How to Choose Between Different Types Of Domestic Air Conditioning Systems

Whether replacing an old system or looking for an AC for the first time, the process can be daunting. There are many variables to consider, such as the available money, the dimensions of the room, and your specific requirements.

Furthermore, there is more than one style of air conditioner to pick from. Adding stress to the purchase process is the variety of air conditioners available.

There are probably a lot of people waiting for spring. After all, we no longer have to endure long, frigid winters inside. Once the cold days of winter are over, the sun will be visible again.

However, summer is also approaching, so spring comes with mixed emotions. Sometimes you'd rather stay in than go out, even if you enjoy socialising with others and seeing the city's sights.

You should be prepared with a high-quality air conditioner in case the summer heat becomes intolerable.

How To Choose An Air Conditioner

When deciding which home air conditioner is best for you, one of the most crucial aspects to consider is the size and nature of the area that has to be cooled. For instance, a portable or window air conditioner should do the trick if you only need to cool one area.

A portable or window unit may be your only option if you rent and cannot install a permanent system. Central air conditioning is the most effective way to chill a whole house.

Think about how much cooling power you'll need based on the size of your home. Furthermore, a window unit or mini-split may be sufficient in cooler places, while a more powerful unit is required if you reside in a very hot zone and need to cool it for extended periods during hot temps.

Despite home ownership, cost will undoubtedly be a problem. Ductless alternatives exist for those who would rather not spend the money on a conventional HVAC system. Compare each air conditioner's upfront cost and ongoing maintenance fees against its energy efficiency rating to make an informed decision.

Types of AC Units Most Frequently Seen

To get you started, here are the four most prevalent kinds of air conditioners:

Ducted Air Conditioning Systems

The core of a ducted air conditioner is the fan coil. The ductwork system connects the fan coil, which is hidden in the ceiling, to each room in the house. A ducted air conditioning system lets you cool the entire home instead of just one room. The ability to manage the temperature of many zones within a building is a feature of some HVAC systems.

Because the sensor is mounted on the wall, temperature-controlled zones can be created. The zone controller makes simple adjustments, such as the temperature.

Pros And Cons Of Ducted Air Conditioners

Ducted air conditioners are a great investment for many houses. The whole house, especially a brand-new one, can benefit from its excellent cooling qualities. This type of air conditioner is also suitable for use in preexisting homes undergoing major remodelling.

Do you want this, though? Consider the following advantages:

Pros:

• It doesn't require ductwork or much work to set up, so you can put it anywhere you like.
• It can regulate the temperature in each room.

Cons:

• Larger houses need more than one ductless mini-split system.
• The indoor unit may need more light because it is mounted on the wall.

Ducted air conditioners could be useful in flats, but most structures don't allow them. Ducted air conditioning systems are fantastic for those who live in larger homes or apartments. Consider this air conditioner if you must heat or cool many rooms simultaneously. You can cool off just one room or the entire house as needed.

Split System Air Conditioning

A split system is the most prevalent form of air conditioner. If you have ever seen a unit fixed to a wall, you are looking at this type of air conditioner. Typically, these setups are only found in smaller dwellings.

The name of this type of air conditioner gives away the fact that its components are separated into two units. The fan coil is located inside the system and distributes conditioned air. The other part, known as the condenser, is the part of the system that sits in plain sight outside the home.

Pros And Cons Of A Split System Air Conditioner

Think carefully about this AC's benefits and drawbacks before purchasing. The advantages are as follows:

Pros:

• Aesthetically, they are an excellent option because they can be both a stylish and non-issue addition to your decor.
• They do not require much effort or complicated ductwork to install so that you can put them in almost every room in your house.
• Because they utilise cutting-edge technologies to improve performance and efficiency, split-type ACs are more cost-effective than traditional models.
• They are a fantastic long-term investment because of the money they save on energy costs.

Cons:

• Air conditioners of the split type are significantly more expensive to purchase initially due to their significantly higher capacity, which is a direct result of their significantly larger size than air conditioners of the window type. 
• You may have to arrange inconvenient installations or repairs, but doing so is necessary for safety reasons and to keep your warranty valid. 
• Although they may be peaceful inside, the compressor unit is often loud and distracting.
• Filters, in particular, must be cleaned often (once every month or two) to ensure continued efficiency, which could be a source of additional work. Regular maintenance, once or twice a year by a technician, is also required for the outdoor condensers to function properly.

