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What Are the Most Popular Types of AC Units?

Written by rivaldigital on . Posted in HVAC. No Comments on What Are the Most Popular Types of AC Units?

Air conditioning is important for making a home safe and livable throughout the summer. It’s also an integral part of any heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Many local plumbing contractors also provide HVAC services, including installation, maintenance, and repair of air conditioning units. If you are considering buying a new AC unit, here is a closer look at the most popular types that homeowners buy for their properties.

Single Room AC Units

The most basic AC unit is the window system that helps to make an individual room more comfortable. According to ComfyLiving, people buy about 83.5 million single-room air conditioners every year. The small and portable AC units mostly go into living rooms and bedrooms where most people spend their time while at home. They are very affordable and incredibly easy to replace when they go bad, but you should have an expert replace your units to prevent injury or damage.

Central Air Conditioners

One of the most comfortable and popular systems in the central air conditioning unit, which circulates cold air throughout your home’s ventilation system. The central air conditioner is a split system with the heat pump, condenser, and compressor located outside of the home and connected to the evaporator coils and air handler on the inside. The system uses refrigerant to cool that air and has drainage so that any condensation harmlessly can flow outside. Local plumbing contractors can help to maintain the system and ensure the drainage is clear and working properly.

Mini-Split Systems

Another popular system is the mini-split AC unit that’s more like a combination of a single unit and a central air conditioner. When local plumbing contractors install it, the heat pump, condenser, and compressor are on the outside, while the rest is located inside. The mini-split system does not use ducts and instead focuses on cooling a single room. Many homes that have mini-split systems have multiple units mounted in different rooms, which helps to keep the energy costs down by limiting those in use to only rooms that are occupied at the moment.

Portable Air Conditioners

A portable air conditioner can help to cool any room and usually uses an evaporative system to cool air. A light and portable tube enables the system to draw air in from the outside while the evaporative system inside does the cooling. A bucket collects the condensation and will shut off the AC unit when it gets full. Emptying the water will get the unit to start again.

Roof-Mounted Evaporative Systems

An evaporative system can do more cooling work than a portable system and move cold air through the ductwork in your home. A roof-mounted evaporative system sits on top of your roof and causes the outdoor air to pass over pads that are saturated by water. The water cools the air by up to 40 degrees before the system moves it through your home’s ductwork. An evaporative system also is called a “swamp cooler” because of its use of water-saturated cooling pads.

Floor-Mounted Air Conditioners

A floor-mounted AC system is what most people find when they stay in hotel rooms. The system is a mini-split system that is mounted to the floor instead of higher up like a traditional mini-split system. It draws in air from the outside and might have a duct that helps to circulate it to more than one room. As with a mini-split system, the heat pump, condenser, and compressor are located outside while the rest of the system is situated on the inside.

Smart Air Conditioners

A newer innovation in air conditioning systems is smart technology that helps to maximize performance and minimize energy usage. A smart system’s often included with mini-split systems so that you can program them for optimal use and adjust the systems remotely. Many single-unit and portable AC systems also are made with smart systems that make them more efficient and do a better job of cooling particular rooms. You also could add a smart thermostat to your home and may a central air system more energy-efficient.

Call Pilgrim Plumbing & Heating, Inc to learn more about popular air conditioning systems and how local plumbing contractors like us are ideal for installing a system in your home. We can help you learn what kinds of maintenance would be needed for your system. Our experienced HVAC technicians are on standby and ready to help!

Seasonal Home Maintenance Checklist: HVAC & Plumbing Edition

Written by rivaldigital on . Posted in HVAC, Plumbing. No Comments on Seasonal Home Maintenance Checklist: HVAC & Plumbing Edition

As the seasons change, your home’s HVAC and plumbing systems work hard to keep you comfortable and safe. From hot summer days to cool winter nights, regular maintenance ensures these systems run efficiently year-round. Ignoring seasonal upkeep can lead to higher energy bills, unexpected breakdowns, and even water damage.

To help you stay ahead, the experts at Full Swing Plumbing, Heating & Air have created a simple, seasonal checklist to keep your home in top shape through every season.

