12 Different Types of Air Conditioners and Applications (With Pictures)

Last Updated on November 21, 2024 by Kimberly Crawford

Air conditioning is a vital aspect of modern living in many parts of the world. It helps to keep us comfortable and can even help reduce our energy bills if used correctly.

Choosing the right type of air conditioner for your home or business can be an important decision, so it’s important to know what options are available and which will best suit needs. When considering a new air conditioning system, it’s essential to factor in the costs associated with installation and potential future replacements. Understanding AC replacement expenses can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your budget and long-term comfort needs.

In this article, we’ll explore the different types of air conditioners commonly used in residential and commercial settings, including their unique features, advantages, and disadvantages.

1. Central Air Conditioners

Central air conditioners are the most common type of air conditioning system found in both residential and commercial settings.

They are a split-system units, meaning they have an outdoor condenser/compressor and an indoor evaporator coil connected by refrigerant lines to cool your home or building.

Central ACs provide central cooling for larger spaces, making them ideal for larger homes and buildings that require a lot of cooling power.

Additionally, they are one of the most energy-efficient options available, making them great for keeping your utility bills low.

The main disadvantage of Central ACs is their high installation cost and the fact that they require regular maintenance to keep operating properly.

They also may not be suitable for small spaces due to the required ductwork.

Related: Do Central Air Conditioners Have Filters?

2. Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioners

Ductless mini-split air conditioners are an increasingly popular option for both residential and commercial settings.

These systems have an outdoor compressor/condenser unit, as well as several indoor units that are connected to the main unit with refrigerant lines. The individual indoor units can be placed in different rooms or zones of your home or business, allowing you to customize your cooling needs.

Ductless mini-splits offer several advantages over other air conditioning systems. They are energy-efficient and can help save you money on your utility bills. Additionally, installation is relatively easy since they don’t require ductwork like central ACs do. Finally, they provide flexibility in zoning, allowing you to cool certain areas while leaving others untouched.

The main disadvantage of ductless mini-splits is their higher upfront cost compared to window units. Additionally, they can be aesthetically intrusive due to the indoor and outdoor units, which can detract from the look of your home or building.

3. Window Air Conditioners

Window air conditioners are the simplest type of air conditioning system available. This type of unit is self-contained and mounts directly onto the window or wall of the room you want to cool.

They are typically used in single rooms and are generally more affordable than other types of AC systems, making them a great option for those on a budget.

Window ACs are also relatively easy to install, as they only require a few tools and can be done by most homeowners. Additionally, they are ideal for small rooms that don’t need a lot of cooling power.

However, the main disadvantage of window ACs is that they can only cool one room at a time, making them unsuitable for larger homes or businesses. Additionally, they tend to be louder than other types of air conditioners and can block window views.

In conclusion, window air conditioners are a great option for those on a budget who only need to cool one room at a time.

They are easy to install and relatively inexpensive compared to other types of air conditioners. However, they may not be suitable for larger homes or businesses due to their limited cooling ability and potential noise issues.

Related:

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• Does A Window Air Conditioner Pull Air From Outside?
• Can you Recharge a Window Air Conditioner? (Here’s How To)
• Can You Leave a Window Air Conditioner On 24/7?
• How To Clean A Window Air Conditioner Without Removing It

4. Portable Air Conditioners

Portable air conditioners are an increasingly popular option for those who need cooling in homes or businesses without permanent central AC systems. These units are freestanding and can be easily moved from room to room. They do not require any installation, making them incredibly easy to set up and use.

The main advantage of portable air conditioners is their mobility. You can easily move them from one room to another as needed, allowing you to cool different areas of your home or business as required. Additionally, they are generally more affordable than other types of air conditioners and require no installation costs.

The main disadvantage of portable ACs is that they have limited cooling capacity compared to other types of air conditioners. Additionally, they require venting to be able to expel the hot air outside, which can be inconvenient in some situations. Finally, portable ACs can be quite noisy when running due to their smaller size and design.

5. Evaporative Coolers (Swamp Coolers)

Evaporative coolers, also known as swamp coolers, are an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional air conditioners. They work by evaporating water instead of using refrigerants to cool the air.

