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What Are the Different Types of Air Conditioners and Which One Is Best?

woman lying on the sofa under an air conditioner vent

While spring is a wonderful time to rejoice the end of winter, it also provides us with a friendly reminder that summer is right around the corner.

Of course, anyone who has experienced a humid Minnesota summer without the sanctuary of air conditioning knows how brutal it can be. After all, windows and floor fans can only offer so much relief.

Below, we share basic air conditioning terms you should know, and review the different air conditioner types in order to help you decide which system is best for you and your home. Bonus: if you have a smart home, smart air conditioners are a thing! All of these have a smart version with features like Wi-Fi connectivity, scheduling, even voice control.

Understanding Air Conditioning

Before diving into the various types of air conditioners, let’s take a look at some key terms and factors that come into play when making this decision.

Terms you should know:

BTU (British thermal unit): This measures the amount of heat an air conditioner can remove from a room. Essentially, a higher BTU means more cooling power, but it also means higher energy consumption.

SEER (Seasonal energy efficiency ratio): This indicates the efficiency of an air conditioner. A higher SEER rating translates to more efficiency and lower energy costs in the long run.

Factors to consider when choosing an air conditioning solution

  • Size of your space: The size and layout of your space will determine the capacity of the air conditioner you need. A unit that’s too small won’t cool effectively, while one that’s too large can lead to excess humidity.
  • Climate: Living in a variable climate like Minnesota’s requires a more robust system.
  • Energy efficiency: A more efficient unit might have a higher upfront cost but can save money on energy bills.
  • Installation requirements: Each type of air conditioning system requires a unique installation process – some are easier (and more affordable) than others.
  • Budget: Your budget will influence the type of air conditioner you can afford and the operational costs.

By understanding these basics, you’re better equipped to navigate the possibilities and find the air conditioner that’s right for your home.

6 Air Conditioner Types and How They Work

If you don’t currently have air conditioning, or are due for a much-needed upgrade, installing a new system before summer hits is always a smart decision. But a new air conditioner is an investment, so it’s important to consider what type of air conditioner best fits your needs before you buy.

1. Window Air Conditioners

Window Air Conditioner

Window air conditioners are self-contained units that are typically placed in a window. They can also be installed by creating a hole in an exterior wall of a room, however we advise against adding at DIY hole to your home.

Window air conditioners are most useful for apartments and single-level homes. They come in many different sizes and builds to fit a variety of window types. The bigger the unit, the more cool air generated. However, the cooling capabilities of window air conditioning units are limited due to their small size and static location.

Window air conditioners are typically the most cost-effective air conditioning system to purchase, but their air output can be limited. To get around this limitation, many people use multiple window units in their home. If you place one on each level of your home, and use fans to circulate the air, you can cobble together a simulated central air system. Though, this wouldn’t be the most prudent strategy from an energy efficiency standpoint as this would consume a vast amount of energy. Window units are also relatively small and can be transferred to your new home if you move.

Pros and Cons of Window AC Units

Pros Cons
Can normally install them yourself Limited cooling area
Low upfront cost Often loud since they are in the room
Energy efficient if you are cooling one or two rooms Obstruct at least part of one window
A wide variety to choose from Must remove them or winterize them for the winter
Can be removed and reinstalled in different windows as needed

Estimated Investment

A window air conditioner unit can vary widely in cost, depending on the size and brand. Cheaper than central air, the average cost is around $300, but they can range from $75 to $1,000.

Of course, you want to remember when comparing them to other types of air conditioners that they only cool one room at a time. Also, price is a strong indicator of window unit’s quality and size; if you want one that works well, don’t go cheap.

2. Air Source Heat Pumps

Air Source Heat Pumps

Air source heat pumps are an energy efficient and low maintenance cooling solution for homes that have ductwork. The installation cost of air source heat pumps can be high, but the running and maintenance costs are low.

How do heat pumps work?

Heat pumps use electricity to move warm and cold air around a home, rather than burning fuel to do so. During the summer, a heat pump systems concentrates the warm air within your home and dumps it outside. During the winter, a heat pump brings concentrated warm air from outside and delivers it into your home.

Typically, one of the greatest benefits of a heat pump system is they have a higher energy efficiency rating than other air conditioning systems. However, heat pump systems are most effective in mild climates. Of course, Minnesota’s hot summers and frigid winters are anything but mild. But the good news is that a heat pump can be used in tandem with your core HVAC system to increase efficiency.

