For residential purposes, there are several types of air conditioning systems commonly used, each designed for different needs and space sizes:
1. Central Air Conditioning: A system that cools an entire home by distributing air through a network of ducts and vents. It's ideal for larger homes and provides uniform cooling.
2. Ductless Mini-Split Systems: These are split systems without ducts. They are perfect for homes without existing ductwork, providing zoned cooling for specific areas of the house.
3. Window Air Conditioners: A compact unit installed in a window to cool a single room. It's a cost-effective option for smaller spaces.
4. Portable Air Conditioners: These are mobile units that can be moved from room to room. They are similar to window units but can be placed on the floor and vented out a window.
5. Floor-Mounted ACs: These are similar to ductless systems but are mounted closer to the floor rather than the ceiling. They are useful when wall space is limited.
6. Hybrid Air Conditioners: These systems switch between using electricity and burning fossil fuels to save on energy costs.
7. Geothermal Air Conditioners: Geothermal cooling systems use the Earth's stable temperature to cool your home. They are highly efficient but have a higher upfront cost.
These types can vary in installation complexity, energy efficiency, and upfront costs.