A lot of people wonder what the world was like before air conditioning systems arrived on the market. What did people do when hot, humid days came along? How did they survive without air conditioners?
The good news is many of us will not have to go through summer without an air conditioning system. With that said, some people are probably wondering what kind of air conditioning system is the best. Let’s discuss a number of options and then you can decide which one you should get.
Window Units
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Window units are cheap, and no duct work is required. At first glance, window AC units seem like an easy fix. However, they are not effective, nor are they efficient.
Leakage
Leakage is of concern when it comes to window units. This refers to air leakage. Sure, window AC units are easy to install, but this is actually where the issue stems from. Many units are not one size fits all. This is why cracks appear when they are installed. Since there are cracks present, warm air gets in and the cold air gets out. You cannot properly seal a window unit well without putting in some hard work. Even then, the air leakage will still occur and you can expect your electricity bill to go up.
Issues With Humidity
Window units are not that efficient when they are installed in humid climates. They do not do a good job at battling high moisture levels and they sweat, a lot. Window AC units sweat when they work harder than they are designed to work. This means they are not the ideal option for tropical climates or areas where the summers are very humid. Sweating can be an issue because it can lead to mold growth and water damage. The last thing you want is to be dealing with a mold and mildew growth problem.
Noisy
Window units make a whole bunch of noise when they are running. Even if there’s nothing wrong with them, they make horrific loud noises. There’s nothing more annoying than trying to do tasks around the house when the AC is making a lot of noise. When something gets struck in a unit, even one that is running properly, then the noise level can triple. Fan blades bend which can lead to a rattling noise. A grill that’s loose emits a sound that resembles crushed metal stuck in a running fan.
It’s safe to say that window units are not nearly as desirable as they once were. Not only that, but if your AC breaks down or you have to make constant repairs, then you’ll want to consider replacing it.
Central AC
Central air conditioning is amazing. A central AC is efficient and it’s more affordable than you think. Here are a few highlights of central AC:
Energy Efficient
Sure, a central AC system costs quite a bit of money. It definitely costs more than a window AC unit. These systems also require annual maintenance, which can cost a bit too. However, central AC units are far more energy efficient and in the long run, it is the more cost effective choice.
Increase Resale Value Of Your Home
Installing a central AC system can increase the resale value of your home. If you are going to be selling your home within the next 15 years, then you’ll recoup your investment.
With that said, the main benefit of installing a central AC system is the energy savings you’ll experience. Three small window units use more energy than just one central AC system. Multiple window units means multiple air leakages, which means more money spent on energy costs. If you use your units regularly, then you could end up spending a bunch of money on energy bills.
You can calculate now how much you can save by purchasing a high efficiency cooling system:
Download a Free Savings Calculator To Determine Your Energy Costs Savings
Why You Should Go Ductless
Ductless systems are the best ones to go with because they provide you with the utmost comfort. Not only that, but when compared to other systems, they don’t cost as much to run in the long run. You can save a lot of money on energy, too. However, ductless systems can cost a lot of money to buy and to have installed, but they are well worth the money.
The Compressor
Ductless systems are equipped with variable speed compressors, which means they can monitor a room’s ongoing condition. They can monitor both the temperate and humidity levels. This means your comfort level and demand level can be continuously met by the ductless AC system.
The system features cooling technology that maintains a targeted temperature, all without shutting off or on all the time. Window units continue to run until the room gets too cold. They can also turn off and on constantly. This can quickly create a cold and undesirable environment. The temperature variations are not balanced and this results in extreme temperature changes in a room.
Non-Obtrusive Design
Another good thing about ductless AC systems is their non-obtrusive design. Usually, there’s only one way to install window units and they take up a lot of space. They also block natural light. Ductless systems can be installed in a way that components are virtually hidden. This is one of the main reasons people love ductless AC systems.
The outdoor unit of the system can be placed anywhere on your property, but most people choose to have it installed in an area that is hidden or doesn’t garner a lot of attention. The unit can be concealed by placing it behind shrubs or other landscaping objects. Another way people hide the unit is by installing fencing around it. Those are only a few examples of how the unit can be concealed.
Homeowners can also install the indoor parts in a stealthy way, just like they can with the outdoor unit. They can be mounted pretty much anywhere and they can be installed right near the ground, if that’s what you prefer. A lot of people mount them on a wall because they blend in with the ceiling. It is completely up to you where you want to install the indoor components. When everything is installed, you will barely notice it and so will your guests. With that said, feel free to start exploring your options and decide which kind of ductless AC system you should get.
Changing From Window AC To Central Air Conditioning
Skylands Energy specializes in all makes and models of high efficiency air conditioning systems. If you are unable to make a decision about what type of system would work best for you, be sure to contact us. One of our NATE certificated technicians will assess your needs and figure out which system would be the most energy efficient. They will also find the right cooling system that provides the comfort level that your home needs. Give us a call today to find the air conditioner that works best for you!
Request a free, No Obligation, In-Home Estimate For A New AC System
Contact us now at (908) 707-1776 to find out more!