Air conditioning is the process of controlling the temperature, humidity, purity and motion of air within an enclosed space. It involves a complex combination of engineering techniques, building design, building services, energy usage and maintenance. Comfort air conditioning involves more than simply cooling an indoor environment to the point of personal thermal comfort; it also deals with humidity control, airflow, acoustic noise attenuation and even the distribution of microorganisms.
Air-conditioning systems range from small units used in vehicles or single rooms to large installations that cool entire buildings and cities. The technology behind them uses a variety of refrigeration cycles to extract heat from the environment. This heat is then transferred to another area using a refrigerant loop, and the cycle repeated as needed. The technology is based on the principles of physics, thermodynamics and fluid mechanics.
There are many different types of home air conditioners, but the size of your space and your budget will determine which one is right for you. For example, if you are renting your property then a portable air conditioner might be your best choice as it can be removed and stored when not in use. Alternatively, if you are looking for a longer term solution then a split system – with an outdoor unit and indoor air handler – might be a better fit.
A split system is ideal for larger homes or if you want to air condition multiple rooms at once. In this case, the air is regulated through ductwork that’s installed in your home. These systems are known as ducted or central air conditioning.
Unlike older models that relied on refrigerants such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) or hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), modern AC units are typically designed to be free of these harmful chemicals. This reduces the amount of environmental damage that your HVAC system is causing and will help you save on your utility bills, too.
The most important factor to consider when choosing an air conditioner is its energy efficiency. A newer AC will run more efficiently than an older model, and it’s always a good idea to invest in a unit with a high Energy Star rating.
Air conditioners tend to suck moisture from the air, which can dry your skin and make your eyes irritated and itchy. The lack of humidity can also cause your hair to become dull and brittle. However, you can increase your indoor humidity by regularly cleaning your air filters and opening windows. Getting plenty of exercise in cold weather can also help — research shows that it stimulates your body to produce healthy, energy-burning brown fat.