Which Type of Air Conditioning System is Right for me?
If you are looking at getting air conditioning installed in your property, you will know that there are many different types of air conditioning systems to choose from. Whilst some of these systems can be used in a variety of building types, others are more suited to certain contexts. This guide to the different air conditioning types should help you decide which system is right for you.
Split Systems
One of the most common types of air conditioning systems, split systems only have two AC units: one inside the building and the other outside. They are usually wall-mounted and joined together by interconnecting pipework and cables.
Split air conditioning systems are normally used to condition a single room, so they can be installed in the home or in small commercial buildings such as cafes and independent shops.
Benefits:
- Quiet – the parts of air conditioner that make the noise are stored in the outside unit
- Ductless – easy to install
- Energy efficient
Twin-Split Systems
Twin-split systems consist of two indoor AC units and one outdoor unit. These are connected through the use of a branching kit in the pipework.
Like single-split systems, twin-split systems can be used in domestic and commercial contexts. They provide air conditioning for large single rooms, such as living rooms, restaurants, and office spaces.
Benefits:
- Better air flow distribution than a single-split system
- Self-contained – if one unit breaks down, the other will still operate
- Eco-friendly
Multi-Split Systems
Again, like twin-split systems, multi-split systems have a single outdoor AC unit, but up to five indoor units can be connected to it. Each unit has its own pipework, connected directly to the outdoor unit.
Multi-split systems allow you to control the temperature in multiple rooms individually, but only heating or cooling can be used at any one time. These systems are best suited to large houses, offices, retail shops and other buildings with many walls and/or floors.
Benefits:
- Energy-saving technology
- Minimal outdoor space required
- Option for multiple types of indoor units
Packaged Systems
In packaged systems, the main components are all encased in one air conditioning unit, usually located on a flat roof top. Ducting is used to supply conditioned air to the building.
Unlike split systems, packaged systems have both commercial and industrial applications and can be installed in much larger rooms or whole buildings.
Benefits:
- Control temperature in multiple spaces for long periods of time
- Operate in extreme conditions
- Easy maintenance – components are all stored in one place
Heat Recovery VRF systems
VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) systems are more complex than split or packaged systems, using sophisticated technology. A large condensing unit (or many linked together) is installed outside, with many indoor units connected to the pipework.
Heat recovery VRF systems can simultaneously heat and cool different rooms when required, meaning they are suitable for use in large buildings with many rooms and many occupants, such as hotels or mixed-use buildings.
Benefits:
- Provide heating and cooling simultaneously
- User has complete control over their local environment
- Flexible design
In summary, whilst split, twin-split and multi-split systems are ideal for domestic air conditioning installation, packaged systems and heat recovery VRF systems are more suited to industrial applications. Depending on the size and requirements of your commercial building, you could choose any of the above, but for smaller businesses, we would recommend one of the split systems.
Have we answered your question?
There may be one or two types of air conditioning system that we’ve missed, but these are most common ones. If you still have questions, please get in touch with the Norton Air Conditioning team. We would be happy to discuss your requirements and provide a free no-obligation quote.