Portable split air conditioners are not as common as traditional portable or window air conditioners for several reasons, and they do have some drawbacks that limit their widespread adoption. Here are some of the main factors that contribute to their limited popularity:
Complexity and Cost: Portable split air conditioners consist of two separate units—the indoor unit and the outdoor unit—connected by a flexible hose. This setup makes them more complex than traditional portable air conditioners, which are self-contained in a single unit. The additional components and manufacturing complexity can lead to higher production costs, making portable split air conditioners generally more expensive than other portable options.
Installation Difficulty: While portable split air conditioners are designed to be more versatile than traditional split systems and can be moved from room to room, their initial installation still requires more effort than setting up a traditional portable air conditioner. Installing the outdoor unit often involves drilling holes through walls or windows to run the hoses, which can be a deterrent for renters or those looking for a quick and easy cooling solution.
Cooling Capacity: Due to their design, portable split air conditioners may have a slightly lower cooling capacity compared to similarly-sized traditional portable air conditioners. The efficiency of the hose and connection between the indoor and outdoor units can lead to some energy losses, reducing the overall cooling performance.
Mobility Limitations: Although they are marketed as "portable," the outdoor unit of a portable split air conditioner still needs to be placed outside near a window or other opening to expel hot air. This means you cannot move the outdoor unit as easily as you can move the indoor unit, limiting the flexibility of the system.
Size and Aesthetics: The indoor unit of a portable split air conditioner can still be bulkier than a standalone portable air conditioner. It might take up more floor space, and some people may not find it as visually appealing in their living spaces.
Market Awareness: Traditional portable air conditioners have been on the market for much longer and are better known to consumers. Many people might not be aware of the portable split air conditioner option or might prefer to stick with what they are familiar with.
While portable split air conditioners do offer certain advantages, such as quieter operation and improved cooling performance compared to some traditional portable air conditioners, the combination of higher cost, installation requirements, and limited mobility has contributed to their relatively low adoption rate in the residential cooling market.