Types of Air Conditioning Systems and How to Choose the Best One

Picture this: You are coming home on a sizzling summer day.

The moment you step inside, there’s a perfectly cooled breeze that melts away the heat instantly.

This is the charm of using a properly chosen air conditioning system. It not only delivers optimal results but also lowers your utility bills.

However, how can you choose the right one from the competing options available in the market today?

Whether you are cooling just a bedroom or an entire household, the right decision about the type of air conditioning unit can save you thousands of dollars down the line while offering the desired comfort.

In this article, we will explain the various available air conditioning systems along with their advantages and disadvantages.

The aim is to help you choose one that fits your comfort and budgetary requirements.

Types of Air Conditioning Systems

Split System Air Conditioners

Split ACs are made up of two separate sections, hence the term “split”.

The sections are an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The room’s indoor unit is wall-mounted and circulates cool air into the space. The outdoor unit contains the compressor and condenser. These two work together to extract heat from the indoor air and release it outdoors. 

These systems are common in homes and small offices where there is a need to cool specific individual rooms. Many of them have the capability of both heating and cooling the space thanks to their reverse cycle technology. 

Pros

• Energy-efficient with inverter models.
• Quiet operation (compressor is outside).
• Provides both heating and cooling.
• Sleek, modern design.

Cons

• Higher installation cost.
• Requires professional setup and maintenance.

Our Top Pick: The Daikin Cora 7.1kW

• Best for: Homes, small offices, and individual rooms needing efficient cooling and heating.
• Efficiency With Energy: An EER 3.73 lowers power and bill consumption while achieving the intended comfort.
• Cooling Capability: The cooling capacity of 7.1kW is just enough to quickly and consistently cool a small to medium-sized room.

Smart Features:

• Program Dry: Regulates temperature and airflow rate.
• Operation Timers: Schedule your unit to operate automatically throughout the day or week to suit your lifestyle.
• Powerful Mode: Gives a boost in cooling or heating for 20 minutes beyond normal capacity.
• WiFi and App: The system can be controlled from any networked Android or iOS device.

Multi-split air Conditioners

Multi-split systems operate like normal split systems but with multiple indoor units connecting to a single outdoor compressor. They are convenient for cooling multiple rooms at the same time without requiring additional outdoor units. 

Each indoor unit can be controlled individually which increases the level of comfort within the room and allows for efficient energy use. They are the best choice for apartments or houses with limited outdoor spaces.

Pros

• Independent temperature control for each room.
• Saves outdoor space.
• More energy-efficient than multiple single splits.
• Flexible installation options.

Cons

• Complex, higher-cost installation.
• Outdoor unit failure affects all indoor units.

Our Top Pick: AVANTI PLUS® SERIES SRK50ZSXA-W (5.0KW)

• Best for: Apartments, houses with multiple rooms, and buildings with limited outdoor space.
• Energy Efficiency: EER of 4.03 and a 4.5-star rating ensure maximum energy output during operation
• Cooling Capacity: Delivers 5.0kW of cooling, ideal for multiple rooms and apartments.

Smart Features:

• WiFi Control: You can set your AC even while away from home.
• Clean Air Technology: Captures and neutralises fine smoke particles, allergens, odours, bacteria, and viruses.
• Motion Sensor: An infrared motion detector that monitors activity within the room to adjust AC power usage.
• Fuzzy Auto Mode: The AC determines the operating mode and temperature settings to set the inverter frequency.

Ducted Air Conditioning Systems

Ducted ACs cool an entire house or office utilizing a network of concealed ducts.

Cool air is supplied from a central unit to all the rooms, providing a seamless and discreet solution. These systems also have zoning capabilities, allowing you to control the temperatures of different areas independently to avoid wasting energy. 

Their main drawback is that the installation is costly and requires a lot of duct space. However, all this pays. You get an even cooling throughout a space and a cost-effective solution in the long run, especially for larger spaces.

Pros

• Whole-home or office cooling.
• Discreet, hidden installation.
• Zoned control for specific areas.
• Quiet operation.

Cons

• High installation cost.
• Requires ample space for ducts

Our Top Pick: Daikin 16kW Premium Inverter Ducted System

• Best for: Large homes, offices, or buildings requiring centralised cooling and heating.
• Energy Efficiency: The system EER of 3.30 and a TCSPF of 4.77 mean it uses less power without compromising cooling.
• Cooling Capacity: It delivers 16kW or 54000 BTU of cooling power, guaranteeing uniform cooling in all rooms.

