Air conditioning installation is a lot different than it used to be. Back twenty years ago, there were really only window AC units and central air conditioners, and everything else was either way too expensive for regular homeowners or just so niche that they didn’t work for most people.
The existing air conditioners of the time were simple and not particularly efficient, but they could cool an entire home properly. Now, things have changed a lot.
First and foremost, the options are endless. From heat pumps to ductless mini splits, AC installation in Pelham, NY is more widely available and exists in different forms. And, to make things even more complicated, air conditioners are exceedingly more energy efficient than they used to be. And we’re all thankful for that, since energy prices are exceedingly more expensive these days.
This blog post will be dedicated entirely to the many AC options available, as well as their applicable pros and cons.
Central AC
Central air conditioners represent the gold standard of air conditioning systems. They’re widely available, energy efficient, and powerful enough to cool a house of any size. And, when compared to other systems on this list, they’re increasingly affordable.
Pros
Let’s start with the basics. Central air conditioners are often the most affordable cooling systems on the market, and they do an exceptional job of cooling a home. Also, they come in all different SEER2 ratings, so customers can try to choose one that minimizes their energy consumption, which is great.
Cons
Unfortunately, a central air conditioner isn’t going to be nearly as energy efficient as the other units mentioned in this blog post. And, crucially, a central air conditioner will only provide a home with cooling, whereas a heat pump or ductless mini split can both heat and cool a home, which provides more flexibility and control over yearly home comfort.
Heat Pump
Heat pumps are going to be the easiest entry point into versatile heating and cooling. These systems are very energy efficient and can basically replace a home’s central air conditioner and heating system all in one.
Pros
As we’ve mentioned, a heat pump functions as both a heating and cooling system. This means air conditioning in the summer and heating in the spring, fall, and winter. They’re also becoming more affordable by the year, as new federal tax credits and rebates are being issued for these great systems.
Cons
Heat pumps are a middle ground in many aspects, because they’re more expensive than a standard central air conditioning system, but cheaper than a ductless mini split unit. However, they’re not going to be as efficient as ductless units, due to the probability of leaks occurring in the home’s air ducts.
Ductless Mini Splits
These systems represent the apex of heat pump technology. Sleek, powerful, and hyper efficient, a ductless mini split will be a wonderful choice for many space-conscious homeowners.
Pros
These systems function via air handlers that don’t rely on air ducts, meaning they’re increasingly energy efficient and save a home space. They also provide both heating and cooling, since they’re heat pumps.
Cons
Unfortunately, ductless mini splits are some of the most expensive units on the market and they’re likely to remain that way for a good while.
Contact Yost & Campbell Heating, Cooling & Generators for comprehensive AC installation at an affordable price.