11 Types of Air Conditioners: Find Your Perfect Match

We all know how important it is to stay cool and comfortable, especially during those hot summer months. With so many different types of aircon available on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which is the perfect match for your home and your needs. That’s where we come in!

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of air conditioning, exploring various types of air conditioners (with pictures), their features, benefits, and even their price ranges in the Philippines.

Our goal is to help you make an informed decision when it comes to choosing the right aircon for your home. Whether you’re looking for energy efficiency, space-saving solutions, or smart home integration, we’ve got you covered.

So, please sit back, grab your favorite cold beverage, and let’s dive into the fascinating world of aircon types. By the end of this guide, you’ll better understand your options and be well-equipped to select the ideal cooling solution for your space. Let’s get started!

The Ultimate Cooling Command Center!

Central air conditioners are a common pick for many homeowners for good reasons! These systems are designed to cool your entire house by circulating cool air through a network of ducts and vents.

Description and Features

Central air conditioners comprise of main components: an outdoor unit (the condenser) and an indoor unit (the air handler). The condenser cools the refrigerant, which is then circulated by the central air conditioner handler through the ductwork to distribute cool air throughout your home.

This type of air conditioner is typically controlled by a thermostat, allowing you to set your desired temperature and maintain consistent comfort levels.

Pros:

• Efficient cooling for the entire house
• Consistent temperature control
• Improved air quality due to built-in air filters
• Can be combined with heating systems for year-round climate control

Cons:

• Requires ductwork, which can be costly and complex to install
• Higher upfront costs compared to other aircon types
• Can be less energy-efficient if the ductwork is not properly sealed and insulated

Best Suited For

Central air conditioners are ideal for larger homes or spaces where you want to cool multiple rooms consistently. They are especially beneficial for homes with existing ductwork, making installation more straightforward.

Price Range in the Philippines

The price range for a central air unit in the Philippines varies depending on the brand, cooling capacity, and installation costs.

On average, you can expect to pay between PHP 150,000 to PHP 250,000 for a central air conditioning system. Remember that this estimate does not include the ductwork installation cost, which can significantly impact the overall cost.

Your Breezy Window to the World!

Window units are among popular and budget-friendly types of air conditioners for cooling individual rooms or smaller spaces. These compact units are designed to fit into a window opening, making them relatively easy to install and maintain.

Description and Features

Window air conditioners are types of monoblock air conditioners. That means they are self-contained units combining both the cooling and air distribution components in a single package. They are designed to be installed in a window or a hole in an exterior wall.

These aircon work by drawing hot air from the room, cooling it with a refrigerant, and then blowing the cooled air back into the room. Most window air conditioning units come with adjustable temperature settings, fan speeds, and built-in air filters.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly option
• Easy to install and maintain
• No need for ductwork
• Suitable for individual rooms or smaller spaces

Cons:

• Limited cooling capacity compared to central air conditioners
• May not be suitable for rooms without a suitable window or wall opening
• Can be noisy, as both the compressor and fan are located in the same unit
• Less energy-efficient compared to split systems

Best Suited For

A window air conditioner is perfect for those who need to cool a single room or a smaller space, such as a bedroom, living room, or office. It is also a great option for renters or those on a tight budget, as a large window air conditioner or AC unit is relatively affordable and requires no major installation work.

Price Range in the Philippines

Window-type is the most popular among various types of air conditioners in the Philippines, as they are easy to install and convenient for homes not initially designed for air conditioning.

A window air conditioning unit may cost you between PHP 7,000 and PHP 30,000. For a more detailed look at the best window unit options, be sure to check out HomeTopPicks’ review here.

Sleek, Silent, and Super Efficient!

Split air conditioners are a great option for those seeking a more efficient and aesthetically pleasing cooling solution for their homes or offices.

Description and Features

Split air conditioners, also known as wall-mounted air conditioners, consist of a split system made of an indoor unit (the evaporator) and an outdoor unit (the condenser). The indoor unit is ceiling-mounted or wall-mounted, while the outdoor unit is mounted outside the building.

These two units are connected by refrigerant lines, allowing the system to efficiently cool the air without requiring ductwork.

Most mini-split systems come with adjustable temperature settings, fan speeds, built-in air filters, and remote control functionality.

Pros:

• Energy-efficient cooling solution
• Aesthetically pleasing, with minimal impact on interior design
• Quiet operation, as the noisy components are located outdoors
• No need for ductwork
• Can be installed in multiple rooms for zoned cooling

Cons:

• Higher upfront costs compared to window air conditioners
• Requires professional installation
• May not be suitable for homes with limited outdoor space for the condenser unit

Best Suited For

Split-type air conditioners are ideal for homeowners and businesses looking for an energy-efficient and visually appealing cooling solution. They are especially suitable for multi-story buildings or properties with the limited window or wall space for window air conditioners.

