This may come as a surprise to many homeowners, but there is more than one type of air conditioner that you can equip your home with. And each of them serves their own unique purpose, meeting the certain needs of space depending on location, size, and what exactly it’s needed for.

Here’s a look at the different types of air conditioning systems that exist in the industry, how to determine which one is right for you and your home, and how we can assist you.

Types of Air Conditioning Systems

According to My Trusted Contractor, there are six different types of air conditioners: central AC, ductless, a portable unit, a window unit, hybrid, and geothermal. We also can’t leave out the trusty swamp cooler. And each one is ideal for varying kinds of living spaces.

Central Air Conditioner

Perhaps the most classic of the air conditioner options is central air conditioners, and you’ve likely seen them perched on the roof or heard them humming alongside a home. These systems, according to the Department of Energy, are either a split-system or a packaged unit. But what exactly does that mean?

A split-system means there is an outdoor metal cabinet containing the condenser and compressor, and an indoor cabinet containing the evaporator. In comparison, in a packaged unit the evaporator, condenser, and compressor are all in a single unit. These types of systems can even be combined with heating coils or a natural gas furnace and act as a one-stop furnace for your home.

Window Unit Air Conditioner

For those who are looking for something a little smaller, to fit a one-bedroom or studio, for example, window units are the perfect solution. And they’re a great choice for someone who lives in a cooler climate and doesn’t need a large system. These units are housed in a single box and can be mounted in a hole in the wall itself, or perched in the window sill!

Ductless, Mini-Split Air Conditioner

For many homeowners, classic central air conditioning isn’t an option. Why? Some homes, especially older ones, don’t have any ductwork! That’s where ductless, mini-split units come in handy. These systems allow airflow through each room in your house by having a separate unit mounted on the wall in each one. They are then connected to the outdoor unit and can even be controlled independently by room.

Portable Air Conditioner

If you’re looking for a unit that isn’t locked in place, a portable air conditioner may be right for you. These systems are easy to use and simple to add at any time, as they only need a power outlet and a window for exhaust air to be funneled out of.

Geothermal Heating and Cooling

As explained by My Trusted Contractor, geothermal heating and cooling is a newer method to the industry. So how does it work? By bringing up heat from deep in the ground in the Winter and sending heat back into the Earth in the Summer through geothermal coils. And it’s energy-efficient and sustainable by using natural resources. Not only that, but it can last longer than other air conditioning units in the long run – saving you time and money.

Hybrid Air Conditioner

Similarly, to Geothermal Heating and Cooling, Hybrid Air Conditioners also pull heat out of your home in the Summer and push heat into your space in the Winter. And by alternating between fossil fuel burning and electricity usage, the system saves money and energy.

Swamp Cooler Air Conditioning

Another air conditioning method that’s tried and true is the use of swamp coolers. According to HowStuffWorks, swamp cooling, introduced as early as in ancient Egypt, uses evaporative cooling to bring the temperature down. This is when hot, dry air passes over the top, or through, water and the air temperature decreases. The only downside is that these types of systems are best for homes in hot, dry climates and often don’t work for more humid locations. But the best part is that they’re cheap, easy to use, and simple to install; and extremely helpful in a pinch.

How B&D Can Help

At B&D, we strive to provide exceptional services. Our qualified, certified technicians are trained to maintain operations of your air-handling units through routine maintenance. And they’re EPA-licensed to charge, evacuate, and service all residential systems.

Contact Albuquerque\’s premier choice for residential heating and cooling at 505-299-4463, or schedule an appointment online.