If you’re on the hunt for a new air conditioning system, you may be feeling overwhelmed by all of the different types of air conditioning systems and options out there. There are central air conditioners, heat pumps, portable air conditioners, window air conditioners, and ductless mini split air conditioner types.
Don’t sweat it! This comprehensive guide on air conditioners will help you choose the best air conditioning system for your needs. We’ll cover everything from central air conditioning units, mini split air conditioners, and heat pump air conditioners to window air conditioner and portable air conditioner models, sharing the information you need to know before deciding which air conditioners you want to consider for your home. Whether you’re looking to cool multiple rooms throughout your entire home or are just looking for an AC unit for a single room, we’ve got you covered.
Williams Comfort Air helps Central Indiana homeowners identify the right cooling system for their needs, whether it’s a central air conditioning system, heat pump, window air conditioning units, a ductless air conditioner, or portable types of air conditioning units. Read on to learn more about the different air conditioning unit options so you best understand the air conditioners that can be used in your home.
There are three general types of air conditioners you can buy for your Central Indiana area home: a split system, packaged air conditioners, and portable units.
The split system has two separate equipment cabinets, one located outside that houses the condenser and compressor, and the second cabinet inside that contains the evaporator and blower. The indoor cabinet may be a furnace with a central air conditioning system or an air handler that pairs with a heat pump. The indoor unit and outdoor unit are connected by refrigerant lines that run between them.
The packaged type of air conditioner system is a single air conditioning unit that contains all necessary components like the evaporator coils, blower equipment, condenser coils, and compressor. This AC unit is usually located on the roof or at ground level outside the home.
These air conditioning systems are often used in smaller homes or homes without extra installation space, as there is no need for an indoor air conditioner cabinet.
A portable air conditioner is self-contained similar to a packaged air conditioning system, but it is much smaller and not installed in a fixed position. All air conditioner components are contained in a portable unit. A portable unit sits indoors and comes with an installation kit to vent the portable AC unit outdoors. These air conditioners provide cool air for smaller spaces and can be easily moved as needed.
The types of air conditioning systems available for purchase and use in Central Indiana homes include central air conditioning, heat pump air conditioners, a mini-split system, window unit, or portable AC units.
There are many different types of cooling systems available on the market, but central air conditioners are by far the most popular choice in the United States. The outdoor condensing unit is commonly paired with an indoor furnace, but these air conditioners can be set up with indoor handling units if the forced air HVAC system in the home is only used as a cooling system.
Central air conditioning units are very effective at circulating cool air throughout the entire home and keeping the indoor temperature comfortable. Another benefit of central AC units is that they help to reduce humidity levels in the air. However, in areas with high humidity, it may be necessary to invest in a separate dehumidifier to keep moisture levels under control.
When shopping for a central air conditioner, there are different types of air conditioner units to choose from: single-stage, two-stage, and variable speed. These terms refer to the operational capacity asthe fan blows to circulate air throughout the home and air conditioning system.
A heat pump air conditioning system is a great option for those looking for an air conditioning unit that can also provide heating. These units are similar to conventional central air conditioning units and both air conditioners use the same process for cooling, but a heat pump comes with the added benefit of being able to reverse their operation to provide heating in the winter.
There are two types of heat pumps available – ground source (geothermal) and air source – which both work to provide cool air in the summer and warm air in the winter. Both types of heat pumps are effective in all weather conditions, but some air source heat pump air conditioners struggle as heating units when outdoor temperatures are quite low. The same blower operation options are generally available for heat pump indoor handling units, as described above.
Ductless air conditioners (also called mini splits) are a type of air conditioning system that is configured differently than other split air conditioning types. Rather than using ductwork to deliver cooled air throughout the home, these systems consist of an outdoor unit that is linked to one or more indoor air handlers. This allows cool air to be delivered directly into the living space, without the need for ductwork.
Ductless air conditioners are becoming increasingly popular for whole-home cooling, as they provide conditioned air from various locations throughout the home. While traditional central air conditioners distribute cooled air from one centralized location, ductless air conditioners offer a more customized and efficient solution for cooling your home.
Mini-splits can be used in multifamily housing, in different areas of a single-family home, or in an office building or other commercial property. They have the advantage of not having to be ducted through the attic, which could cause air leaks and condensation. The outdoor unit is connected to the indoor unit by a set of small copper tubes and electrical wires that are run through a small hole in the wall.
Portable air conditioners are a great way to cool down your home during hot summer months. They can be easily moved from room to room and help circulate air throughout the immediate area. Portable air conditioners are also relatively easy to install, as long as you have a nearby window to fit the vent. Most units come with an installation kit and hose.
A window air conditioner is a great choice for those looking for a simple AC unit. Its compact size and easy installation make it a popular choice for many homeowners who do not want to invest in a central air conditioning system. A window air conditioner plugs into a traditional electrical outlet and can be moved from window to window as needed. With all of the parts and window air conditioner components packaged in one box, it is perfect for homes without central air conditioning systems.
Williams Comfort Air helps Central Indiana homeowners sort through all the different types of air conditioning systems to arrive at the best air conditioner choice for their needs. We provide expert installation for types of air conditioners that are central air conditioner units, heat pumps, and mini-split systems. If you’re ready for reliable cold air, contact us to shop new AC units today!