Types of Air Conditioners
An overview of the choice
When it comes to keeping cool with air conditioning, there are more options than you may think
Look at the types of air conditioners available.
The right type of air conditioner for you will depending on the size of the space you want to cool, the number of rooms and the price you are able to pay upfront as well as your budget for ongoing energy costs.
The four main types of home air conditioners are central air conditioners, ductless air conditioners, portable air conditioners, and window air conditioners.
Type of air conditioner: Central Air Conditioners
Central air conditioners are both the most expensive and most effective forms of air conditioning. They are often recognizable by the outdoor unit which is connected by copper piping to the indoor components.While central air conditioning is on, refrigerant flows through this piping which allows indoor heat to be transferred outside. Central air conditioning is also a ducted system. This means that cool air is carried to the different rooms in your home through ducts.
Type of air conditioner: Ductless Air Conditioners
Ductless air conditioners also have an outdoor unit that is connected to an indoor section. However, the air is not transported through a series of ducts like central air conditioning.They are usually used to cool a single room, however it is possible to have a number of indoor components in each room that is connected to one external unit so that more than one room can be cooled.
Mini-Split system air conditioners are a form of ductless air conditioning. They can be very reasonably priced, energy efficient and relatively quiet. However, they need to be professionally installed and become apart of the building which will remain when you leave.
Nevertheless, an attractive style and efficient operation should improve your property value and make it easier to sell.
Type of air conditioner: Portable Air Conditioners
Portable air conditioners are small, mobile units that provide can provide a flexible and cost effective cooling option. They are obviously much smaller than central and ductless types but they are also more maneuverable than window air conditioners as well. They have the same components as a central system but incorporated into a small cabinet.Portable air conditioning offers an efficient and viable alternative for people who need different areas cooled at different times. They can even be taken on vacation if the accommodation is not air conditioned and can be moved from one room to the other easily.
This portability means that you can still gain the benefits of air conditioning even on a low budget. When you move from one home to another you are also able to take it with you. A hose needs to run through a window from the unit so that heat is expelled into the outside environment, keeping the inside cool.
Type of air conditioner: Window Air Conditioners
Window air conditioners are more attractive and efficient than earlier models and contain all the elements of an air conditioning system in one unit. They are designed to stay in place, fitted in a standard window space, and cool a specific area.It is important to choose a window air conditioner with the right capacity to cool your space. The downside of window air conditioners is that they are unsightly on the outside of the building and they block window views and light.
There are many different brands and models of window air conditioners. Take the time to choose a model that runs relatively quietly, is energy efficient (to keep ongoing energy costs down) and easy to maintain.
Final Considerations
All air conditioners take moisture from the air which lowers humidity. This can increase comfort in very humid conditions as well as helping people who have respiratory problems such as asthma which are aggravated by humidity.No matter which air conditioning system you choose, you will have to maintain it. Regular cleaning or replacing of filters is necessary to not only keep air conditioning systems running efficiently, but also to avoid compressor damage.
How often you will need to clean or change filters will depend on how dusty your area is. If you live in a dry and dusty area you will need to do so more often than if you live in a pristine environment.
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