Mobile split systems: TOP 15 best options for portable climate control equipment
Modern mobile split systems are distinguished by their versatility and technicality. Many models are designed not only for cooling, but also for heating.Smart monoblocks are able to read current microclimate parameters and automatically change the air temperature.
Among the variety of offers, it is not easy to choose the appropriate option. At the same time, it is necessary to take into account various indicators, compare them with operating conditions and get acquainted with user feedback. We will help you cope with this difficult task - in our article we have selected the ten best models according to buyers.
We reviewed the key characteristics of popular monoblocks, their advantages and disadvantages. They also provided recommendations for choosing the best option, taking into account the specific needs of a potential buyer.
The content of the article:
- Which brands are better?
- Rating of the best mobile air conditioners
- Ballu BPAC-18CE
- Electrolux EACM-09CG/N3
- Zanussi ZACM-12 MS/N1
- Ballu BPHS-14H
- Timberk AC TIM 07C P8
- Royal Clima RM-R40CN-E
- Hyundai H-AP3-09H-UI004
- De'Longhi PAC AN110
- Aeronik AP-09C
- Timberk AC TIM 09C P8
- Electrolux EACM-12CG/N3
- Ballu BPAC-20CE
- Ballu BPAC-09 CM
- Zanussi ZACM-07 MP-III/N1
- General Climate GCP-09ERC1N1
- Criteria for selecting mobile equipment
- Conclusions and useful video on the topic
Which brands are better?
Mobile units are offered in the range of many manufacturers of household climate control equipment. Portable air conditioners of various capacities are offered Ballu, Royal Clima, Electrolux, Zanussi, General Climate, Aeronik and others.
We offer a rating of mobile split systems, compiled taking into account the cost, technical and operational qualities of the devices and user reviews. The list includes the most popular models from different manufacturers.
Rating of the best mobile air conditioners
Ballu BPAC-18CE
Productive monoblock with professional characteristics
The model belongs to the Smart Pro series of professional units, providing effective maintenance of an area of 55 square meters. m. It is chosen for country houses, country houses, commercial and industrial premises. In addition to cooling, Ballu BPAC-18CE works for ventilation and dehumidification in case of excess humidity. There is no heating mode.
Specifications:
- modes – cooling, dehumidification, ventilation;
- sound level – 54 dB;
- device performance – 5.5 kW;
- intensity adjustment – 3 speeds;
- energy consumption – A, 2.18 kW;
- weight – 45 kg;
- options: turbo cooling, automatic condensate removal, self-diagnosis, timer, temperature adjustment, indication of microclimate parameters, auto-restart, automatic mode.
The model operates in night mode, during which the intensity is reduced and the noise is reduced. For ease of movement, a comfortable handle and special chassis are provided.
When dehumidifying the air, the air conditioner collects water into a reservoir. After it is filled, the leakage protection mechanism is activated - the device notifies the user with a light indicator.
Pros, according to buyers: high performance, ease of control, presence of a drying mode, adjustable blinds. The downside is typical for most monoblocks - noisy operation.
- Easy installation without construction preparation
- High air processing speed
- Economical energy consumption
- Great feature set
- Extremely clear control scheme
- Quite a high price
Electrolux EACM-09CG/N3
Reliable and trouble-free climate control technology
An easy-to-use mobile air conditioner is designed to treat rooms up to 23 sq.m. They buy it for apartments, country houses and small office premises. To move within an apartment or floor, the model is equipped with wheels and a handle.
Specifications:
- modes – cooling, dehumidification, ventilation;
- sound level – 46 dB;
- device performance – 2.4 kW;
- fan operation adjustment – 3 speeds;
- energy consumption – class A; 1.0 kW;
- weight – 25 kg;
- options: automatic temperature support, night mode, air flow direction adjustment, memorizing settings.
The monoblock attracts with its ease of installation and movement. To put this type of climate control equipment into operation, no preparatory work is required such as drilling walls and leveling the base, etc.
