You need a new air conditioner. Now what? It may not be as simple as simply buying a replacement. Some homes aren’t equipped with ductwork, so if you live in one of them, you can’t simply call a central HVAC company and have someone install a new unit. Instead, you need to look at other options for cooling your home.
Whether you want to replace your AC or are exploring other options for indoor climate control, here is a breakdown of the types of air conditioners you can choose from.
Central AC
A brand-new central heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system will cost $10,000 or more. A home that doesn’t have ductwork will need extensive construction to make it HVAC-ready. This process can take over a month. However, central systems are the most common these days, and they offer dual heating and cooling options that give you a great level of comfort, energy efficiency and control.
Ductless Mini Split
Unlike central AC, a ductless mini split air conditioner doesn’t require any ducts or vents to work. Instead, it uses wall-mounted units to provide room-by-room temperature control. That’s right — with these hefty yet sleek machines, you can set the preferred temperature in every room.
The different parts of the house are called zones, and for households that want maximum control over their indoor climate, a ductless mini split offers a great option.
The cost can be expensive up-front, but these appliances last a long time with proper maintenance, and they can be just as effective as a central system if they’re installed properly.
Heat Pumps
Heat pumps are an eco-friendlier alternative to traditional air conditioners. They reverse the typical cooling method by moving heat from inside of your home to the outdoors, rather than drawing hot air inside to cool it.
In the winter, heat pumps move heat from the outside to the inside to warm your home. They can run without fossil fuels and be more cost-effective to run than typical ACs.
At the same time, a heat pump doesn’t always perform well in extremely cold temperatures, and its reliance on electricity can result in higher bills that some homeowners aren’t happy with.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
You need to consider cost, installation time and long-term use for different types of air conditioners. Your up-front price is just one factor. Also, think about the overall cost of ownership, from your expected utility bill to the average cost of annual maintenance and the possible cost of future repairs. Working with a professional can help you find the perfect air conditioner for your home, lifestyle and budget.
For professional air conditioning service and installation in Helena, MT, give the guys at Big Sky a call!