Is this the kind of storage space you need? This low-priced AC choice is worth considering if you live in a quiet area and your neighbours won't mind the noise. Remember that it can only heat or cool a single space.

If you're cooling one room, you can save money. However, you may want to consider a ducted air conditioner if your home is particularly large and you need to chill multiple rooms.

Multi-Split System Air Conditioning

Multi-split air conditioners are another option. Like the split system, it consists of an indoor and an outdoor unit. The multi-split system, in contrast, consists of multiple interior units rather than simply one. They are all linked to a single unit in the yard outside the house.

Although some multi-split systems are also equipped to provide heating, others serve exclusively that function.

Pros And Cons Of Multi-Split AC Systems

Know the benefits and drawbacks of multi-split air conditioners before purchasing one. The advantages of this specific AC model include the following:

Pros:

• A multi-split air conditioner's flexibility to heat and cool individual rooms means it uses less energy overall. Multi-split air conditioners are the most eco-friendly option. One outdoor compressor serves multiple domestic air conditioners.
• This air conditioner is ideal if you have a large home and want to save money by not installing an outdoor unit in each room.
• Each room's temperature can be set individually to your liking.
• You can always attach more indoor units if needed.
• The outdoor unit can be 15 metres from the interior one without affecting performance.
• The cost of this system is less than that of purchasing several separate single-split systems. In addition, it doesn't break the bank to set up, fix, maintain, or replace.

There are drawbacks to this system, unfortunately:

Cons:

• Every interior unit will stop working if the outdoor compressor fails.
• When adjusting the temperature, you can't have some units on cool and some on heat.

The number of interior units in a multi-split AC system is from two to nine. It's a viable option for individuals who would have prefered a ducted AC but lacked the room to install one. It is possible that installing this kind of air conditioner would benefit you if your home has several different rooms or if it is more than one story tall.

Portable Air Conditioners

If you want a solitary air conditioning device, turn to a portable AC system. This is the best option if you only need a colder environment in one room.

Portable air conditioners function in the same way as the vast majority of other kinds of ACs. They have an exhaust duct that goes through a window to get fresh air. After that, the compressor will release the heated air.

Pros And Cons Of Portable Air Conditioners

Is this sort of air conditioner right for your house? The advantages are as follows:

Pros:

• Because of its compact size, this air conditioner is your most cost-effective option.
• The unit's exhaust hose needs access to a window for installation. There also has to be a power outlet close by so that it may be plugged in. A professional is usually not required to complete the installation process. However, ensure that you carry out each step exactly as described.
• The mobile unit may be rolled to a different location if necessary. Unlike other forms of air conditioning, this one provides a lot of leeway.

But before you rush out and make a purchase, think about the downsides:

Cons:

• Least effective: The compact size of a portable air conditioner is both an asset and a liability. In comparison to other forms of AC, it could be more efficient. The power consumption of the unit will increase.
• Since the unit will be installed in your bedroom, you must also contend with the noise it generates. You may slow the cooling process by turning it down, though.

If anyone, who would this AC be for? If you own a home and wish to cool more than one room, a portable air conditioner is your best bet.

This form of air conditioning could be useful for apartment dwellers, who may be subject to rules on installing appliances.

Window Type Air Conditioner

Window-style air conditioners are a common, trustworthy, and widely used option. As their name suggests, window air conditioners are designed to fit into a window opening or a wall with an exterior exhaust. They can be found in various sizes, but the best ones are reserved for cooling off a single room or a modest space.

A single, self-contained device contains all the parts of a window-mounted air conditioner—which draws hot air from within and vents it outside. Controls can be a set of buttons or a set of knobs on the device's face, or they can be a handheld remote. They contain filters that can be slid out of the grill and washed to keep them functioning at peak performance. 

Pros And Cons Of Window Type Air Conditioner

Pros:

• Homeowners with cramped quarters might better use their space by mounting them on the wall.
• They are easier to start up and run on a smaller budget.
• They may be easily cleaned and cared for.
• They can be set up with little need for technical know-how.

Cons:

• They often produce an audible rumbling or humming noise.
• They require proximity to a power source.
• If installed in a window opening, they will block the view and prevent it from opening for ventilation.
• Not all windows can handle air conditioners. Since most of these units have a square or rectangular design, some irregularly shaped windows may not be suitable with window-type ACs.

Central Air Conditioner

This is the best type of air conditioning if you have a really large house and need to cool many rooms at once. 