Price Range in the Philippines

Split-type air conditioners have become increasingly popular due to their energy efficiency and quiet operation.

You can expect to pay between PHP 15,000 to PHP 70,000 in the Philippines for a typical split air conditioner. For a more detailed look at the best split-type aircon options, be sure to check out our review of the best split-type aircon.

Cool Wherever You Go!

Picture this: you’re lounging in your favorite room, but the heat is unbearable. What if you could bring the cool, refreshing breeze no matter where you go? Enter portable air conditioners! These nifty little gadgets are designed to keep you cool and comfortable without the installation hassle.

Description and Features

Portable air conditioners are compact, mobile cooling units that can easily move from room to room. As the portable unit sits indoors, it draws warm air from your space, cools it using a refrigerant, and then blows cool air back into the room.

These cool machines typically have adjustable temperature settings, fan speeds, and built-in air filters. Plus, they often include a window venting kit, making it a breeze to set up and enjoy the cool air!

Pros:

• Super flexible and mobile, perfect for cooling different rooms as needed
• No permanent installation required
• Easy to set up and use
• Great for renters or those with limited space

Cons:

• Limited cooling capacity compared to other aircon types
• Can be noisy due to the compressor and fan being in the same unit
• May require frequent draining of the condensation water

Best Suited For

Portable air conditioners are ideal for those who crave flexibility and mobility. They’re perfect for individual or smaller spaces like bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices. Plus, they’re a fantastic option for renters or anyone looking for a temporary cooling solution.

Price Range in the Philippines

Portable air conditioners tend to gain much popularity in the Philippines recently due to their convenience and ease of use.

Their price varies depending on criteria such as brand, cooling capacity, and amenities. A portable AC typically costs between PHP 5,000 and PHP 35,000. Check out the best portable air conditioner review for a more in-depth look at the coolest portable aircon choices.

The Energy-Saving Champs of Cooling!

Welcome to the world of smart cooling with inverter air conditioners! These energy-saving air conditioner systems offer precise temperature control while keeping your energy bills low.

Description and Features

Inverter air conditioners are the brainy siblings of traditional aircon systems, boasting advanced technology that allows them to operate more efficiently and quietly. These systems use a variable-speed compressor, which adjusts its speed according to the room’s temperature, ensuring precise and consistent cooling.

Inverter air conditioner units can be ductless mini split air conditioners, window air conditioners, or portable AC units.

Pros:

• Energy-efficient, resulting in lower energy bills
• Provides precise and consistent temperature control
• Quiet operation due to the variable-speed compressor
• Longer lifespan, as the compressor experiences less wear and tear
• Environmentally friendly, as they consume less energy

Cons:

• Higher upfront costs compared to traditional air conditioners
• Requires professional installation and maintenance
• May take longer to cool a room initially

Best Suited For

Inverter air conditioner units are ideal for homeowners and businesses seeking an energy-efficient, quiet, and precise cooling solution. They’re especially suitable for spaces where maintaining a consistent temperature is essential, such as offices, bedrooms, or server rooms.

Price Range in the Philippines

Due to its energy efficiency, an inverter air conditioner unit is the preferred choice for many Filipino houses. An inverter air conditioning unit will cost you between PHP 10,000 and PHP 60,000.

If you want to save money on your electricity bill this summer, read our assessment of the best inverter air conditioners first.

The Future of Home Comfort!

Welcome to the future of home comfort with smart air conditioners! These cutting-edge systems offer seamless integration with your smart home devices, allowing you to control your cooling from anywhere, anytime.

Description and Features

Smart air conditioner units are the innovative and tech-savvy cousins of traditional aircon systems, boasting advanced features that make them perfect for the modern, connected home. These systems can be integrated with other types of air conditioners, including window AC units, portable units, and ductless systems.

Smart air conditioning units have built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control your cooling from your smartphone, tablet, or voice-controlled smart home devices like Amazon Echo or Google Home.

Pros:

• Convenient remote control via smartphone, tablet, or voice commands
• Energy-efficient, as you can monitor and adjust your cooling from anywhere
• Seamless integration with smart home devices and platforms
• Offers advanced features, such as scheduling, energy usage reports, and air quality monitoring
• Can be combined with other air conditioning systems for added functionality

Cons:

• Higher upfront costs compared to traditional air conditioners
• Requires a stable Wi-Fi connection for optimal functionality
• May involve a learning curve for users unfamiliar with smart home technology

Best Suited For

Smart air conditioners are perfect for tech-savvy homeowners and businesses seeking a convenient, energy-efficient, and connected cooling solution. They’re especially suitable for those who already have a smart home ecosystem or are looking to upgrade their existing air conditioning systems with smart features.

