There are several different types of AC units for homes that are commonly found in North York, ON. While you may already have a good idea of what you want to buy for your home, it’s important to understand the options you have to choose from in terms of cooling systems. Read further to help you choose between the different types of air conditioning systems that are available for your home.
What to keep in mind when choosing an air conditioner
While the structures of some are different, the internal cooling components are the same across the board. Inside every air conditioner, you’ll find two sets of coils. One to cool air and one to remove warm air and boot it back outside.
When warm air passes over the cold wires, the air is cooled down and condensation forms. Air conditioning units are all universally designed to get rid of this moisture, with varying methods depending on which unit you choose.
The best air conditioner for North York’s climate will depend on your budget, the size of your home, its energy usage, and your desired cooling power. With those qualities in mind, all you need to do is pick a corresponding unit. Luckily, there are plenty of air conditioning options out there, meaning you’ll find one way or another to stay cool.
Central air conditioning
Central air conditioning is one of the most common home cooling systems. It is a dual-unit system, with both the condensing units and evaporating units connected through rubber tubing.
- The condensing unit goes outside of your home, kicking out warm air and allowing it to escape from the ducts.
- An evaporating unit uses refrigerant to cool the interior coils, which cools the air passing over the coils.
- Then, the evaporating unit uses the same blowers and ducts as your heating unit, meaning you won’t have to add any additional ductwork or fans in the installment process.
Central air is popular for its impressive cooling capabilities. Since it uses the same ducts and vents as your heating, each room in your house is cooled at the same time. It’s a practical choice for those with larger homes and families.
The condensing unit sits outside, which makes the operation of your air conditioner quiet and unobtrusive. Central air is also easy to maintain and energy-efficient-just make sure your home is the right size for one of these powerful machines. Central A/C requires an HVAC technician for installation and repair.
Window Air Conditioner (We do not install window units)
Window air conditioners are single-unit systems. Unlike central air conditioners, window air conditioners have both the evaporation and condensation components in the same unit.
- The evaporation portion faces inside your home, blowing in cool air.
- The condensation portion faces outside.
The design of these is both practical and efficient, as you just need to plug it in and position it. Window units also come in varying sizes to meet your cooling needs. Smaller units cool single rooms, while larger units can cool an entire floor. They may be a good option if you have a smaller single-story home.
Window air conditioners are also more affordable than permanent units. They can be installed in a few minutes, especially as you get more experienced with installation.
One of their downsides is that they cannot stay in place year-round. You’ll need somewhere to put it during the winter, but if that’s not a problem, window units are great options for smaller homes and rooms.
Ductless Split Unit
Ductless split units are like window units-but permanent. They can stay in place all year round and are mounted on the wall.
- The evaporating side sits close to your ceiling with a fan to blow out cold air.
- A tube runs through your wall to connect the unit to its condensation portion, which is mounted on the outer wall of your home.
- The evaporating side sits close to your ceiling with a fan to blow out cold air.
- A tube runs through your wall to connect the unit to its condensation portion, which is mounted on the outer wall of your home.
These units are often found in hotels as they control the temperature well in single rooms, much like window air conditioners. These units are easier to maintain over time, and they offer a more aesthetically pleasing look. A potential downside is their limited ability to cool multiple rooms or floors.
Portable Air Conditioners
Portable air conditioners are also single-unit machines. They have the condensing and evaporating components in one unit, giving you more flexibility on where you put them. Most portable air conditioners roll around on wheels. You can wheel them into whichever room you’d like.
You may be more limited though if they drain through a tube rather than draining into a storage compartment. Tube-draining means you’ll need to situate it near a window or sliding door to extend the tube outside.
Portable air conditioners are one of the most affordable ways to cool a room. While they typically can’t cool an entire home, they’re great for bedrooms, offices, or small common rooms.
We help with all your AC needs
At City Energy Heating & Air Conditioning we provide top-quality AC repair services in North York and the surrounding areas. Whether you need a new AC unit or want to get your old one in tip-top shape, give us a call and we’ll get you cooled off!