Pros and Cons of Air Source Heat Pumps

Pros Cons
Economical in milder climates Ineffective in freezing temperatures
Known for their energy efficiency Initial installation can be costly
Distribute heat evenly throughout the house Heat produced not as intense as traditional furnaces
Turns on and off less often than a gas furnace Needs backup heating in colder climates
Capable of both heating and cooling, making them useful year-round
Lower operating costs compared to traditional heating systems like furnaces and boilers

Estimated Investment

As mentioned above, installing air source heat pumps are on the high end for air conditioner types. A ductless heat pump can cost between $3,500 and $5,000 to install per unit, while central heat pump systems can cost upwards of $20,000.

However, they work as both air conditioners and heaters, can increase your home’s value, and are very energy-efficient in heat mode. Many owners invest in air source heat pumps because the operating cost is lower than more traditional options and may come with tax credits and rebates.

Cost is highly dependent on:

  • the size of your system
  • the quality of the equipment
  • how complex it is to install
  • the type of system (ductless or central)
  • any services or upgrades

3. Central Air Conditioners

central air conditioner

When it comes to air conditioning systems, central air units are considered the most luxurious because they are able to cool each room in your home simultaneously and do so quietly. They are made up of two units: the condensing unit that is located outside the home and the evaporative unit that is located next to the furnace. The two units are connected to each other through refrigerant tubing.

The condensing unit is responsible for generating the cool air that is propelled into the evaporative unit. The evaporative unit then pushes the cool air throughout your home using the furnace duct system.

From our perspective, a central air conditioning system is the absolute best way to evenly distribute cool air throughout a home. We often use Trane XLi central air conditioning systems, which provide homeowners with quiet performance and maximum comfort.

Pros and Cons of Central Air Conditioners

Pros Cons
Sized to cool the entire house Expensive to install and maintain compared to window units
More efficient than room air conditioners Duct leakage can reduce energy efficiency
Uses the same ductwork as central forced air furnaces Older systems can be inefficient
Quieter since placed outside and out of the way If your home doesn’t have existing ductwork, installation can be invasive and costly.
Virtually maintenance-free Can consume more energy, especially if not properly maintained or if the home is not well insulated.
Programmable thermostats save on utility bills
Often come with filters that purify the air, reducing allergens and improving overall air quality.
Homes with central air conditioning are often valued higher in the real estate market.

Estimated Investment

As with most types of air conditioners, the cost of a central air unit depends on several factors. The average cost is around $7,000, including installation, but can be more or less depending on the brand, the type of central air system you need, your location, and whether the condition of your air ducts.

For example, if you have ducts in place, it could cost between $3,500 and $4,000 to install for a 2000-square-foot house. If you don’t have any ductwork, that cost can run as high as $10,000. Be aware that there may be other expenses as well, such as the potential need for evaluating and upgrading your home’s insulation.

4. Ductless Air Conditioners

Split Air Conditioner

No ductwork in your home? No problem! Ductless air conditioners, also known as a split system or mini-split systems, are a common cooling solution for apartment dwellers or homeowners with no ductwork in their homes, who are looking for a more permanent cooling solution than window air conditioners.

Ductless air conditioners are comprised of two small air conditioning units that can be installed on the interior walls of your home. Refrigerant tubing connects the two systems by passing through the walls that separate them.

One terminal is positioned on the exterior of the residence. This terminal serves as the air generator by condensing cold air and sending it into the home through the refrigerant tubing. On the inside of the residence, mounted high on a wall, is the other terminal, which serves as the distribution center for the cool air. This terminal features the fan that blows the air throughout the residence.

Generally speaking, split or ductless mini-split air conditioners are great options for smaller, older homes that do not have an existing system of ducts installed, or if the home has heating ducts that can’t be accessed by an air conditioning unit. They are traditionally used to cool one room, but new systems are being produced that can cool multiple rooms.

Pros and Cons of Ductless Air Conditioners

Pros Cons
Efficient to run Lack of air exchange ability
Quiet Requires a distribution unit mounted in each area
No ductwork necessary Expensive to install in new construction
Compact and flexible for zoning Not efficient for the whole house
No open window security concern of a window unit
No need to remove them for the winter

Estimated Investment

Ductless ACs range in cost from $2,000 to $14,500. Cost is dependent on brand and SEER rating as well as local labor rates, but the average is around $4,000. Individual components vary in cost also, with the outdoor unit being the most costly. The final cost depends on how many units are needed. When estimating your overall investment, you can calculate about 58 square feet per 1,000 BTUs.

5. Portable Air Conditioners

Portable Air Conditioner
These units stand on the floor and can be moved from room to room, offering personalized cooling wherever it’s needed. Portable air conditioners typically work by pulling warm air from the room, cooling it, and then recirculating the cooled air back into the space. They expel warm air and moisture through a hose that’s usually vented out of a window.
Some models also include dehumidifying features, which can be particularly useful in humid climates. Portable units are ideal in settings where traditional air conditioning systems aren’t feasible or where temporary cooling solutions are needed.