The main advantage of evaporative coolers is their energy-efficiency. Since they use a natural process to cool the air, they can save up to 75% of energy costs compared to traditional ACs.

Furthermore, they are much easier on the environment since they don’t use refrigerants or other hazardous gases. Additionally, evaporative coolers add humidity to the air which can help reduce dryness and make breathing easier in drier climates.

The main disadvantage of evaporative coolers is their limited geographic applicability. They work best in arid climates where the humidity level is lower than 50%, so they may not be suitable for more humid regions.

Additionally, they require regular maintenance to keep them working properly, such as replacing filters and ensuring the water reservoir remains full. Finally, they are not as effective at cooling large spaces compared to other types of air conditioners.

6. Smart Air Conditioner

Smart air conditioners are the newest type of air conditioning system available. These systems utilize IoT technology to allow users to control their ACs from anywhere with an internet connection, making them incredibly convenient and easy to use.

Smart air conditioners can also be integrated with other smart home devices, allowing for a seamless cooling experience.

Features of smart air conditioners include things like remote access, allowing you to control your AC from anywhere with an internet connection.

Additionally, they allow for scheduling and zoning options so you can set the temperature in different areas of your home or business separately.

Smart ACs also usually come with energy-saving features such as motion sensors that will automatically turn off when no one is in the room.

The main advantage of smart air conditioners is their convenience and flexibility. You can control your AC from anywhere with an internet connection, allowing you to make quick adjustments as needed.

Additionally, they are energy-efficient since they come with features like motion sensors and scheduling options that can help you save money on your energy bills. They are also typically quieter than other AC systems, making them great for those who want a peaceful environment.

The main disadvantage of smart air conditioners is their higher upfront cost compared to other types of air conditioners. Additionally, they require a professional installation, which can be expensive and time-consuming.

Finally, if you have an unreliable internet connection, your AC may not work properly. It’s important to make sure your home or business has a strong and reliable wifi network before investing in a smart air conditioner.

7. Floor Mounted Air Conditioner

Floor mounted air conditioners are a great option for those who need cooling in areas without traditional windows or walls for mounting an AC unit.

These systems are generally more powerful than other types of air conditioners, making them ideal for large spaces that require a lot of cooling power. Additionally, they can be installed almost anywhere in the room due to their freestanding design.

The main features of floor mounted air conditioners include a powerful blower, digital thermostat, and programmable timer. Additionally, they are typically equipped with adjustable louvers that allow you to direct the airflow where needed in the room.

When it comes to cost, floor mounted air conditioners are generally more expensive than other types of air conditioners. Additionally, they require professional installation due to the complexity of the unit.

The main advantages of floor mounted air conditioners are their powerful cooling capacity and versatility in placement. They can easily cool large areas without the need for traditional window or wall units, making them great for spaces where traditional air conditioners may not be suitable. Additionally, they are relatively quiet compared to other types of AC systems and can help keep your utility bills low due to their energy-efficient design.

The main disadvantage of floor mounted air conditioners is their higher upfront cost and installation fees. Additionally, they may require more regular maintenance than other types of ACs due to their more complex design. Finally, they can be aesthetically intrusive due to their large size and may not be suitable for smaller spaces.

8. Wall-Mounted AC Units

Wall-Mounted AC units are an increasingly popular option for those who need air conditioning in areas without traditional windows or walls for mounting an AC unit. These systems have a self-contained unit that is mounted directly on the wall and can be used to cool a single room or multiple rooms depending on the model.

The main features of wall-mounted ACs include adjustable louvers for directing the air flow and digital thermostats to control temperature. Additionally, they are typically equipped with a programmable timer so you can set the unit to turn off when desired.

When it comes to cost, wall-mounted AC units are generally more affordable than other types of air conditioners. Installation is typically more straightforward compared to other AC systems, as they only require a few tools and can be done by most homeowners.

