& cigars

United States

Window air conditioners are generally less expensive than portable air conditioners, but they are more difficult to install and only fit in standard-sized windows.Usually cheaper than portable air conditioners. The larger the cooling capacity, the more expensive the unit.Window air conditioners are usually quite loud as they work and rumble against window sills.It is easier to find an energy efficient window air conditioner than it is to find an energy efficient portable air conditioner. It is possible to find window air conditioners with Energy Star ratings.Water vented through the system internally, no tray of water to dispose.

Portable air conditioners are independent, movable units with exhaust hoses that are easy to install and vent out of a variety of window types.Portable air conditioners are usually around $100 more expensive than window air conditioners of the same cooling capacity.The noise levels of portable air conditioners vary, with some models being as quiet as a fan and others being as noisy, if not noisier, than a window air conditioner.In the U.S., there are no federal regulations to define the energy efficiency of portable air conditioners, and so no portable air conditioner is given Energy Star ratings. However, EER ratings can be used to determine efficiency.Water is collected in a tank or tray and has to be emptied regularly.