Air conditioning has become a necessity for many people, whether it is to keep their homes cool and comfortable during hot summer days and to heat a room in winter, or even to improve the air quality in their workplace.

Each type of air conditioner has its advantages and key specifications. In this article, we will guide you through each type of air conditioner, giving you detailed information about their features, benefits and important considerations. This way, you will be able to make an informed decision and choose the air conditioning system that best suits your needs and preferences.

Splits

Features

This type of system consists of one unit divided into two main components: the indoor unit and the outdoor unit. The indoor unit, also known as the evaporator, is installed in the room to be cooled, while the outdoor unit, called the condenser, is located outside the building.

Advantage

• Energy efficiency: Split air conditioners are often energy efficient, which can help reduce cooling and heating costs in the long run.
• Quietness: Most split models are known for their quiet operation, ensuring a quiet and comfortable environment.
• Aesthetics: The indoor unit of the splits has an unobtrusive and elegant design that blends in well with the room decor without obstructing the view.
• Placement flexibility: Indoor units can be placed in different locations, such as high or low walls, allowing for better distribution of cool air.

Disadvantages

• Outdoor space: The outdoor unit takes up space on the outside of the building, either on the wall or on a platform, so this needs to be taken into account when planning the installation.

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Multi-splits

Features

Multi-split systems allow several indoor units to be connected to a single outdoor unit. These indoor units, which can be wall-mounted, cassette, floor/ceiling or other types, are distributed in different rooms or zones.

Advantages

• Multi-room cooling: Multi-splits are ideal for cooling several independent rooms or areas without the need to install a separate outdoor unit for each.
• Flexibility and individualised control: Each indoor unit can be controlled independently, allowing the temperature and airflow to be adjusted according to the specific needs of each room.
• Space saving: By using a single outdoor unit for several indoor units, space is saved compared to installing individual units in each room.

Disadvantages

• Increased installation complexity: The installation of a multi-split system requires careful planning and technical know-how for the proper layout of the indoor units and the connection to the outdoor unit.
• Higher initial cost: Due to the need for multiple indoor units and a more powerful outdoor unit, multi-split systems tend to have a higher initial cost than other types of air conditioners.
• Maintenance and repairs: Although there is only one outdoor unit, regular maintenance is required and, in the event of breakdowns, a specialised technician may need to be involved.

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Ceiling cassette air conditioning

Features

Cassette systems are installed in the ceiling and have a similar appearance to a cassette, with an indoor unit recessed in the ceiling and a visible grille at the bottom.

Advantage

• Uniform air distribution: Cassette systems are designed to provide uniform airflow in all directions, resulting in efficient distribution of cool or warm air in the room.
• Space-saving: Because they are recessed in the ceiling, cassette systems do not take up wall or floor space, making them ideal for spaces with space constraints.
• Aesthetics: The recessed indoor unit and discreet ceiling grille offer an aesthetically pleasing appearance and blend in well with the room décor.
• Low noise level: Cassette systems generally operate quietly, making them suitable for areas where a quiet environment is required.

Disadvantages

• Location limitation: Due to their specific design, cassette systems are best suited for suspended or suspended ceilings, so they may not be a viable option in all structures.
• Initial cost: Compared to some other types of air conditioners, cassette systems may have a higher initial cost due to their design and the need for professional installation.

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Ducted air conditioners

Features

Ducted air conditioning systems consist of a central unit located in a space such as a basement or false ceiling, and ducts that distribute the cooled or heated air through grilles or diffusers to various rooms or zones.

Advantages

• Centralised cooling and heating: Ducted systems allow multiple rooms or areas to be cooled and heated from a single central unit, providing centralised climate control.
• Aesthetics: By not requiring visible indoor units, ducted systems offer an aesthetically pleasing and unobtrusive appearance, as all components are concealed in the ceiling or walls.
• Uniform air distribution: Through proper duct design and layout, uniform air distribution is achieved in all areas, providing consistent comfort throughout the structure.
  Noise reduction: By locating the central unit away from living areas, ducted systems can provide quieter operation compared to other types of air conditioners.

Disadvantages

• Requires careful planning and design: Installing a ducted system requires proper planning and design to ensure efficient air distribution and minimise energy losses.
• Initial cost and complexity: Ducted systems tend to have a higher initial cost due to the need to design and construct the ducts, as well as the professional installation required.
• Space required: Ducted systems need adequate space in ceilings, walls or floors to accommodate the ducts, which may limit their installation in some existing structures.