The light weight of the unit allows you to avoid having to involve assistants to move it to the next room. A number of owners have complaints about somewhat noisy operation. However, the sound is practically not felt at night when the mode of the same name is activated.
- Wide range of programs
- Easy to move and install
- Convenient control and program selection
- High build quality
- Accurate command execution
- Increased noise during fan operation
Zanussi ZACM-12 MS/N1
Easy to use, reliable air conditioner
The portable air conditioner is designed to process air mass in rooms up to 30 sq.m. It will do an excellent job of cooling large rooms in apartments and private houses, shopping malls, cafes, and salons.
Specifications:
- modes – cooling, dehumidification, ventilation;
- sound level – 48 dB;
- device productivity – 3.5 kW;
- fan operation adjustment – 3 speeds;
- energy consumption - A; 1.2 kW;
- weight – 31 kg;
- options: automatic support of the set temperature, timer, automatic adjustment of air flow direction, night mode, self-diagnosis.
The candy bar is controlled using an infrared remote control and a touch panel. There is a standard “socket” for mounting the remote control on top of the unit. A display is built into the case, which displays the operating characteristics.
- Good performance
- Environmentally friendly refrigerant
- High cooling rate
- Acceptable price
- High-quality assembly, rare malfunctions
- Increased noise during fan operation
Ballu BPHS-14H
Efficient climate control unit at a reasonable price
A 4.1 kW monoblock is effective within 35 sq. m. It perfectly heats the room using a heat pump; the model is equipped with a washable air filter. Control - push-button on the front panel and via remote control. Suitable for rented compact apartments; when moving, you can take the split with you.
Specifications:
- modes – cooling, heating, dehumidification, ventilation;
- sound level – minimum 51 dB/maximum 53 dB;
- device performance – cooling 4.1 kW/heating 3.5 kW;
- fan operation adjustment – 3 speeds;
- energy consumption – class A; cooling 1.3 kW/heating 1.2 kW;
- weight – 32 kg;
- options: timer, remembering the settings, night mode.
The unit is not cheap, but judging by the reviews, the cost of the air conditioner is quite justified. The advantages include: high-quality assembly, no plastic smell, fast cooling and heating, fairly quiet operation, a variety of options.
The main disadvantage is the weight of the device. Despite the presence of wheels, moving the air conditioner from place to place is somewhat problematic. An additional disadvantage is the high cost.
- Good performance in all modes
- Environmentally friendly refrigerant
- Simple and convenient control
- Wheelbase for moving
- High quality build
- Unreasonably high price
- Inconvenient to transport
Timberk AC TIM 07C P8
Simple unit with trouble-free mechanical control
The all-in-one from Timberk is popular among users. The equipment package includes everything for prompt installation and commissioning. The unit is designed for air conditioning 20 square meters. m. In addition to cooling, the device is able to quickly reduce humidity and ventilate the air. An additional plus is the automatic evaporation of condensate.
Specifications:
- modes – cooling, dehumidification, ventilation;
- sound level – minimum 45 dB/maximum 53 dB;
- device performance – 2.1 kW;
- fan operation adjustment – 3 speeds;
- energy consumption – class A; 7.8 kW;
- weight – 24 kg;
- options: remember settings.
Advantages of the Timberk portable air conditioner: compactness, light weight, ease of installation, good performance. The noise is clearly pronounced only at maximum fan speed; when the speed decreases, the hum is almost inaudible.
- Light weight, easy to move
- Simple and reliable mechanical control
- Affordable price for most users
- Good performance and cooling speed
- Environmentally friendly refrigerant
- Limited set of programs
Royal Clima RM-R40CN-E
Model for heating and cooling at an affordable price
Monoblocks of the Italian brand are produced in China. The products are characterized by a good range of options and an affordable price. The model is reversible: it works for both heating and cooling. Recommended service area is within 40 square meters. m.
Specifications:
- modes – cooling, heating, dehumidification, ventilation;
- sound level – 65 dB;
- device performance – cooling 4.0 kW/heating 3.9 kW;
- fan operation adjustment – 3 speeds;
- energy consumption – class A; 1.47 kW;
- weight – 28 kg;
- options: self-diagnosis.
