Types of Air Conditioning Units: Your Expert Guide

December 17, 2023

When your air conditioner breaks down, it’s natural to think about the different types of air conditioning units available for your home. Whether you’re interested in a central air-conditioning system or another option, understanding the types of air conditioner systems available can help you make an informed decision.

Various systems are on the market, but the Blue Dot team doesn’t expect homeowners to know all the types of A/C units, differences in technology and price, or which system is best for their home. That’s our job! 

We have years of experience recommending, planning, repairing, and installing energy-efficient heating and air conditioning systems for properties of all shapes and sizes. Because of our expertise, our customers often ask us to explain the basic types of air conditioning systems they hear about. We’ve created this basic introductory guide to clear up any confusion about the different types of AC systems you might find.

So, whether your current AC isn’t working, you’re considering an upgrade, or you’re wondering what type of AC unit you have, keep reading to explore your options. And remember, for any assistance or to schedule service, call us at (410) 204-2662.

What Are the Different Types of Air Conditioner Systems?

Understanding the types of air conditioning units available can help you choose the best system for your home. Here’s a quick overview of common residential air conditioner systems.

• Traditional central air conditioning systems
• Split air conditioning systems
• Heat pumps
• Window air conditioners
• Portable air conditioners
• Floor-mounted AC systems

Each type of air conditioning unit offers unique advantages, making it easier to find the perfect solution for your home’s cooling needs. Whether you prioritize energy efficiency, overall comfort, affordability, or flexibility, there’s an AC system that fits your needs. 

Central Air Conditioning Systems

Central air conditioning, also known as ducted air conditioning, circulates cool air throughout your home using a network of ducts. A central A/C system starts with a large air compressor outside the house that pumps air into ducts. Many new homes are built with central air conditioning installed, making it a popular choice for its unobstructed design, energy efficiency, and cooling capabilities. 

Suppose your home does not already have central air conditioning. In that case, adding ductwork to install this type of AC system requires significant time and money to modify the internal structure. The high upfront cost can deter some homeowners, but the long-term savings on utility bills through its energy efficiency often offset this expense in the long run.

Central A/C systems are almost invisible, with only low-profile vents visible on walls, ceilings, or floors. Unlike a portable plug-in unit, central A/C doesn’t take up space in a room, making it ideal for large homes in which smaller systems wouldn’t effectively control the temperature and for families who don’t want a lot of clunky individual units on the floor or walls in each room.

Pros:

• Highly efficient and cost-effective
• Unobtrusive design with low-profile visible vents
• Consistent, effective cooling for large homes

Cons

• High upfront installation and modification costs
• Potential for higher maintenance costs because of system complexity

Ideal For:

• Newer homes with existing ductwork
• Larger homes requiring consistent temperature control
• Homeowners looking for efficient and nearly invisible cooling solutions

Split Air Conditioning Systems

Split air conditioning systems, or ductless mini-split systems, are a common solution for cooling homes without numerous small floor units and fans. The term “split air conditioning” refers to the design of each unit, which includes one internal air conditioning fan that can be adjusted for strength, timing, temperature, and other controls; the other part of the “split” system is an exterior unit mounted on an external wall—for example, with a compressor.

The outdoor units can power several internal units in different rooms, controlling single areas or even a more complex multi-zone system for larger homes. The internal units are connected by piping instead of air ducts (as in a central air conditioning system). These units are a little larger and more obvious than vents, but since they are usually mounted high on the wall, the air conditioning system doesn’t take up a lot of visual or physical space in a room.

Pros:

• Flexible zone control for different rooms or areas
• Easier and cheaper to install in homes without existing ductwork
• Energy-efficient and cost-effective for targeted cooling
• Easy to maintain

Cons:

• Wall-mounted units are more noticeable than other options
• Higher upfront costs per unit compared to traditional window units
• Requires regular maintenance to keep the system running efficiently

Ideal For:

• Homes without existing ductwork
• Homeowners looking for customizable zone cooling
• Those seeking a straightforward and affordable installation process (compared to central air systems)

Heat Pumps

A heat pump is an energy-efficient type of air conditioner unit that moves heat from one location to another, allowing it to heat or cool a room. This option is a variation of a split system with several similarities.

Heat pumps also consist of internal and external units, with condenser coils outside to release heat and warm the air in the winter. The compressor system of a heat pump can also cool air in the summer, so it’s a great year-round system in mild climates that experience all four seasons. This dual functionality makes heat pumps popular among homeowners looking for an all-in-one HVAC system.

