Picking the Right Air Conditioning System for Your Home
Every home is different, and homeowners in the process of air conditioning installation should know that there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to cooling a home. Factors such as the location, size, and age of a home should be considered before deciding on which kind of AC to purchase, as well as the capacity, energy efficiency, reliability, and cost. Understanding these factors should help homeowners choose the AC system that is best suited for their home.
Choosing Central Air Conditioning
Central air conditioning is one of the most common types of ACs found in plenty of homes across the country, particularly in the South, Midwest, and West. Central AC is set up with one HVAC unit controlling the temperature of the entire home, while the cooled air is distributed from the central system to different rooms inside the house through a network of ducts concealed in the walls, floors, and ceilings.
Homes that have the space to accommodate the central unit, as well as the lengthy ductwork needed to be installed throughout the house, would benefit from the efficient cooling system as well as the discreet and pleasing aesthetics of a central AC unit. A central AC also has the advantage of providing consistent temperatures and lower noise levels compared to other cooling systems.
Opting for The Ductless Mini Split
Coming in second in popularity is the ductless mini split air conditioner. Although they currently only make up about 10% of the residential HVAC market, it is quickly growing in popularity, primarily because of the many advantages they offer that are not possible with central air conditioning. The primary difference between the two is that mini-splits do not require the installation of air ducts to distribute cold air. Instead, it employs a “split system” consisting of an indoor air handler and an outdoor compressor that is easy to install.
Each indoor air handler can cool a specific room to set temperatures, making the ductless mini split a great option providing flexible cooling. Its ductless nature also means that homes with limited spaces or older houses that cannot accommodate extensive ductwork installation can benefit from the energy-efficient cooling capability of the ductless mini split.
Other Air Conditioning Options
While central air conditioning and ductless mini splits make up the bulk of ACs being installed in homes across the country, other AC types are available to homeowners looking for third or fourth options that would fulfill their home’s cooling requirements. Two options include the window AC unit and the portable air conditioner.
Window AC units are small box-like air conditioning units that could fit into a framed opening in a wall or window. It cools rooms by drawing in the hot air and blowing in cool air passed through a series of metal coils with cold refrigerant gas in them. As the air passes through the coils, the refrigerant cools the air and can then be returned to the room as cold air. Window ACs may not be the most aesthetically pleasing, powerful, or energy efficient, but they are perfect for small spaces and are easy to install.
Another option to consider is a portable air conditioner. As its name implies, this AC is easy to move around from room to room since it does not require installation. It is a self-contained device that can be set down on the floor, with a hose connected to the unit on one end while the other sits outside through a window opening. This is because portable ACs cool a room by pulling warm room air in, cooling it, and then returning it as cold air back to the room. Warm air and moisture are pushed out through the house and expelled outdoors. Because of its portability, this kind of AC is best for homes where moving the AC around is necessary to create the best possible cooling conditions.
About Boutwell’s Air Masters
Boutwell’s Air Masters is a reliable HVAC solutions company serving the Pensacola area since 1973. With a full menu of HVAC services, Boutwell’s is committed to providing fast and easy service with a team of experienced professionals who offer personal attention, expert workmanship, and tailored solutions, all while offering transparent pricing that won’t break the bank. Call them today for HVAC services in Pensacola, FL.