The unit is notable for its high performance, the presence of a condensate evaporation system, and an extended air duct (1.85 m). Feedback about the model is mostly positive. Consumers praise it for its functionality, fast cooling, compactness, and hassle-free installation. An important plus is the reasonable price.
Some were dissatisfied with the prolonged heating of the room. In general, the monoblock copes with the assigned tasks.
- Affordable price for most
- Light weight, easy to move
- Reliable, trouble-free operation
- Environmentally friendly refrigerant
- High air processing speed
- Limited feature set
- Noisy operation, especially during ventilation
Hyundai H-AP3-09H-UI004
Excellent monoblock with a good set of functions
Portable monoblock air conditioner is designed for cooling and heating residential, commercial and office premises. For control and program selection there is a control panel and a remote control system.
Specifications:
- modes – cooling, heating, dehumidification, ventilation;
- sound level – minimum 46 dB/maximum 52 dB;
- device performance – cooling 2.6 kW/heating 2.1 kW;
- fan operation adjustment – 3 speeds;
- energy consumption – class A; cooling 1.1 kW/heating 0.8 kW;
- weight – 30.5 kg;
- options: automatic support of the set temperature, timer, automatic adjustment of air flow direction, night mode.
The monoblock attracts with its price, affordable for most users, and a small but sufficient set of useful functions.Busy people are very helpful with a timer that allows them to activate the unit at any time.
Owners love the ability to quickly move from one room to another, for which the model is equipped with wheels and a handle. Not everyone is satisfied with the somewhat large dimensions and too laconic design.
- Easy to control and operate
- Automatic air direction adjustment
- High-quality assembly, guaranteeing rare breakdowns
- Affordable price for most
- Good cooling rate
- Increased noise during fan operation
De'Longhi PAC AN110
Effective inexpensive air conditioner with wide functionality
The monoblock, which does not create problems in operation and movement, is suitable for cooling air in residential and office premises with an area of up to 30 sq.m. Perfectly maintains the temperature background set by the owner. It can be controlled both from the remote control and from the panel located on top.
Specifications:
- modes – cooling, dehumidification, ventilation;
- sound level – 44 dB;
- device performance – 2.9 kW;
- fan operation adjustment – 3 speeds;
- energy consumption – class A; 1.09 kW;
- weight – 27 kg;
- options: automatic support of the set temperature, timer, automatic adjustment of air flow direction, night mode.
Among the positive qualities, users note stable and fairly quiet operation in all modes. I like the high cooling speed and the ability to work in automatic mode. Attracts with its affordable price and ease of installation.
- High cooling rate
- Easy to install and operate
- Affordable price for most
- Automatic support of the required temperature
- Environmentally friendly refrigerant
- Increased noise during ventilation
Aeronik AP-09C
Excellent climate system at an affordable price
A monoblock from a Chinese manufacturer is designed to cool air in a room of 25 square meters. m. The air conditioner is distinguished by its simplicity of design and uncomplicated design. Buyers are attracted by the relatively affordable price and good performance.
Specifications:
- modes – cooling, dehumidification, ventilation;
- sound level – 58 dB;
- device performance – 2.6 kW;
- fan operation adjustment – 3 speeds;
- energy consumption – class A; 1.3 kW;
- weight – 36 kg;
- options: remembering settings, timer, warm start.
Aeronik AP-09C is not capable of performing self-diagnosis and operating in spontaneous mode; automatic condensate drainage is not provided. However, it copes with the tasks of rapid cooling or dehumidification quite quickly.
Buyers note good build quality, clear controls, ease of movement - there are large wheels. The disadvantages are the lack of heating, temperature indication and a noticeable hum during operation.
