So you are going to splurge on air conditioning for your home. Good plan! Air conditioning today is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity. This is especially true if you live in an area that is hot year-round. But choosing the right air conditioner for your home is no easy task.
You want to purchase an AC that is right for your home and that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Well, have no fear. Selecting an AC for your home is not that hard once you know what to consider before you make your purchase.
Two of the more popular types of air conditioners for the home are central AC and window AC units. Does your home contain the ductwork and vents needed for central AC? If not, you will have to pay for ductwork in addition to the air conditioner itself and the installation.
Or, you can opt instead for a window AC unit. Either method of cooling will keep you comfortable during those hot summer months. Here, we will go over some of the things to consider before you take the plunge towards this major investment.
Pros And Cons of Central AC
A central AC system will keep your entire home cool and comfortable when it is hot outside.
It distributes cool air throughout your home via the vents and ductwork inside. If your home doesn’t already contain vents and ductwork, you will have to add them to your home.
This will be an extra cost that you may not want to get into. Additionally, you must have space outside your home for the compressor. It is important to note that, if your home is well insulated, central AC will also save you money every month on energy costs.
Central AC is one of the smartest inventions of the century. However, there are also disadvantages you should consider:
Pros
- Consistent temperature year-round.
- Heating/air conditioning combo.
- Controls humidity.
- Programmable thermostat ready.
- Less energy costs.
- Provides good air filtration.
Cons
- Expensive installation.
- Needs ductwork.
- Requires space outside the home.
- Requires maintenance.
Pros And Cons of Window AC Units
If you are on a tight budget, you can still keep cool on hot days with a window AC unit.
They are affordable and easy to install. They are better suited for renters and apartment buildings.
Unlike central AC, window AC units require little to no maintenance. Here are some of the advantages as well as drawbacks of window AC units:
Pros
- They are affordable.
- Easy to install.
- Take it with you when you move.
Cons
- Little air filtration.
- Cools one room only.
- Hot spots inside the home.
- Noisy.
Which AC System Is Right For Your Home?
Before you spend your hard earned money on air conditioning, consider the benefits and drawbacks of each system. Central AC cools your entire home, whereas window AC units only cool a single room.
Central AC systems will set you back thousands of dollars, whereas a window AC unit will cost a fraction of that. You must have ductwork inside and space outside for compressor. With window units, this is not necessary.
Call the AC experts at Warhold Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning in Greensburg, PA, a friendly and knowledgeable team member will be glad to help you choose which system is right for your home. They will answer any questions you may have so that you can make an informed decision.
