What type of air conditioner is the best for you?

Choosing the right air conditioner is crucial when it comes to keeping your home cool during the hot summer months. With so many different types of air conditioners available, it can be overwhelming to determine which is the best for your needs. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of air conditioners and help you decide which is right.

 

There are eight main types of air conditioning units being sold. Each type is designed for a specific type of space and suitable for different types of needs. The different AC types are:

1. Central air conditioners
2. Ductless mini-split
3. Window air conditioners
4. Portable air conditioners
5. Floor-mounted air conditioners
6. Smart air conditioners
7. Geothermal air conditioning systems
8. Hybrid/Dual fuel air conditioners

 

Several factors will affect the type of air conditioner you choose. Four important factors include: 

1. Budget
2. Energy Consumption
3. Space requirements and maintenance
4. Cooling power

 

Central Air Conditioning

 

Central air conditioning requires professional installation and a duct system to distribute cool air throughout your home. HVAC technology can be used to install thermostats with central air conditioners, creating a smart home. Because cool air is circulated throughout the entire home, the overall environment is more comfortable. Most larger businesses will have these units in their buildings because they are the most efficient way to cool down an entire space, especially if the space is large. However, central air conditioning is also the most expensive type of air conditioning system.

 

Ductless Mini-Split Systems

 

A great alternative to central air conditioning, if you don’t want to install ductwork, a ductless mini-split system is a great option if you want to cool a portion of your home. 

A combination of an outdoor air conditioning system unit, and an indoor unit, the indoor units are wall mounted and have air blowers to circulate cool air. The indoor and outdoor units are connected via tubing. The indoor units are small and compact and can be installed in any room you want to cool or heat. These units can become expensive for larger homes, as one unit will not be enough to cool an entire home. 

 

Window Air Conditioners

 

Window air conditioners are the most common type of air conditioner. They are designed to fit into a standard window frame and are relatively easy to install. Window air conditioners are affordable, energy-efficient, and can cool a single room or small space. Window units come in different sizes and can be suitable for various sizes of windows, and can cool one room or a small space depending on the unit size. 

 

Portable Air Conditioners

 

Similar to window air conditioners, portable air conditioners are free-standing unit that can be moved from room to room. They require a power outlet and access to a window where the unit’s air can be exhausted. Portable air conditioners are a great option if you’re looking for a more flexible cooling solution. Portable air conditioners can cool larger spaces than window units but are more expensive.

 

Floor-Mounted Air Conditioners

 

Designed for those who do not have space for a wall-mounted unit, mini-split, floor-mounted air conditioner units rest on the floor indoors. The outer unit does not need ductwork to be installed. For spaces with tilted walls, such as attics or walls constructed with glass materials, floor-mounted air conditioners are a great alternative to wall-mounted mini-split units. 

 

Smart Air Conditioners

 

Smart air conditioners are any kind of mini-split, window, or portable air conditioners that are IoT enabled. The Internet of Things (IoT) enables the connection of physical devices to the Internet, meaning you can control smart devices from your phone. While these units are more expensive than regular units, they are also more energy efficient as you can control them remotely. 

 

Geothermal Air Conditioning System

 

This method of heating and cooling homes is relatively new. Geothermal heating and cooling utilize the insulating properties of the earth. Since the temperatures under 4 to 6 feet of land remain consistent all year regardless of the weather. Piping arranged in a loop is installed under your home for this system. Water is circulated through this piping system, a heat pump, and the ground. Geothermal air conditioning systems require a lot of work to set them up because they are underground, under your home. 

 

Hybrid/Dual Fuel Air Conditioner 

 

A hybrid system that combines a gas furnace with an electric air heat pump delivers a cost-effective and efficient performance in heating and cooling. This system automatically switches between burning fossil fuels and electricity. Hybrid systems help to lower your carbon footprint and can help boost indoor comfort, and minimize the cost of your utility bills. But, they are also expensive to initially set up.

 

What kind of air conditioning system is the best for your space and needs depends on what you want and your budget. If you’re looking for an affordable, easy-to-self-install system, window air conditioning or portable air conditioning units may be right for you. Central air conditioning systems are a great option if you want to cool your entire home and increase its resale value. For a flexible, energy-efficient solution, ductless mini-split systems may be the right choice. 

 

If you are having trouble figuring out what kind of air conditioning system is right for you, contact us and we will help you find the right unit for your needs!