- High-quality assembly, rare breakdowns
- Affordable price
- Easy to install and operate
- Environmentally friendly refrigerant
- Warm start function
- Quite a high noise level
- Limited set of programs
Timberk AC TIM 09C P8
A simple climate control device without unnecessary bells and whistles
The Timberk monoblock is designed for air conditioning rooms up to 20 square meters. m. In addition to cooling, the device is able to quickly reduce humidity and ventilate the air. An additional plus is the automatic evaporation of condensate.
Specifications:
- modes – cooling, dehumidification, ventilation;
- sound level – minimum 45 dB/maximum 53 dB;
- device performance – 2.6 kW;
- fan operation adjustment – 3 speeds;
- energy consumption – class A; 0.95 kW;
- weight – 24.7 kg;
- options: remember settings.
The functionality of the device, compared to previous models, is very limited - there is no timer, remote control, or self-diagnosis capabilities.
Advantages of the Timberk portable air conditioner: compactness, light weight, ease of installation, good performance. The noise is clearly pronounced only at maximum fan speed; when the speed decreases, the hum is almost inaudible. The monoblock comes with an installation kit.
- High cooling rate
- Easy to install and operate
- Environmentally friendly refrigerant
- Light weight, easy transportation
- Clear and uncomplicated control system
- Limited feature set
- Increased noise during ventilation
Electrolux EACM-12CG/N3
Stylish and reliable mobile air conditioner
A beautiful compact monoblock with a performance sufficient to serve 30 sq. m of living space. The model is distinguished by its streamlined shape, additional sound insulation, and automatic condensate drainage. Suitable for use in apartments, country houses, commercial, small industrial and office premises.
Specifications:
- modes – cooling, dehumidification, ventilation;
- sound level – 48 dB;
- device productivity – 3.5 kW;
- fan operation adjustment – 3 speeds;
- energy consumption – class A; 1.35 kW;
- weight – 31.9 kg;
- options: automatic support of the set temperature, timer, automatic adjustment of air flow direction, night mode, self-diagnosis.
The air conditioner is equipped with an installation hose. There is no need for a separate container for condensate removal - the vapors are discharged outside through the exhaust air duct along with warm air.
Pros of the model: stylish design, memorization of settings in the event of a power failure, compactness, quick results. Cons: no room heating, noise.
- High cooling rate
- Automatic background temperature support
- Economical energy consumption
- Easy to install and operate
- Good set of programs
- Increased noise during ventilation
- Heavy weight felt during transportation
Ballu BPAC-20CE
Powerful climate control equipment for large areas
Another representative of the high-power equipment of the Smart Pro series from Ballu. An expensive model is designed for heating and cooling rooms up to 60 square meters. m. The performance of the device allows it to be used not only for domestic purposes, but also for industrial purposes. The unit is often purchased for workshops, bakeries, shops, server rooms, etc.
Specifications:
- modes – cooling, heating, dehumidification, ventilation;
- sound level – 54 dB;
- apparatus productivity – 6.0 kW;
- fan operation adjustment – 3 speeds;
- energy consumption – class A; 2.3 kW;
- weight – 46 kg;
- options: automatic support of the set temperature, timer, automatic adjustment of air flow direction, night mode, self-diagnosis.
The user can set the required temperature, the permissible error is 1°C.The unit has an informative backlit display and light indication for turning off and filling the container with water when drying the room.
The unit received many positive reviews. The low ranking position is explained by its high cost.
- High productivity and processing speed
- Economical energy consumption
- Simplicity and ease of control
- Heavy weight making it difficult to move
- High price for household use
Ballu BPAC-09 CM
Spectacularly designed budget monoblock
Smart series monoblock for domestic use, service area – within 25 sq. m. The mobile air conditioner has an attractive design - white and silver colors will suit various interior solutions.
Specifications:
- modes – cooling, dehumidification, ventilation;
- sound level – minimum 45 dB/maximum 51 dB;
- device performance – 2.6 kW;
- fan operation adjustment – 3 speeds;
- energy consumption – class A; 0.95 kW;
- weight – 26 kg;
- options: memorizing settings, automatic adjustment of air flow direction, "easy window" - system for fixing the removal of warm air.