Smart Features

• Intelligent Temperature Control prevents fluctuations, improving comfort and efficiency.
• Smart Zoning: Enables cooling target areas to avoid energy wastage.  
• WiFi and the App: Lets you control your space temperature remotely. 
• Voice Control: Google Assistant and Alexa allow for hands-free operation.  

Window Air Conditioners

Window unit air conditioners are individually packaged units designed to be used in a window or specially-made wall space. These units are best for cooling single rooms and are a cheaper substitute for split or ducted systems. 

The units are easy to install and do not require a lot of maintenance, which makes them a good option for tenants who require a temporary cooling option. They can, however, be a little bit noisy while simultaneously blocking some light coming in through the windows.  

Pros

• Economical and easy to set.  
• Does not take up too much space.  
• Requires minimal maintenance  
• Typically more energy-saving than portable units.  

Cons

• Tends to be loud.  
• Obstructs outside light.

Our Top Pick: Kelvinator KWH27HRF 2.7kW

• Best for Small rooms, rental properties, and budget-conscious users who need a simple cooling solution.
• Energy Efficiency: EER of 3.26 (cooling) and COP of 3.22 (heating) guarantee indoor air comfort in both summer and winter.  
• Cooling/Heating Capacity: 2.7kW cooling and 2.45kW heating small rooms and rentals.  

Smart Features

• WIFI Control: Change settings remotely using a smartphone app.  
• Sleep Mode: This saves energy by adjusting temperatures during the night.  
• Eco Mode: Provides comfort while minimising power use.  
•  Self-diagnosis: Displays faults, allowing easier troubleshooting.

Portable Air Conditioners

Portable ACs are versatile, mobile cooling devices that can easily be moved from location to location. They provide a viable choice for people looking for respite from warm temperatures in several indoor settings. 

These units are especially popular among those who rent and live temporarily because there is no need for a permanent installation. They let the users achieve a comfortable ambiance at homes, workplaces, or any other place where conventional air conditioning systems may be impractical.

Pros

• No long-term installation is needed. 
• Relocation is simple. 
• Affordable. 
• Fast and easy to install. 

Cons

• Less powerful cooling. 
• Water in the tank must be drained manually.

Our Top Pick: Rinnai 4.1kW Portable Air Conditioner

• Best for: Temporary cooling needs, renters, and spaces where permanent installation is impossible.
• Energy Efficiency: With an EER of 2.3, cooling efficiently is a dream achieved for those minding power bills.
• Cooling Capacity: 4.1kW cooling capacity suits bedrooms, home offices, and small living areas.  

Smart Features: 

• WiFi Control: Manage AC settings on the go.
• Adjustable Temperature: Control lets you set and maintain your preferred temperature. 
• Multi-Speed Fan: Customize airflow intensity for your desired comfort. 
• Sleep Mode: Automatically adjusts temperature to save energy at night.  

Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners

A reverse cycle AC employs a reverse refrigeration cycle to deliver both cooling and heating functions.

The units move heat from indoors in cooling mode, whereas in heating mode, they extract warmth from the outside. Their double functionality means continuous indoor comfort throughout the seasons. 

Reverse cycle ACs come in configurations such as split, multi-split, and ducted systems. They can therefore be installed in various buildings with different design requirements. This makes them a versatile solution. 

Pros

• Double heating and cooling functions
• Use energy more efficiently
• Flexible in installation
• Saves a lot on energy costs over time

Cons

• The initial price is high
• Must be installed by a professional

Our Top Pick: Rinnai 7.0kW Reverse Cycle Split System  

• Best for: Homes and businesses in regions with both hot and cold seasons, offering year-round climate control.
• Energy Efficiency: An EER of 3.73 provides complete comfort all year round without overspending on utilities. 
• Cooling Capacity: 7.0kW provides quick relief by heating up or cooling down your large, open-plan living space 

Smart Features  

• WiFi Control – You can control your Rinnai from anywhere in the world using a mobile device.  
• Turbo Function: To quickly cool in summer or swiftly warm in winter  
• Dehumidifying Mode: Reduces humidity for comfort and mould prevention  
• Delay Timer Functionality: to turn the appliance on or off within a specific period

Cassette Air Conditioning

Cassette air conditioners are ceiling-mounted and recessed into the ceiling, offering a clean, unobtrusive look. They provide uniform cooling across large areas without the visual impact of wall-mounted units. 

