Choosing the right type of AC for your premises will largely determine your energy consumption and comfort levels. While most people focus on energy ratings and capacity, it’s equally if not more important to consider the type, functionality and design of the AC. To help you learn more about air conditioners and how they work, here are the most common types of AC for home, so you have a better idea of the best one for your premises.
Types of AC for Home
Some of the types of AC for home include central air conditioners, ductless mini-split systems, swamp or evaporative coolers and more.
Central Air Conditioners
Central air conditioners are the most common type of cooling system, especially for larger homes as they offer whole-house cooling. They supply cool air from a single system through supply and return ducts. They typically comprise of an outdoor unit that houses the compressor and condenser, and indoor component with the air handler and evaporator coils.
Ductless Mini-Split Systems
Ductless mini-split systems are like central ACs in several ways except they operate more quietly and efficiently. The condenser is located outdoors while wall mounted blowers are located indoors. Rather than using ducts, refrigeration lines connect the condenser to the blower unit. Depending on the unit’s capacity, several air handlers can be connected to a single condenser, allowing you to cool multiple rooms.
Swamp or Evaporative Coolers
Swamp coolers may not be as common as refrigerant-type coolers but they’re equally as effective. Instead of refrigerant, they use damp pads to keep a room cool. As hot air from your home flows over the damp pads, the air cools before being circulated back into your home. This type of system is ideal for very dry climates as it adds moisture to the air during the cooling process.
Window AC Units
A window air conditioner is a standalone unit with all the typical components you’d find in a central AC such as an evaporator coil, refrigerant, fan and a compressor. They’re installed at the windows and come in a wide range of sizes to cool large as well as small rooms. Many homeowners prefer window units for their compact size and ease of installation.
Wall-Mounted ACs
Wall mounted air conditioners are not so different from window ACs except that they’re mounted on walls rather than windows. The major difference comes in the design of the housing. In addition to not obstruct windows, their special design allows them to have relatively higher cooling capacity than window units.
Portable ACs
As the name suggests, portable air conditioners can be moved to different areas of the house easily to supply cool air where you need it. They’re designed with a hose that carries hot air out of a room, expelling it through a wall opening or window. They are a great option for apartments without central ACs and if you’re looking to save money on AC.
Bottom Line
With the different types of AC for home out there, the main deciding factor for many homeowners is the initial cost of the system. When planning to buy or replace an AC, it’s crucial to consider the long-term costs as well as additional factors such as efficiency levels, if it’ll break down and suddenly smell like rotten eggs and the benefits of having AC in general. A professional AC installer should be able to advise you on the best option for your space and budget.