If you're in the market for a brand new air conditioning system, whether because yours has gone out recently or you're upgrading to a new system, there are several things that are worth considering. This includes size, energy-efficiency, and your budget. How do you know which one is the right one for you?

Perusing online blogs and tutorials can be difficult, especially since many of them use industry lingo and technical jargon that can be difficult to decipher. That's why we put together a short list of some of the most popular AC systems on the market today. Look through them, and consult with your local HVAC technician to schedule your next AC installation.

Central Air

By far, the most common form of air conditioning system today is a central air unit. Usually consisting of a physical unit located outside the house and ductwork that snakes throughout the home, this is the perfect type of system for large apartments or single-family homes. They're relatively inexpensive to install, simple to maintain, and usually last around 12-17 years. If you're looking for a nice, middle-of-the-road air conditioning system for your home, ask an HVAC technician about whether a central air system is right for you.

Geothermal

Though it's not new to use the energy from the earth to heat and cool your home, geothermal heat pumps are a relatively recent invention. Operating off of a single motor that pumps air through pipes in the ground and then throughout your house, geothermal heat systems are extremely energy-efficient and can last anywhere from 25-50 years. Moreover, since they can also heat and cool your home, they not only will replace your air conditioning system, but your furnace as well, cutting the amount of repairs and service calls you'll have to make in half.

Portable

If you have a small apartment or detached shed that you're needing to cool down, a portable AC installation might be just what you're looking for. These systems usually cost less than $500 to install and can be put just about anywhere, such as a window or hole inside the wall. If you have a slightly larger space and would like the option of integrating it inside your existing system, you could also consider a ductless mini-split. These types of units operate by converting the hot air outside into cold air inside by way of a pipe through the wall. They're not quite as portable as window units, but are still more relatively mobile than standalone systems.