In the market for a new air conditioning system? Maybe you already think that you want a central air conditioning system, but there’s more to it than that. There are so many different types of air conditioners on the market, including central air conditioners, portable air conditioners, window air conditioners, heat pumps, and ductless mini split air conditioners. Each type of air conditioner is a bit different from the other air conditioners, giving you plenty of variety to choose from for your next cooling system.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed with the number of air conditioning systems that are available. But don’t worry — this guide will teach you about central air conditioning unit options, window AC units, heat pump air conditioners, ductless air conditioner models, and portable air conditioner units so that you can make an informed decision on what kind of AC unit is right for you!
Thomas & Galbraith Heating, Cooling & Plumbing works with Cincinnati area homeowners to find the types of air conditioning systems that best meet the needs of their households, whether it’s central air conditioners, portable air conditioners, window air conditioners, heat pumps, or mini split air conditioner units. Learn more about room and central air conditioner choices so you have a better idea of the type of air conditioner that is right for you!
Of all the types of air conditioning systems air conditioner equipment falls into three main categories: split system air conditioners, packaged air conditioning units, and portable air conditioner models.
A split system air conditioner is a system that uses two components to cool your home. The outdoor unit is mounted outside of your house, and the other components are installed within your home’s walls.
The indoor unit holds the cooling coil and blower, responsible for circulating cool air through the ductwork and into your rooms. The cooling coils, also called evaporator coils, hold refrigerant that removes heat from hot air inside the home to reduce air temperature.
The outdoor unit houses a compressor, which pressurizes refrigerant that runs between both units. Once the refrigerant has been pressurized, it moves into the outdoor coil of the condensing unit, and heat is released into the surrounding air. Then, refrigerant will travel from the outdoor unit to the indoor unit and start the process of removing heat from warm air again.
Packaged air conditioners are a great option for those who want to avoid the hassle of split system air conditioner installation. The portable unit sits indoors on the floor but can be wheeled around from one room to another. These units come with everything you need in one simple package, including the evaporator cooling coil, blower equipment, condenser unit coils, and compressor. Packaged air conditioning systems usually sit on a rooftop or outside the home and portable air conditioners tend to be smaller in size, making them perfect for homes without a lot of extra space.
A portable air conditioner is a great way to cool down a small space. It is self-contained and comes with an installation kit to vent the unit outdoors. These portable air conditioning units are much smaller than traditional air conditioners and can be easily moved as needed.
If you’re shopping for a new cooling system, there are different types of air conditioner equipment to choose from. Ductless mini split air conditioner types, a portable AC units, window air conditioning units, a central air conditioning system, or a heat pump and air handler combo are your options.
Central air conditioners are a great way to keep your home cool during the hotter months. These split-system air conditioners work by circulating cool air through a system of ducts and registers, which can be found in many different locations throughout your home. As the air circulates around your rooms, it gradually heats up and is then circulated back to the central air conditioner. The air conditioning process extracts heat from hot air to lower its temperature and helps to dehumidify the air, but in extremely humid conditions you may need to invest in a separate dehumidifier.
There are many different types of air conditioners on the central air conditioning system market. Some people prefer single-stage units, while others prefer two-stage or variable-speed units. These terms refer to the speeds at which the fan blows to circulate cooled air through ducts to cool multiple rooms or the entire house. The type of unit you choose should be based on your specific needs and preferences.
A heat pump air conditioning system is a great option for those looking for an energy-efficient way to fill their homes with air conditioning in the summer and warm it in the winter. These units work by taking heat from the air inside and releasing it outside to create indoor cool air, just like central air conditioning units. In the winter, heat from the air outdoors is brought indoors to make warm air that heats the inside of your home, depending. Heat pump air conditioners and heaters are effective in all weather conditions, but one type of heat pump may struggle a bit as heating units when outdoor temperatures are quite low.
Ductless mini splits are a type of air conditioning system that does not rely on ductwork. Instead, one or multiple indoor air handlers are linked to an outdoor unit. This allows for cool air to be delivered directly into the space, without the need for ductwork installation.
Ductless air conditioners are becoming increasingly popular, as they offer a more efficient and flexible way to cool your home. Unlike traditional split air conditioners, ductless systems do not require any ductwork, making them much easier to install. Ductless systems also offer both cooling and heating capabilities depending on if you have them configured with heat pumps or air conditioners, making them a great all-around solution for climate control. Whether you’re looking to cool a single room or your entire home, a ductless system may be the perfect option for you.
Mini split system air conditioners offer a versatile and energy-efficient cooling solution for a variety of settings, from single-family homes to commercial properties. Rather than using ductwork, which can be prone to leaks and condensation, mini split air conditioners connect an outdoor unit to one or more indoor handling units via small copper tubes and electrical wires. This allows for greater flexibility in installation and can provide targeted cooling to specific areas as needed.
Portable air conditioners can be wheeled or caster-mounted for easy movement from room to room. They improve airflow and alleviate hot spots and humidity, creating a comfortable environment during warmer months. Installation is simple; just fit the portable air conditioner vent to a nearby window.
If you’re looking for an air conditioner that’s easy to install and doesn’t take up much space, a window air conditioner is a great choice. Because all the components come in one box, it’s perfect for homes without central air conditioning systems. Plus, you can plug the window unit into a traditional electrical outlet and move it from window to window as needed.
While the types of air conditioning systems seem endless, Thomas & Galbraith can help you find the perfect cooling system, from energy-efficient mini-split systems to central air and heat pumps. Contact us today to learn more and get a quote for your new AC unit.