Making the Right Choice Between Central AC or Ductless Cooling Systems
There are major differences between a central AC and a ductless system. While they both accomplish the same goal of cooling the home, choosing between the two often involves several factors. Knowing the pros and cons of each type of system can help homeowners make the decision that is best for them.
This article explains both central AC and ductless cooling systems and helps homeowners determine which is the right choice for their home.
Details and Benefits of Central AC Systems
Central AC systems utilize a condenser unit that sits outside the home paired with an evaporator or air handler unit inside the home. Coolant passes back and forth between the two pieces via the coolant lines. A central AC system then uses ductwork inside the home to blow cold air into each room of the house. This ductwork is generally hidden in an attic or basement, and the air blows into each room via vents in either the floor or ceiling.
Central AC systems offer several benefits. First, the system is virtually invisible inside the home. Except for the small vents in each room, no other parts of the system are visible to visitors. Central systems are also powerful and can cool large homes with relative ease and efficiency. The main drawback of a central AC unit is the cost, especially if the home does not have existing ductwork installed when the air conditioning installation takes place.
Pros and Cons of Ductless AC Systems
Just like central AC systems, ductless or mini-split systems utilize both an outside condenser and an evaporator/air handler in the home. With a ductless mini-split system, the air handler is a box that sits on the wall, and a small cable passes coolant from the evaporator to the outside unit. Ductless systems are visible inside the home, so some homeowners believe they detract from the home's aesthetics.
A ductless mini split air conditioner shines in several areas, the first of which is efficiency. Ductless systems are usually very efficient, and this efficiency can also lead to lower cooling bills. In addition, ductless systems usually cost less than a central AC system. Finally, ductless systems can provide multiple-zone cooling. This means that different home areas could be set to different temperatures. On the other hand, ductless systems are less powerful and less capable of cooling large homes than central AC systems are.
Other Types of Air Conditioning Solutions
While central AC and ductless systems are the two most common solutions, some homeowners turn to other systems to cool their homes. Generally, there are better solutions for cooling an entire home. Here are a couple of options.
- Window AC units - A window AC unit can be placed in your home's window, providing cold air when needed. However, these units are generally only powerful enough to cool one room of the home. They are also rather unsightly, especially from outside the home. A window air conditioner can provide some relief in certain situations, but they are short-term solutions to cooling your whole home.
- Portable air conditioner units - Portable AC units can be moved from place to place, but there are better solutions for cooling your home in the long run. These machines are often quite large and usually require some temporary ductwork to be run to a window. This can be cumbersome and not at all pleasing to the eye. While they can be more powerful than a window unit, portable units are usually too small to cool an entire home.
About Central Heating
Central Heating has been in operation for over 15 years, and they provide fast, friendly, and reliable service to their customers. Emergency services are available 24/7, so homeowners can speak to a live person at any time of the day. Not only does Central Heating provide high-quality and affordable work, but it also offers financing options to help ease the financial burden. Call Central Heating today for the best HVAC service in Barrie, ON.
