What Are the Different Types of Air Conditioners?
Whether building your dream home or preparing to replace an outdated air conditioner, you want to understand the AC options at your disposal. With so many different types of air conditioners to choose from, making a decision can feel overwhelming. As a discerning homeowner, you want an energy-efficient unit that fits your budget and home.
As experts in air conditioning installation in East San Diego, our team at Maximum Comfort Heating & Air has the knowledge and experience you need to make an informed decision. Explore how different units work and how their energy consumption ranks below.
#1 Ductless Mini-Split
You are probably familiar with air conditioning systems that require a network of ducts to disperse air throughout a building. Ductless mini-splits don’t require that network to provide cool refreshing air throughout your home.
This system consists of a condenser located outdoors and a blower located indoors. Instead of ducts, mini-splits require a network that includes a refrigerant line, electrical connections, and a drain line, which simplifies its functions.
If you live in a small home or have added a new section to your home, a ductless mini-split system would provide superior, efficient cooling. It doesn’t take up lots of space. Plus, you won’t break the bank to install it.
However, this type of AC unit won’t work well for larger homes. It only cools a small area of square footage. If you need a model that cools your entire house, you need a more powerful option.
#2 Central AC Unit
Most homeowners are familiar with central AC units. As one of the most popular types of air conditioners, they offer outstanding cooling ability. An outdoor unit intakes air and pushes it throughout the whole building via a network of ducts. Each room typically has its own duct to ensure even cooling.
If you have a larger home with multiple levels or numerous rooms, you’ll benefit from a new central air conditioner. You can customize the temperature through simple thermostat settings to enjoy maximum comfort. However, central AC typically has high up-front costs, which may strain your budget.
#3 Window AC Unit
If you want to avoid steep upfront expenses, you may benefit from a window AC unit. An AC technician will install the unit inside of a window in each room. Then, you can simply plug it into the wall and set your desired temperature.
Window units have lower installation costs coupled with a simple installation process. However, you must ensure that the unit cords can safely reach an outlet. Since they stay in their respective windows, they don’t co-opt lots of floor space.
However, they come with a few drawbacks. Many homeowners find them clunky and dislike how they obstruct their windows. These units also make lots of noise, which makes them unattractive to some people.
#4 Portable AC Unit
You can easily install a portable air conditioner without much assistance. Simply purchase your desired model, plug it into the wall, and set it to your preferred temperature. If you ever move, you can take your portable unit with you.
These air conditioners are affordable, user-friendly, and offer fantastic cooling capabilities for small indoor spaces. However, portable units take up lots of floor space, which you may need in small rooms. Like window units, they are noisy while operating.
#5 Floor-Mounted AC Unit
Like ductless mini-splits, floor-mounted units also allow you to forgo an extensive duct network. Instead of placing them on the wall near the ceiling, your installation specialist will install them on the floor. Unlike other types of air conditions, floor-mounted units contain levers that allow you to adjust the air flow’s direction.
A floor-mounted AC unit shares the same pros and cons as a ductless mini-split. You won’t enjoy optimal cooling capabilities if you install it in a large space. However, it has low upfront costs and works perfectly for smaller areas.
#6 Wall AC Unit
Wall AC units operate similarly to floor-mounted or ductless mini-splits. However, an installation specialist must cut a large hole in the wall to install and connect the unit. The hole must accommodate the entire unit.
By installing this type of unit, you’ll have an air conditioner that sufficiently cools a small room with little noise pollution and affordable upfront costs. Unfortunately, the room will sport an unattractive hole that you must fill in the event you choose a different model. Plus, furniture can easily obstruct wall units.
#7 Hybrid AC Unit
If you want a unit with both heating and cooling capabilities, consider installing a hybrid unit. It uses a system similar to a heat pump to control your home’s temperature. When the temperature fluctuates between warm and chilly, this system will handle the changes.
Since one unit handles heating and cooling cycles, it takes up less room than other units. This advantage increases the system’s energy efficiency. You simply set it to your desired temperature, and the hybrid system handles the rest.
Hybrid units also come with some downsides. You’ll pay higher upfront costs for purchase and installation services. You will also invest more money and time in regular maintenance tasks.
#8 Smart AC Unit
Smart air conditioners connect directly with your in-home WiFi. You can control the temperature from any location through an app on your mobile device. This technology increases your home’s energy efficiency since you can handle your temperature settings at any time.
However, smart air conditioners come with some drawbacks. An expensive price tag typically accompanies each unit. Additionally, you may need more than one unit, depending on the size of your home.
Discover Which Types of Air Conditioners Work Best for Your Home with Maximum Comfort Heating & Air Conditioning
Which types of air conditioners should you consider for your home? Our technicians at Maximum Comfort Heating & Air Conditioning are happy to assist you! We’ll help you choose based on your home’s size, AC maintenance needs, and convenience.
Schedule our services today at (619) 949-1379.