Should I Get a Central or Window Unit Air Conditioner?

If you live in a hot and humid climate, you probably believe that central AC is the best thing since sliced bread. Or better. Central AC allows you to feel cool and comfortable when it is hot and miserable outside. But there are practical reasons why central AC is so gratifying.

Central AC in your home will increase your property value. It keeps your indoor air quality in check, reducing the risk of allergies and other ailments. It is a serious purchase that requires serious consideration. Central AC should be installed by a licensed professional.

It will also require annual maintenance. If you are a renter, central AC may not be the best fit for you, and a window AC unit may be. Insulation is something you should also consider because no matter which system you choose, the cold air will seep through cracks and crannies where there is no insulation. To view our air conditioning services in Carrollton, visit this page.

Central AC is Not For Everyone

Do you have enough space outside your house to put the AC compressor? In addition, you should also have ductwork and vents in your home so that the cold air can be distributed throughout the house.

If there is no ductwork or vents in your home, add this to your list of expenses. A central AC system is expensive to install and requires routine yearly maintenance which can also be expensive.

However, when you install central AC in your home, your energy bill will be considerably lower. A central AC system has advantages, and they far exceed the drawbacks:

Pros
Consistent temperature.
Possible heating/air conditioning combination.
Controls indoor humidity.
Allows for a programmable thermostat.
Reduces energy costs.

Cons
Expensive to install.
Requires ductwork.
Requires duct maintenance.

In addition, if you’re looking for help with your furnace in Carrollton – call our experts today!

Pros And Cons of Window Units

Window AC units are ideal for renters and others who don’t want the expense of central AC. You can even install it yourself if you are a DIYer. Other than cleaning the filter regularly (which you can do yourself), they do not require much maintenance.

If you want your whole house to be cool, you could install a window AC in every room; however, your energy bill will increase significantly. You should also have good insulation so that the cold air does not escape through gaps and crevices.

Pros
They are inexpensive.
Cools only one room.
No Installation cost.
Limited air filtration.

Cons
Inadequate air filtration.
Hot spots inside the home.

Which AC System is Right For Your Home?

Spend some time learning more about the differences between central AC and window units before you make a decision. If your home currently has a heating system, you are all set.

The central AC will utilize the heating ducts to disperse cold air. Apartment dwellers can still stay cool in the summer with a window AC unit, and they can take the unit with them when they move out. To view our air conditioning services in Southlake, click here.

Hire an expert HVAC contractor to install your central AC. If you can afford it, check your insulation and add more if needed. The difference will show in savings on your energy bill. Still not sure which to choose? Call Southern Comfort Mechanical in Lewisville, TX. An HVAC expert will be glad to help you choose the best option for your home.