The mechanism has two basic parts, as shown by the split aspect. The air handler and evaporator coils are inside the building, while the condenser and compressor are outside. Like other types of air conditioning, central air conditioning operates by dissipating heat from the air within a building using a refrigerant. After the warm air within has been extracted, the duct system replaces it with cool air.

Pros And Cons Of Central Air Conditioner

Pros:

• It quickly and efficiently maintains a comfortable temperature throughout the house by completely cooling all duct-connected rooms.
• As cold air is distributed throughout the home, humidity levels are reduced, creating a more pleasant environment.

Cons:

• It consumes a lot of power, which could lead to higher monthly bills for utilities.
• Loss of efficiency is possible if there is a problem with the ducts.
• The exterior design may need to be more appealing to some.

Floor Mounted Air Conditioner

Floor-standing air conditioners are an excellent option for those who desire a mini-split but need the wall space for a wall-mounted unit. An air conditioner with a floor-mounted interior unit does not require any special installation procedures or ducting at the exterior. This configuration works splendidly in attics and other spaces with sloping walls and in buildings constructed of fragile materials like glass.

The inside unit communicates with the outside unit through a small hole in the wall and can be installed as little as 6 inches off the ground. This air conditioner is conveniently placed, so it is simple to inspect the filters.

Pros And Cons Of Floor-Mounted Air Conditioners

Pros:

• It's convenient for the elderly living alone because of how easy it is to go there.
• It has a simple set-up procedure.
• Its compact profile makes it a great fit for tight quarters.

Cons:

• The air circulation in a room can be impeded by obstacles like furniture.
• It is not recommended for wide areas due to uneven and localised airflow dispersion.

Geothermal Air Conditioner

Simply put, a geothermal HVAC system does nothing except redistribute heat. The system requires a heat pump and underground piping in your home. The pump circulates a heat exchanger fluid to heat or cool your home.

A heat pump sends indoor heat to the ground as an air conditioner. In the summer, the ground beneath your home functions as a heat sink, helping to keep the interior cool.

Pros And Cons Of Geothermal Air Conditioner

Pros:

• Almost no upkeep is necessary
• uses a fraction of the power in operation
• The safest heating and cooling option available

Cons:

• Potential groundwater problems may not be resolved for another 5–10 years after installation.
• Not appropriate for all homes

Conclusion

Factors such as cost, space available, and desired features can make narrowing down the options for a home air conditioning system difficult. The coming of warmer weather in the spring makes it imperative to have a reliable air conditioner. Important considerations include the area's size and composition.

Central air conditioning is the most efficient method of cooling a full house, but portable or window units are fine for cooling individual rooms. Consider the required cooling capacity based on the square footage of your home.

Compared to conventional HVAC systems, ductless air conditioners are more cost-effective while providing adequate cooling. Ducted air conditioning systems connect each room in a house through a fan coil installed in the ceiling.

In addition, they may control the temperature in different areas separately. New construction and substantial renovations to existing homes both benefit from installing ducted air conditioners.

Larger homes may need more than one ductless mini-split system, though. Choosing a ductless or traditional HVAC system is a matter of personal preference and financial constraints.

Because they can heat or cool numerous rooms simultaneously, ducted air conditioners are a great choice for larger homes or apartments. Split system air conditioners, common in smaller homes, have two components—a fan coil and a condenser—that work independently.

Due to sophisticated technologies, these units are visually appealing, easy to install, and cost-effective. The money you'll save on energy makes them a fantastic long-term investment. Due to their wall-mounted orientation, however, they may need additional illumination.

Due to their bigger size and increased cooling capacity, split air conditioners have a higher price tag upfront. They are a pain to set up and fix and need to be cleaned and maintained often.

They work well only in peaceful settings and can't regulate the temperature of more than one room. Multiple indoor and outdoor units are linked to a central outdoor unit in a multi-split system.

While some operate only as heaters, others have that capability as well. Before investing in a multi-split AC system, it's necessary to weigh the benefits and drawbacks.

Multi-split air conditioners are efficient and economical, allowing you to control the temperature in each room independently. They can be positioned up to 15 metres away from one another without compromising performance and can be connected to several different indoor units. However, if the external compressor breaks, it may not function, and some models cannot be tweaked.

This setup works well for multi-room houses and high-rises. If you require a cooler climate in just one room, a portable air conditioner can do the trick with its exhaust duct out the window, just like any other central air conditioner.

Portable air conditioners save money because of their small size and straightforward setup. They require access to a window and a power outlet and may be moved to different positions.

