Dual hose portable air conditioners have gained popularity for their efficient cooling capabilities.
However, based on our experience at Aircon Rescue, working with 100 units and customer feedback, we have identified several issues associated with these units. In this article, we will delve into the eight main problems encountered with dual hose portable AC units.
Table of Contents
Insufficient Hose Length
One common issue with dual hose units is their hoses being too short to reach a taller window. As a result, users often find themselves needing to place the AC unit on a platform, a table, cabinet or a chair to elevate it to the necessary height to reach the window. This additional step introduces inconvenience and potential safety hazards as they can easily roll off the platform and crash to the floor.
It is vital to consider the desired window height and the need for additional support or platforms before purchasing a dual hose portable AC unit. Alternatively, AC Units with round hoses can easily be fitted with extended hoses to reach tall windows.
Poor Window Nozzle Construction
Although the units themselves are beautifully designed, the plastic nozzle that connects to the window are of poor quality and is typically made of brittle plastic. This inherent weakness will lead to the snapping or breaking off of the clips that hold the nozzle pieces together. This structural vulnerability compromises the functionality and durability of the unit.
As well, the unit promotes itself to the benefits of drawing in fresh outside air to feed the unit. Yet there is often a large crack between the two nozzle pieces. This will draw in air from the inside of the home, somewhat defeating its intended purpose of its design.
Drawn-in Smoke and Pollution
Dual hose units draw outside air through their intake hose to feed fresh air into the units. During summertime, this can become problematic, especially when there is smoke from forest fires or high pollution levels nearby. The intake hose will bring in smoke or polluted outside air, affecting the air quality within the space being cooled.
Hose Flexibility and Positioning
The dual hose offers little flexibility and generally requires your AC to be directly positioned in front of the window. Often Portable AC units are being placed in areas with tight space restrictions, so there is little versatility in positioning the unit.
As well, if you have a sofa, chair or bed that is beside the AC unit, consider that the air will be blowing directly on you. Twisting the hose is rarely an option and can put extreme pressure on the Acrylic window panel and can crack it.
Casement Window Limitations
Casement (hinged) windows, and are hinged, can pose a significant challenge for dual hose AC units. These units feature two hoses within one oval-shaped hose. One hose expelling hot exhaust air and the other drawing in fresh air. This is a very poor design in in our experience if you are using a casement window. Many casement windows have safety locks that prevent them from fully opening. If a casement window cannot fully open, the hot exhaust air will bounce off the window and will fill the air intake with hot air.
This will cause the AC unit to overheat and shut down quickly. Consequently, dual hose units are not recommended for casement windows unless they can fully open to a minimum of 14″.
Higher Price Point
Dual hose units often come with a higher price tag compared to single hose AC units offering similar efficiency ratings. The added feature of a dehumidifier built into the unit is one that is little used or needed. This is a separate function that can be run to remove moisture from the air and is rarely needed, but it does increase the price of the unit.
This pricing disparity may deter budget-conscious consumers who prioritize affordability without compromising performance.
Conclusion
These units are great if you have a low window that can fully open. Otherwise, based on our experience and customer feedback, we recommend using single hose AC units for casement-style windows. These units offer trouble-free operation, high efficiency, and more affordable pricing. While dual hose portable AC can look beautiful in design and offer some possible energy savings, it is crucial to consider the problems outlined in this article.
By being aware of these issues, consumers can make informed decisions and ensure a comfortable and hassle-free cooling experience. These units are marketed as the best with the features of high efficiency. The dual hose design has little benefit and only increases the price for the unit.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Common problems with dual hose AC units include higher energy consumption compared to single hose units, increased complexity in installation and maintenance, and potential air pressure imbalances that can lead to reduced efficiency.
To mitigate higher energy consumption, consider selecting a dual hose AC unit with a high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) rating. Additionally, properly sealing windows and doors and using curtains or blinds to block out sunlight can help reduce the workload on your AC unit and lower energy costs.
While dual hose AC units are known for their powerful cooling capabilities, single hose units can be a more energy-efficient alternative for smaller spaces. Additionally, evaporative coolers or portable air conditioners with eco-friendly refrigerants may offer effective cooling solutions with lower energy consumption and reduced environmental impact.
