Are you looking to purchase an air conditioning unit? When in the market for an AC, there are multiple variables you should consider. One such factor is the different types of air conditioners in the market.
You should also consider the size of your home, your ductwork, and your stipulated budget. Finally, remember to also keep in mind the energy consumption of your new AC unit. Below are the eight most common types of AC units to choose from.
1. Central Air Conditioner
If you live in a big house and you’re looking for an AC to cool down multiple rooms simultaneously, then a central air conditioner is the best option for you. A central AC is also known as a ducted system. That’s because it uses a split system to regulate cool air through the ducts installed in your house.
A split system combines two main units into one. The outdoor system packs in the compressor and condenser, while the indoor system comprises the air handler and evaporator coils.
The AC unit uses a refrigerant to remove the heat from the indoor air. The unit cools down the air and pushes the heat outdoors while pushing cool air through the ducts into your room. Some advantages of using a central AC unit include:
- It cools all the rooms connected to the ducts all at once
- It creates a cooler and regulated environment in your home at a minimum time
- It reduces humidity around the house because air is circulated in multiple rooms
Having a central air conditioner will help you create a cooler and more comfortable environment in your house. By cooling down numerous rooms simultaneously, the AC unit will make your home’s environment more livable.
A central AC consumes too much energy resulting in high energy bills. In addition, if an issue arises with your air ducts, the unit may lose effectiveness and efficiency.
2. Ductless Mini-Split
If you are looking for an AC unit with better efficiency and you want to do away with ducting, this is the best option for you. It’s also good for people who want portions of their house to be cooled. Ductless mini-split systems are the best for people in contemporary houses.
This air conditioner combines one or more indoor units and an outdoor unit comprising a condenser and a compressor. These units are fixed on a wall and furnished with air blowers. The two units are connected through refrigerant and tubing that circulates through them in different variations depending on the type of usage.
3. Window Air Conditioner
Window air conditioners come in different shapes and sizes. Thus, they are great for people who want to cool down a small area or a single room.
A window AC is a single system with all its components enclosed inside. It pulls hot indoor air from your house and ejects the heat from its outdoor side while blowing back cool air using its indoor side.
A window AC is installed on your window or a hole in your wall. These units have air filters that easily slide out to facilitate regular cleaning. Some advantages of window AC units include:
- They are easy to maintain
- Are simple to install
- Don’t take up any floor space
- They are cheaper to operate
- They are not costly to install
Window AC units are commonly used in big cities such as New York. Unfortunately, they can be quite noisy during their operation. They also interfere with your home’s aesthetics because the unit is visible from your window.
4. Portable AC Units
Portable AC units are almost similar to window AC units. They also consist of numerous components, all placed inside one enclosed unit. The main difference between the two is that the portable AC unit is a free-standing unit and can be moved from one room to another.
The unit needs a power outlet to power it up. They also need access to a window where all the hot air can be exhumed. They are ideal for cooling down a temporary space and can be used for bathrooms and kennels.
Some advantages of portable air conditioners include:
- Easy and quick to set up
- Easy to store
- They are easy to move around
- They don’t need permanent installation
- They are an effective option for spot cooling
Portable air conditioning units are convenient. They are great for temporary spaces and are easy to put away when needed. Unfortunately, you can’t use the unit to cool a larger room.
Before making a purchase, it’s advisable to compare air conditioners side-by-side. You will see their differences in size, functionality, and efficiency.
5. Floor Mounted AC Unit
Floor-mounted AC units are designed for convenience, especially if you prefer to have a mini-split unit without the space to mount it on your wall. Instead, the floor-mounted AC unit is placed on the floor, and an outdoor unit can be installed without any major preparation or ductwork.
A floor-mounted AC unit is also great for a house with tilted walls like attics. It’s also great for homes with fragile walls constructed from materials such as glass. The unit can stand up to 6 inches from the floor, and it can be connected to the outdoor unit through a small hole in the wall.
This unit is ideal for elderly individuals and people living with disabilities due to easy accessibility. It’s also quite easy to install, and it’s a great choice for people living in small homes without much space. A floor-mounted AC unit also cools the room much faster than other types of air conditioners because the fan is blowing air directly at your height level.
Now You Know the Different Types of Air Conditioners
Now that you know the different types of air conditioners, it’s time to choose the best AC unit for your house. This will depend on your square footage, budget, the unit’s SEER ratings, features, and warranty.
Most people don’t know how to choose an air conditioner. Fortunately, with our guide above, you will know the types of AC units in the market and what to look for.
Check out other posts on our website for more tips and guides.
