Midea introduces new PortaSplit with propane
More environmentally friendly refrigerant, improvements to condensate, Matter support – new version of Midea PortaSplit mobile air conditioner in 2027.
At IFA 2026 in Berlin, Midea is exclusively showcasing the previous Portasplit.
(Image: Mark Mantel / heise medien)
The mobile split air conditioner PortaSplit is getting a relaunch. For those interested within the EU, the most important innovation: Midea is replacing the previously climate-damaging gas R32 with R290 (propane). The change is necessary due to the EU F-Gas Regulation so that Midea can continue to introduce the PortaSplit to Europe in 2027. R32 has a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 675. This means that one kilogram of the refrigerant will have as much climate warming potential in the atmosphere over 100 years as 675 kilograms of carbon dioxide. For propane, on the other hand, the EU regulation specifies a GWP of 0.02.
The developers revealed numerous details about the new PortaSplit in Berlin at IFA. According to them, the propane version of the PortaSplit will receive several improvements that solve the problems of the previous R32 PortaSplit. A new radio chip also improves smart home integration with the manufacturer-independent standard Matter 1.6. However, no prototype or even a finished device was on display.
Replaceable filter against P1 errors
(Image: Mark Mantel / heise medien)
At the top of the list of improvements is the filter for the condensate that forms in the indoor unit. It is pumped to the outdoor unit and flows out there. In the new version, users will be able to remove and clean the filter themselves to prevent blockages. In the previous R32 version, the notorious P1 error can occur here: The condensate itself is clean, but bacteria in the air can promote biofilm formation, especially if the air conditioner is left switched off for a longer period. The collection tray at the bottom remains for structural reasons.
For the outdoor unit, Midea plans a new base plate for condensate drainage. Previously, it flowed out with little pressure, even when a hose was connected for drainage. In the propane version, the condensate should flow out under high pressure, even through a longer attached hose.
If everything works out, a retrofit kit for the propane PortaSplit might be released. The idea: no more condensate should accumulate, and users won’t have to worry about anything. The developers are currently remaining silent about how it will work. It is also not yet certain whether the kit will actually be released.
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R32 PortaSplit remains available for now
Midea hopes to bring the propane PortaSplit to the European market by the summer of 2027. A revised Cool version without a heating function is to follow later.
The previous R32 versions are to remain available for now. The manufacturer intends to deliver further batches to Europe by the end of the year. Retailers will be allowed to sell off devices introduced by December 31, 2026, next year despite the F-Gas Regulation. This means bargains could be available again in winter.
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