How many types of AC​'s available ?

Air conditioners are essential for maintaining indoor comfort, especially during hot summers. Various types are available, that’s why choosing the right AC might be confusing, which will be easy if you focus on factors like room size, energy efficiency, and budget. This guide explores different AC types, their pros and cons, and key factors to consider before making a purchase.

Main Types of Air Conditioners

Central Air Conditioner

If providing your family or filling the entire room, then centralized ACs are the best. Central air conditioning systems cool entire homes or large buildings as they distribute the cooled air uniformly through a network of vents and ducts. The components are hidden, which ensures the interior designs are clean. 

However, installation is complex and costly. It also consumes more energy, potentially increasing utility bills for unused spaces. Central ACs are best suited for large spaces such as offices, malls, shopping complexes, and educational institutions. 

Window Air Conditioner

This AC is a self-contained, single-unit AC that has all the components within a single portable casing. It is designed for small living spaces and usually fits in the window area. Also no need for extra installations, basic plug connections into a standard outlet and window space are enough for installation. 

But installing window AC may result in light obstruction as this setup in the window may block the natural light and won’t complement the house. 

Smart Air Conditioner

Smart ACs are controlled remotely using a smartphone, tablet, or other devices, and scheduling turn-on or off times is also possible. So, users can adjust the settings anywhere with their smart gadgets. However, these smart features can also be the reason for high costs and wi-fi connectivity may increase the utility bills.  

Split Air Conditioners

Split air conditioners have two units, an indoor unit that cools the air and an outdoor unit that dissipates heat. They are energy-efficient, aesthetically pleasing, and operate quietly. While installation costs may be higher, they offer better cooling performance, improved air quality, and flexibility in placement.

Ductless Mini-Split Systems

It has an outdoor compressor and one or more indoor air-handling units mounted on walls or ceilings. They are ideal for homes without ductwork which offers zoned cooling with individual temperature control for each unit. This type of AC is a great alternative to traditional central ACs, more energy efficient, and easy to install. 

Portable Air Conditioners

Portable ACs are compact and freestanding, which can be transferred from room to room easily. It also requires an exhaust hose to be vented through a wall or window. Portable ACs are great for small spaces, rental apartments, and other areas where installing permanent ACs isn’t possible. 

Floor-Mounted Air Conditioners

Floor-mounted ACs are designed to be installed at the bottom of walls. It is similar to the ductless mini-split systems that provide easier access for maintenance and adjustments. These are great choices for space with limited wall space and the lower position of ACs helps to distribute cool air more evenly and efficiently. 

Geothermal Air Conditioning System

Geothermal air conditioning systems utilize renewable energy that is stable temperatures underground to heat and cool homes. They circulate water or refrigerant through underground pipes and exchange heat with the earth. This AC system significantly reduces energy consumption and operating costs. However, installation is expensive and requires specialized equipment. 

Evaporator Cooler

These are also known as swamp coolers, which cool the air through the evaporation of water. It consumes less energy compared to traditional AC units and keeps the overall environment moistured always. That’s why evaporator coolers are great for dry climates. It requires regular maintenance as evaporator coolers are more prone to mould and mildew growth. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing an AC

Room size and cooling capacity

• Select an AC based on room size to ensure efficient cooling and energy savings. 
• Higher-ton ACs cool larger areas, while lower-ton models are more energy-efficient. 
• It’s because higher-ton ACs can cool larger areas, while smaller ACs are more energy-efficient. 
• For instance, 1 Ton AC is apt for 120 to 140 Sq.ft, 2 Ton AC is for 300 to 350 sq.ft, etc. 

AC Type, brand, and size

• Choose the AC type that fits your needs and consider a reliable brand for durability and performance.

Energy Efficiency

• Choose ACs with higher star ratings as they provide enhanced energy efficiency and reduce electricity bills. 
• Inverter ACs are usually more energy-efficient than non-inverter models.

Installation and maintenance

• Consider installation charges for the chosen AC type and check how much you need to spend on regular maintenance. 

Additional features of AC

• Additional features usually result in an increased budget. 
• So, preferring picking the AC that has features according to your requirements. 

Budget

• Ensure the selected AC fits your budget while meeting essential criteria like cooling capacity, efficiency, and reliability. 

However, if you consider the price of ACs too high and still need well-performing and high-quality ACs, we have an alternate option for you! 

Alternative Options Instead of Buying

Rental services 

Renting ACs can be a perfect alternative, especially for seasonal use. Rental ACs are usually well-maintained and serviced regularly, so you can get high-quality ACs at reasonable prices for a particular tenure. 

Second-hand ACs 

you can also choose used AC as it could be a cost-effective solution. But there is a chance for risks, such as limited warranty, potential wear and tear, and reduced efficiency. That's why it's crucial to inspect the unit thoroughly and ensure it has been well-maintained before purchasing.

Conclusion

The AC types and key factors help in selecting the right one. Thus, consider opting for the appliances that perfectly suit your requirements and budget. 

FAQs

Are there budget-friendly alternatives to expensive ACs?

There are many affordable alternatives available for expensive ACs, such as ceiling and table fans. However, more than looking for budget-friendly alternatives to expensive ACs, think about ways of getting expensive ACs on your budget. It’s because everyone can have expensive ACs for a particular tenure for rent. 

Why air conditioners are so costly?

Air conditioners are expensive. It's because of factors, like cooling capacity, energy efficiency ratings, installation complexity, smart technology integration, brand reputation, and manufacturing costs. 

Is it worth investing in an expensive AC?

Yes! Investing in a high-priced AC is absolutely a good choice, particularly during summer as they can provide enhanced benefits. But it is a bad choice when you need ACs only during the summer, in that case you can prefer renting.