When summer hits, everyone wants relief from the heat—fast. Recently, small desktop “portable AC” gadgets like the Blast Auxiliary have gained popularity online. But do they actually cool a room, or are they just clever marketing?
In this post, we’ll break down how these personal cooling devices compare to ductless (mini-split) systems, highlight real user feedback, and explain why a ductless system is the smarter long-term choice.
- What Are These Devices?
- How They Compare: Key Differences
- What Real Users Say
- Why a Ductless System Likely Makes More Sense
- When a Desktop “AC” Might Make Sense
If you’re serious about improving comfort in your home or workspace, a ductless heating and cooling system is the superior solution.
Explore our ductless offerings and learn how they can cool your space effectively, then contact us to get set up.
1. What Are These Devices?
Blast Auxiliary / Desktop “Portable AC”
The Blast Auxiliary Portable AC—and similar products advertised on social media and marketplaces like Walmart and Amazon—promise to deliver “personal cooling” in a small, affordable package. However, the technology inside is quite different from a real air conditioner.
These units work using evaporative cooling, a process where a fan pulls warm air through a water-soaked filter or sponge. As the water evaporates, the air feels slightly cooler when it exits the vent. Because they’re powered by USB or a small wall plug, they consume very little electricity—but they also provide very limited cooling performance.
In practice, this means:
They can make the air around your face or workspace feel cooler for a short time.
They’re most effective in dry environments, like parts of Western Canada.
In humid climates, such as Southern Ontario, they can make the air feel damp and sticky instead of refreshing.
So, while these mini units might work as a personal fan with a moisture boost, they don’t lower the overall temperature of a room. They’re more of a novelty or short-term comfort gadget than a genuine cooling system.
Ductless Mini-Split Systems
By contrast, a ductless mini-split system is a true air conditioning and heating solution designed for long-term comfort. It uses a refrigerant-based cooling cycle, similar to central air systems, but without the need for ductwork. An indoor unit (mounted high on a wall) connects to an outdoor compressor through a small line set.
Here’s how it works:
The indoor unit absorbs heat from the room air using refrigerant coils.
The outdoor compressor releases that heat outside.
Cool, dehumidified air circulates back into the room quietly and efficiently.
Because each indoor unit can be controlled independently, ductless systems are perfect for zoned comfort—cooling one area while leaving another untouched. They’re also energy efficient, offering high SEER/SEER2 ratings that can reduce long-term operating costs.
And unlike desktop “ACs,” they actually remove humidity while cooling, which makes a massive difference in comfort during hot Ontario summers.
2) How They Compare: Key Differences
| Feature | Desktop Portable AC (Blast Auxiliary & similar) | Ductless Mini-Split |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling Method | Evaporative cooling – adds humidity | Refrigerant cooling – removes humidity |
| Cooling Range | Personal/desk area | Whole rooms (350–600 sq. ft.) |
| Power Source | USB or wall plug | Dedicated electrical system |
| Energy Efficiency | Low power use, minimal effect | High SEER ratings, efficient output |
| Humidity Impact | Adds moisture to the air | Dehumidifies the space |
| Noise Level | Small fan noise | Whisper-quiet operation |
| Cost | Low upfront (< $100) | Higher upfront, long-term savings |
| Cooling Results | Feels cooler up close only | Maintains consistent room temperature |
3. What Real Users Say
Customer Reactions to the Blast Auxiliary and Similar Portable AC Units
Across major retail sites like Walmart, Amazon, and YouTube, users consistently describe desktop “portable AC” devices such as the Blast Auxiliary as more of a novelty than a real air conditioner.
Many customers mention that while these units can feel slightly cool up close, they fail to lower the room temperature or provide lasting comfort. On Reddit and product review sites, users often report that the effect is similar to a small desk fan blowing over a damp sponge—refreshing for a moment, but not powerful enough to make a noticeable difference once you step a few feet away.
Typical customer feedback includes:
“It looks nice and feels cool for a minute, but doesn’t change the temperature in my bedroom.”
“After 20 minutes, the air feels damp instead of cold.”
“It’s fine for a desk or camper, but definitely not an air conditioner.”
A few reviewers point out that the Blast Auxiliary may have some use in very dry climates, like the Prairies or the Southwest U.S., where evaporative cooling naturally works better. But in humid areas like Ontario, Quebec, or the Maritimes, the added moisture can make the air feel heavier—the exact opposite of what you want during a heatwave.
Tech reviewers on YouTube echo the same findings. In side-by-side tests with real portable air conditioners, these small desktop units only cooled air 1–2°C at the vent, while the room itself stayed the same temperature. That small cooling effect disappears entirely as humidity rises or when the internal sponge dries out.
