Portable split air conditioners, also known as portable mini-split air conditioners or ductless portable air conditioners, do exist, but they are not as common as traditional portable air conditioners or standard split air conditioning systems. There are several reasons for their limited popularity, and here are some key considerations:
Complexity and Cost: Portable split air conditioners are more complex and costly to manufacture compared to standard portable air conditioners. They require additional components, such as an outdoor condenser unit, refrigerant lines, and a connection kit, which increases their production cost.
Mobility and Installation: While traditional portable air conditioners can be easily moved from one room to another, portable split air conditioners are semi-permanent installations. Once you set up the outdoor condenser and connect it to the indoor unit, moving the system becomes more challenging.
Windowless Use: Standard portable air conditioners can be used in rooms without windows by venting hot air through a flexible exhaust hose. Portable split air conditioners, on the other hand, require an outdoor condenser unit, which needs to be placed outside and connected to the indoor unit. This limits their use in windowless rooms or apartments without access to the outside.
Size and Weight: Portable split air conditioners tend to be heavier and bulkier due to the inclusion of both indoor and outdoor components. This can make them less convenient to move around and store compared to traditional portable air conditioners.
Cooling Capacity: Standard portable air conditioners are available in a wide range of cooling capacities to suit different room sizes. Portable split air conditioners typically come in fixed cooling capacities, limiting their flexibility in cooling larger or smaller spaces.
Efficiency: While split air conditioning systems, in general, are known for their energy efficiency, portable split air conditioners may not be as efficient as their wall-mounted counterparts. The connection between the indoor and outdoor units can result in some energy loss compared to a fully sealed wall-mounted system.
Limited Market Penetration: The market for portable split air conditioners may not be as developed or competitive as that of standard portable air conditioners. Manufacturers may focus more on traditional split systems and portable models separately due to the differences in consumer demand and cost considerations.
In summary, the limited popularity of portable split air conditioners is mainly due to their higher cost, complexity, and reduced mobility compared to standard portable air conditioners. While they can offer efficient cooling, their use is more restricted and less practical for some users. As technology and consumer preferences evolve, we may see advancements and improvements in portable split air conditioner designs in the future.