Though small in stature, they consume more energy than their bulkier counterparts. In addition, even when turned down, they can be very noisy, especially in the bedroom.

These air conditioners are ideal for people who need to chill several rooms in their house or live in a building with strict installation regulations. Air conditioners of the window variety are installed through open windows or walls to vent hot air outside.

Air conditioners installed in windows are independent units that circulate cool air inside the building and release the hot air outdoors. They are simple to clear and set up, making them perfect for confined quarters. But they make noise, need to be plugged in, obscure the view, and some windows can't handle them.

Large homes that need to chill several rooms at once benefit greatly from central air conditioning systems. A refrigerant removes heat from the air, and the resulting cold air is distributed throughout the building via a duct system.

Central air conditioners keep the whole house at a nice temperature by distributing cool air through ducts to each room. However, they have drawbacks like power consumption, potential for increased energy costs, and diminished performance due to duct damage.

Attics, slanted walls, and delicate structures are perfect locations for windowless, floor-mounted air conditioners. They are easy to install and provide a practical solution for older people who live alone.

Because of the inefficiency and potential for airflow obstruction caused by furniture, floor-mounted AC units are not suggested for large rooms. Geothermal air conditioners need a heat pump and subsurface piping to redistribute heat.

In the summer, a heat pump acts as a heat sink by releasing heat from indoor spaces into the ground. Though they are safe, efficient, and require little upkeep, geothermal air conditioners can damage aquifers.

Content Summary

• When deciding on an air conditioner, it's important to consider costs, space availability, and other necessities.
• Portable or window units are appropriate for localised cooling, whereas central air conditioning is best for cooling an entire home.
• Power for cooling is situationally and durationally dependent.
• Consider the energy efficiency along with the initial and ongoing costs.
• Ducted cooling systems provide whole-house comfort and zoned temperature regulation.
• Ducted systems include benefits like simple installation and zoned temperature control.
• Ducted systems are ideal for larger homes or apartments but may not be suitable for smaller ones.
• Split systems are standard and efficient but can be noisy and require regular maintenance.
• Multiple interior units are connected to a single outdoor unit in a multi-split system.
• The advantages of multi-split systems include portability and zoned heating and cooling.
• Portable ACs are cost-effective and mobile but could be less efficient and noisy.
• Units with windows are widespread and simple, but they might obstruct the view and create unwanted noise.
• Whole-house central air conditioning is efficient, but it can be expensive to run.
• Having a unit on the floor is convenient but could also restrict circulation.
• Geothermal systems provide heating and cooling using heat pumps and subsurface pipework.
• Though they reduce energy consumption and maintenance needs, geothermal systems aren't a good fit for every house.
• The decision on an air conditioner is influenced by noise level, efficiency, available space, and budget.
• The type of air conditioner you should get depends on factors including the size of the room, its location, and the noise level your neighbours can stand.
• Think about the effort involved in setting it up, the frequency of servicing, and the overall price tag.
• There are perks and cons to every single kind of air conditioner on the market.
• A ducted system can chill the entire house or just a specific area.
• Split systems cool effectively but may need maintenance and cleaning regularly.
• Multi-split systems are versatile and efficient heating and cooling solutions for different spaces.
• Although portable air conditioners are inexpensive, they may be less effective and loud.
• Common and simple to set up, window-style units can, however, obscure views and generate noise.
• However, the cost of running a central air system for an entire house can add up.
• While floor-mounted units are practical, they may restrict ventilation in some areas.
• Geothermal systems include heat pumps and subsurface piping for heating and cooling.
• Low-maintenance geothermal systems may not be a good fit for every house because of the work involved in setting them up.
• When deciding on an air conditioner, it's essential to consider the noise level, energy efficiency, installation area, and budget.
• The tolerance of nearby residents for noise, the difficulty of the installation, and the total cost over time all play a role.
• There are perks and drawbacks to every AC model that must be weighed carefully.
• All areas of the house can benefit from the duct system's efficient cooling and zoning features.
• Split systems cool effectively but may require frequent cleaning and lubrication.
• Energy-efficient and versatile, multi-split systems can be used in various spaces.
• Although portable air conditioners are inexpensive, they may be less effective and loud.
• Simple to set up, window models may obscure your view and make unwanted noise.
• Central air conditioning systems are effective at cooling homes, but they can be expensive to run.
• Floor models are convenient but can block air circulation in some rooms.
• Although geothermal systems are efficient, not all houses can accommodate their installation.