Heatwaves during the hot summer months, even in the northern parts of the country, can be almost unbearable without the relief of some type of cooling system. In the southeastern US, a central AC system can eat up energy by cooling rooms that remain mostly unused; and if you're trying to keep costs down by turning up the thermostat, occupied spaces may not be adequately cooled.
If either of these scenarios apply to you, or if you're looking for an inexpensive solution for beating the heat, a room air conditioner could be the answer. There are several types of room air conditioners to choose from, making it easier to find the right model for your home or office.
- Portable Air Conditioners
- Window Air Conditioners
- Through-the-Wall Air Conditioners
- Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioners
- Ducted Split Air Conditioners
- Packaged Terminal Air Conditioners (PTACs)
- Vertical Package Air Conditioners
Portable Air Conditioners
Portable air conditioners are freestanding, easy-to-move models that cool by pulling in fresh air, removing heat and moisture, and returning cool air into your space.
Required Installation
These models need to vent warm air, usually outside, through an included vent hose. They also create condensate as they cool and dehumidify, and must be drained from time to time. Portable ACs come with a complete window kit and installation usually takes just a few minutes.
Key Benefits
- Mobility: You can move them into different rooms
- Not Permanent: They don't require permanent installation, and are usually affordable options.
Considerations
Some people find them noisy, and they're typically not as efficient as other room AC options. Look for models with heat for year-round use. To learn more about portable air conditioners, check out our Portable AC Buying Guide.
Window Air Conditioners
Window air conditioners are available in a variety of cooling capacities and can be used as primary cooling sources for specific rooms or spaces, or in conjunction with a central AC to cool rooms that remain occupied most of the time.
Required Installation
They're designed to be installed inside a standard double-hung window or, in some cases, with some models designed for casement windows. They are secured in the window frame with the hot air exhaust system facing outside and the cool air return system facing inside. These room AC's also include an installation kit that includes hardware to secure the unit in the window and side panels to close the gap between the unit and sides of the frame.
Key Benefits
- Efficient Choice: Window ACs are typically efficient options that can cool small or large rooms.
- Packed With Features: Look for models that include heat modes, programmable timers, and digital control boards.
Considerations
Some window air conditioners can be installed through a wall and can be a less expensive solution than a traditional thru-wall unit if you're replacing an existing unit.
Learn more in our Window AC Buying Guide.
Through-the-Wall Air Conditioners
Very similar to window air conditioners, thru-the-wall air conditioners are self-contained units designed to be install through a wall inside a wall sleeve.
Required Installation
With these AC's a hole is literally cut through the wall to the outside so an exterior wall must be used. A supportive wall sleeve is required for installation to support the weight of the unit, and is usually sold separately. Some thru-wall units do have a slide-out chassis inside a surrounding cabinet, which functions as the wall sleeve.
Key Benefits
- More Powerful: Through-wall ACs are typically available in higher cooling capacities than window AC models and weigh slightly more.
- Convenient Placement: Through-wall units are installed flush to the wall for a streamlined appearance, and can be placed higher or lower on the wall for convenience.
Considerations
For first-time owners, you may need assistance when cutting the hole into your wall so ensure you don't run into plumbing or electrical issues.
Learn more in our Thru-Wall Air Conditioner Buying Guide.
Ductless Mini-Split System Air Conditioners
Popular for their high-efficiency cooling, ductless mini-split system air conditioners provide quiet, unobtrusive cooling for single or multiple "zones" within homes or commercial spaces, without requiring ductwork like HVAC systems.
Mini-split air conditioners are not self-contained appliances, but "split" the air handler and the condenser into separate parts. This makes them much quieter during operation than the preceding types of AC's.
Required Installation
These systems have two basic parts: a large condenser unit that installs outdoors and one or more air handlers that are placed strategically inside the rooms, or zones, you want to cool. Air handlers can be wall-mounted, floor mounted, or ceiling mounted.
Insulated conduit carries the refrigeration and electrical lines from the outside condenser unit to the air handler(s) indoors.
Key Benefits
- Individualized Control: Each wall-mounted blower system can be controlled independently to provide comfortable room cooling right where you need it.
- Maximum Efficiency: Ductless mini-split system air conditioners are known for their high cooling efficiency, quiet operation, and slim profiles in your space.
- No Window Needed: Ideal for enclosed spaces that don't have a window, or where additional cooling may be needed such as an extension that isn't ducted.