Despite the limited options, the BPAC-09 CM is popular among buyers due to its affordability and efficiency. The air conditioner cools quickly and works flawlessly.
Disadvantages of the device: no remote control, timer, self-diagnosis. The user cannot adjust the cooling temperature, set the start time, or turn off the air conditioner. The monoblock comes complete with a washable air filter and an exhaust hose.
- Light weight, hassle-free transportation
- Simple mechanical control
- Availability of an air vent fastening system
- Affordable price
- Environmentally friendly refrigerant
- Limited set of programs
- Increased noise during ventilation
Zanussi ZACM-07 MP-III/N1
Budget monoblock with excellent technical capabilities
Portable compact air conditioner for installation in rooms up to 20 square meters. m. The model works to cool, dehumidify and ventilate the room. For convenience, a night mode and automatic maintenance of the set temperature are provided. An important feature is the automatic evaporation of condensate.
Specifications:
- modes – cooling, dehumidification, ventilation;
- sound level – 46 dB;
- device performance – 2.1 kW;
- fan operation adjustment – 3 speeds;
- energy consumption – class A; 0.78 kW;
- weight – 20 kg;
- options: automatic support of the set temperature, timer, automatic adjustment of air flow direction, night mode, display, self-diagnosis.
Due to its affordability, the product is in demand. Customer reviews characterize the ZACM-07 monoblock as easy to operate, multifunctional and effective. Among the shortcomings most often noted: loud noise, malfunctions of the remote control. Switching to night mode helps reduce the sound.
Some use air conditioning for two adjacent rooms with a total area of just over 20 square meters. m. The cooling power is quite enough.
- Light weight, hassle-free transportation
- Automatic evaporation of condensate
- Economical energy consumption
- High cooling rate
- Environmentally friendly refrigerant
- Remote control malfunctions
General Climate GCP-09ERC1N1
Improving air composition monoblock
Multifunctional air conditioner with a spectacular design, heating and cooling capabilities. Recommended service area – 30 sq. m. The manufacturer tried to equip the device to the maximum: various modes, LED display, self-diagnosis of breakdowns and other devices.
Specifications:
- modes – cooling, heating, dehumidification, ventilation;
- sound level – minimum 50 dB/maximum 54 dB;
- device performance – cooling 2.6 kW/heating 1.3 kW;
- fan operation adjustment – 3 speeds;
- energy consumption – class A; 2.6 kW;
- weight – 45 kg;
- options: anion generator, timer, settings memory, night mode, warm start.
Despite the excellent technical potential, reviews of the model are somewhat contradictory. Among the advantages, buyers noted the elegant design, compact dimensions, high-quality assembly, and the presence of transition elements.
Identified shortcomings: in extreme heat (over +35°C), the monoblock spends a lot of time cooling, the noise is not particularly noticeable in Auto mode, in the rest you can hear a hum. An additional disadvantage is the short exhaust duct.
- High build quality
- Environmentally friendly refrigerant
- Affordable price for most
- Production of anions useful for respiration
- Spectacular design
- High energy consumption compared to analogues
Criteria for selecting mobile equipment
The main advantage of a portable split system is quick installation and the ability to move climate control equipment. In order for the operation of the unit to fully meet expectations and be effective, it is necessary to carefully approach the choice of a monoblock. It is important to consider a number of parameters.
Air conditioner power calculation
The first step is to determine the cooling capacity of the equipment.The power of the device should be enough for the entire room.
The simplest option is to measure the area of the room and divide its value by 10. The result will display the approximate power of the air conditioner in kW.
The resulting value must be increased by 25% in the case of:
- a large number of equipment producing thermal energy;
- windows facing south;
- the number of people living in the house.
The rule is 1 kW for every 10 sq. m is appropriate to use if the ceiling height of the room does not exceed 3 m.
We have provided detailed instructions for calculating the power of the air conditioner in our other article.
Accounting for technical parameters
Attention should be paid to such technical indicators as operating modes, control method, device dimensions and noise emitted.
