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A Guide To This Cooling System
When you are someone who dreads the summertime due to the unbearable and uncomfortable heat that has become commonplace, you may have begun looking into cooling options for your home.
Air conditioning has become an essential part of modern life, especially in areas with hot and humid climates. Air conditioners are designed to cool the air, remove humidity, and improve indoor air quality, which can also be beneficial to people who have allergies that spike in the summer, such as hay fever.
However, it is worth noting before you go looking for your dream home air cooling system that there are several types of air conditioning systems available on the market, each with its own unique features and benefits.
The absolute best way to ensure you get the right option for your home is to discuss it with a professional fitter of air conditioners but just so you have an idea of what is available, having a base understanding is beneficial.
In this article, the different types of air conditioning systems will be explored, so you can learn more about this option.
Window Air Conditioners
Window air conditioners are undoubtedly the most common type of air conditioning system used in residential and commercial buildings. As the name suggests, they are installed in a window and are designed to cool a single room.
They are affordable, easy to install, and can be removed and stored when not in use. They work by drawing in hot air from the room and expelling it outside through a vent. However, if you are looking for air conditioning without external unit, this may not be the best option for you.
Split Air Conditioners
Split air conditioners consist of two units – an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The indoor unit is simply mounted on the wall and contains the evaporator, while the outdoor unit houses the compressor and condenser.
They are quieter than window air conditioners and can cool larger areas. They are also more expensive than window air conditioners, but they are more energy-efficient and provide better air quality.
Portable Air Conditioners
Portable air conditioners are versatile and can be moved from room to room. They do not require permanent installation, but they do need to be vented outside through a window or a vent.
They are ideal for people who live in rental properties or for those who want to cool a single room without having to install a permanent air conditioning system.
Central Air Conditioners
Central air conditioning systems are designed to cool an entire building. They usually consist of a large outdoor unit that contains the compressor and condenser, and an indoor unit that contains the evaporator.
They are expensive to install but are more energy-efficient than window or portable air conditioners. They are also quieter and provide better air quality.
Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioners
Ductless mini-split air conditioners are similar to split air conditioners, but they do not require ductwork to distribute cool air.
They are ideal for buildings that do not have ductwork or for people who want to cool specific rooms without having to cool the entire building. They are also more energy-efficient than central air conditioning systems and can provide better air quality.
Geothermal Heat Pumps
Geothermal heat pumps use the natural heat from the earth to cool and heat a building. They are expensive to install, but they are the most energy-efficient air conditioning system available.
They are also environmentally friendly and can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance. And, as an added bonus, they can also add some real dollar signs to your home’s value! Great!
Is Your Air-Con System Working?
As you can see, most air con units are designed to last for many years after they are installed, even the ones that are not fitted. With that in mind, you will need to know how to spot the signs of an issue with your air-con system to make sure it lasts for its entire warranty.
So, read on to learn a bit about the diagnostics and how to spot issues that can occur with an air con unit.
Poor Airflow
The first sign of a problem with your air conditioning unit is poor airflow. If you notice that the air coming out of your vents is weak or not as cold as it used to be, there could be an issue with your air conditioning system. Poor airflow could be caused by a clogged filter, a blocked duct, or a failing compressor.
Strange Noises
If you hear any unusual noises coming from your air conditioning unit, such as rattling or banging, it’s a sign that something is not right. These sounds could indicate that there is a loose part inside the unit or that the compressor is failing.
Ignoring these sounds can lead to more significant issues, so it’s best to have a professional check it out.
Foul Smells
If you notice a strange odor coming from your air conditioning unit, it could indicate that there is a mold or mildew build-up inside the system. This could be caused by a clogged filter or stagnant water in the unit. Not only is this unpleasant, but it can also pose a health risk to you and your family.
So, if you notice anything akin to the odor of damp or anything else coming from your air con unit, always opt to have it checked by a professional or the company that fitted it.
Of course, in many cases, any mold or mildew can be cleaned at home, but if you have a fitted air con unit, it may be worth calling on a professional team just to make sure it is done correctly!
High Energy Bills
If your energy bills have been steadily increasing, it could be a sign that your air conditioning unit is not functioning correctly. When your unit is not working efficiently, it requires more energy to cool your home, resulting in higher energy bills.
If you notice a significant increase in your energy bills, it’s worth having a professional check your air-con unit to assess what the issue is.
