Deciding on the right type of air conditioning unit for your home is ideal for having the comfort level you desire and keeping your home energy efficient. The majority of homeowners concentrate on the energy ratings and capacity of an AC unit; however, considering the type, functionality and design are necessary as well. Below are some of the most popular types of air conditioning units.
Window Air Conditioners
As implied by the name, these air conditioning units are mounted at the windows. This type of AC is referred to as a standalone unit because it is self-contained. This is an indication that all of its parts are enclosed inside a single case. These air conditioning units are quite popular among homeowners as no elaborate installation measure is required and they are extremely compact.
In addition, they are very easy to operate and they are among the least expensive units currently available. Using a part of the window, typically the lower part along with the sill, and an encasement or grille as its base, these air conditioning units are fairly easy to set up.
Portable AC Units
Portable air conditioning units are among the most popular varieties. This is because these standalone units perform a great job in keeping the space at a comfortable level. It should be noted that these units are most suitable for areas that measure less than 600 square feet.
Portable units are a remarkable solution for individuals living in an apartment that does not have central AC. In addition, they are ideal for spaces around the home that are hotter than other spaces and installing a window-mounted unit is not practical.
Ductless Split System AC Units
The ductless split system AC units are equally as popular among commercial property owners and homeowners. These impressive systems deliver a quiet operation since the condenser, which is known to be the source of the noise, is located outdoors, while the wall-mounted blowers are located on the inside of the home.
Contrary to their name, Central Air Conditioning units do not use ducts as a means of distributing cold air throughout the home or workplace. However, they use refrigeration lines that run from the condenser straight to the blower units inside.
This is why these units can be used for cooling multiple rooms with a single system. Based on its capacity, the same unit can be hooked up to multiple blowers, which can be set up in several rooms with different cooling controls or in one large space.
Through-the-Wall AC Units
These air conditioning units are not that different from the window air conditioning units. Actually, they are almost identical in design. If care is not exercised, you could end up purchasing the incorrect type.
Rather than installing the unit by utilizing a window that is already available, through-the-wall units are actually installed on the wall. The major distinction between the two AC units in the housing design.
In contrast to window AC units, the housing of the through-the-wall units are not outfitted with venting instruments on the sides.
Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner (PTAC) and Heating
While the acronym clearly highlights the cooling function, PTAC units can, just as effectively, provide heat for the same space that they cool. These units are commercial grade and are most commonly used by owners of commercial properties. The units are more likely to be found at commercial offices, assisted living facilities and hotels than inside standard homes.
Typically, PTAC units are set up outside the space, under the window or just above the floor. If you have used or seen a combination heater and air conditioning unit in a hotel, you are already acquainted with these types of units.
Central Air Conditioning Unit
These air conditioning units are the most efficient and they are the biggest system that can be installed inside a home or commercial building. For large commercial properties, this type of unit is the default option. Additionally, most new homes are equipped with a central AC unit.
These kinds of air conditioning systems produce very little noise as the noisy condenser is set up on the outside. The system’s evaporative component distributes cold air via ducts and this is then circulated via vents in the floor or ceiling.
Central air conditioning units act as dehumidifiers as well. Moisture is less of an issue than in other designs or models; however, the vents could become frosted. Additionally, this could happen if you do not use the proper cooling settings and the system is not maintained.
