As the weather hits a high, the temperature in your home also becomes unbearable. While you could open up the windows to let the breeze in, that’s not always practical—or comfortable. You can’t go without installing a home cooling system, or else you’d be baked during the hot months.
From mini-splits to evaporative coolers, there are plenty of options to choose from. In this blog, we will discuss some of the most popular cooling systems to help you find the one that works best for you and enjoy a perfect temperature all season long!
1. Ductless Mini-Split Systems
Mini-split AC system is a type of home cooling system that is becoming increasingly popular. Mini-split air conditioners are designed to cool a single room or an area of your home. As they don’t require ducts, mini-splits are quite easy to install. According to Cielo, mini-split installation costs around $3000 to $14,500 depending on the unit and complexity of the process. Therefore, it is best to buy a DIY-friendly mini-split to save on installation costs.
Mini-splits are on the pricier side; however, they pay you back with their energy efficiency in the long run. You can purchase a regular AC (to stay within your budget), and for smart capabilities, you can easily pair your mini-split with a smart AC controller. This smart climate control device helps automate your home environment completely. In addition, some mini-split thermostats come with humidity sensors in addition to temperature sensors, so you can also keep an eye on indoor moisture levels.
2. Window Air Conditioners
Window air conditioners are small, affordable, and easy to set up. They consist of a single unit with all of the parts and components contained inside one box or casing. This type of AC is usually mounted or installed in a window and plugs into a traditional electrical outlet.
Window ACs are relatively inexpensive to purchase and install, and they can be very effective at cooling a single room. However, they block the view from the window and can clash with your room’s interior.
3. Portable Air Conditioners
It is a self-contained unit that can be moved around with relative ease. Like any other air conditioner, it cools your room and also dehumidifies it. Portable units provide cool air while exhausting heat outside using a hose vent. It is simple to install – you just have to put the exhaust hose out through a window or an exterior wall.
Portable units allow you to choose the fan speed and set timers to create a cooling schedule without wasting energy. You can even provide smart capabilities to your portable unit by pairing it with a smart AC controller.
On the downside, portable units are on the noisier side as both the evaporator and condenser are enclosed in one box placed inside your room.
4. Central Air Conditioners
One of the most popular types of home cooling systems is central air conditioning. It is a perfect option for homes that already have ductwork installed. Central air conditioners are generally very effective at cooling entire homes, and they can also be paired with smart thermostats.
It has two units – the outdoor condensing unit and the indoor evaporative unit that are connected to each other by refrigerant tubing. The conditioned is circulated to the living space via ducts.
When purchasing a new unit, make sure it’s appropriately sized for your home. Excluding the ductwork installation, central AC units have lower initial costs, almost 30% less than mini-splits.
5. Evaporative Coolers
Evaporative coolers are a type of home cooling system that propels air saturated with water to provide a cooling effect. Evaporative coolers come with an internal water tank that needs to be refilled when the level gets too low. Since they put out moist air, you should keep a window open for ventilation to avoid mold or mildew growth.
Evaporative coolers don’t consume much energy as they only operate a fan, making them an affordable option for your home. While they are an affordable option to beat the summer heat, they can only be used in dry areas with low humidity levels.
6. Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans cannot lower your room temperature; they just help to create a breezy environment. Fans circulate air which helps to evaporate sweat, giving a chilling effect.
Your ceiling fan blades should spin counterclockwise in the summer months. The fan pushes the air down in this direction and creates a comfortable environment around you.
You can also use ceiling fans in conjunction with other home cooling systems, such as air conditioners. This will help you raise your thermostat settings without compromising on your comfort and also save on energy bills.
In Conclusion
Choosing the best home cooling system for your home all comes down to your needs. Central air conditioners are great if you have a large, spacious house. If you’re looking for a highly efficient system that can cool individual rooms, a mini-split is better. Portable air conditioners can be easily moved around, making them a good option for small homes. Window units are easy to install and don’t occupy your wall or floor space. If you’re on a tight budget or are only looking to cool one small space, portable ACs and evaporative coolers will do the trick. Whichever type of cooling system you choose, make sure to take into account your requirements and focus on regular AC maintenance for a comfortable home environment.
