Which Type of AC Is Right for You?
Categories: Air Conditioning | Blog
Even with great insulation, your home can get uncomfortably hot during the summer, and unless you have an air conditioning system, you can’t do much to get cool. If you want to replace or install an AC unit before summer hits, you have many options to choose from, and they all have their own pros and cons. Check out these common options to see which is right for you.
Central Air Conditioning
If you want the most effective way to quickly cool your home, look no further than a central air conditioning system. Like a furnace, central air conditioning uses ducts and vents to transport air. These systems are so effective, you’ll get a comfortable and consistent temperature all year. Plus, you can add special features, such as zoned cooling, a filtration system, and a humidifier/dehumidifier.
The downside, however, is that they are not as efficient as other options, so you may see higher energy bills. Plus, if you don’t maintain the ducts, many problems can develop. Holes and gaps can allow energy loss, and uninsulated ducts can gain heat.
Mini-Split System
A mini-split system is similar to central air conditioning, and because of this, it is also incredibly effective. However, because mini-split systems don’t use ducts, they are usually more efficient than central air conditioning. Instead of ducts, the system uses tubes and wires to connect the outdoor unit with several indoor units. These units are installed on walls in various rooms and expel cooled air.
Ductless systems can be a little unsightly because you can’t really hide the indoor units like you can vents. A mini-split system is still a great idea though if you don’t have any ductwork in your home (or your ductwork is severely damaged). It can also be a great choice for additions and garages or for creating zoned cooling.
Heat Pump
A heat pump is also similar to central air conditioning, and unlike a mini-split system, it does use the ducts inside your home. Heat pumps are also used to heat your home during the winter. They are a particularly energy-efficient option, but they aren’t as effective as central air conditioning or mini-split systems.
For a more efficient and effective options, consider a geothermal heat pump. Air-source heat pumps pull cold or hot air from the outdoor air, but during the summer, little cool air is available. A geothermal system, however, pulls energy from the ground, which is more likely to be cool in the summer.
Window/Portable Units
If you want a cheap option and you don’t really care about cooling your entire house at once, consider a window or portable unit. Window units are installed in a window, but they aren’t designed to be frequently removed. Portable units, however, can be moved around from room to room as you need. Window and portable units are also incredible affordable, and they can often save you money.
They are not nearly as efficient as other systems, however, and you’ll have to choose the right size. Getting a small one for a big room won’t offer much relief. Yet they are a great choice if you can’t afford a full system, rent your home/apartment, or only care about cooling a few rooms.
Air conditioning can help make your home much more comfortable during the summer, and with so many options from which to choose, you can find the perfect solution for your cooling needs. While the expensive ones tend to be the most effective, other affordable options may work best for you. For more information about cooling solutions, contact us at Mitchell Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.
