Question:
I'm moving into a new apartment and want to get a room air conditioner that
will cool most (if not all) of the space. I like the idea of the portable
kind, so you don't have to block your window. Also, you can move it around to
cool off certain areas or rooms. I know they're more expensive, but I don't
mind paying, if it works. Does anyone know if those air conditioners are as
powerful and efficient as a window air conditioner? (Assuming they're
comparable BTU's) Does anyone have one and would they recommend it?
Answer:
If I recall correctly, the portable ones are less efficient. Consumer reports
rated air conditioners in either the current or the last issue.
Another option that would reduce the window blockage but not offer portability
- Carrier makes a unit with a unique shape. It is wide, low and flat so it only
takes up about one fifth of the window instead of the normal one third.
Check out the Mitsubishi Mr. Slim line of mini-split AC units. They are
exceptionally quiet and efficient. The small AC unit fits on a wall or
ceiling, with the heat exchanger outdoors. They are "famous" in
commercial circles, particularly for cooling data centers and
laboratories.
