The 6 Types Of Air Conditioners
There are several types of air conditioners available, each with its own features and benefits. The main types include:
- Window air conditioners
- Portable air conditioners
- Split ductless air conditioners
- Central air conditioning
- Hybrid air conditioners
- Geothermal heating and cooling
The type of air conditioner you choose will depend on factors such as budget, space size, and desired features .
1. Window Air Conditioners
Window air conditioners are a common and affordable option for cooling single rooms. They are installed in an open window, with the exhaust facing outward and cool air directed into the room. Shaded windows can provide even cooler air.
Window units come in various sizes and capacities :
- Small (5,000-6,500 BTU): Cools 100-300 sq. ft., costs $150-$250
- Medium (7,000-8,200 BTU): Cools 250-400 sq. ft., costs $200-$400
- Large (9,800-12,500 BTU): Cools 350-650 sq. ft., costs $350-$600
2. Portable Air Conditioners
Portable air conditioners are designed to cool single rooms and can be moved from one space to another. They are ideal for homes without suitable windows for window units. Capacities range from 9,000 to 15,500 BTU.
However, portable units are often less effective at cooling than advertised and can use more energy than similarly sized window units . Prices range from $300 to $700.
3. Split Ductless Air Conditioners
Split ductless air conditioners offer a space-saving way to cool multiple rooms without installing ductwork. They are more affordable than central air systems but still require professional installation. Prices start at around $1,000 .
4. Central Air Conditioning
Central air conditioning is the most common and effective way to cool an entire home. Cool air is distributed evenly through a series of supply and return ducts installed in the walls. Proper sizing and installation are crucial for efficiency .
5. Hybrid Air Conditioners
Hybrid air conditioners feature a heat pump system that alternates between electricity and fossil fuels to save energy and lower costs .
6. Geothermal Heating & Cooling
Geothermal systems use underground coils to extract heat from the consistent 55°F temperature below ground for efficient, sustainable heating and cooling .
Factors to Consider When Buying a New Air Conditioner
- Insulation: Energy Star-approved units have improved insulation and sealing instructions .
- Noise rating: Modern air conditioners are much quieter than older models .
- Window location: Adjust vents to direct air toward the center of the room for optimal cooling .
- Room size: Calculate the square footage and consider factors like ceiling height, windows, and doors .
- Shaded rooms: Reduce BTU capacity by 10%
- Sunny rooms: Increase BTU capacity by 10%
- Multiple occupants: Add 600 BTU per extra person
- Kitchen use: Increase BTU by 4,000
Top-Rated Air Conditioners
- Koldfront 12,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner: Powerful, energy-efficient, and suitable for rooms up to 550 sq. ft. .
- Della Mini Split AC Ductless Wall Mounted Air Conditioner: Affordable alternative to central air for cooling multiple rooms .
- JHS 10,000 BTU Powerful Portable Air Conditioner: Compact, multi-functional unit for spaces up to 220 sq. ft. .
- Friedrich Chill Series CP12G10B Window Air Conditioner: Ultra-quiet, energy-efficient, and powerful for rooms up to 550 sq. ft. .
Sources:
- "Types of Air Conditioners." Energy Star, https://www.energystar.gov/products/heating_cooling/air_conditioning_room/types_of_air_conditioners.
- "Window Air Conditioner Buying Guide." Consumer Reports, https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/window-air-conditioners/buying-guide/index.htm.
- "Why Portable Air Conditioners Are Overrated." The Spruce, https://www.thespruce.com/why-portable-air-conditioners-are-overrated-1388205.
- "How Central Air Conditioners Work." Goodman Mfg., https://www.goodmanmfg.com/resources/heating-cooling-101/how-central-ac-systems-work.
- "How to Determine Air Conditioner Size for Your Room." Compact Appliance, https://learn.compactappliance.com/air-conditioning-btus/.