Pros and Cons of Portable Air Conditioners

Pros Cons
Easy and quick to install Short cooling range
Low upfront cost Can be noisier than other types of air conditioners
Can be moved from room to room Requires a window to be open, Creating a security concern
Ideal for renters or those who prefer not to deal with the complexities of installation Takes up floor space
Many models come with additional features like dehumidifiers and air purifiers Units must be uninstalled each winter
Can be less energy-efficient than window or central air units, potentially leading to higher electricity bills

Estimated Investment

Portable air conditioners definitely have their pros and cons, but cost isn’t one of them. On average, portable AC units cost between $100 and $600 per unit. Units for larger rooms will be more costly, with higher BTUs (AC unit of measurement).

6. Floor Mounted Air Conditioners

Floor mounted air conditioners are a type of mini-split ductless air conditioner system. Although they are called “floor mounted”, they’re actually mounted close to the bottom of the wall. They’re useful choices when your space doesn’t allow for enough wall space, or where wall mounted varieties aren’t practical, such as if you have a glass wall.

Pros and Cons of Floor Mounted Air Conditioners

Pros Cons
Built-in Ionizer Short cooling range
No installation costs Noisy
Saves on wall space Have to manually remove the water from where it condensates
Good dehumidifiers Takes longer to cool the room
Can use a lot of power

Estimated Investment

The cost for a floor mounted ductless air conditioner is similar to a wall mounted solution. The national average is approximately $4,000, while professionally installed ductless systems can cost upwards to $15,000.

How Can You Choose the Right Type of Air Conditioning System?

It’s important to consider the infrastructure of your home, the square footage, and your budget before committing to buying a new air conditioner. However, with so many types of A/C types to choose from, we’re sure that there’s one that’s right for you and your home. For a more in depth tutorial on how to evaluate which type of air conditioner is best for your home, check out our guide on how to choose a central air conditioning system.

Not convinced that a new air conditioner is the right move? Sometimes repairing your air conditioner can provide the fix you need. If you’re trying to decide which step to take, check out our post on repairing or replacing your air conditioning system.

What Are the Different Types of Air Conditioners and Which One Is Best?

woman lying on the sofa under an air conditioner vent

While spring is a wonderful time to rejoice the end of winter, it also provides us with a friendly reminder that summer is right around the corner.

Of course, anyone who has experienced a humid Minnesota summer without the sanctuary of air conditioning knows how brutal it can be. After all, windows and floor fans can only offer so much relief.

Below, we share basic air conditioning terms you should know, and review the different air conditioner types in order to help you decide which system is best for you and your home. Bonus: if you have a smart home, smart air conditioners are a thing! All of these have a smart version with features like Wi-Fi connectivity, scheduling, even voice control.

Understanding Air Conditioning

Before diving into the various types of air conditioners, let’s take a look at some key terms and factors that come into play when making this decision.

Terms you should know:

BTU (British thermal unit): This measures the amount of heat an air conditioner can remove from a room. Essentially, a higher BTU means more cooling power, but it also means higher energy consumption.

SEER (Seasonal energy efficiency ratio): This indicates the efficiency of an air conditioner. A higher SEER rating translates to more efficiency and lower energy costs in the long run.

Factors to consider when choosing an air conditioning solution

  • Size of your space: The size and layout of your space will determine the capacity of the air conditioner you need. A unit that’s too small won’t cool effectively, while one that’s too large can lead to excess humidity.
  • Climate: Living in a variable climate like Minnesota’s requires a more robust system.
  • Energy efficiency: A more efficient unit might have a higher upfront cost but can save money on energy bills.
  • Installation requirements: Each type of air conditioning system requires a unique installation process – some are easier (and more affordable) than others.
  • Budget: Your budget will influence the type of air conditioner you can afford and the operational costs.

By understanding these basics, you’re better equipped to navigate the possibilities and find the air conditioner that’s right for your home.

6 Air Conditioner Types and How They Work

If you don’t currently have air conditioning, or are due for a much-needed upgrade, installing a new system before summer hits is always a smart decision. But a new air conditioner is an investment, so it’s important to consider what type of air conditioner best fits your needs before you buy.

1. Window Air Conditioners

Window Air Conditioner

Window air conditioners are self-contained units that are typically placed in a window. They can also be installed by creating a hole in an exterior wall of a room, however we advise against adding at DIY hole to your home.

