We have all wondered from time to time just what life looked like before the dawn of air conditioning systems. How on earth could people make it through the hottest, most humid days of the summer without some sort of device to cool their environment?
Thankfully, the vast majority of us will never have to suffer through a particularly sweltering heatwave without air conditioning. That said, this naturally begs the question ‘what type of air conditioning system is the most efficient?’
The Downfalls Of A Window Unit
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Window ac units often seem like a cheap and easy fix. They don’t require any duct work. They can be fixed in a matter of a few minutes. However, they simply are not effective or efficient.
Air Leakage
Window units don’t work well. One of the biggest reasons is because of air leakage. Again, window units may initially seem incredibly simple to install, but that is precisely where the problem lies. Window ac units typically don’t fit any size window perfectly, so there are cracks. Oftentimes, these cracks are quite large. This allows warm air to get in and cool air to escape. Window units are notoriously difficult to seal properly. So even the best intentions, including additional padding around the window or specialized sealants, fail to properly insulate the unit or the window. This results is massive air leakage and wasted hard earned money on excessive electricity bills.
Humidity Problems
For especially humid climates, window units also aren’t the most efficient choice. They do not battle high moisture levels in the air. To add insult to injury, window units also sweat excessively. Window air conditioners sweat when they are overworked. Therefore, they may very well introduce additional moisture into the room. Obviously this isn’t great for super humid tropical climates or places that have humid summers. This is also a major problem as sweating can lead to bigger headaches for homeowners. This includes water damage, or mold, and mildew growth.
High Noise Levels
Need additional convincing? Window air conditioning units are notoriously noisy. Even when operating correctly, they prove to be a huge nuisance. Ever tried to watch a movie on television while a window AC chugs to life only a few feet away? It is nearly impossible to do. When a foreign object ends up in an otherwise healthy unit, this annoying hum can triple in noise level. Bent fan blades, frustrating rattles against an unsecured window pane, and a lose front grill also proves to be incredibly annoying. The sound emitting from the unit often resembles crushed metal against a large fan.
It goes without saying that window units are becoming an increasingly outdated technology. Plus, if your AC unit has breakdowns or needs frequent repairs, then it’s time to replace your current system.
8 Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Old Air Conditioning
The Highlights Of Central AC
If you are in the market for a new air conditioning system, a high efficient air conditioner or central air conditioner is preferable.
Energy Efficient
A central AC system does cost a bit more up front for the purchase and installation. Also, homeowners will spend a little more on annual maintenance service calls with these types of systems. However, in the end, the most energy efficient and cost effective choice is the central ac unit.
Higher Resale Value For Your Home
Additionally, the installation of a central ac unit has greater resale value. So, if you plan on selling your home in the next 10-15 years, you will certainly recoup your initial cooling investment.
That said, the biggest factor that typically tips the decision scale is the energy savings. Did you know that three small window units use significantly more energy than a single central air conditioning unit? When you have multiple window units in operation, you are actually leaking cool air. This makes each one of your units work harder. What does this mean for you? Well energy savings always translates to cost savings.
You can calculate now how much you can save by purchasing a high efficiency cooling system:
High Efficiency AC Savings Calculator
The Case For Going Ductless
Now let’s focus on an additional details as to why ductless systems are the far superior option. They provide an excellent source of comfort. The operation costs of central air systems are relatively low in the long run. They also result in significant energy savings. However, ductless systems are the pinnacle of new cooling technology and provide homeowners unparalleled comfort.
Variable Speed Compressor
Due to the variable-speed compressor, ductless systems are able to accurately monitor the ongoing condition inside a room. This also includes the temperate and humidity level. This essentially means that the top of the line systems are able to continuously adjust its output to match the homeowner’s demand and comfort level.
The cooling technology progressively maintains a predetermined target temperature, without constantly kicking on or off. Average window units usually either keep running until the room gets too chilly. They also cycle on and off constantly. Obviously this creates a stuffy, unpleasant environment. It also often results in extreme, not to mention uncomfortable, temperature variations.
Unobtrusive Design
Another appealing aspect of the ductless air conditioning system is that its inconspicuous components can be configured in a wide variety of ways. There is typically only one way to install a window ac unit. A window unit takes up a window and precious natural light. Ductless technology is exciting for many homeowners. They are free to pick the most unobtrusive solutions for unit installation.
For starters, the often unobtrusive ductless system outdoor unit can be placed anywhere on your property. Most homeowners chose a spot where it is likely to draw the least amount of attention. Much like a traditional central ac unit, the outdoor component can also be strategically concealed. It can be concealed by strategically placed shrubbery or landscaping. A beautiful garden trellis or fencing is also a creative way to hide these unsightly units.
Meanwhile, homeowners are capable of choosing where to install the low profile, sleekly designed indoor components. They are capable of being mounted virtually anywhere. They can be installed near the floor. Many homeowners choose to place them high on a wall so that they blend it with the ceiling. It’s completely up for debate. You can get creative masking these components as well.
Changing From Window AC To Central Air Conditioning
PFO Heating & Air Conditioning specializes in all makes and models of high efficiency air conditioning systems. If you are unsure what would work best for your home, be sure to give us a call to discuss what solutions would work best for you. We will certainly consider what type of AC would make your home more comfortable while being the most energy efficient. We also offer air conditioning maintenance, repair, and installations. Let our NATE-certified technicians help you achieve your goals. We are among the few providers in NJ to hold a Carrier Presidents Award Dealer distinction. Be sure to call us and speak with one of our comfort specialists today if you have any questions.
Contact us now at (800) 253-9001 to find out more!