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Floor/ceiling units

Features

Floor/ceiling units are versatile units that can be installed on the floor or on the ceiling, depending on the needs and design of the space. They can provide both cooling and heating.

Advantages

• Installation flexibility: Floor/ceiling units adapt to different configurations and can be installed on the floor or ceiling, allowing for easy integration into the space design.
• Versatile airflow: These units provide airflow that can be directed vertically or horizontally, depending on preference and room climate needs.
• Uniform air distribution: These units are designed to provide uniform air distribution in the room, resulting in consistent comfort in all areas.

Disadvantages

• Initial cost: The initial cost of floor/ceiling units can be higher compared to other types of air conditioners due to their versatility and the need for professional installation.
• Maintenance and cleaning: Being located on the floor or ceiling, these units may require more frequent maintenance and cleaning to ensure optimal performance and prevent dust or dirt build-up.

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Air curtains

Features

Air curtains are devices that create a continuous, directed flow of air near an opening, such as a door or window, to create an air barrier that prevents the passage of air from the outside environment to the inside.

Advantages

• Thermal insulation: Air curtains help to keep the indoor environment separate from the outside, preventing the entry of hot air in summer and cold air in winter. This helps to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and reduce the air conditioning load.
• Energy savings: By creating an air barrier, air curtains help prevent the loss of heat or cold, which can reduce the need for excessive air conditioning or heating. This translates into energy savings and lower air conditioning costs.
• Improved air quality: Air curtains can filter incoming air, removing dust particles, pollutants and insects, helping to maintain better indoor air quality.
• Comfort and convenience: Air curtains prevent unwanted draughts from entering, creating a more comfortable environment and preventing discomfort to people in the vicinity of the openings.

Disadvantages

• Requires electricity: Air curtains require electrical power to operate, which can increase the energy consumption of the space where they are installed. However, there are energy-efficient models available on the market.
• Noise: Some air curtains can generate noise due to airflow and motor operation. However, there are quiet models available that reduce this issue.
• Limitations in extreme conditions: In extreme weather conditions, such as very low temperatures or high winds, air curtains may have reduced effectiveness and may require additional reinforcements to maintain adequate thermal insulation.

Window air conditioning

Features

These systems consist of a compact unit that is installed in a window opening. The unit contains both the evaporator (which cools the air) and the condenser (which dissipates the heat to the outside).

Advantages

• Cost: Window air conditioners are generally less expensive compared to other types of air conditioning systems.
• Easy installation: They can be installed relatively easily, especially if the manufacturer’s instructions are followed.
• Space: They do not take up space inside the room, as they are installed in the window.
• Efficient cooling: They are efficient in cooling individual rooms, especially those of small to medium size.

Disadvantages

• Aesthetics: Some may consider window air conditioners to affect the appearance of the exterior facade or block the view from the window.
• Noise: Some models may generate noise during operation, which can be uncomfortable in spaces where a quiet environment is required.
• Limited cooling: They are not the best choice for cooling large areas or multiple rooms, as they are designed to provide localised cooling.

Portable air conditioning

Features

Portable air conditioners are self-contained units that can be moved from room to room as needed. These units generally consist of an indoor unit containing the compressor, condenser and evaporator, and an exhaust hose that is used to exhaust the heated air to the outside through a window or opening.

Advantages

• Mobility and versatility: Portable air conditioners are easy to transport and move, allowing them to cool different rooms or spaces as needed.
• Easy installation: Installation of these systems is relatively simple and requires no permanent modifications to the building structure, as only a window or opening is needed for warm air to escape.
• No outdoor unit required: Unlike other types of air conditioners, portable air conditioners do not require an outdoor unit, making them suitable for spaces where outdoor units cannot or are not permitted.
• Affordability: Portable air conditioners are often less expensive compared to other air conditioning systems, making them an attractive option for those on a limited budget.

Disadvantages

• Lower cooling capacity: Portable air conditioners generally have more limited cooling capacity compared to larger systems, which can make it difficult to maintain very low temperatures or cool large spaces.
• Noise and vibration: Being located indoors, portable air conditioners can generate noticeable noise and vibrations during operation.

If you are looking for the perfect air conditioning solution for your home or business, we invite you to explore our online shop. We have a wide selection of high quality air conditioning equipment from the best manufacturers on the market. Find the system that suits your needs and budget, with innovative technology features and energy efficiency. We also have a multilingual team of air conditioning experts to help you make the right choice, and we look forward to seeing you with the best air conditioners on offer!