Don’t be scared to install an air conditioning system in your home. Yes, it will cost more to install initially than a window or portable a/c unit, but the energy efficiency and comfort that comes with a central or ductless split a/c system is unparalleled… and you’ll never have to worry about lugging one of those big window units up from the cellar through every room in your house just to finally get it to sit in your window and leave you with an open window 24/7 and then hope that it fits nice, snug and upright or else you have to finagle in cardboard or some other foreign object to help to get it to stay in place. That doesn’t sound very fun now, does it? We’ve all been there, but you don’t have to be.
When it comes to installing air conditioning, there are two main options to choose from: central a/c or a mini-split ductless split system.
Central A/C or Ductless? Which Is Right For You?
Central Air Conditioning
Benefits of Central Air Conditioners
- Cool Multiple Rooms With One Unit
Rather than having several window air conditioning units throughout your house, you can have a single central unit that feeds air through the various vents. When it comes to air conditioner maintenance, you’ll only have to worry about cleaning a single unit.
- Adds Value To Your Home
In many parts of the United States, air conditioning is absolutely essential. Many homebuyers place a higher value on homes with existing central air units since getting one installed can be an inconvenience during the hustle and bustle of moving into a new residence.
In light of this, analysis shows that a central air conditioning unit can increase your home’s value by as much as 10%.
- Control Humidity As Well
A properly-sized and maintained central air conditioner can maintain your home’s humidity levels. That negates the need for additional humidifiers.
What To Know Before Installing A Central Air Conditioner
- Central A/C requires there to be ductwork in your home – without it, you would need to include the cost of installing ductwork along with the cost of the central a/c system.
Mini-Split/Ductless Air Conditioners
If you don’t have ductwork in your home, a mini-split (also known as “ductless”) air conditioning system might serve you well. This type of air conditioner unit features a single exterior compartment housing a condenser that feeds various evaporators (indoor wall units) throughout the house’s interior. Ductless systems can also serve as your home’s heating source during colder temps!
Benefits Of Mini-Split Air Conditioners
- Flexibility
With a mini-split air conditioner, you can typically install about four indoor heads within the house. The small nature of these units allows for easy ‘zoning’ throughout your residence. In other words, you can set each room to a specific temperature based on your needs. Not in one room very often? Keep that unit turned off. Only turn on the units you need and leave the rest off.
- Energy Efficiency
Even the best ductwork wastes some energy. With ductless air conditioners, however, airflow is more direct and doesn’t have as much of an opportunity to leak.
What To Know Before Installing A Ductless Air Conditioner
While ductless air conditioners can be easier to install since they don’t require ductwork, they can cost more to install than a central a/c unit. However, you’ll see your energy bills descrease substantially with a ductless system. The savings more than make up for the install cost in the end.
How To Choose The Right Type Of Air Conditioner
Consider Your Budget
You should consider not only the cost of the air conditioner itself but also what it will cost to run it monthly, including maintenance. For example, while a window air conditioner will be much cheaper than a split duct system, the monthly costs may negate that if you need to run it aggressively 24/7.
Your Home’s Size
Experts recommend a specific number of BTUs of cooling power per square foot that needs cooling. If you’re looking to cool a 1,000-square foot home, you’re going to need something bigger than a single window or portable unit.
System Features
Quality air conditioners offer a great selection of features and depending on what is important to you, whether it is dehumidification, variable speed, dual stage cooling, or one of many other features, you can save yourself a lot of money by figuring out which of these features you need and which you don’t.
Conclusion
Your budget and cooling needs will largely dictate what type of air conditioner you’ll need to purchase. The criteria outlined above has hopefully given you a solid understanding of whether central a/c or ductless is right for you. If you still have questions and live in Connecticut, give Total Mechanical Systems a text/call at (860) 314-1518 ext. 4 or fill out our online contact form. As Connecticut’s preferred HVAC experts for more than 20 years, as well as being a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer, the #1 Ductless Dealer in the State, and a 2022 Presidential Award Winner, we’ll be happy to lend a hand!
Source: https://americanhomewater.com/types-of-air-conditioners/