Price Range in the Philippines

Prices can of smart air conditioners range from affordable to more premium options, depending on the features and energy efficiency. A smart air conditioner system typically costs between PHP 25,000 and PHP 70,000.

Cool Breezes with a Splash of Water!

Looking for a cooling solution that’s both eco-friendly and budget-friendly? Say hello to evaporative air conditioners! These unique systems use the power of water evaporation to keep your space cool and comfortable.

Description and Features

Evaporative air conditioners, also known as swamp coolers or air coolers, are an eco-friendly cooling solution that uses the natural process of water evaporation to lower the temperature in your space.

These systems consist of a fan, a water reservoir, and a series of wet pads. As the fan draws hot air from your room, it passes through the wet pads, causing the water to evaporate and cool the air. The chilled air is then circulated back into the room, creating a refreshing, cool breeze.

Most evaporative air conditioners come with adjustable fan speeds, water level indicators, and built-in air filters, making them a versatile and energy-efficient choice for your home or office.

Pros:

• Energy-efficient, resulting in lower energy bills
• Environmentally friendly, as they use the natural process of evaporation
• Adds moisture to the air, which can be beneficial in dry climates
• Low upfront costs compared to other air conditioning systems
• Easy to maintain, with minimal parts to clean or replace

Cons:

• Limited cooling capacity, especially in humid environments
• Requires a constant water supply to function effectively
• May require frequent maintenance to prevent mold and mildew growth
• Can be noisy due to the fan operation

Best Suited For

Evaporative air conditioners are ideal for homeowners and businesses seeking an eco-friendly, energy-efficient, and budget-friendly cooling solution. They’re especially suitable for dry climates, where the added humidity can be beneficial. However, their effectiveness may be limited in areas with high humidity.

Price Range in the Philippines

The price of evaporative air conditioners in the Philippines varies depending on criteria such as brand, cooling capacity, and features. An evaporative air conditioning unit costs between PHP 3,000 and PHP 20,000.

Check out the review of the best evaporative aircon for a more in-depth look at the best evaporative aircon options.

A Cool Solution from Above

Picture this: a sweltering day, and you find yourself longing for a cool, refreshing breeze. But instead of bulky aircon units taking up precious wall or window space, you glance up and see your air conditioning system discreetly nestled within the ceiling. Enter the world of ceiling-mounted air conditioners, a sleek and efficient solution for beating the heat.

Description and Features

Ceiling air conditioners, also known as cassette or ceiling-mounted air conditioners, are designed to blend seamlessly into your ceiling, providing cool air without compromising aesthetics. These aircon units distribute air through vents in the ceiling, ensuring even and consistent cooling throughout the room.

They often feature a four-way airflow system, allowing optimal air distribution and temperature control. Many models also come with advanced features like smart controls, energy-saving modes, and air purification systems.

Pros:

• Space-saving solution that doesn’t obstruct views or interfere with interior design
• Quiet operation, ideal for use in bedrooms, living rooms, and offices
• Powerful cooling capabilities and even air distribution
• Suitable for larger spaces

Cons:

• More challenging to install and maintain compared to other aircon types
• Often require professional installation
• Accessing the unit for cleaning or repairs can be more complicated
• May not be suitable for homes with low ceilings or limited ceiling space

Best Suited For

A ceiling air conditioner is best suited for spacious rooms, offices, or commercial spaces where aesthetics, quiet operation, and even cooling are top priorities. It is also a great choice for homeowners who want to avoid obstructing windows or walls with traditional aircon units.

Price Range in the Philippines

As for the price range, ceiling-mounted air conditioners in the Philippines can vary significantly, depending on factors such as brand, cooling capacity, and features. Prices typically start at around PHP 30,000 for basic models and can go up to PHP 100,000 or more for high-capacity units with advanced features.

The Cool Solution for Unconventional Spaces!

Introducing the unsung heroes of the air conditioning world: floor-mounted air conditioners! These versatile and powerful cooling machines are here to save the day when wall space is scarce or ceilings are low.

Description and Features

Floor-mounted air conditioners, also known as floor-standing air conditioners, are similar to split-type air conditioners but stay close to the ground. These types of air conditioners are installed on or near the floor or recessed in spots like unused fireplaces.

Pros:

• Ideal for rooms with limited wall space or low ceilings
• Powerful cooling performance
• Easy access to maintenance and cleaning
• Can be combined with other air conditioning systems for added functionality

Cons:

• May require professional installation
• Can take up floor space, potentially limiting furniture placement options
• May not be as aesthetically pleasing as other air conditioner types

Best Suited For

A floor-mounted air conditioner is perfect for homeowners and businesses seeking a powerful and adaptable cooling solution for spaces with unique layouts or limitations. It’s especially suitable for rooms with low ceilings, limited wall space, or unconventional designs.

