Living in a home without central air conditioning or a window AC unit in summer can be harsh. Finding effective ways to stay cool is mandatory, and both window units and central air are good options. You just need to choose the most suitable option for you. The question of whether to install central air conditioning or window units depends on each type of AC’s pros and cons.
Understanding Central Air Conditioning
A central air conditioner is a cooling system that deploys a network of ductwork. The network hides behind walks to enable it to distribute cool air in your entire house. Additionally, a condenser is put outside your home to take off heat from the air coming from inside.
Advantages of Central AC
Central air conditioning is a popular choice due to its numerous advantages.
1. Improves Indoor Air Quality
Central air systems improve indoor air quality with the use of high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters that trap pollen, bacteria, dust, and pet dander. Replacing these filters as the manufacturer recommends keeps them working well to improve your indoor air quality. Central air conditioning is helpful to people with broncho-pulmonary and allergy problems.
2. Cools the Entire House
Unlike some individual room units, which create uneven cooling, a central air conditioner delivers a consistent temperature all over your house. Using vents and a duct network means there are no cold drafts or hot spots, allowing you to enjoy a balanced environment.
3. Operates Quietly
Compared to other portable units, central air conditioning systems operate discreetly, leaving you to enjoy peace and quiet. The loud components of the unit, which are the compressor and condenser, are in the outdoor unit, not intruding on your indoor atmosphere.
4. Incorporates a Smart Thermostat
A central air conditioning system uses a smart thermostat, which makes it easy to control the temperature from your smartphone. The thermostats can learn your preferences, save energy, and adapt to your schedule without much effort.
5. Is Aesthetically Appealing
Central air systems involve individual and separate components; thus, installation does not require bulky windows. Because of that, these systems preserve the interior and exterior aesthetics of your house.
Drawbacks of Central AC
Despite the benefits of central air conditioning systems, there are some drawbacks associated with the unit.
1. High Cost of Maintenance
Central air conditioning systems require constant maintenance to keep them efficient, which can disadvantage some property owners. A neglected central AC system can incur more operational costs and may not last as long as you expected. The systems have also been found to be highly susceptible to mold within their components, requiring regular professional removal and maintenance.
2. Costly Installation
The common disadvantage of central air conditioning systems is the expensive cost of having a professional install them. The systems setting up process includes purchasing equipment and installation of ductwork, condenser units, and vents, which, when put together, add up to a high cost. Central air conditioning does not suit those working with a tight budget.
3. High Energy Consumption
Central air systems use a significant amount of energy in certain circumstances. If the unit has poor maintenance and runs throughout the summer, it can lead to high utility bills. Additionally, since the system cools an entire house, even the unoccupied rooms, it results in a waste of energy.
Understanding Window Air Conditioners
A window air conditioner is a small cooling unit placed in a window frame. The system operates by blowing cold air into the room where it is installed and releasing hot air outside. The part responsible for letting out hot air is outside your house, whereas the fan blowing cool air is inside. Compared to a central air conditioning system, a window air conditioner does not need ductwork and only requires a single unit. It consists of a condenser, compressor, evaporator, filter, and refrigeration control on one side and an evaporator, filter, and refrigeration control on the other side.
Advantages of Window AC
Window air conditioners have the following advantages, making them the right fit for your home.
1. Targeted Cooling
A window air conditioner works best to cool small spaces like a single room. The unit allows you to direct cool air at a specific area, and you can rest easy knowing the air conditioner will only cool a single room and not use the energy required for an entire house.
2. Affordable
Unlike central air conditioning systems, window air conditioners provide a cost-effective solution for small spaces. Not only is the purchase affordable, but so is its operation. While a central AC system uses more than 3,500 watts a month, a window AC uses an average of 500 to 1440 watts for the same period.
3. Low Maintenance
Very little maintenance is required for a window air conditioner system. You only need to clean the filters and coils once every year, and for any emerging issues, expect the maintenance cost to be cheaper than that of a central air conditioning system.
4. Easy Installation
Window air conditioners require a simple setup on the windows. They normally come with an installation kit and don’t demand extensive modifications or ductwork like what you see in the complexity of a central air conditioning system.
5.Flexibility
Window air conditioners are portable, making them easy to remove from one window to another. The unit is a good choice for homeowners who often move around or switch rooms. It offers you relief from the heat during summer with minimal effort on your part. Window air conditioners also do not require any floor space since they involve window mounting. They are helpful for those with limited space.
6. Energy Efficient
There are several energy-efficient models to choose from when it comes to window air conditioners. You can lower your energy consumption by selecting a unit with a high energy efficiency ratio.
Drawbacks of Window AC
Opting for a window air conditioner also comes with the following disadvantages.
1. Noise
Certain window air conditioners, like the old ones or the less advanced ones, can produce noise while operating. The noise can be disruptive in quiet spaces or during certain times of the day for individuals desiring a quiet environment.
2. Lacking Visual Appeal
A window air conditioner unit impacts the appearance of a window from the outside. For individuals who want a beautiful window view, the air conditioner unit obstructs the exterior aesthetics.
3. Security Risk
For individuals living in unsafe areas, a window air conditioner offers an easy path for an intruder to break into your home. The window where the air conditioner is placed can be used to get into the house, which is a big safety problem.
4. Limited Cooling Capacity
Since window air conditioners are for small spaces, they are ineffective in large spaces or numerous rooms. You cannot count on the unit to cool your whole house, and you may require multiple units or a whole different cooling option. The central air conditioning unit may be the preferred alternative.
Before summer arrives, the best thing you can do is consult technicians to conduct an assessment and determine which air conditioning system works best for your home before your AC installation. Christian Brothers Air Conditioning Plumbing Electrical has a highly experienced team that can handle everything from air conditioning to plumbing and electrical installations, maintenance, and repairs in the Phoenix, AZ metro area. We also work with various financial institutions to help you find the best option for your needs.
With over four decades of experience, we are confident about our results, so contact Christian Brothers Air Conditioning Plumbing Electrical now.