The heating mode is very convenient in the off-season - when it is cold outside and the central heating has not yet been turned on. However, any additional option inevitably leads to an increase in the cost of the device.
Portable air conditioners use different control systems:
- Electromechanical. Starting the unit, adjusting parameters using knobs and buttons. Pros: affordable cost, ease of management. Cons: increased power consumption, lack of protection against frequent starts.
- Electronic system. The user's capabilities are significantly expanded: remote control, more precise temperature control, timer settings.Electronic equipment looks modern, works more economically, but costs more.
It is convenient if the remote control has a built-in temperature sensor. It is easy for the user to navigate from any point in the room how to change the operating parameters of the air conditioner.
The downside of almost all monoblocks is high noise. Some manufacturers are trying to soundproof the unit and make using the air conditioner more comfortable. It is advisable to test the operation of the device before purchasing.
Functionality of portable equipment
Additional options increase the comfort of using mobile units.
Some useful functions include:
- Automatic temperature maintenance. The air conditioner analyzes microclimate indicators and switches to the desired mode - heating or cooling. It is possible to automatically change the fan speed.
- Night mode. The equipment is adjusted to lower speeds, the noise decreases, and the temperature changes slowly.
- Auto restart. After a power failure, the air conditioner resumes operation according to the previously set parameters.
- Timer. A convenient function for pre-preparing the room or turning off the device while sleeping.
- Airflow adjustment. You can change the position of the exhaust blades, thereby adjusting the direction of the air jets.
A practical option is self-diagnosis. In the event of a breakdown, the unit analyzes the cause of the malfunction and notifies the user with a sound or light signal.
Knowing the cause of the malfunction, you can decide on repairs: some breakdowns can be fixed with your own hands, while others can only be repaired in service centers.For example, if required refilling the system with freon, then you can handle this task yourself.
Before purchasing, you should check the package contents, the presence of an exhaust air duct, fasteners and the manufacturer’s warranty card.
Do you doubt the advisability of purchasing a portable model? We recommend checking out others types of split systems and their features.
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
Tips for choosing a mobile household air conditioner:
Before purchasing a mobile air conditioner, you need to weigh the pros and cons, take into account its operating conditions and evaluate the parameters of different models..
The working area of most household models covers 20-30 square meters. m. More powerful units are noisier and cannot boast of compact dimensions - they are intended for production purposes.
Do you have your own opinion about the advisability of purchasing a mobile split system model? Share it in the comments block below.
If you use a mobile air conditioner and want to supplement our material with useful comments on choosing equipment or share your experience of using one of the models discussed in our rating, please write your comments under this article.
A mobile air conditioner or split system is a very convenient thing that does not require much effort during installation. It is convenient because you can easily transport it from home to the country and back. We have been doing this for two summer seasons and are very pleased. As a result, the heat does not bother you either in a city apartment or in a country house.Yes, it does not have a heating mode, but still, the main task of an air conditioner is to cool the air, so I don’t consider this to be any big disadvantage.
Such a mobile air conditioner is good for the winter period, since it can be set to heat closer to you, that is, its heat will be directed specifically at the person. The only thing is that such a device can dry out the air a lot, so it’s also worth purchasing a humidifier for it. This is especially true for those who have small children in the house. And another significant disadvantage is that children can hurt it.
What can you say about the noise? We do not have the opportunity to install a normal split system, since the apartment is rented. So, we are thinking about such a mobile air conditioner.
The noisiest model of the options proposed in the article is the Royal Clima RM-R40CN-E, which has a noise level of 65 dB. This is quite a lot to call the living conditions in the apartment comfortable when such a mobile split system is working.
Of the proposed models, I would advise you to pay attention to the Hyundai H-AP3-09H-UI004, since its noise level is in the range of 46-52 dB, and this mobile split system can also operate for heating.
If the heating function is not important to you, but you are only interested in low noise levels, then I can recommend Aeronik AP-09C. This model has extremely low noise levels - only 40 dB. True, this mobile split system is not in the rating.