You're our first priority.
Every time.
Appliancesradar.com is a review channel. When you complete orders through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Read more
Portable air conditioners are a lifesaver during the summer months. However, they can be quite expensive to buy. So, what is behind the high price tag on these units?
In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the reasons why portable air conditioners are so costly. We will also explore ways to save money on these units!
What Are Portable Air Conditioners?
Portable air conditioners are a great way to enjoy cooling relief without the need for permanent and hard-wired window units. Using an evaporative cooling system and a single hose, they can be moved around to wherever you need them most.
They typically come with various power settings and some may even feature timers that let you set when the unit begins and stops cooling. Most will also include a fan setting, allowing you to get relief from the heat without being overwhelmed by cold air if needed.
Easily placed on the floor or standing in their own caster stands, depending on your needs, portable air conditioners are a great option for those who want added flexibility when finding ways to cool a room.
Reasons Behind the High Cost of Portable AC Units
Materials Used for Manufacturing
Portable AC units provide an efficient and convenient way of maintaining comfortable temperatures within the home. The materials used in the manufacturing process are carefully selected in order to ensure that these units continue to perform well during their lifetime.
Comprising strong metal, plastic, rubber and other components, these mobile air conditioners have been designed for maximum durability and ease of use. Metal parts such as wave-like blades on the interior fan increase cooling efficiency.
Plastic tubes carry coolant from the compressor to help in directing heat away from a room, necessary for efficient cooling power.
Quality rubber helps form a tight enclosure around all parts of internal mechanisms which keeps out unwanted dust and dirt, allowing the AC unit to run smoothly for many years with minimal maintenance.
All materials used have been thoroughly tested and proven before being used in this intricate manufacturing process.
Energy Efficiency Standards
The government has set certain energy efficiency standards that all air conditioning units must meet in order to be compliant with their regulations.
Portable ACs typically come equipped with R-22 refrigerant which is a type of hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) used for cooling.
This compound helps to maximize the unit’s energy efficiency in order to reduce energy consumption. This energy efficiency standard is also what helps keep the price of these units at a premium.
Advance Technology in Portable AC Units
In order to remain competitive in the market, manufacturers continue to build newer models with more advanced features. This has resulted in an increase of portable air conditioners’ prices due to the higher cost of production and parts.
The latest portable AC units come equipped with built-in Wi-Fi capabilities and remote controlled operation, allowing users to adjust settings from their smartphones.
Higher-end models also feature a digital display and automated shut-off timers that are programmed to turn off at certain times of the day. These features all add up to a higher cost for this type of air conditioning unit.
How to Save Money on Portable ACs
Shop Around for the Best Prices
When shopping for a portable air conditioner, it’s important to do some research and compare prices.
Different retailers may have different prices or specials on certain models so it pays off to shop around.
Additionally, by opting for an online purchase you can avoid sales tax that may be applied at the store.
Purchase Used or Refurbished Units
Buying a used or refurbished portable air conditioner is an excellent way to save money. These units are often sold in good working condition and can be just as reliable as brand new models.
It’s important, however, to make sure that the unit has been properly inspected and is free of any potential defects before purchasing.
Consider Energy Efficiency Ratings When Shopping
The energy efficiency rating of an air conditioner can be a good indicator of its overall performance.
A higher energy efficiency rating means that the unit uses less electricity, which can result in lower utility bills over time.
When shopping for portable ACs, it’s important to pay attention to this factor in order to get the best value for your money.
Conclusion
A portable air conditioner is a great way to stay cool in the summer without incurring high utility costs.
By understanding the features, energy efficiency standards, and technology involved in these units, consumers can make an informed purchase decision that fits their budget and needs.
