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Revised:
June 3rd, 2025
Not sure if a portable air conditioner will cool your room effectively? Wondering if a ductless mini-split is really worth the price?
If you’ve struggled to keep a bonus room, converted attic, or detached garage cool — even with your central air running full blast — you’re not alone. These tricky spaces often escape the reach of traditional HVAC systems.
At Fire & Ice Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, we’ve spent over 30 years helping Central Ohio homeowners take back their comfort, room by room. In this article, you’ll learn exactly how portable air conditioners compare to ductless mini-split systems in 2025 — from cost and convenience to long-term performance — so you can confidently choose the best fit for your home.
Why Extra Cooling Is Needed
Even a new central air system can fall short when airflow is limited.
Older homes often have a single return vent. Converted spaces like attics or additions rarely get the airflow they need. Retrofitting ductwork is costly and, in some cases, not even possible. That’s where targeted cooling systems come in.
One Worthington homeowner turned their attic into a home office. A portable unit kept it semi-usable, but the heat was constant. When we installed a ductless mini-split, they told us it was like gaining a whole new room
Portable Air Conditioners in 2025: Pros and Cons
Pros
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Lower upfront cost. Most models cost under $1,000, with high-performing options in the $700–$900 range.
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No professional installation required. Just vent it out a window.
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Easy to move. You can shift them from room to room.
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Efficient for single-room use. Lower energy draw than a central system cooling your entire home.
Cons
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Limited cooling power. Not effective in large or poorly insulated spaces.
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Noisy operation. The compressor is indoors.
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Moisture removal can be tedious. Some units need frequent emptying.
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Shorter lifespan. Most last 7–10 years.
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Takes up space. Units and exhaust hoses require floor and window access.
Read more: What is an HVAC Zoning System? (And Why It Works)
One homeowner in Grandview used three portable units upstairs in a historic home. After replacing one and dealing with daily maintenance, they were ready for something quieter and more reliable.
Ductless Mini-Splits in 2025: Pros and Cons
Pros
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High efficiency. SEER2 ratings of 25–33 deliver serious energy savings.
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Very quiet. Indoor units run at about 30 decibels.
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Dual function. Most systems heat and cool.
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Long lifespan. 20–30 years with maintenance.
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Zoned comfort. Each head operates independently.
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Humidity control. Effective even at low speeds.
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Smart features. Many offer app control, scheduling, and sensors.
Cons
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Higher upfront cost. Single-zone systems typically cost $5,000–$8,000 installed.
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Permanent installation. Not suitable for renters or short-term needs.
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Wall space required. Some homeowners don’t like the look of the indoor heads.
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Refrigerant line routing. Clean installs require planning and access.
We installed a ductless mini-split for a couple in Dublin who turned their garage into a music studio. It was quiet, stable, and energy-efficient — perfect for keeping sensitive equipment safe and the environment comfortable year-round.
Which One Is Right for You?
Choose a portable AC if:
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You’re renting or need something temporary.
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You have a budget under $1,000.
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You want something you can install yourself quickly.
Choose a ductless mini-split if:
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You’re a homeowner looking for a long-term solution.
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You want both heating and cooling.
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You’re converting a garage, attic, or basement into a livable space.
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You want quiet, zoned comfort with smart features.
Cons to Ductless Mini-Splits
They are not portable. Once they’re set in place, they’re not going anywhere. That makes the decision on placement crucial.
Some people balk when they comprehend that the head will take up a chunk of wall space. You do get used to them, just like you would get used to a new poster. But the initial reaction can be strong.
The line sets for ductless units are also something you have to think about. They don’t connect via Bluetooth. The line has to run from the head all of the way to the main unit outside. Even with the line hide that we use, which creates a very clean look and can be painted, it’s still stuff running on the outside of your house.
And if you decide to go with a ceiling or floor version, the line set can be invasive; we’ll have to run it under the floor or up in the ceiling, which will add to the cost of installation.
Ductless Mini-Splits Cost
Below we’ve listed typical costs. All costs listed include labor and fees.
- A single-zone/one-room heating and cooling solution will range between $5,000 and $8,000.
- A dual-zone/two-room system will run between $9,000 and $15,000.
- A system that provides heating and cooling for multiple zones/three to eight rooms starts at $18,000 and up.
Central Ohio Considerations
Bonus rooms, additions, and older homes with ductwork issues are the most common candidates for ductless mini-split installation.
If your master bedroom or attic office still feels hot with the central AC running, adding a mini-split could be the difference between discomfort and year-round livability.
That said, portable ACs can be the right fit for short-term events like garage workshops or weekend gatherings. It comes down to how often and how intensively you plan to use the space.
Summary: Portable ACs vs. Ductless Mini-Splits
Portable ACs are affordable and quick to install. They’re perfect for renters or occasional use, but they’re noisy and not designed for the long haul.
Ductless mini-splits require a bigger investment up front but offer long-term energy savings, silent operation, and climate control where traditional systems fall short.
After working in Central Ohio homes for decades, we can confidently say this: the best choice is the one that fits your space, your needs, and your budget.
What Should You Do Next?
At the end of the day, dealing with hot, uncomfortable rooms despite having AC is frustrating. This is especially true in older homes, converted spaces, or additions without proper airflow.
Now that you’ve learned how portable ACs and ductless mini-splits compare, it’s time to take the next step.
Your next step is to request a consultation or read the below articles to learn more
Ductless Mini-Splits: A Comprehensive Cost Breakdown
Ductless Mini-Splits 101: What They Do & How You Benefit
Mitsubishi Ductless Mini-Splits: Pricing & Product Line Review
