Types Of Air Conditioning Units
Summer is coming and with it the heat. It comes as no surprise that air conditioning usage in BC is rising across the province. Whether it be due to climate change or if people just want to be more comfortable, the number of people with air conditioning units is growing. If you are considering getting an AC unit then you will have to choose from the several types of air conditioning units that are now available.
Yes, there are several types of units to consider when you decide to get air conditioning. You will have to choose between central air conditioning, portable air conditioners, ductless split systems, window units and more. Here is a rundown of the types.
Window Units
By far window ac units are the most common type you will see.
Mounted in a window, the exhaust system expels the hot air out of the back and sides of the unit. The system blows cold air into the home from the front of the unit. Due to the location and size of these, only one room is typically cooled at a time. If you have a larger home you will need multiple units or to move the unit to where you want cooling. On the plus side, window ac units are available at a lower price point.
BENEFITS
- Lower price point
- Easy installation
- Can moved between rooms easily
DISADVANTAGES
- Only cools one room at a time
- Eliminate usage of a window
- With window installation, can provide access point for burglars
Central Air Conditioning
If you are looking to cool many rooms at the same time, a central air conditioning unit may be the choice for you.
The unit has a cooling compressor, normally located outside, that cools the air. Cooled air goes through your house in the existing ducts. Even if your home does not have central AC, it will have the ducts needed for its installation. This will make it an easy installation.
BENEFITS
- Consistent temperature all year
- Upgrades are available like air purifiers and humidifiers
- Controlled by your home thermostats
DISADVANTAGES
- Higher purchase cost
- Larger energy usage cost
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Portable Air Conditioners
Portable air conditioners are self-contained air conditioning systems. These units have all they need to cool your area included.
Portable units are normally used where a window is not available or if a building has rules against window units. Warm air is removed by a hose and then vented away from the room you want cooled. Many of these units come with a kit to set in part of the window that will not go against the building rules.
BENEFITS
- Relatively inexpensive
- Extremely portable
DISADVANTAGES
- Can be noisier than window unit
- Not suitable for large rooms
Ductless Split System Air Conditioners
Split systems are useful ac units that provide cooling to different zone within a home. These zones can be rooms or areas.
Split systems are not self contained units. Comprised of an inside blower unit and a condenser unit which is installed outside. The parts are connected by conduits which carry the power and refrigerant.
BENEFITS
- Versatility – they do not need to be installed near a window
- Attractive – they are not large or ugly and have an nice appearance
- Quiet
- Energy Efficient
DISADVANTAGES
- Purchase cost is higher than a window or portable unit
- Professional Installation required
- Outside noise can be quite loud
Evaporative Coolers
Evaporative Coolers, or “swamp coolers,” aren’t nearly as common as refrigerant air conditioners, but can be equally as effective. They use water and air instead of a refrigerant like freon.
They cool the air by passing through or above the water in the unit. These can only be used in hot, dry climates.
BENEFITS
- Use less energy than traditional AC units
- Easy to maintain
DISADVANTAGES
- Not good in a humid climate
- Use quite a bit of water
- Normally located on the roof
Andrew M
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