Window air conditioners are most useful for apartments and single-level homes. They come in many different sizes and builds to fit a variety of window types. The bigger the unit, the more cool air generated. However, the cooling capabilities of window air conditioning units are limited due to their small size and static location.

Window air conditioners are typically the most cost-effective air conditioning system to purchase, but their air output can be limited. To get around this limitation, many people use multiple window units in their home. If you place one on each level of your home, and use fans to circulate the air, you can cobble together a simulated central air system. Though, this wouldn’t be the most prudent strategy from an energy efficiency standpoint as this would consume a vast amount of energy. Window units are also relatively small and can be transferred to your new home if you move.

Pros and Cons of Window AC Units

Pros Cons
Can normally install them yourself Limited cooling area
Low upfront cost Often loud since they are in the room
Energy efficient if you are cooling one or two rooms Obstruct at least part of one window
A wide variety to choose from Must remove them or winterize them for the winter
Can be removed and reinstalled in different windows as needed

Estimated Investment

A window air conditioner unit can vary widely in cost, depending on the size and brand. Cheaper than central air, the average cost is around $300, but they can range from $75 to $1,000.

Of course, you want to remember when comparing them to other types of air conditioners that they only cool one room at a time. Also, price is a strong indicator of window unit’s quality and size; if you want one that works well, don’t go cheap.

2. Air Source Heat Pumps

Air Source Heat Pumps

Air source heat pumps are an energy efficient and low maintenance cooling solution for homes that have ductwork. The installation cost of air source heat pumps can be high, but the running and maintenance costs are low.

How do heat pumps work?

Heat pumps use electricity to move warm and cold air around a home, rather than burning fuel to do so. During the summer, a heat pump systems concentrates the warm air within your home and dumps it outside. During the winter, a heat pump brings concentrated warm air from outside and delivers it into your home.

Typically, one of the greatest benefits of a heat pump system is they have a higher energy efficiency rating than other air conditioning systems. However, heat pump systems are most effective in mild climates. Of course, Minnesota’s hot summers and frigid winters are anything but mild. But the good news is that a heat pump can be used in tandem with your core HVAC system to increase efficiency.

Pros and Cons of Air Source Heat Pumps

Pros Cons
Economical in milder climates Ineffective in freezing temperatures
Known for their energy efficiency Initial installation can be costly
Distribute heat evenly throughout the house Heat produced not as intense as traditional furnaces
Turns on and off less often than a gas furnace Needs backup heating in colder climates
Capable of both heating and cooling, making them useful year-round
Lower operating costs compared to traditional heating systems like furnaces and boilers

Estimated Investment

As mentioned above, installing air source heat pumps are on the high end for air conditioner types. A ductless heat pump can cost between $3,500 and $5,000 to install per unit, while central heat pump systems can cost upwards of $20,000.

However, they work as both air conditioners and heaters, can increase your home’s value, and are very energy-efficient in heat mode. Many owners invest in air source heat pumps because the operating cost is lower than more traditional options and may come with tax credits and rebates.

Cost is highly dependent on:

  • the size of your system
  • the quality of the equipment
  • how complex it is to install
  • the type of system (ductless or central)
  • any services or upgrades

3. Central Air Conditioners

central air conditioner

When it comes to air conditioning systems, central air units are considered the most luxurious because they are able to cool each room in your home simultaneously and do so quietly. They are made up of two units: the condensing unit that is located outside the home and the evaporative unit that is located next to the furnace. The two units are connected to each other through refrigerant tubing.

The condensing unit is responsible for generating the cool air that is propelled into the evaporative unit. The evaporative unit then pushes the cool air throughout your home using the furnace duct system.

From our perspective, a central air conditioning system is the absolute best way to evenly distribute cool air throughout a home. We often use Trane XLi central air conditioning systems, which provide homeowners with quiet performance and maximum comfort.

Pros and Cons of Central Air Conditioners

Pros Cons
Sized to cool the entire house Expensive to install and maintain compared to window units
More efficient than room air conditioners Duct leakage can reduce energy efficiency
Uses the same ductwork as central forced air furnaces Older systems can be inefficient
Quieter since placed outside and out of the way If your home doesn’t have existing ductwork, installation can be invasive and costly.
Virtually maintenance-free Can consume more energy, especially if not properly maintained or if the home is not well insulated.
Programmable thermostats save on utility bills
Often come with filters that purify the air, reducing allergens and improving overall air quality.
Homes with central air conditioning are often valued higher in the real estate market.

Estimated Investment

As with most types of air conditioners, the cost of a central air unit depends on several factors. The average cost is around $7,000, including installation, but can be more or less depending on the brand, the type of central air system you need, your location, and whether the condition of your air ducts.

