August 18, 2021

Selecting the Right AC Unit for Your Home

Air conditioners are among the most common appliances in American homes. According to statistics, almost 75% of households have one type of AC unit installed. Cooling systems are an essential part of any household and take up a big chunk out of your home’s must-have appliances budget. Making an informed choice is vital since your residence’s cooling, energy consumption, and comfort are mainly dependent on it.

When shopping for an air conditioner, you will find five main types of AC units available on the market. These systems are a central AC, window unit, ductless AC, hybrid, and portable unit. Each of these types is made for certain spaces and fulfills a specific purpose. In this post, we’ll discuss the various types of AC systems in-depth to help you make an informed choice when purchasing your next air conditioner.

Central Air Conditioners

Central air conditioners, also referred to as ducted systems, utilize split systems that regulate air through your home’s ductwork. The split attribute implies that the system is made up of two major units. The outdoor part comprises the compressor and condenser, while the indoor part consists of the air handler and the evaporator coils.

Like any typical cooling system, a central air conditioner also uses refrigerant to remove heat from your indoor air. It draws out hot air and pulls in cool air through the air ducts. Using modern HVAC technology, you can also couple programmable thermostats with your central AC unit for an exciting smart home experience. If you have a big house and would like to cool several rooms at once, this air conditioner is the most suitable option.

Window Units

A window AC is one unit with various components enclosed in one box. It blows cool air inside a room from the indoor side and ejects heat through the outdoor side. You can install a window AC in a window or by making a hole in your wall. Window units come in different sizes and are suitable if you wish to cool a small area or a single room.

Ductless Mini-Split Systems

These units combine an outdoor condenser and compressor with one or several indoor units. The mini-split systems are mounted on walls with blowers attached. They have tubing that connects the outdoor and indoor units. This tubing is also responsible for circulating refrigerant between the two units.

Every room in your house should have a separate system that cools only that room, just like a window unit. The best thing about mini-split systems is that you can install them without tearing up your walls. They are a good option for houses that do not have air ducts. These units can be pretty energy-efficient, but they can be more costly if you are cooling your whole residence.

Portable Air Conditioners

Portable units are similar to window AC units. They come with all of their components enclosed inside of a box, but they are freestanding units. That means you can easily move them from one room to another. All you need is an electrical outlet to power the AC up and a window to help funnel out all the exhaust air. A portable unit is a great option if you live in a rented property or move around often.

Hybrid Units

A hybrid air conditioner combines an electric heat pump with a gas furnace to deliver cost-effective and efficient cooling and heating. Depending on the outdoor temperature, the system switches between using electricity and burning fossil fuels automatically. You will program the temperatures at which your system switches from the furnace to the heat pump, but you can also make a manual switch.

During the summer season, your heat pump operates normally. It pulls heat from the house and pushes it outside. In the winter, the heat pump system operates in reverse. It pulls heat from the outdoor environment and distributes it inside of your house. When the temperatures are too low for your heat pump to work efficiently, your furnace will kick on. A hybrid unit is a great option if you wish to maximize indoor comfort, reduce your carbon footprint, and cut utility bills.

Looking for Reliable AC Services? Contact Us

Finding the right type of AC unit solely depends on the needs of your home. Whether you are considering a hybrid, ductless, portable, window, or central air unit, working with the right professionals from Scott-Lee Heating Company is crucial when looking for the best solution for your family. Our licensed experts will help you determine the best size, type, and placement of your air conditioner. We also offer air quality, heating, metalwork, and new construction services to residents of St. Louis, MO. Contact us today to book an appointment.