Ideal for offices and modern residences, they combine efficiency with aesthetics. Although they require a false ceiling or sufficient overhead space, their quiet operation and balanced air distribution make them a sophisticated cooling option.

Pros

• Discreet installation.
• Delivers uniform cooling.
• Quiet and energy-efficient.
• Enhances interior design.

Cons

• Needs a false ceiling or ample space.
• Higher installation costs.

Our Top Pick: Mitsubishi Electric SLZ-M60FA Ceiling Cassette

• Best for: Offices, commercial buildings, and modern homes with false ceilings, providing discreet cooling.
• Energy Efficiency: The air conditioner sets the climate control and energy efficiency standard with an EER of 3.20. 
• Cooling Capacity: 6.0kW benefits those seeking a blend of style, functionality, and savings.

Smart Features: 

• WiFi Control: Control your AC away from home. 
• 3D i-see Sensor: Detects if anyone is at home and saves power if no occupants are present. 
• Weekly Timer: Schedule when the unit works and when not to go off.
• Amazon Alexa: Speak to your AC and command it without tedious manual work.

Hybrid Air Conditioner

Hybrid ACs use traditional refrigeration cooling but combined with green technology of solar energy. This makes the unit more flexible where they can switch modes based on the existing conditions. 

For example, they will change to solar during favorable weather and to refrigeration during unfavorable solar weather. This flexibility improves energy efficiency thus reducing costs and environmental impacts. 

Pros

• Combines renewable and traditional cooling technologies.  
• Lower emission and energy costs.  
• Works well in varying weather conditions.  
• Promotes green practices.  

Cons

• High initial cost.  
• Requires advanced installation and maintenance.  

Our Top Pick: EcoWorld 3.5kW Solar Hybrid Air Conditioner 

• Best for: Environmentally conscious users looking to reduce energy costs with a combination of solar and traditional cooling.
• Energy Efficiency: Uses as little as 30W of 240V AC mains power when paired with solar making it the cheapest on our list.
• Cooling Capacity: 3.5kW delivers the cheapest cooling/heating for spaces up to 60 square meters. 

Smart Features: 

• Auto Power Source Switch: Changes to solar DC power or 240V AC mains automatically for optimal efficiency. 
• WiFi Control: Control how and when your space is cooled/heated from miles away. 
• Eco Mode: Optimise efficiency and reduce energy costs. 
• Timer Function: Set for automatic on/off operation to suit your needs and save.

How To Choose The Best Air Conditioning

Know Your Space Size

Choosing the correct size will help to deliver optimal cooling or heating needs.  If you choose a small unit, it will have to work continuously to meet desired needs. Likewise, a large unit will cool your space too rapidly but fail to eliminate all the moisture causing discomfort and avoidable expenses.

Here are some tips to guide your AC sizing:

• Small room (up to 20m²) → 2.5 kW (≈8,530 BTUs)
• Medium room (20–40m²) → 3.5–5.0 kW (≈11,942–17,060 BTUs)
• Large room (40–60m²) → 5.0–7.0 kW (≈17,060–23,884 BTUs)
• Whole house → In this case it is best to utilize ducted or multi-split systems as they provide the best cooling.

Select the Right System

Different AC systems exist, each suited to serving particular tasks better than others. Consider what you need and go for a unit suitable for that purpose. For example, pick:

• Use window units if you want affordability and suitability for small spaces.
• Portable units are helpful if you don’t want a permanent solution or want the flexibility of using various rooms.
• Split systems are ideal if all you need is cooling a specific area or room.
• Ducted systems are used if the desire is to cool the entire house uniformly.

Consider Efficiency 

Selecting an efficient model will result in lower electricity expenses. Search for units with high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratios and Energy Star certifications. 

Your Climate

Different types of AC are meant to function differently in various climates. If you live in:

• Hot and Humid: Split or ducted systems are preferable. 
• In dry regions, Evaporative coolers work effectively. 
• Mixed climates: Reverse cycle air conditioners have a heating and cooling function. 

Maintenance 

Invest in air conditioning systems that have low maintenance requirements. With them, you won’t need to hire technicians regularly and your AC functionality won’t be interrupted.

Noise levels

The noise level can determine the distractions caused by your AC. Split and ducted systems are quieter than window or portable units. Consider the noise level and determine where you want to install when choosing ACs.

Frequently Asked Questions

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