AC System
1. Central Air Conditioning System
The ideal cooling solution for most homes and businesses is a central air conditioning
system. Central air will be the lowest maintenance, easiest to use, and most cost
effective in the long run.
How it works: a central air conditioning system cools air in a cooling compressor, a unit that’s
outside of the house. A fan blows the cool air through ducts to deliver it to all of the rooms in
your house. Warm air is pulled out of the house through a return system and pushed outside
through the exhaust. You control the temperature using the thermostat on the wall in your home.
2. Portable Air Conditioner
Portable air conditioners are convenient and affordable options for cooling down small
spaces quickly.
3. Ductless Split System
Even though central air conditioning is often the way to go, certain situations call for an
alternative like ductless air conditioning.
4. Mini Split System
When you want to skip the ductwork, mini split systems are worth consideration. Similar
to the ductless split system mentioned above, a mini split can also be installed without
much fuss.
5. Packaged Units
A packaged unit is a compact air conditioning system that works best for a home
without a basement. If your home was built on a crawl space, there’s no indoor furnace
or air handler. A packaged air conditioning unit is installed outside, so this is a great
solution!
6. Swamp Coolers (Evaporative Air
Conditioners)
Swamp coolers, also known as evaporative air conditioners, are a great choice for dry
climates like Missoula, Montana.
7. Geothermal Air Conditioning
If you’re looking to save money on the most eco friendly types of air conditioning
systems, familiarize yourself with geothermal air conditioning.
8. Variable Capacity Air Conditioners
Variable capacity is a feature that allows you to adjust cooling output like a dimmer
switch to perfectly match your comfort needs to your energy use. Variable capacity air
conditioners are the best way to control moisture in uncomfortably humid environments.
9. Window Unit Air Conditioning
Systems
Not the best long term solution but fine for a season, the window unit is a common
choice. The upside to these types of air conditioning units is price. Basic models cost
just $200-300. If you need heavy duty model for large or commercial spaces, you’re
looking at closer to $800.