Do you know what type of air conditioner is keeping you cool this summer? A little knowledge of air conditioning systems can go a long way when it comes to maintaining your AC keeping it running at maximum efficiency for both comfort and energy savings. This page contains a helpful guide to your home AC system from the air conditioning repair technicians at In order for split system AC units to function, they have to have a delivery system for cool air. That delivery system isAs the cooling process in the indoor evaporator coils takes place, a blower or air handler blows across the coils to distribute cooling. cool air enters the ducts, channeling that air to every room in the home. So, unlike other air conditioners, split system AC units are able to cool an entire home with only one combined system. The cost of a split system is higher in comparison than other air conditioners, but the cost difference is offset by the need for only one system to cool an entire home or building.

Benefits to split AC units include: Since split system AC units are so dependent on a balanced installation of ductwork, there can be disadvantages to these units as well: Ductless split air conditioning systems are comprised of an indoor unit mounted to the wall, and an outdoor component that sits next to your home. While ductless systems don’t use ducts, as their name implies, theyhvac air conditioner ratings do use hoses to run from the room or rooms you want to cool to the outdoorcentral ac cost per month Window units house all the parts of an air conditioner—compressor,media ac units condenser, expansion valve, coil, and more—in one box that fits into the window of your home. Their installation is simple and they’re

Wall units function similarly to window units, though their installation is not as simple since they require wall modification. Evaporative cooling works best in dry climates by using the evaporation of water to draw heat out of the air. As a breeze or fan blows over a moist medium, such as fabric, the water molecules disperse into the air, absorbing the surrounding heat. If you come out of a pool or lake into the surrounding air on a hot day, as the water evaporates from your body,It's the same concept. The benefits of this include: The drawback is that evaporation can take place only in climates with a low humidity because of the following issues: These air conditioners are sold and installed as single units. is located on an outside wall or rooftop much like any other central airThe blower section and controls sit just inside the wall or ceiling space. Since the equipment is a package unit, there is no need for ducting.

The refrigerant circulates the short distance from the outside compressor to the inside air handler and delivers cool air to the interior room instantly. There is no distance for cool air to travel, thus the units are very efficient in cooling quickly with little to no Since they are a single unit designed for a confined space, their efficiency is unmatched for the job they are designed to perform. are an inexpensive option for dorm rooms and other facilities giving the occupant full control over their environment. With no need for ducting and no requirement to cool a large multi-room area, package AC units are a smart way to bring cool comfort to such areas as: While they are excellent for certain spaces, cooling a whole house room by room with package AC units can be costly. Large rooms or multiple room areas don't lend themselves to good air distribution with packageCooling energy can become wasted in large, spaciousOne end of the room can be quite comfortable while the farthest

areas do not receive sufficient cooling. Package units can also be noisier than other methods of air conditioning. To determine what kind of air conditioning system your home uses, the first step is to locate it. However, its location will vary based upon what type of cooling system it is. If you are inexperienced at dealing with air conditioning systems, follow the “look but don’t touch”No matter your level of experience, consult an expert for servicing your air conditioner, and during the checkup ask them to show you how to safely and properly care for it. Every year, numerous injuries are reported to the Consumer Product Safety Commission resulting from heating and air conditioning units, including: Be careful and call an air conditioning expert for help. To learn how to better care for your air conditioner, including setting up a routine maintenance Aire Serv at (855) 259-2280. Our expertly trained technicians have been

servicing all models of air conditioning systems across the United States and Canada since 1992.After evaluating the comfort and energy efficiency of your home, you may decide it's time to implement a new cooling system. Though choosing an air conditioner may seem like a simple decision, there are actually numerous factors you should consider before making your final selection.Given the variety of air conditioner models that exist in today's market, homeowners should set aside time to research and educate themselves on the wide range of units available to them. This approach allows them to find the air conditioner that best fits their personal needs as well as the parameters of their given space. Some air conditioner models require outdoor condensers that pump out heat. One of the more well-known types of air conditioning, central air is used to cool entire houses or large commercial spaces. Central air is also known as ducted air conditioning because it utilizes internal air ducts.

Installation experts typically place a heat exchanger inside the building's central furnace/AC unit, which then distributes chilled air throughout the ducts when the system is turned on. Window air conditioning models provide an attractive option for spaces that may not be suitable for a central air system. For that reason, window units are commonly used by renters who want to implement a cooling solution in a more temporary living situation.Window AC units rest on top of the window's lower edge, which requires the window to be partially opened. The cold air return system rests inside the home while the exhaust sits outside, blowing hot air out of the space. Installers place these models either through or flush against a wall. Though wall-mounted or through-the-wall units appear similar to window units, they can differ greatly in size, design and function. The primary difference is the cooling capacity; unlike window units, wall-based air conditioners only have ventilation on one side.