Price Range in the Philippines

This type of air conditioner unit is not widely used in the Philippines. Big companies such as Panasonic, LG, and Samsung often manufacture it. A floor-mounted air conditioner installed here typically costs between PHP 60,000 and PHP 180,000.

Harnessing Earth’s Power for Ultimate Comfort!

Ready to take your cooling game to the next level? Introducing geothermal air conditioners, the eco-friendly and super-efficient cooling solution that harnesses the power of the Earth itself!

Description and Features

Geothermal air conditioners are an innovative cooling solution that uses the Earth’s stable underground temperature to heat and cool your space.

These systems consist of an indoor unit (the air handler) and an exterior unit (the heat pump), connected by a series of underground pipes filled with water or a refrigerant. The system works by circulating the fluid through the pipes, absorbing or releasing heat as needed to maintain your desired indoor temperature.

Pros:

• Extremely energy-efficient, resulting in lower energy bills
• Environmentally friendly, as they use renewable energy from the Earth
• Quiet operation, since the noisy components are located outdoors
• Long lifespan, with most systems lasting 20-25 years
• Can provide both heating and cooling

Cons:

• High upfront costs, including installation and excavation
• Requires professional installation and maintenance
• May not be suitable for properties with limited outdoor space or strict regulations on digging

Best Suited For

Geothermal air conditioners are perfect for homeowners and businesses seeking an eco-friendly, energy-efficient, and quiet cooling solution. They’re especially suitable for new constructions or properties with ample outdoor space to install the underground piping system.

Price Range in the Philippines

On average, a geothermal air conditioning unit costs between PHP 150,000 and PHP 500,000. This price range includes the cost of installation and excavation.

The Cool Chameleon of the HVAC World!

Get ready to meet the cool chameleon of the HVAC world: air source heat pumps! These versatile systems can both heat and cool your space, making them a fantastic all-in-one climate control solution.

Description and Features

Air source heat pumps are the ultimate shape-shifters of the HVAC system, providing both heating and cooling for your home or office. An air source heat pump works by extracting heat from the outdoor air and transferring it either indoors or outdoors, depending on your desired temperature.

Air source heat pumps comprise a unit inside (the air handler) and a unit outside (the heat pump), which are linked together by refrigerant lines. Most systems come with adjustable temperature settings, fan speeds, and built-in air filters, making them versatile and energy-efficient for year-round comfort.

Pros:

• Energy-efficient, resulting in lower energy bills
• Provides both heating and cooling, making them a versatile climate control solution
• Environmentally friendly, as they use the natural process of heat exchange
• Quiet operation, since the noisy components are located outdoors
• Can be paired with existing HVAC system for added efficiency

Cons:

• Higher upfront costs compared to traditional aircon or heaters
• Requires professional installation and maintenance
• May not provide sufficient heating in extremely cold climates

Best Suited For

Air source heat pumps are perfect for homeowners and businesses seeking an energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and versatile climate control solution.

They’re especially suitable for moderate climates, where their heating and cooling capabilities can be fully utilized. However, their effectiveness may be limited in areas with extreme temperatures.

Price Range in the Philippines

An air source heat pump unit installed here will cost you between PHP 30,000 and PHP 80,000 on average. However, the Philippines has a tropical environment, and the major demand is cooling rather than heating. As a result, while Air Source Heat Pumps are a valuable addition, they may not be regarded a need for most Filipino houses.

In conclusion, the variety of air conditioning systems available in the market offers consumers numerous options, depending on their preferences, budget, and specific needs. From window-type air conditioners, which are popular in the Philippines for their ease of installation and affordability, to split-type air conditioners that boast energy efficiency and quiet operation, there is an aircon to suit every household.

Other options, such as geothermal air conditioners, may not be as popular in the Philippines. However, they still offer unique benefits that might appeal to some consumers. As you consider which type of aircon is best for your needs, consider factors such as installation requirements, energy efficiency, noise levels, and overall performance.

We hope this blog post has provided valuable insights into the different types of air conditioners available and their advantages.

Let’s share your thoughts and experiences in the comment section below, and let us know which type of aircon you have chosen for your home or office. Also, feel free to ask questions or seek advice from fellow readers. We can help each other make informed decisions in selecting the perfect air conditioning system to stay cool and comfortable.

Beryl

Beryl, a Pharmacy graduate, combines her academic expertise with a passion for cozy homes at Hometoppicks. With 3+ years of experience in researching and testing household and home care products, Beryl manages related content at Hometoppicks. Trust in her meticulous nature and profound knowledge to provide reliable advice and product suggestions, ensuring your home remains comfortable and convenient. You can find more about her here.