The main advantages of wall-mounted ACs are their affordability, ease of installation, and flexibility in placement. They can easily cool large areas without the need for traditional window or wall units, making them great for spaces where other types of air conditioners may not be suitable. Additionally, they are relatively quiet compared to other types of AC systems and can help keep your utility bills low due to their energy-efficient design.

The main disadvantage of wall-mounted ACs is that they do require some modification to the wall or ceiling in order to install properly. Additionally, they may not be suitable for smaller spaces due to their size and design.

Finally, if the unit is installed incorrectly, it can lead to inefficiencies or worse, damage to your home or building. Therefore, it’s important that you hire a professional who is experienced with wall-mounted AC units for proper installation. Additionally, these units may require more regular maintenance than other types of ACs due to their more complex design.

9. Geothermal Air Conditioning System

Geothermal air conditioning systems are an increasingly popular option for those looking for energy-efficient cooling solutions. These systems use the natural heat transfer of the earth to heat and cool a home or business, making them both green and cost-effective.

The main features of geothermal air conditioning systems include an indoor evaporator coil, outdoor condenser/compressor, a ground loop system, control panel, and pump. The ground system is buried in the ground outside your home or business and utilizes the natural heat transfer of the earth to heat and cool your space.

When it comes to cost, geothermal air conditioning systems can be more expensive than other types of air conditioners due to the installation of the ground loop system. However, they offer several advantages that make them a great long-term investment.

The main advantages of geothermal air conditioning systems are their energy-efficiency and environmental friendliness. Since they use the natural heat transfer of the earth, they can save up to 70% on energy costs compared to traditional AC systems. Additionally, they do not require the use of any refrigerants or other hazardous gases, making them great for the environment.

The main disadvantage of geothermal air conditioning systems is the initial cost of installation. The ground loop system requires a large amount of labor and resources, making it expensive to install. Additionally, if you live in an area with extreme temperatures or a lot of snowfall, it can be difficult to find a suitable location for the ground loop system.

10. Hybrid / Dual Fuel Air Conditioner

A hybrid/dual fuel air conditioner combines the advantages of a heat and an electric furnace to provide both cooling and heating solutions. The majority of homes in the United States have a central HVAC system, which uses either an electric furnace or a heat pump to deliver either cool or hot air into the living space.

A hybrid/dual fuel air conditioner is a combination of both a heat pump and an electric furnace. It uses the electric furnace as its primary heating source, but also has a back-up option—the heat pump—that can kick in if temperatures drop below what the electric furnace can handle, or when it’s more energy efficient to use the heat pump as a supplement.

The cost of installing a hybrid/dual fuel air conditioner is typically higher than that of a single-source unit due to the complexity of installation and components required. However, these systems often result in energy savings over time since they are designed to switch between electric and heat pump modes depending on temperature and energy efficiency.

The major advantage of a hybrid/dual fuel air conditioner is its ability to provide both cooling and heating capabilities in one unit. This is especially beneficial for climates that experience rapid changes in temperature throughout the year, as the unit can switch between electric and heat pump modes depending on outdoor conditions.

Additionally, since these systems typically use a heat pump as their primary heating source, they are much more energy-efficient than systems that rely solely on electric furnaces. The combination of two different heating methods provides increased safety for homeowners since it eliminates the need for multiple of fuel.

The main disadvantage of a hybrid/dual fuel air conditioner is its upfront cost. Since the unit is more complex than a single-source system, installation costs are often higher. Additionally, since heat pumps draw in air from outside of the home, they can be inefficient if temperatures drop below freezing—a common occurrence in cold climates.

As a result, homeowners may find that their system runs less efficiently in colder weather and will require more energy to maintain the same temperature. Additionally, hybrid/dual fuel air conditioners require regular maintenance and repairs in order to keep them running efficiently. This can be a costly endeavor if not done properly.

11. Air-Source Heat Pumps

Air-source heat pumps are a type of air conditioning unit that provide both cooling and heating abilities.

They use the natural heat in the outside air, transferring it inside to warm up the living space or to cool it down. Heat pumps are easy to install and maintain and provide an energy efficient solution for all seasons.