Spring: Refresh and Reset

Spring is the perfect time to prepare your home for warmer weather and recover from the chill of winter.

HVAC Tasks:

  • Schedule an AC tune-up. A professional inspection and tune-up ensure your air conditioner is ready for heavy use. Technicians will check refrigerant levels, clean coils, and make sure your system runs efficiently.

  • Replace air filters. Dust and pollen can quickly clog filters in the spring, reducing airflow and air quality. Replace them every 1–3 months for best results.

  • Clean vents and registers. Vacuum and wipe down your vents to remove any dust that accumulated over winter.

  • Test your thermostat. Switch your system from heat to cool and confirm your thermostat responds accurately.

Plumbing Tasks:

  • Check for leaks. Inspect under sinks, around toilets, and near your water heater for any signs of moisture or dripping.

  • Flush your water heater. Sediment buildup reduces efficiency. Draining and flushing the tank annually helps it run longer and more efficiently.

  • Inspect outdoor faucets. After freezing temperatures, look for cracks or leaks before connecting hoses.

Summer: Efficiency and Prevention

During the summer, your HVAC system works overtime to keep your home cool—making efficiency a top priority.

HVAC Tasks:

  • Keep outdoor units clear. Make sure your AC condenser is free from debris, grass clippings, or plants that can restrict airflow.

  • Use ceiling fans wisely. Set them to spin counterclockwise to help circulate cool air and reduce strain on your AC.

  • Seal air leaks. Check around doors, windows, and ductwork for gaps where cool air may escape.

Plumbing Tasks:

  • Inspect your sprinkler system. Look for leaks or broken sprinkler heads that waste water.

  • Check water pressure. High water pressure can stress your pipes. A pressure-reducing valve can help prevent costly leaks or bursts.

  • Be mindful of clogs. Summer gatherings and cookouts often lead to extra food waste. Avoid pouring grease or scraps down the drain.

Fall: Prepare for Cooler Weather

As temperatures drop, fall is your chance to prepare your home’s systems for winter’s demands.

HVAC Tasks:

  • Schedule a heating tune-up. Have your furnace or heat pump serviced to ensure it’s ready for the cold months ahead. A professional will clean components, check safety controls, and test efficiency.

  • Replace your air filter again. Fall allergies and dust buildup can affect air quality and airflow.

  • Inspect carbon monoxide detectors. If you use gas heating, make sure detectors are working properly for your family’s safety.

Plumbing Tasks:

  • Insulate exposed pipes. Outdoor or basement pipes are vulnerable to freezing. Adding insulation sleeves helps prevent burst pipes.

  • Disconnect garden hoses. Drain and store them, and shut off outdoor water valves to avoid ice buildup.

  • Check your sump pump. Test it by pouring water into the pit to ensure it activates correctly.

Winter: Protect and Preserve

Winter is all about prevention—especially when it comes to freezing temperatures that can damage plumbing and strain heating systems.

HVAC Tasks:

  • Monitor your heating system. Listen for unusual noises, check for uneven heating, and replace filters as needed.

  • Use a programmable thermostat. Set consistent temperatures to save energy and reduce wear on your system.

  • Keep vents clear. Don’t block airflow with furniture or rugs.

Plumbing Tasks:

  • Prevent frozen pipes. Keep cabinet doors open under sinks to allow warm air to circulate and drip faucets during extreme cold.

  • Know your water shut-off valve. In case of a burst pipe, turning off the water quickly minimizes damage.

  • Schedule a professional inspection. Have a licensed plumber check your water heater and fixtures for wear before the holidays.

Year-Round Tip: Stay Proactive

While each season comes with its own challenges, the key to a comfortable, efficient home is consistency. Scheduling regular maintenance with trusted professionals like Full Swing Plumbing, Heating & Air ensures your systems are running at their best all year long.

Contact Full Swing! 

By following this seasonal maintenance checklist, you’ll protect your investment, reduce energy costs, and enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is prepared for whatever the weather brings.

If it’s time for your seasonal HVAC or plumbing service, call Full Swing Plumbing, Heating & Air today or visit callfullswing.com to schedule an appointment with our team of experts.

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