Known for their flexibility and convenience, these free-standing ductless units have an innovative method for delivering cool air. Portable air conditioners take in fresh air, remove the heat from and dehumidify it and then return the air to the space. Simultaneously, the unit expels hot air from its exhaust. For this reason, many portable conditioners - evaporative units aside - must be set up near a window or configured to optimally allow warm air to flow out of the building.Portable air conditioners come in three types:Package Terminal Package terminal air conditioners are especially popular options for hotels, offices and assisted living facilities. These commercial-grade units offer both heating and cooling functionality and, as commonly seen in hotels, are typically installed on an exterior wall underneath a window. Some brands offer technology that allows a user to control multiple units from one location.Given all the aforementioned choices, it can be difficult to determine which air conditioner will best fit your needs.

Buyers can rest assured, however, knowing one of these models can do the job. Here are some common air conditioner benefits homeowners look for and a breakdown of which models best meet those conditions:Functionality One of the most important factors when choosing the proper air conditioner is its functionality. Consequently, buyers will need to consider their space and determine whether a given model can be employed - and be effective - within their property. Many homeowners, for example, choose to have central air installed in their home. This solution enables cool air to flow freely throughout every room in their home while simultaneously providing a less noisy environment, which can be ideal for more permanent living situations. Commercial spaces that need to accommodate multiple users across a larger space may rely on individually controlled package terminal units. On the other hand, renters confined to a studio living situation may find their needs can be met with a single portable unit.

Buyers might also purchase a ductless air conditioner to complement their home's existing HVAC system. Those who are in need of an outdoor air conditioner for a wedding or other special event would also likely find success with a portable unit. In terms of flexibility, portable units should undoubtedly be at the top of buyers' lists. These air conditioners can effectively cool a space but can typically be moved with little effort. It's worth noting evaporative air conditioners do not use hoses or condensers, meaning they are the only option that is truly portable. Window units, on the other hand, tend to be a bit more powerful than their portable counterparts yet less expensive and easier to implement than central air. Thus, they tend to be a great option for renters or those in a short-term living situation.  Those in the market for an air conditioner should heavily consider the space with which they're working. Though compact, portable units can be invasive for individuals in smaller apartments whereas window air conditioners can save in-demand floor space.

Central air requires the least amount of indoor space, yet purchasers will need room outside to place the condenser. Air conditioning systems can range widely in price. In general, portable, window and wall units tend to run on the lower end of the scale while central air is known as the most expensive. In addition to the upfront costs, buyers should also consider the amount they'll pay over the life of their system's use. Portable, window and wall units tend to be more efficient than central air conditioning, allowing you to reduce energy bills and save money in the long run. You can also cut costs associated with your air conditioning unit by engaging in the following practices:Energy Efficiency For buyers concerned about reducing their carbon footprint, energy efficient AC units may present an attractive option. Not only do efficient models emit fewer greenhouse gases and other harmful pollutants, they can drastically reduce energy bills and open the door to federal tax credits.

Buyers seeking an energy efficient solution should pay attention to a unit's BTU, or British thermal unit, rating. This number, which typically ranges from 5,000 to more than 20,000, indicates how quickly and efficiently a unit can cool a space. Homeowners should determine the square footage of the area they'd like to cool and calculate the appropriate BTU from there. Additionally, most air conditioners should have an EER, or energy efficiency ratio; models that carry a ratio higher than 10 are considered highly efficient. Air quality can be especially important to those suffering from allergies; consequently, buyers might want to be conscious of a unit's dehumidifying capabilities. Typically, a larger unit or central air system is more likely to remove moisture from the air - and control mold growth - than smaller models. If homeowners or commercial buyers are concerned with the noise level within a space, they should carefully consider their air conditioning choices. Wall and window units tend to be among the loudest cooling systems, while central air is known for keeping noise at bay.

Split systems are typically quieter inside the home, but the outdoor condenser may generate a noticeable amount of noise.Central air can be expensive to implement, but also offers many benefits.Each system unmistakably comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Central air, for example, can be the most expensive system to implement, but it also offers a number of benefits, including the ability to cool multiple rooms, dehumidify and keep noise pollution at a minimum. Ultimately, buyers will need to decide which benefits are most important to them before making a final decision. For those who have difficulty making a selection, it might be worthwhile to talk to a knowledgeable HVAC professional.Though the majority of work is done once you've put in your research and made a final selection, there are still factors air conditioning users may need to consider before their system is ready for use, including:Getting the Right Size Some cooling units, such as wall, window and portable air conditioners, require buyers to be mindful of space constraints.

Instead of attempting to guess measurements or eyeball individual systems, buyers should get out a tape measure and record the measurements of their wall or window space. This reduces the likelihood of the user returning the system due to a sizing error. For portable units, be mindful of the size you're buying compared to the amount of floor space you've allotted for the air conditioner. Properly Placing Your Unit There are some elements AC users - particularly those of portable, window and wall systems - should keep in mind when it comes to the location and optimization of their systems. First, users should consider the best placement for air flow. If your intention is to cool your entire apartment with a window unit, for example, placing the unit in a central location is ideal. Alternatively, by putting that system at the front or back of the space, you may be limiting its cooling span.As previously mentioned, portable units may need to be near a window so that hot air can be efficiently expelled through the exhaust hose.