Central or Ductless: Which Will Keep You Cool?
Spring flowers are slowly but surely coming up, meaning that summer heat is just over the hill. In Montgomery, Alabama, this can mean sticky, hot, and humid days. Many homeowners might be considering getting air conditioning to break the heat and have restful moments, but knowing what is best for the home might seem a bit confusing. In this article, AC professionals will break down central AC vs. Ductless AC.
What Makes Central AC Special
Central AC has one central unit that controls the temperature of the entire house and pushes the cool air through a series of ducts using fans. Central AC requires one main central AC unit that is virtually invisible and adds value to the home in the long term. It keeps the house cool, and the newer models are energy efficient. The central air conditioning unit installation is straightforward when the house has existing ductwork, and the overall cost, while not as cheap as other options, tends to be lower than ductless mini-split systems.
A few disadvantages of central AC could be that it requires annual maintenance to ensure that it is working to the best of its abilities. It also requires new filters every so often, so a homeowner should be aware of this expense, though overall, central AC tends to cost less than many other options.
What Makes a Ductless Mini Split System a Good Option
On the other hand, the ductless mini split is also a great option for some homes. In contrast to central AC, ductless AC systems have two main components - an outdoor compressor and an indoor unit to spread the air. A conduit connects the two units. As the name implies, the ductless mini-split air conditioner requires no ductwork. This means that this might be a great option for older homes with thick walls, which might make ducts difficult to install.
Ductless AC units keep rooms at a continuous temperature and, in the winter, will absorb heat from the outside and move it inside to keep the house cozy and warm. The ductless mini split air conditioners are smaller and more flexible with minimum installation. Because ductless mini split air conditioners have devices in different rooms, they can also control room temperature more individually than central AC units, which have one temperature for the entire house. They also tend to be energy efficient.
A few things that a homeowner should keep in mind when deciding if the ductless mini split system is right for them are that the cost of the system can be higher than other options, including central air, and that the sizing can be an issue to make sure that it fully cools the home. Another thing that might be important to some homeowners is the device's aesthetics, as it is more visible than central AC.
Neither OptionWork for You? Check These Out!
Not all homeowners want central or Ductless AC right away, and that’s okay! There are other options, including a window or portable air conditioner.
Window AC units are housed inside a window where the outdoor side expels hot air, and the indoor side blows cool air into the room. A window AC unit can control the temperature in a room or even a small home if the window AC unit is big enough. Since they are a single unit, they can be much cheaper than either a central AC unit or a ductless AC. However, they are not suitable for multi-floor homes or large single-story houses as they are a much smaller device. They are best for small apartments or single rooms where they can keep that room at one temperature. Finding a proper window to install that is close enough to a power outlet and the right size can also be tricky. They can also be less aesthetically pleasing since they obstruct views from the window.
Portable AC units might also be taken into consideration. A portable air conditioner works similarly to a window air conditioner in that it is a single unit with all its components inside; however, it can be moved from room to room and does not need to hang out a window. Portable air conditioners might be a good option if the cooled space is small, like a bedroom or a bathroom, and there is no window access for a window unit or if the flexibility of moving the AC unit from room to room is desired. Much like the window AC units, however, they cannot cool larger spaces like an entire home, and some people may find them aesthetically unpleasing.
About Chad’s AC Direct
Chad’s AC Direct offers premium heating and air conditioning services at a fair price. With completely transparent pricing and no commissions, their professionals will ensure that all heating and air conditioning needs are met quickly, fairly, and efficiently—meaning no hidden costs. Call them today for trustworthy heating and air conditioning solutions in Montgomery, AL.
