Decisions, decisions. You just want to keep cool when the weather isn't, but having to choose between one one big central system, a split system, and a window unit or two (or more) is enough to make you sweat. Check out our "hot tips" to help you select the best unit for your home or business.Start by knowing the similaritiesAll air conditioning systems use pretty much the same components and the same processes for cooling. Like refrigerators, they use chemicals to transfer heat from the air inside to the outside.The process requires three main parts: a compressor, a condenser, and an evaporator. AC units take advantage of the fact that when a liquid converts to a gas, it absorbs heat. They force chemical compounds (refrigerants) to evaporate and condense repeatedly in a closed system of coils to chill and dehumidify air.Fans, blowers (and, for conventional central systems, ductwork) then play a role in distributing this nice cool air in the intended space. Those are the basics, but you can learn more here.Then learn the differencesConventional central air systems are designed to cool an entire house or structure. They consist of a large outside process-driving compressor unit/cabinet and and an indoor coil filled with refrigerant. They use ductwork to distribute cooled, dehumidified air.Split air systems include at least one unit located inside a room (often on a wall or ceiling), and an outdoor unit (on or near the wall of the space you're cooling). The outside unit houses the compressor and condenser coil, while the inside unit(s) are home to the cooling coil, blower, and filter. Since cooling various zones and spaces may require several units (each with its own air handler and conduit connection an outdoor unit), these are sometimes called mini-split systems.Window units, obviously installed in open windows, are self-contained units designed only to cool limited spaces or rooms at a time. If you have a large area to cool, you'll likely need several units.Pros of conventional central air systemsCan cool every room that has a vent, via ductworkCan increase savings by cycling on and off as neededCons of conventional air systemsDuctwork prone to deterioration and leakage with ageDuctwork expensive to install/upgradeNo ability to adjust individual room temperatures as in a ductless systemPros of split systemsIncreased energy efficiency and savings due to control over individual rooms' temperaturesEasier, cheaper installation due to lack of ductworkCons of split systemsInside unit(s) visibleExternal piping of refrigerant and drain lines possibly visibleIncreased installation cost if you require multiple unitsPros of window unitsCan be easily installedMany economical but effective options availableCons of window unitsAesthetics, both inside and out, can be pretty off-puttingOnly cool small, limited areasMay put you and your home at security riskNow consider thisWhatever you select, remember that your new air conditioning system will only be as good as the product, its suitability for your specific circumstances, and the quality of the installation. Call Pullen Air Conditioning todayTheir experts will help you understand all your options and make the best and most informed choice for your specific needs. And it just doesn't get any cooler than that.
