Which Type of A/C System Is Best For Your Home?
The summer heat is almost upon us and the topic of installing air conditioners is hot on the lips of homeowners. The type of air conditioner that you choose to use in your home depends on many factors, namely, your personal preference and budget. The two main types of air conditioners are ductless A/Cs and central A/Cs.
While they both are useful and are ideal for certain homes, they have distinct differences that make one better than the other depending on your home setting and needs. Let’s explore which of the two is best!
What Is A Ductless Air Conditioner?
A ductless air conditioner is a cooling system that doesn't use ducts. Instead, it delivers cool air directly into the room or space that needs to be cooled. Ductless air conditioners are also called mini-splits because they consist of two main parts: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The indoor unit is mounted on the wall and the outdoor unit is usually located outside in split systems.
Ductless A/C units are becoming increasingly popular because they're more energy-efficient than traditional central air systems. Ductless systems don't lose any cool air through ductwork, so they can save you money on your energy bills. This is why they have higher energy star SEER ratings. In addition, ductless HVAC systems are easier to install than central air conditioners and they're less disruptive to your home because they operate with little to no noise.
What is A Central Air Conditioner?
A central A/C is a traditional heating and cooling system that uses ducts to distribute cool air throughout your home. A central A/C has two main parts: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The indoor unit is usually located in the basement or a closet, and the outdoor unit is located outside.
Central air conditioners are the most common cooling system, especially for large buildings, but they're not always the best option. They can be less energy-efficient than ductless systems, and they can be more disruptive to your home during installation and operation because they are noisy. In addition, central air conditioners require more regular repairs than ductless wall-mounted and window units.
The Pros & Cons of Central Air Conditioning Systems
Benefits Of Central Air Conditioners - These A/C units have a number of benefits over ductless systems. They are more common and they're usually less expensive than ductless systems. In addition, central air conditioners can cool your entire home at once, whereas ductless systems can only cool one room or space at a time. They also require less maintenance than ductless systems.
Drawbacks Of Central Air Conditioners - Central air conditioners have a few drawbacks that you should be aware of before you decide to install one in your home. They can be less energy-efficient than ductless systems as they experience more loss of air through the duct system. Ducts are more prone to leaks and this can result in higher energy bills. They also require more maintenance to fix issues as they arise, such as leaking ducts.
Ductless A/C Pros & Cons
Pros Of Ductless Air Conditioners - Ductless A/C units have a number of benefits over their traditional central counterparts. Ductless systems are more energy-efficient because they don't lose any cool air through ductwork and they utilize single-room heating and cooling. In addition, ductless systems are easier to install and they're less prone to noise. Ductless A/C systems also offer more flexibility in terms of where they can be installed. You can easily adjust the temperature in whichever room you are in without affecting another room.
Cons Of Ductless Air Conditioners - Though ductless air conditioners have become increasingly popular over the last few decades, there are some details to keep in mind before you decide to install one in your home. Ductless systems are more expensive to install than central air conditioners. They can also be more difficult to install than central air conditioners and a landlord might not allow you to install one because of exterior modification restrictions.
Are Central A/Cs or Ductless A/Cs Better?
The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors, including the size and layout of your home, your budget, and your personal preferences.
If you have a small home or apartment, a ductless air conditioner may be the better option. Ductless A/Cs are also a good choice if you have allergies or asthma since they don't circulate dust and other allergens the way central A/Cs do.
On the other hand, central air conditioners are generally more powerful and can cool larger spaces more effectively. They're also usually less expensive to install than ductless A/Cs. If you have a large home or live in a hot climate, central A/C is probably the way to go.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of air conditioner is right for you is to consult with our qualified HVAC contractors. We can help you assess your needs and make a recommendation based on your specific situation. Contact Wright’s AC & Heat for the best advice on choosing an A/C system for your home.