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The Four Types of Air Conditioners – a Basic Guide

Number 4 Icy PhotoAt Home Comfort Experts, we’re air conditioner pros. We can repair all makes and models. We can install all types of systems, and we can perform maintenance on all different kinds of air conditioners. Most people are familiar with central air conditioners and room (sometimes called window) air conditioners, but there are other types of air conditioners that can be used to cool your home. The AC pros at Home Comfort Experts put together this air conditioner guide to explain the four types of air conditioning systems and the differences between them:

Room Air Conditioners

Room air conditioners are great for spot cooling smaller spaces like individual rooms or additions to your home. They can be window style or portable and are very affordable. However, you will need one in each area you want cooled. If installed improperly, air leakage can be significant. Room air conditioners have a lifespan of about 10-15 years.

Central Air Conditioners

Central Air Conditioners are by far the most common type of air conditioning systems we see in the homes we service in Indiana and Michigan. A central air conditioning system provides even cooling throughout your home using a system of ducts and registers to deliver cool air to every room simultaneously. It is quiet, convenient and more effective and efficient than smaller window units. If your home has ductwork, this is probably your best choice. These systems last about 15-20 years on average.

Related Read: How Much Do Homeowners Really Earn Back in Energy Savings When Replacing Their Heating & Cooling System?

Ductless Mini Splits

Ductless Mini Split systems are becoming increasingly popular today. These air conditioners are mounted on a wall and, as their name implies, don’t require ductwork. They provide zoned cooling as well as heating. They are highly efficient, work in all climate zones and, while expensive, they can be an affordable alternative to having a traditional ducted system installed. If your home already contains ductwork, adding a mini-split system can be roughly 30% more expensive to add than a central air conditioning unit. Ductless mini-split systems have a lifespan of about 12-15 years.

Evaporative Coolers

Evaporative coolers (sometimes called swamp coolers) cool outdoor air using evaporated water and circulating it throughout your home. They are popular in arid climates because they add moisture to the air as well as cool it. They cost about half the price of a central air conditioner to install and use only about a quarter of the energy to run. They do require more frequent maintenance. An evaporative cooler system will last 15-20 years on average.

So there you have it. Now that you know your options, you can decide which system is right for your home. Our technicians can help you choose the right system and the right size for your home to keep you comfortable and keep as much money as possible in your pocket. Call Home Comfort Experts today for help choosing your air conditioning system.