Getting ready for those hot summer days? This may mean you're about to make a big decision regarding the right cooling solution for your home. There are enough options out there to make your head spin and making the right choice can be confusing. Before you choose a brand and installation professional you’ll have to decide whether you’re going for a central AC or split AC. Follow this guide and we promise you’ll find it an easy task after all.
Central AC advantages
Breathe cleaner air
Most central air conditioning systems use better filters than split AC units. This helps improve air quality and eliminate pollen, dust and lint from the air we breathe.
A more effective circulation
Using a central AC system allows effective circulation of cool air throughout your entire home.
Less noise
While any form of AC makes a certain amount of noise, central systems make far less noise than window units by comparison.
More space - and better design
No space-occupying units hanging on every wall. That gives you additional indoor space and makes for a more neutral backdrop when it comes to your design options.
One control panel
Instead of having several remote controls strewn throughout the house, you can operate your entire home’s AC using a single control panel. You can easily set the time and temperature at which you want the unit to operate.
Central AC Disadvantages
Ductwork required
Especially in older homes, this is a big consideration, seeing as you might have to perform the ductwork to install a central unit. You should take into consideration that this may prove to be a costly expense on top of purchasing the central system.
Energy inefficiency
Ducting usually leads to increased energy costs, year by year. Cleavages, cracks and holes normally appear in ductwork over time. That leads to air escaping out of those ducts, which means your unit is working harder and longer to cool down your home.
Unnecessary cooling
If your home has spare bedrooms or spaces you rarely use, then the central AC unit is going to be cooling them whether you need to or not. That means you’re paying to cool areas that don’t require cooling at all.
Maintenance
Routine maintenance is required when you own a central AC. Expect an annual upkeep of the unit itself and a thorough cleaning of the air ducts every 4 years.
Split AC - the right way to go
After considering the pros and cons - although split AC units might make a bit more noise, take up indoor space and may add a couple of extra remote controls to your home - we think that it is the better way to go. It's much less expensive to install and maintain, plus, it’s dramatically more energy efficient, and overall the more effective cooling option. At the end of the day, that is what counts the most. Therefore, you won’t be surprised to learn that over 77% of new construction projects of residential properties opt for split AC.