Pros:

• Highly efficient and environmentally friendly
• Provides year-round heating and cooling
• Cost-effective in the long term due to energy savings

Cons:

• Efficiency drops in extreme temperatures
• Higher initial cost compared to other AC systems
• May require a backup heating source in colder climates

Ideal For:

• Homes in areas with mild to moderate climates
• Homeowners seeking a dual-purpose system for heating and cooling
• Those looking for an environmentally friendly option

Window Air Conditioners

Window air conditioners are a popular and affordable choice for cooling single rooms. The unit houses all components, including the compressor, condenser, and evaporator, and is designed to fit in a window or a special slot in a wall. 

Once installed, the cooling unit draws in air from the outside, cools it using the refrigerant cycle, and blows it into the room. The last step is expelling the hot air outside through the back of the unit.

Pros:

• Affordable and widely available
• Easy to install and remove
• Provides a temporary solution if you intend to upgrade to another type of air conditioning unit 

Cons:

• Can be noisy
• Blocks the view from the window where installed
• Less efficient than central or split systems for whole-house cooling
• Lacks energy efficiency

Ideal For:

• Renters or homeowners needing temporary or supplemental cooling
• Single rooms, studio apartments, and other small spaces
• Those on a budget looking for a straightforward cooling solution

Portable Air Conditioners

Portable air conditioners are versatile cooling units that can be moved from room to room. Similarly to window ACs, they contain all the necessary components to cool an area within a single, movable housing. 

A portable AC requires a nearby window or vent to operate. It draws in air from the room, cools it down, and circulates it back into the room while expelling the heat outside.

Pros:

• Mobile and easy to move between rooms
• Simple installation with no permanent modifications
• Suitable for rooms where window units are not an option

Cons:

• Can be noisy
• Less efficient than window, split systems, or central air conditioning systems
• Requires a window or vent for hot air exhaust

Ideal For:

• Renters or homeowners seeking flexible or temporary cooling 
• Rooms without windows
• Temporary or supplemental cooling in specific areas

Floor-Mounted AC Systems

A floor-mounted AC system is a type of ductless mini-split system designed for installation at the lower part of the wall near the floor. These systems include an indoor unit on the floor and an outdoor compressor unit connected by refrigerant piping. 

They draw in warm air from the room, cool through a refrigerant cycle, and then release the cooled air back into the room. The outdoor unit then expels the absorbed heat outside.

Pros:

• Easier to install than central air systems
• Ideal for rooms with limited upper wall space or low ceilings
• Provides efficient cooling and heating

Cons:

• More visible and potentially intrusive than the ceiling or high wall-mounted units
• Requires an external unit for operation
• Higher initial cost compared to window units
• Requires a unit in each room or zone for adequate cooling

Ideal For:

• Homes or rooms with low ceilings or limited upper wall space
• Spaces where wall-mounted or ceiling units are not feasible
• Homes without ductwork

What Is the Best Type of Air Conditioning Unit for a House?

Selecting the best AC unit depends on your home’s needs. For large homes or those with existing ductwork, central air conditioning is an efficient cooling system that offers savings in the long run through energy efficiency. 

For homes without ductwork, consider ductless mini-split systems. Window or portable units can be excellent for single rooms or temporary cooling. Consider your budget, space, and cooling needs to help you make an informed decision.  

What Is the Most Efficient Type of Air Conditioner System?

Heat pumps are the most efficient type of air conditioner system for homes in areas without extreme winter temperatures. They offer heating and cooling capabilities and use less energy by transferring heat instead of generating it. 

Where heat pumps aren’t an option, ductless mini-split systems are among the most energy-efficient AC systems on the market. Central air conditioning is more energy-efficient than window or portable air conditioners.  

What Is the Cheapest HVAC Option?

Window and portable air conditioners are the cheapest HVAC system option. They are affordable, easy to install, and ideal for cooling single rooms. While less efficient than central or ductless systems, they provide an upfront, cost-effective solution for temporary or supplemental cooling needs. 

Making the Best Choice for Your Cooling Needs

Ready to move closer to purchasing a new AC system and have more questions? Understanding the different types of air conditioning units is essential to making an informed decision. Blue Dot offers a variety of specials and financing options to help you get the best system within your budget.

Our team will help you choose and install the right system to keep you comfortable all year long. Plus, our Pro Service Plans can keep your new AC system running efficiently all year. Contact us today for an on-site home evaluation and personalized recommendations. Just give us a call at (410) 204-2662 or schedule service online to get started.