Which Cooling Option Is Right for Your Home?
If you’re relying on loud, inefficient, sunlight-blocking window air conditioners in the high heat of summer, it’s a good time to consider upgrading your home cooling option. Whether your Connecticut or New York home has ductwork or not — and regardless of its size and layout — there is a cooling system that can keep it reliably comfortable. And if you choose the best product for your lifestyle and space, you can reduce your energy spending in the process. The HVAC experts at Leahy’s Fuels can help you with the process.
In this article, we will discuss the factors you should consider when choosing between two popular cooling options: ductless mini-splits and central air conditioning.
Which Homes Work Best with Central A/C?
Central A/C is a popular option for cooling homes, especially those that already have ductwork. Here’s how it works: cool air travels through supply ducts and registers into your rooms, while return ducts bring warm air back to the system for cooling. If your home uses a furnace for heating in the winter, chances are you already have ducts that a central A/C system can use.
Central A/C has its perks:
- It’s often more affordable upfront compared to ductless systems
- You can control your home’s temperature using the same thermostat you use for heating.
However, there are some downsides:
- You’ll probably need to keep your entire home at the same temperature, which can be less energy-efficient
- Old or poorly maintained ductwork can lead to air loss, reducing overall cooling efficiency.
Is Ductless Mini-Split A/C Right for You?
Ductless mini-splits are a fantastic alternative if your home doesn’t have ductwork — especially for older homes that rely on boilers for heat. Instead of ducts, these systems use slim pipes to connect an outdoor compressor to indoor air handlers. These air handlers pull in warm air, remove the heat, and send the cooled air back into your home.
Here are some of the best advantages of ductless A/C:
- Ductless systems offer “zoned cooling.” Each air handler works independently, so you can cool only the rooms you’re using, saving energy and money.
- Ductless mini-splits are easy to install—our team can often get the job done in a single day! With proper maintenance, these systems can last over 20 years.
- Many models even provide supplemental heat, making them a great year-round solution.
One downside of these systems can be the upfront cost, but operational savings for years to come can quickly defray the initial expense.
Leahy’s Can Help Find the Best Choice for Your Home
What’s the best A/C product for you? It all depends on your home’s setup and your cooling needs! If you’ve got existing ductwork, central A/C is a strong option. If you’re looking for energy efficiency or live in a home without ducts, ductless mini-splits are the way to go.
In New Milford and throughout Western Connecticut and nearby parts of New York, Leahy’s Fuels sells, installs and services top-quality central and ductless A/C systems. We’re here to help you stay cool and comfortable!
Get in touch with Leahy’s Fuels today to get a free estimate on a high-performance and high-efficiency cooling product.