Now that winter is in the rearview mirror, many of us here in the Southern Tier are making plans for warmer weather, like getting out in the garden, or hosting the Memorial Day and Fourth of July cookouts.
We’re also realizing that hot weather is coming and, for those of us without air conditioning in our homes, an uncomfortable time is looming.
Window air conditioning units are far from ideal. They simply do not cool larger spaces effectively, nor are they energy-efficient in the slightest. Furthermore, these units produce considerable noise and can be a security risk, particularly when installed on ground floors. Installation and removal is a hassle. Beyond this, window A/Cs block light while simultaneously letting in bugs, dirt, dust particles and pollen into your home from outside.
Looking to upgrade your home’s cooling this year? Look no further than Rinker Oil and Propane! Our experts will assist you with the installation and service of both central air conditioning systems, as well as ductless mini-splits. Let us guide you through each option so that you can make an informed decision on which one best suits your property’s needs.
Pros
If you have existing ductwork in your home, central air conditioning is the most cost-effective cooling system to install.
The ducted cooling system is the ideal option for controlling your indoor air quality, thanks to its advanced filtration and ability to integrate additional humidifying/dehumidifying equipment.
Central air conditioning is superior to mini-splits when it comes to the ability to cool larger spaces and homes.
Central air conditioning systems offer a more aesthetically pleasing option. The indoor unit can be placed out of sight while the vents are much less obtrusive than ductless mini-split units. Additionally, the outdoor unit is comparatively easy to hide from view.
Cons
Maintaining your ductwork is essential to ensure efficient energy usage. Cleaning once every two or three years should be sufficient, but if it becomes damaged in any way, air conditioning performance will suffer while electricity costs soar.
Without a zoned cooling system, you are likely to experience higher energy costs than with the installation of ductless mini-splits.
Pros
Ductless mini-splits are aptly named as they require zero ductwork to maintain your home’s desired temperature. Hence, if you rely on a boiler for warmth, there is no need to spend thousands of dollars in retrofitting your home with ducts to enjoy home cooling.
With ductless mini-splits, you get ultimate control over your cooling. You can customize how cool each space is throughout the day for maximum energy efficiency; no more wasting power on rooms that don’t need it!
Unlike traditional window units, mini-splits are not seasonal and do not require installation in the beginning of spring or removal at the end of fall. Instead, they are permanently installed for long-term cooling solutions.
Cons
Despite the fact that mini-splits offer some level of air filtration, they unfortunately cannot keep dust, allergens, odors out of your home as efficiently as a ducted HVAC system.
Installing ductless mini-splits may leave you with an unappealing exterior, as the line carrying condensate drain and electrical connections must run along the outside of your home, in addition to the outdoor unit setup.
Ductless mini-splits offer enviable energy efficiency, but their installation costs can surpass those of central air conditioning if you already have an existing ductwork system.
Now is the time to make sure your home is cool and comfortable for summer. Contact Rinker Oil and Propane to get started on adding air conditioning or mini-splits to your home!
