Choosing the right cooling system for your home is important. Regardless of which type you choose, a cooling system is going to be one of the larger investments you make. You need to know you’re going to get good value for the money you spend. To begin, it’s a good idea to learn a little bit more about all of your available options. Most homeowners are trying to pick between central air and a window AC, so let’s take a deeper look at what each has to offer.
Cost
A central air system will be substantially more expensive than a window AC. Window ACs cost between $150 and $1,500 on average. This doesn’t mean you won’t find ones a little cheaper or more expensive, but it’s a good range to consider. Having a professional install a window AC ensures the effectiveness and efficiency of the unit, but this will be an additional cost in most situations.
The average central air system can be anywhere from roughly $3,800 to $7,700. This varies according to many factors, such as the size, brand, and model. While they are more expensive, they can cool your entire home. You’ll need a professional to install central air, and your home will need to have ductwork.
Efficiency
Central air is generally more efficient than a window AC. If you have us install the proper size for your home and keep up with routine maintenance, it’ll operate quite efficiently. Central air systems have a higher seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating than window ACs, which means they use less energy.
If you ignore the SEER rating and other factors, the watts they use can be misleading. The average window AC uses 500 to 1,440 watts, while central air requires roughly 3,500 watts. This is because central air has many more moving components, which help disperse the cool air throughout your house. Keep in mind that a window AC will only cool one room at a time. This means you would need multiple window ACs to cool the entire house. Purchasing one for every room makes the window AC more expensive to operate and less efficient.
Another perk to consider is the technology each includes. Central air systems take advantage of the latest technology, such as zoning and automation.
Installation
When installing a window AC, you need to find one that is the appropriate size for your window. It may be necessary to remove the storm window, trim, and other obstructions to ensure a good fit. Once the area is ready, one can carefully lift the AC and place it in the window. The window frame or brackets support the unit. Once it’s secure, you can use weather stripping to seal gaps between it and the window. This maximizes efficiency and prevents leaks. At this point, you can plug it into an appropriate outlet.
When it comes to central air, we first determine the right size unit for your home. When doing this, we consider the square footage of your house and your cooling needs. Once we help you select the perfect system, we obtain the necessary permits from the local authorities. Our team will prepare the site by clearing away any obstructions and ensuring access to your ductwork. Once we have all of the necessary components in place, we make all of the electrical, drain line, and ductwork connections. To finish up, we test your new system for proper functionality, calibrate the thermostat, and make any final adjustments. As you can see, central air will require more time and expertise for the initial installation.
Long-Term Benefits
A window AC is ideal for cooling a specific room or area instead of the entire house. You’ll be completely happy if all you’re looking for is a way to keep your bedroom a little cooler or maybe add comfort to a new addition. On the other hand, if you’re going to use these ACs for the whole house, you’ll need multiple units. This can mean higher monthly electric bills than with central air. These window ACs usually have a shorter lifespan, too.
Central air will provide you with consistent cooling throughout your home. You won’t have to worry about hot or cold spots. They can also help improve your indoor air quality. Central air systems include air filters that are effective at trapping pollen, dust, and other allergens. They operate much quieter than a window AC, and many models now offer smart thermostat integration for easy control. Also, their lifespan is much longer than window units.
Financing
The upfront costs can make a homeowner turn to a window AC rather than central air even if central air will serve their needs better. Fortunately, you don’t have to settle. We offer zero-interest loans with equal monthly payments as well as low-interest loans with long-term payments. The application process is quick and easy. You can apply online from the comfort of your home, or you can call one of our Home Comfort Solutions representatives for more information.
Other Cooling Options
If neither a window AC nor central air sounds like the right fit for your needs, we also offer ductless mini-split systems. These consist of one outdoor unit and one or more indoor air handlers. Our installation process is simple, and you don’t have to have ductwork. This makes these cooling systems ideal for new additions, older homes without room for ductwork, garages, and apartments. Many homeowners love them for their zone cooling capabilities. You can set the temperature of a single room independently from the rest of the house. They’re cost-effective, and they’re perfect if you need supplemental cooling.
FAQs
What type of AC system is best for my home?
This depends a good deal on the size of your home whether or not you have ductwork, your budget, and your energy efficiency goals. Central air is very efficient when it comes to cooling your entire home, especially if you already have a ductwork system. Ductless mini-split systems are great if you need zone cooling or want a quiet operation.
How do I know if central air is worth the investment for my home?
Several factors go into deciding whether or not central air is the right choice for you. This includes your current cooling system, your budget, and the climate you live in. It’s a great option if you’re looking to upgrade and the system you have now is nearing the end of its lifespan.
Your Cooling Experts
Here at Home Comfort Solutions, we’re a heating and air company in Moore, OK offering residential and commercial HVAC services. In addition to our professional AC installations, we provide area residents with expert AC repairs. We’re a Daikin Comfort Pro, but we are familiar with all brands and models, including ductless mini-splits. Our team helps keep your AC functioning at its best with routine maintenance too. No matter what AC service you need, we want you to have the best experience possible. We do this with precision, care, and expertise, which results in our accreditation from the BBB.
Call Home Comfort Solutions in Moore today for more information.
