I've been looking into the high costs associated with installing a central HVAC system, and I'm wondering if it might be better to just use portable A/C units instead. I've seen some decent double-exhaust portable A/C units that are around $600 each, which makes me think, couldn't you just use one in every room rather than spending a fortune on central air? Has anyone else considered this?
3 Answers
Honestly, noise is a big factor to consider here. Portable A/C units can be really loud in the room, making it hard to sleep, while central air systems tend to be noisier outside. Plus, think about how many rooms you actually need to cool—if you just have a one-bedroom, two units might work fine, but if you've got a larger place, it could get complicated.
Using portable A/C worked for me, but I found it took up a lot of floor space. I take them out during winter, which can be a hassle. There's also the issue of having to leave windows open to vent hot air, which feels a bit insecure. So while they can cool a room, it's not always a perfect solution.
If you're set on central air and already have ducts from a furnace, it might not be as tough as you think to install. Get a few quotes before deciding. I feel like portable units might not be as energy-efficient, plus they clutter your space. In the long run, a central system could last over two decades, spreading that cost out much more manageably than buying multiple portable units for each room.
SO LOUD. It kept me up for nights! Not a great experience.