Overall, most independent reviews agree:
“The Blast Auxiliary and similar products are not true AC units, and their marketing can be misleading. They’re personal evaporative fans—good for temporary relief, not for cooling a room.”
Homeowner Experiences with Ductless Mini-Split Systems
On the other hand, ductless systems—the type installed by Ideal Heating—consistently receive excellent feedback for both comfort and long-term reliability.
Verified homeowners on review platforms such as HomeStars, Google Reviews, and Consumer Reports highlight:
Quiet operation: “You hardly notice it’s on, even in the living room.”
Precise temperature control: “It keeps the bedroom at a perfect temperature all night.”
Energy efficiency: “My electricity bill dropped significantly compared to using a window unit.”
Year-round use: “It’s great for both summer cooling and shoulder-season heating.”
Unlike portable or desktop units, ductless systems are designed and tested to maintain consistent comfort across a full space. They also come with multi-year warranties and professional installation standards—so you get both performance and peace of mind.
In short, while Blast Auxiliary and similar “personal ACs” may create a brief cooling sensation, homeowners who switch to ductless mini-splits consistently describe the experience as transformative—not just cooler, but cleaner, quieter, and more efficient living.
4. Why a Ductless System Likely Makes More Sense
When comparing true cooling performance, ductless mini-split systems easily outshine small portable or desktop “AC” devices. While evaporative coolers like the Blast Auxiliary may offer a quick personal breeze, ductless systems deliver consistent, energy-efficient comfort for your entire living space.
Ductless systems provide true comfort across an entire room or zone. Each indoor unit is properly sized to the space it serves, maintaining a steady temperature without hot or cold spots. This means you can relax, work, or sleep comfortably no matter where you are in the room.
They also remove humidity as they cool, rather than adding moisture like evaporative coolers do. This helps create a fresher, less muggy indoor environment—especially valuable during Ontario’s humid summer months. The result is air that feels cleaner, drier, and far more comfortable.
In terms of efficiency, ductless systems are among the most energy-efficient cooling solutions available. Because they operate without ductwork, there is no loss of cooled air through leaks or poor insulation. Many modern ductless models boast high SEER and SEER2 ratings, meaning they use significantly less energy than traditional central air or window units while providing better temperature control.
Finally, ductless systems are built for longevity and peace of mind. When installed by professionals and maintained regularly, they can last for many years. Homeowners also benefit from strong manufacturer warranties and ongoing service support—something that inexpensive portable coolers simply can’t match.
5. When a Desktop “AC” Might Make Sense
While small evaporative coolers like the Blast Auxiliary Portable AC can’t replace a true air conditioning system, there are a few limited situations where they might serve a useful purpose.
These compact units are best suited for personal, short-term cooling rather than whole-room temperature control. For example, if you work from home and want a gentle breeze on your desk without turning on the main air conditioner, a desktop unit can provide a bit of relief. It’s essentially a portable fan that uses water evaporation to make the air feel slightly cooler.
They can also be somewhat helpful in dry climates, where humidity levels are naturally low. In areas like the Prairies or interior British Columbia, the moisture these devices add to the air can make it feel more comfortable. However, in humid regions like Southern Ontario, the extra moisture can actually make your room feel warmer and heavier, not cooler.
Some users also find these units convenient for temporary use—for example, during a power outage, while camping, or in a small enclosed space such as a trailer. Because they’re USB-powered and easy to move, they can offer a touch of comfort when other cooling options aren’t available.
That said, it’s important to manage expectations. A desktop cooler won’t reduce the overall room temperature; it requires frequent refilling, and its cooling effect fades quickly as the water evaporates. For reliable and consistent comfort in larger rooms, a ductless cooling system is a far more practical and effective investment.
Looking To Go Ductless?
At Ideal Heating, we know that comfort isn’t about quick fixes—it’s about finding a cooling solution that keeps your home consistently comfortable, efficient, and affordable for years to come. While small desktop “AC” units like the Blast Auxiliary may offer a brief personal breeze, they simply don’t compare to the reliability and performance of a ductless heating and cooling system.
A ductless system gives you true climate control. It quietly maintains your desired temperature, removes excess humidity, and allows you to cool specific zones in your home with incredible precision. Because it operates without ductwork, it also saves energy and reduces waste—helping you stay comfortable while keeping utility bills in check.
Whether you’re upgrading an older home, finishing a basement, or looking for a more efficient alternative to window units, a ductless system is the smart choice. It’s an investment in year-round comfort, backed by trusted installation and support from the experts at Ideal Heating.
Ready to make your home cooler, cleaner, and more energy-efficient?
With over 35 years of experience serving customers in the GTA and a 5-star rating on Google Reviews, we provide the ideal advice.