Find Out if You Need Central AC or Window Units!

Investing in a new air conditioning system for your home is a wise decision. It will add many years of comfort to your home and increase the value of your property. Before you take the plunge, there are a few things you should consider.

Can you afford the installation cost? What about the annual maintenance? Is your home AC ready? Do you have enough space outdoors for the compressor? If you live in an apartment building, you may have to settle for a window AC unit.

The climate where you are living presently (hot and dry Phoenix versus hot and humid New Orleans) and the insulation in your home are also factors to be considered.

The Good And The Bad of Central AC

With a central AC system, you must have room outside your house for the AC compressor. In addition, you must also have ductwork already inside your home.

A central AC system is expensive to install and requires routine maintenance. However, in the long run, you will save a bundle on your monthly energy bill when you install a central AC system in your home.

The advantages of a central AC outweigh the drawbacks which, although relatively minor, are worth mentioning:

Pros And Cons of Window Units

If you are on a budget, a window AC is the way to go. They are inexpensive and easy to install. Aside from cleaning or changing the filter regularly (which you can do yourself), they do not require much maintenance.

However, If you want to put a unit in more than one room, your monthly energy bill increase significantly.

You can install a window AC unit even if you are not a savvy DIYer. They will only cool one room and if you put a unit in multiple rooms, it can get expensive.

Insulation is Important

A poorly insulated home will result in a higher energy bill, no matter which system you use. The cool air produced by either system will escape through cracks and crevices if your home is poorly insulated. It would be wise to have it professionally insulated before you install the central AC system or any AC for that matter.

This will lower your monthly utility bill and save you a ton of money in the long run. The downside is that, unlike with a window AC, a central air conditioner is more costly and will require regular inspections.

Which AC System is Right For Your Home?

Air conditioning for your home is a major decision that should be carefully thought out. Does your current home have a heating system already?

If you do, you can probably install central AC. If your home already has ductwork and vents, again, you can install central AC.

However, If you live in an apartment, a central AC system may not be appropriate because there is no room outside for the compressor. Apartment dwellers prefer window AC units because you can take them with you when you move out.

The cost of installing a central AC system should be considered. You will need to hire a reputable HVAC contractor to install it. A window AC unit installation is a breeze, you may even be able to do it yourself. Window units are affordable, but they will only cool one room.

Central AC system or Window AC unit? Whichever you choose depends on a few factors. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each cooling system and you will enjoy years of reliable cooling in your home. Call the experts at Mid Florida A/C in Melbourne, FL for a free phone consultation.