Do you know that – there are different types of air conditioners available in the market?
Yes, it’s true. And not all models are suitable for everyone.
To avail the maximum benefits of an air conditioner without any issues like less cooling, difficult installation or higher power bills, it is very important to choose an air conditioner based on your requirements.
In this article, we going to explore different types of ACs in detail. Read the information thoroughly to make an informed choice on which type of air conditioner suits your needs.
Different Types of AC in India
There are 4 types of AC units available in the market, each orchestrated for a specific purpose and to fit in a specific place. Below is a compiled list of the same:
1. Split Air Conditioner
Preferred by many for their greater efficiency and impressive performance, split ACs are the on-demand air conditioners. They consist of two components, namely inner and external components, connected by an electric cable and two copper pipes. The refrigerant circulates through these connections to and from the internal and external components.
The external component consists of the compressor, which remains outside. Whereas the internal component, which is compact in design and weight, gets placed inside the room.
The modern split ACs come equipped with remote control, and a heat pump facility, which provides heat during cold winters. The extraordinary combination of sophisticated controls and a heat pump assures effective climate control to the users.
Most modern split ACs come with several control modes and times, taking the comfort to next level. They also have built-in equipment like filters and air purification systems that ensure fresh, cool, and filtered air free from dust and other pollutants.
If you live in a contemporary home, then these ductless split ACs are a perfect choice. These air conditioners consume efficient energy when compared to other cooling systems. However, they can be expensive too.
Let us learn about their advantages and disadvantages below:
Pros:
- You can install a split AC anywhere inside the house hassle-free and without any ductwork.
- It has a high cooling capacity.
- It is versatile, easy to maintain, and clean.
- It functions with great quietness.
- It purifies the air entering the room and circulates clean and fresh air.
- Efficient to run.
Cons:
- When it comes to larger homes, a single unit of split AC does not suffice for cooling.
- It needs a professional for installation.
- It requires proper placement for installation.
- It might not look appealing having a device mounted to the wall or hanging off the wall.
- The compressor located outside can generate a lot of noise.
- Since it is wall-mounted, it is much visible.
- It recirculates the same air, thereby not allowing the ability to exchange air.
2. Window Air Conditioner
Window air conditioners are the traditional air conditioners that come in different sizes. Often labeled as champions for cooling smaller rooms or spaces, these cooling systems are the most widespread configuration of ACs found.
A small-size window AC is a suitable option for cooling either a single room or a small area.
Unlike the mini ductless splits, they are a single unit having all components (indoor and outdoor) enclosed inside.
The indoor component of the window AC consists of a cooling coil, fan blower, capillary tube, operation panel, filter drier, and a drain pan. The outdoor component has a compressor, condenser coil, propellor fan, and a fan motor included in it.
It operates by blowing cool air into the room from the indoor side component while ejecting the heat out of its outdoor side component.
As mentioned earlier, they come in various sizes to fit a variety of window types. Also, the cool air generation varies depending on the size of the unit. A bigger unit facilitates more cool air generation than a smaller one.
If you a large home, then you may need these ACs fitted in every room to get your home cooled. These air conditioners also have a filter and come with a remote and control unit.
Let us learn about their advantages and disadvantages below:
Pros
- They are inexpensive.
- They are not only easy to install but also easy to maintain.
- They are energy efficient.
- They do not take any floor space as you can hang them up on the window.
- They are portable
- You can use them all year round, irrespective of the seasons.
Cons
- You cannot install them anywhere except the window you choose to.
- The window should be capable enough to bear the weight of the unit.
- You should always install it in a location that is close to a power outlet.
- Not efficient for large rooms. You may need more than one unit to keep the room cool.
- They may pose a security risk, giving burglars an easy way to enter.
- They are noisy.
3. Portable Air Conditioner
A portable air conditioner is a unit similar to the window system. However, the only difference is that you can move it around easily anywhere in your home.
A portable unit comes in a self-contained body with wheels that makes it feasible and convenient to move the unit. These are ideal for cooling the single rooms and can be a significant replacement for window ACs.
Unlike other cooling systems, a portable AC does not require a massive setup for installation. It only needs an electric outlet and a window to vent out the exhaust warm air outside.
You can always go for a portable air conditioner in place of a window or split AC, especially when it is not possible to install them.
Let us learn about their advantages and disadvantages below:
Pros
- They do not require any installation.
- You can move them effortlessly from one to another or from one apartment to another.
- A window AC is very affordable and less expensive than other types of ACs.
- You can hide them or put them away when not in use.
Cons
- These tend to create more noise than other cooling systems.
- They are ineffective to cool large rooms.
- You have to empty the water tanks of these ACs regularly.
- They are less economical and consume more electricity.
- Being a free-standing unit, they occupy the floor space.
4. Central Air Conditioner
A Central AC is that type of air conditioner specifically designed for large rooms or multiple rooms. Also known as a duct system, a central unit works by cooling air at a central location and distributes the same to and from rooms through ducts.
There are two types of central air conditioners – they are a split system or a packaged unit. A split-system central air conditioner is the most economical and easy to install. It has two main components, i.e., the outdoor and the indoor. The outdoor cabinet consists of the condenser and compressor, whereas the indoor component has the evaporator coils and an air handler.
A packaged central air conditioner has an air conditioner, evaporator, condenser, and compressor, all located in one cabinet.
The modern HVAC technology in central air conditioners coupled with programmable thermostats ensures a smart home experience, central air conditioners.
Let us learn about their advantages and disadvantages below:
Pros
- Ensures consistent temperature everywhere in the home all through the year.
- Installing a central air conditioner is more convenient and easier than a split AC or a window AC.
- A central AC does not make much noise while operating.
- It is very affordable and costs less than having individual cooling devices in separate rooms.
- It helps in the effective circulation of air throughout the home.
- It helps in improving the quality of air inside the house.
- Your central AC is invisible, thus improving the aesthetic look of the home.
Cons
- When you do not install a central air conditioning unit as per the size of your home, it may not be able to cool your entire house.
- Your central AC consumes more power and can increase your electricity bills.
- The centralized air conditioners work until the temperature of the house reaches a designated level.
- Central units have high maintenance costs.
- In case of any problem in the ducts, these cooling systems may lose efficiency.
Conclusion
I hope this write-up provided you with all the necessary information pertaining to air conditioners and their different types. Buying an air conditioner is a great choice that can enhance your home comfort. Hence, it is essential to consider your choice before investing in one.
I am sure this article paved a convenient way to help you through the well-informed decision-making process for installing an AC at your home.
Let us know in the comments section below if you have more information to share with us.
One Response
Using a central AC unit for the entire home definitely does sound like the best way to do things here. This is because we’ve opted for a much larger and more open-concept home, and with all of the open space it has, a large and high-rate AC will be better than individual units. I’ll go and ask for this when I find an AC installation expert in the area that can help us out.