Features of air-source heat pumps include multi-stage compressors that adjust automatically to a home’s heating and cooling needs, variable speed fan motors for efficient operation, and advanced inverter technology for improved performance. They also have the ability to heat or cool up to multiple zones in a home using one unit.

The cost of an air-source heat pump may vary depending on its size and the type of installation. The cost for a ductless mini split system can range from $2,000 – $7,000 while a complete central air conditioning unit can be much more expensive. Installation costs are also factored in when determining the total cost of an air-source heat pump.

The advantages of an air-source heat pump include energy savings, improved comfort, and a longer lasting product. Heat pumps are also much more efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems, which can save homeowners money in the long run.

The disadvantages of an air-source heat pump include a higher initial cost compared to other types of HVAC systems, and its inability to work efficiently in extreme cold weather. Air-source heat may also be less efficient in warmer climates due to the high outside temperatures. Additionally, they take longer to heat or cool a space than other methods such as furnaces.

12. Cassette Air Conditioner

Cassette Air Conditioners, also known as a type of packaged terminal air conditioner (PTAC), are an efficient and cost-effective way to cool your home.

These units are typically installed through the wall or ceiling of an interior space, but can also be recessed into the ceiling for a more seamless appearance.

Cassette air conditioners are a great option for homes, offices, and other interior spaces due to their ease of installation and simple operation.

Features: Cassette air conditioners come in several different sizes and styles, depending on the space requirements. They generally feature an indoor unit that sits inside the wall or ceiling, with a blower fan that directs cold air into the room.

The outdoor unit is usually connected to the indoor unit via a refrigerant line, and it houses the compressor and condenser coil that powers the system. Some models also include features such as adjustable fan speeds, temperature control, and even remote controls for convenience.

Cost: Cassette air conditioners typically cost between $1,000 and $3,500 depending on size, features, and other factors. Installing a cassette air conditioner is generally more expensive than installing a window unit because of the additional work required for installation. However, in many cases, the cost savings from having an energy-efficient system may eventually make up for this initial cost.

Advantages: The main advantages of cassette air conditioners are their efficiency and convenience. They typically have a much higher energy efficiency rating than window units, so they will cost less to run over time. Additionally, since the unit is installed through the wall or ceiling, it takes up significantly less space than a window unit would. Lastly, many models come with features such as remote control that make them easy to use and adjust the temperature from anywhere in the room.

Disadvantages: The main disadvantages of cassette air conditioners are their installation cost and potential for noise. As mentioned earlier, these units require more installation work than window units do, so they can be quite expensive to have installed. Additionally, some models may be louder than others, depending on the size and features of the unit. If noise is a concern, you should always ask an HVAC technician to inspect the unit before purchasing it.

Factors to consider before buying an Air Conditioner.

When buying an air conditioner, there are a number of factors you should consider.

– Firstly, determine the size and type of air conditioner you need. Consider the size of your room and the climate in your area when deciding on a size. Window units are typically more affordable than split system models, but they may not be suitable for all rooms.

– Consider the energy efficiency rating of the air conditioner. An air conditioner that has a higher star rating will cost less to run than one with a lower rating, so it’s worth spending a bit more money on a model with better energy efficiency.

– The noise level is also an important factor. Some units are much quieter than others, so make sure you look for models with good reviews for noise levels.

– Think about the features that you need in your air conditioner – do you want a timer, a remote control, or adjustable temperature settings? This can help narrow down your choices and get you the best value for your money.

– Lastly, consider the overall cost of the unit. Air conditioners can vary greatly in price, so make sure you shop around and compare prices before making a purchase.

Conclusion

Overall, selecting right air conditioner for your needs can make a huge difference in terms of energy efficiency, cost savings, and overall comfort. When it comes to choosing an air conditioner, there is no one-size-fits-all solution; instead, it’s important to consider how the different types of air conditioners meet your needs.

By taking into account factors such as size, energy efficiency ratings, cost, and installation requirements, you can find an air conditioning system that meets your needs and suits your budget. With the right system in place, you will be able to enjoy cool and comfortable temperatures all year round.

Frequently Asked Questions