Air Conditioner Types

To choose the most suitable air conditioner, first find out what types are available and what each one does well. There are four main types: window, split, portable and inverter.

1. Window-type Air Conditioner

This is the most traditional type of air conditioner. It is installed in a window frame or an air conditioner platform within a metal bracket, so check the size of the model you like against the window space at home before you buy. A window-type air conditioner contains both the refrigeration compressor and the exhaust device, so you will hear the compressor running when it is on, and the noise is greater than from a split-type unit.

2. Split-type Air Conditioner

A split-type air conditioner is made up of two sections: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The compressor and cooling condenser tube sit in the outdoor unit, separate from the indoor air supply section. Split-type units generally have a longer design and, with the compressor mounted outside the wall, they run much more quietly than window-type units. Installation is more complicated and may involve work at height outdoors, so you must choose a reliable contractor. Some split-type models do not include the outdoor unit, so check whether the price covers it before you buy.

3. Portable Air Conditioner

A portable air conditioner has a similar structure to an ordinary window unit, with mobility being the difference. It releases cool air at the front and hot air at the rear, so it needs reserved space for heat discharge and drainage, otherwise the indoor cooling effect cannot be achieved. Many portable models on the market come with additional functions such as heating, dehumidifying and air purification, so you can pick a multi-purpose model to suit your needs.

4. Inverter-type Air Conditioner

An inverter-type air conditioner controls the compressor to automatically adjust its speed within a certain range. It usually runs at high speed at start-up and lowers its speed once the room reaches the preset temperature. A non-inverter unit cannot change its speed automatically and can only run at a fixed maximum speed, which consumes more power.

e-Shop Purchase Flow

Air Conditioner Shopping Tips

How do I choose the right horsepower?

Horsepower should be matched to the floor area of the room, and larger rooms need higher horsepower. Different areas call for different horsepower ratings, so use the table below to select what you need.

The figures above are for reference only. The actual suitable area is affected by the environment, such as ceiling height or window orientation.

What does the Energy Label mean?

Energy Labels are graded from 1 to 5, with Grade 1 being the most efficient and saving the most energy. All air conditioner products are required to carry an energy efficiency label under the Mandatory Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme. Grades are calculated from test results submitted by importers, with testing conducted by laboratories accredited by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department. According to the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, a Grade 1 window air conditioner saves 11% energy over a Grade 3 model, while a Grade 1 split air conditioner saves 36% over a Grade 3 model. The more energy efficient an air conditioner is, the less electricity it consumes, which helps protect the environment while saving money.

Maintenance tips for window-type air conditioners

1. Wash the filter, the air inlet and the outlet once every two weeks in summer to prevent blocked airflow that affects performance.
2. Arrange regular inspections by experienced technicians to maintain and repair the air conditioner.
3. Inspect the mounting brackets of the air conditioner every 3 years.

Maintenance tips for split-type air conditioners

1. The longer an air conditioner is used, the more likely the refrigerating tube inside is covered by particles, which produce odour and reduce efficiency. Have it cleaned regularly by professional technicians so it runs effectively, quietly and efficiently.
2. When you stop using the air conditioner, use the switch on the unit itself to cut off its power supply. If it will not be used for a long time, pull the plug out from the socket.
3. Once you turn off an air conditioner, wait at least 3 minutes before restarting it, or the fuse may be damaged.

FAQ on Installation

Q: How will I know about the details of installation?

• Window air conditioner: if you select installation service at purchase, we will notify you of the installation date by email within 1 to 2 working days of receiving your order.
• Split air conditioner: you can book an on-site survey yourself on any split AC product page and pick your preferred date, with a technician available as early as the next day. After the survey we will confirm the recommended model, installation and additional charges with you, and once you place your order, delivery and installation are scheduled on the date you selected.

Q: Could the delivery and the installation be done on the same day?

• Window air conditioner: same-day delivery and installation can be arranged, subject to daily quota.
• Split air conditioner: delivery and installation are scheduled based on the date you selected when ordering. The technician will arrange a time on the day and call to confirm.

Q: Is the installation service included in the purchase of the product?

• Window air conditioner: standard installation service is not included in your purchase. There will be additional charges for extra items, such as dismantling an old window air conditioner, payable in cash to the technician. Please refer to the installation price list.
• Split air conditioner: site survey and installation charges are not included in your purchase. A paid on-site survey must be arranged before purchase to confirm that your chosen air conditioner is suitable for the installation location and to confirm the installation charges. The service charge for each site survey is $100 (the charge for outlying islands, Discovery Bay and Ma Wan addresses is $200).

Q: Will the charge for the site survey be deducted from my order?

Yes. Once the site survey is completed and you successfully purchase a designated split-type air conditioner online, the survey fee is deducted in full from your order total. If the customer does not purchase a split air conditioner for any reason after the site survey, the charge will not be refunded.

Q: How do I book a site survey for a split air conditioner?

Book it directly on the split air conditioner product page in the Fortress e-Shop. A few steps is all it takes to reserve an on-site survey and pick your preferred date, with no phone call needed. Book today and a specialist can visit as early as tomorrow to assess your home and recommend suitable products.

Q: May I open the delivery box myself when it arrives?

If you choose to use our installation service when you purchase, please do not open the delivery box. Please wait for the technician to arrive and handle it.

Air Conditioner Glossary

• Horsepower (HP): the common unit for an air conditioner's cooling capacity, where 1HP is roughly 2.5kW. Match horsepower to room area, since larger rooms need higher horsepower.
• CSPF (Cooling Seasonal Performance Factor): measures energy efficiency across a full cooling season. A higher figure means lower running costs.
• Inverter: technology that lets the compressor vary its speed automatically, slowing down once the preset temperature is reached, which uses less power than a fixed-speed unit.
• R32 refrigerant: a newer refrigerant that does not damage the ozone layer, has a lower Global Warming Potential (GWP), and offers higher cooling capacity and better energy efficiency.
• Site survey: an on-site assessment before a split-type installation, used to confirm the mounting position, required works and charges, and to recommend a suitable model.

Other Air Conditioner FAQs

Q: How do I choose the right air conditioner for my home?

A: Consider room size, the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) and noise level. The larger the room, the higher the capacity you need. A model with a high EER saves on electricity, while a low-noise design gives you a quieter living environment.

Q: How do I maintain and clean an air conditioner?

A: Cleaning the filter, evaporator and condenser regularly is the key to maintenance. Wash the filter every two weeks and check the evaporator and condenser once a season. If the unit has been unused for a long time, inspect and clean it thoroughly before restarting.

Q: Does an air conditioner need a refrigerant top-up, and when?

A: Air conditioners do not usually need frequent refrigerant top-ups. If cooling performance drops noticeably, the refrigerant may be low. Ask a professional technician to inspect the unit and determine whether a top-up is needed and how much.

Q: Why is my air conditioner dripping water?

A: Dripping is usually caused by a blocked drainage pipe or a damaged condensate tray. Checking and cleaning the drainage pipe regularly prevents this. If the problem persists, ask a professional to inspect and repair it.

Q: How can I extend the lifespan of my air conditioner?

A: Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential. Avoid switching the unit on and off frequently, keep the temperature at a sensible setting such as around 26°C, and make sure the room is well ventilated. All of these help extend its lifespan.