Window Units Vs. Central Air
Air conditioners are used to cool residential and commercial buildings. Most structures are equipped with either central air conditioning systems or window units, each of which offers its own unique benefits and drawbacks. A central air system uses a network of ducts to transport cool air throughout the home. Window units are self-contained appliances placed in windows to draw cool air into a single room or small area.
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Installation
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Window air conditioning units are fairly easy to install. They are set inside of an open window and secured in place using only basic tools or fasteners. While these units are heavy, they require no special knowledge or skills for installation.
Central air conditioning requires ductwork to be run throughout the entire home. These ducts are usually placed in the ceiling and can be difficult for DIY homeowners to install successfully. All system equipment must be carefully sized and installed to ensure the unit can properly cool the home.
Cost
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A window air conditioner is relatively affordable, and can usually be self-installed. Central air can be prohibitively expensive due to the cost of adding ducts and purchasing and installing equipment. Central air systems are also much more expensive to run than a single window unit, though a home with multiple window units could have similar operating costs to a home with central air.
Benefits
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Central air conditioning often uses the same network of ducts that are used for heating and ventilation, which can dramatically reduce installation costs. Central systems are also able to cool the entire house at once, which can improve comfort levels for occupants, especially in hot climates. They can be set on a timer or thermostat to automatically switch them on and off as needed.
Window units are very affordable and easy to install. They require little to no maintenance, and are easy to control and operate.
Drawbacks
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Window units pose a security risk, because burglars can remove them fairly easily and gain access to the home. They must be removed and reinstalled every summer, which can be difficult because of their weight. These units typically don't last very long, so replacement costs can be high.
Central air is vastly inefficient, because there is no way to use it to cool a single room. For homeowners who only need a few rooms cooled, these systems will waste a great deal of energy. They also tend to require a lot of maintenance over time, which can be costly.
Considerations
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When comparing window units versus central systems, buyers should also consider using split system units. Often known as mini-splits, these units consist of an outdoor compressor and indoor fan connected by a conduit. They offer the efficiency of a window unit with the security and longevity of central air. Split systems are also fairly cost-effective, and can be used to cool multiple rooms or a single area.
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