Considerations
Most of these units require a licensed HVAC technician to install them. There are a few mini-split systems that are DIY, so you'll need to look for these if you intend to install one yourself.
View our Mini-Split Buying Guide for more information.
Ducted Split Air Conditioners
Ducted Split System Air Conditioners, or ducted mini-splits, are an increasingly popular whole-home climate control option. These systems are a cross between traditional central HVAC and mini-split systems, offering power, technology, and widespread coverage all in one package.
These systems come as either central ducted split models, which are most similar to a traditional HVAC air conditioner, or ceiling concealed ducted split systems, which are more like mini-splits.
Installation
Ducted split systems require professional installation and must be connected to new or existing ductwork within a home or other type of space. Like mini-split systems, they have two parts: an internal air handler and an external compressor unit that is very similar to one found with a mini-split.
Central ducted split system air handlers are typically installed in a central location with good access to a space's ducting, while ceiling concealed air handlers are typically installed closer to the space they're used, like in a closet, wall, crawlspace, or utility room.
Key Benefits
- Balanced: These systems offer an amazing balance of power, coverage, and efficiency that you really can't get elsewhere.
- Advanced Tech: Manufacturers are packing these systems with all the bells and whistles that mini-splits are known for, like Wi-Fi and app support, advanced compressor technology, and smart operating modes.
Packaged Terminal Air Conditioners
Package Terminal Air Conditioners (PTACs) are commercial-grade models that you usually see installed in hotels, assisted living facilities, and offices.
Required Installation
These units are typically installed through an external wall right above the floor and often under a window. They need wall wall sleeve, similar to the through-the-wall ACs, and should be installed by a licensed HVAC technician.
Key Benefits
- Versatility: PTACs are capable of cooling and heating spaces of nearly any size.
- Multiple Unit Control: Most brands allow you to control multiple units from one location.
Considerations
Though PTAC units are popular in the hospitality industry, they're also used in sun rooms and various other residential spaces. You can read more about them in this blog post.
Vertical Package Air Conditioners
A vertical package air conditioner(VTAC) is a vertical heating and cooling unit that's usually installed in a space hidden from view, like a closet. This type of AC is also widely used in the hospitality industry, especially in older, historic hotels.
Similar to PTACs, they're also used in other multi-unit facilities like assisted living, extended stays, dorm rooms, and more.
Required Installation
Vertical package air conditioners are vented through the wall with the unit housed in a mechanical closet or other small enclosed space. These units must be installed by a licensed HVAC technician.
Key Benefits
- Multi-Unit Versatility: Vertical units can cool and heat single or multiple rooms.
- Unobtrusive: Unlike PTACs, these are hidden away and operate on a wall thermostat.
- Quiet: Since they're installed out of view, they're a great option for those who want a quiet performer.
Considerations
VTACs do required an enclosed space to house them, such as a mechanical room or closet, and they must be vented through a wall.
Primary vs. Supplementary Use
Each system can provide efficient cooling in your environment in two ways:
- Primary Sources of Cooling – Portable, window, and thru-wall ACs are often used as the primary sources of cooling in rooms that are not accessible by a central air conditioner. All you need is a window or a custom-designed wall space that allows you to exhaust hot air outside. Ductless mini-splits can cool and add warmth to both single and multiple areas of a home or commercial space. PTACs and vertical package air conditioners provide primary cooling to hotel rooms and other small rooms,connected to a single control source, while allowing some room control.
- Supplementary Sources of Cooling – Portable, window, and thru-wall ACs can also be used as supplementary cooling systems in rooms that are already covered by a central air conditioner. To gain the most energy efficiency, you'll need to offset your usage of a central AC by turning up your thermostat (or turning it off) and letting the room air conditioner do most of the cooling work.
In Summary
Room air conditioners come a variety of types which can accommodate a wide selection of rooms or areas in homes, multi-unit living buildings, and commercial spaces. They can function as the primary source of cooling, or as supplemental cooling for rooms that aren't covered by central systems, or to help save energy by using in rooms that need extra cooling. Each has its unique installation requirements as well as benefits to meet individual cooling needs.
Still Have Questions?
For more information on Sylvane's room air conditioner solutions–and for a free consultation on treatment options for your indoor environment–please call our product experts at 1-800-934-9194. In addition, visit our Knowledge Center for more informative articles on room air conditioners. We want to help make your indoor air healthy and comfortable.