For example, if you have ducts in place, it could cost between $3,500 and $4,000 to install for a 2000-square-foot house. If you don’t have any ductwork, that cost can run as high as $10,000. Be aware that there may be other expenses as well, such as the potential need for evaluating and upgrading your home’s insulation.

4. Ductless Air Conditioners

Split Air Conditioner

No ductwork in your home? No problem! Ductless air conditioners, also known as a split system or mini-split systems, are a common cooling solution for apartment dwellers or homeowners with no ductwork in their homes, who are looking for a more permanent cooling solution than window air conditioners.

Ductless air conditioners are comprised of two small air conditioning units that can be installed on the interior walls of your home. Refrigerant tubing connects the two systems by passing through the walls that separate them.

One terminal is positioned on the exterior of the residence. This terminal serves as the air generator by condensing cold air and sending it into the home through the refrigerant tubing. On the inside of the residence, mounted high on a wall, is the other terminal, which serves as the distribution center for the cool air. This terminal features the fan that blows the air throughout the residence.

Generally speaking, split or ductless mini-split air conditioners are great options for smaller, older homes that do not have an existing system of ducts installed, or if the home has heating ducts that can’t be accessed by an air conditioning unit. They are traditionally used to cool one room, but new systems are being produced that can cool multiple rooms.

Pros and Cons of Ductless Air Conditioners

Pros Cons
Efficient to run Lack of air exchange ability
Quiet Requires a distribution unit mounted in each area
No ductwork necessary Expensive to install in new construction
Compact and flexible for zoning Not efficient for the whole house
No open window security concern of a window unit
No need to remove them for the winter

Estimated Investment

Ductless ACs range in cost from $2,000 to $14,500. Cost is dependent on brand and SEER rating as well as local labor rates, but the average is around $4,000. Individual components vary in cost also, with the outdoor unit being the most costly. The final cost depends on how many units are needed. When estimating your overall investment, you can calculate about 58 square feet per 1,000 BTUs.

5. Portable Air Conditioners

Portable Air Conditioner
These units stand on the floor and can be moved from room to room, offering personalized cooling wherever it’s needed. Portable air conditioners typically work by pulling warm air from the room, cooling it, and then recirculating the cooled air back into the space. They expel warm air and moisture through a hose that’s usually vented out of a window.
Some models also include dehumidifying features, which can be particularly useful in humid climates. Portable units are ideal in settings where traditional air conditioning systems aren’t feasible or where temporary cooling solutions are needed.

Pros and Cons of Portable Air Conditioners

Pros Cons
Easy and quick to install Short cooling range
Low upfront cost Can be noisier than other types of air conditioners
Can be moved from room to room Requires a window to be open, Creating a security concern
Ideal for renters or those who prefer not to deal with the complexities of installation Takes up floor space
Many models come with additional features like dehumidifiers and air purifiers Units must be uninstalled each winter
Can be less energy-efficient than window or central air units, potentially leading to higher electricity bills

Estimated Investment

Portable air conditioners definitely have their pros and cons, but cost isn’t one of them. On average, portable AC units cost between $100 and $600 per unit. Units for larger rooms will be more costly, with higher BTUs (AC unit of measurement).

6. Floor Mounted Air Conditioners

Floor mounted air conditioners are a type of mini-split ductless air conditioner system. Although they are called “floor mounted”, they’re actually mounted close to the bottom of the wall. They’re useful choices when your space doesn’t allow for enough wall space, or where wall mounted varieties aren’t practical, such as if you have a glass wall.

Pros and Cons of Floor Mounted Air Conditioners

Pros Cons
Built-in Ionizer Short cooling range
No installation costs Noisy
Saves on wall space Have to manually remove the water from where it condensates
Good dehumidifiers Takes longer to cool the room
Can use a lot of power

Estimated Investment

The cost for a floor mounted ductless air conditioner is similar to a wall mounted solution. The national average is approximately $4,000, while professionally installed ductless systems can cost upwards to $15,000.

How Can You Choose the Right Type of Air Conditioning System?

It’s important to consider the infrastructure of your home, the square footage, and your budget before committing to buying a new air conditioner. However, with so many types of A/C types to choose from, we’re sure that there’s one that’s right for you and your home. For a more in depth tutorial on how to evaluate which type of air conditioner is best for your home, check out our guide on how to choose a central air conditioning system.

Not convinced that a new air conditioner is the right move? Sometimes repairing your air conditioner can provide the fix you need. If you’re trying to decide which step to take, check out our post on repairing or replacing your air conditioning system.

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