Which devices are the most and the least energy-saving? Let’s study their features and differences.

Need for Air Conditioning

As a realtor, I don’t take vacations in summer. Meanwhile, I have no need to go to the seaside. Here, in Los Angeles, resort opportunities are great. Now, in the middle of June, the weather is favorable. The temperature is about 70 degrees. A gentle breeze is blowing. Heavy rain showers are falling at night.

However, in a few days, it becomes much hotter. Do you already experience this terrible heatwave? You are to visit California in May or June! Meanwhile, we are to cope with the heat. The best mini split system is essential.

Air conditioning is the best way to cool the buildings. It’s beneficial because of its ability to:

1. Prevent heat-related deaths.
2. Filter the air, improving its quality.
3. Allow you to sleep longer and deeper.
4. Reduce sweating and dehydration.

The cooler environment is less suitable for insects. The number of dust mites is reduced. Additionally, the furniture and devices are protected from heat. However, which type of AC is preferable? Let’s study the basics.

Benefits of Mini Splits

Central HVAC systems are common in US homes. They cool the entire building. Therefore, the temperature in all rooms is the same. The air is circulated through the complicated ductwork. However, its installation and maintenance cost is high. Your electricity bills exhaust the family budget.

However, mini splits still consume more electricity than portable conditioner do. Is ductless air conditioning worth it? Of course, it is. The appliances are necessary not only due to the house extension or conversion. They are great solutions for separate buildings. For example, the system can be installed in a garage. The feature can also benefit the rooms that are not ventilated or cooled. Your basement would be more comfortable with it.

How Do Mini Splits Work?

You do know it already. Two units: an indoor and an outdoor one work together to cool the air in the room. Freon or refrigerant is used to change the temperature. The liquid or gas is supplied by lines. They are flexible and virtually undistinguished. They don’t spoil the room design.

Therefore, mini-splits:

• look stylish;
• are easy to use;
• provide better control;
• don’t waste electricity.

According to the US Energy Department, central systems are not efficient in the attics and garages. The ducts increase energy consumption by up to 30%. Additionally, mini-splits are quiet and efficient.

Electricity Cost Comparison

Cost of living is a topical issue here. People leave California. Poor families are not able to afford housing and utilities. They move to Texas and the other states. Therefore, I focus on the energy-efficiency of the conditioning systems.

The average US rate per kWh is 13.2 cents. In Los Angeles, it makes 18.6 cents. Meanwhile, the comparison is based on nationwide estimations.

So, split ac vs window ac: which is best? A split system that is about 9,000 BTU is quite efficient. It’s quiet and stylish by design. Window units differ by power. They are much easier to install and maintain. The devices are compact, looking pretty simple. By color, they are generally white. However, window ACs are designed for small rooms, up to 300 sq. ft. Split systems suit office and commercial spaces.

What is Portable AC?

Do you need to cool a single room? A portable conditioner can be used there. These devices are:

• easy to install and move;
• suitable for enclosed rooms, like garages and workshops;
• able to dehumidify the air;
• cost-efficient.

The unit looks like a mini-fridge. Most models are equipped with wheels. They can roll around. You can easily move it to the corner or to another room. Quite naturally, a mini air conditioner for a small room in India is quite affordable. Its cost is the average amount available to many. Window units are even less expensive. Absolutely for little money you can get a top quality device.

Portable vs Window Air Conditioner Efficiency

However, portable devices consume much more power than window units do. Providing, their size is the same. The hoses are not too advanced. They allow hot air drain. For example, a 10,000 BTU portable unit consumes from 850 to 1400 watts per hour. It’s the top consumption of window conditioners. The most powerful, large device consumes up to 1,440 watts. Its power is 20,000 BTU.

Are portable air conditioners worth it? Their output parameters are not too significant. The conditioners are able to cool the rooms up to 500 sq. ft. large. They are just handy, flexible and versatile. The units can be used to heat air in winter.

The Way How a Tower AC Works

Regardless of its portability, the conditioner is still tethered to the window. The heat is to be exhausted. The distance is limited by the exhaust hose length. It’s commonly about 5 feets.

By design, the tower ac units can be:

1. Single-hosed.
2. Double-hosed.

Both types are easy to install. However, single-hosed units only exhaust hot air. The second hose is designed to pull fresh and cool air in. In both cases, chilled water is applied to the cooling process. It evaporates and makes the environment more comfortable. So, you are to empty the water tank regularly. It’s the main part of the conditioner maintenance.

How to Buy a Portable Air Conditioner?

Choosing the best device, consider several factors. They include its type, noise level, and installation requirements. Sizing aspects are crucial. Room size determines the unit’s power.

The estimations assume the ceiling is 8 ft. high. If it’s higher, a more powerful portable conditioner is necessary.

Common Judgment

So, we have compared tower AC vs split AC. You know the key benefits and drawbacks of both conditioner types. So, you can resolve, which one you need. Selection of the best unit is more complicated. However, knowing its application, your cooling needs, and the room size, you are able to choose it.