Having to choose a new air conditioning system for your home can be a stressful and confusing time. With all the various types of units on the market, the possibilities may seem overwhelming. Depending on your situation, you might even be under a time constraint and have to choose a new system soon.
4 types of air conditioners available to you:
Central Air Conditioning:
This is the most common type of cooling system as it is the most preferable for larger homes. Central air conditioners circulate cool air through supply and return ducts. Supply ducts and registers, which are in the wall or floors, carry cooled air into the home. Then, once the air becomes warm it circulates back into the supply ducts and registers where it will then be transported back to the air conditioner.
Installing a central air conditioning system requires a lot of planning and preparation as sizing is crucial to the functionality of the system. If you install a system that is of the wrong size, even if it’s energy efficient, you’ll find that your utility costs are more than they should be.
Ductless, Mini-Split Air Conditioner:
Ductless, mini-split systems are most common in parts of the home that have been retro-fitted. Like central air conditioning systems, these systems have an outdoor compressor/condenser and an indoor handling unit.
If you’re looking to cool individual rooms your house, this system might be just for you. Many ductless, mini-split systems can have as many as four indoor handling units, which are all connected to the outdoor unit.
Each zone has its own thermostat, allowing you to adjust the temperature for each room accordingly. This is especially advantageous if you’re wanting to cool only a particular part of the house that is being used.
Window Air Conditioner:
Think of a window air conditioner as a compact unit that cools only one particular room. Also known as a “unitary unit,” this system is installed in the window of a room.
Window units cool a room be emitting the warm air out the back of it and blowing cool air into it. These types of units are best for those who live in small spaces. It would not be ideal for a larger home as you will discover that it doesn’t cool efficiently in that kind of environment.
Portable Air Conditioner:
Portable air conditioners are considered as the next generator of window units. This type of air conditioning unit takes in air from the room and cools it, then directs it back into the room. The unit then vents any warm air outside by means of an exhaust hose that is installed in a window.
Like window air conditioning units, portable air conditioners are designed to cool only one room. They’re easy to install, versatile, and an affordable option. You’ll find that the portability of your air conditioner makes staying cooling on a hot summer day that much easier.
For a more in-depth look into the different types of air conditioning systems, check out the U.S. Department of Energy’s infographic.
Watch this video for a recap of the different air conditioning systems available to you:
Count on Larry & Sons as your number one source for all things HVAC and Plumbing related. We can educate you on all the different types of systems and help you choose the one that is best for you and your budget. We will then provide you with upfront pricing and ensure proper sizing and code compliance so that you know exactly what we are doing and for how much, before the work even begins.
For more information, visit us online or give us a call at (301) 733-5428.
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