Best of AC Types (different types of AC)

We all use them, we all need them (unless you live in the arctic), but what are we talking about? AC Systems. Given that most of you live in New Jersey, you all know all too well the type of temps summer months can bring.

From hot and humid to dry and downright toasty, nothing is better than walking into a cool refreshing home or business. But in order to keep those residences and businesses a comfortable temperature, you need the right AC system to get the job done.

Below is a quick and dirty breakdown of the best types of AC systems you can choose from. But if all this sounds like a foreign language to you, don’t get too flustered. Give us a call to chat about your options. Our team are experts at communicating complicated information in a way that is easy to digest and understand.

Best Types of AC Systems

Air conditioning is a bit more complex than heating. For example, instead of utilizing energy (electric, gas, propane, etc.) to literally create heat, air conditioners do the opposite: they use energy to take heat away.

Quick Overview of How They Work

In general most air conditioning systems use a compressor cycle to transfer heat from your home to the outdoors (ventilation). In this way, many systems work similar to your refrigerator.

The compressor is filled with refrigerant that can transition back and forth between a gas and liquid state. With each transition from gas to liquid the refrigerant absorbs and releases heat, and in this way can take heat from one area and move it to another.

Central AC Systems – an overview

Split HVAC Systems

Split systems are among the most common types of air conditioner systems found in the US. These set ups include an indoor and outdoor unit typically connected by refrigerant tubing (i.e. they are “split”). Inside the home the system consists of a cooling coil, fan, heating section and filter. The outdoor portion of the unit houses the condenser and compressor.

Benefits:

• Ease of operation
• Easy access
• Ease of repairs
• Reliability

Heat Pumps

Heat pumps represent a variation of the traditional split-system. During the blisteringly hot summer months these units pump heat from inside the house to the outdoors. Conversely, in the winter months the unit works to extract heat from the outdoor air and use that heat to warm your home. Because of their dual purpose, heat pumps can be effectively used for both heating and cooling in milder climates. However, these units are typically not good use cases for those regions that experience below freezing weather for sustained periods of time.

Benefits:

• Can both heat and cool your home
• Long term energy savings with certain models

Packaged Central Air Conditioners

Packaged HVAC systems utilize a compressor, evaporator and condenser in a singular unit. These units are typically placed on either the roof or a concrete slab near the foundation of your home or business. Ductwork running through the walls or roofing draw air from within the home or business and return cool air in its stead.

Benefits:

• Eliminates the need for a separate furnace
• Can effectively handle small commercial buildings
• Great for home or office
• Wide selection of makes and models available
• Reliable and effective

Ductless Mini-split Systems

When homes or businesses are devoid of existing ductwork, ductless systems can offer an affordable and effective solution. These systems combine an outdoor condenser and compressor with one or more indoor units. Typically mounted high on walls, the indoor portion of the system houses blowers to move the air. Tubing connects the outdoor unit to the indoor system. Indoor units are installed on a “per room” basis and designed to cool one room per mounted unit.

Benefits:

• Great option when there is no existing ductwork
• Can be installed without tearing up walls or ceilings
• Temperature can be independently controlled per room
• Improved efficiency

Not sure What’s the Best AC Type for you?

Not a problem! We love talking about AC systems and would appreciate the opportunity to help you discover the options available and what might be the best choice given your needs and budget.

Give us a call today and chat with one of our friendly experts to learn more.