Window Units vs. Central Air Conditioning: What’s Better?

AC, Air Conditioner, Central Air, Circleville, Cooling, Cooling Power, Easy Automation, Ohio, Pros and Cons, Temperature, Window Unit

Have you ever wondered what is the difference between central air conditioning versus window units and perhaps pondered which was the better of the two choices? Maybe you have, and maybe you haven’t. But whether you have unwillingly found yourself in a spot where you need to make an informed decision soon, or perhaps you are just curious to know the upside and downside of each type of cooling unit, you’ve come across the correct place! Today, we are discussing the pros and cons of each! So, join your local Circleville Heating & Cooling service experts as we comb through each positive and negative detail of window units and central air conditioning. 

ARE THERE FACTORS THAT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED BEFORE CHOOSING A WINDOW UNIT OR CENTRAL AIR? 

Before we go over each in and out of each type of cooling unit, it’s important to stay aware of two specific factors so you can go with the most optimal choice for you, your home, and your family! These factors are costs and efficiency. Your decision should be based on the costs of maintaining the unit every month and its efficiency in cooling and consistently maintaining the temperature for the space it is assigned to. It’s essential to think of your needs for your cooling unit. Are you trying to keep one or two rooms cool, or do you need to cool your whole home? Depending on this, you may find your space better suited to utilize a window unit.  

Many times, homeowners are dissuaded from considering central air conditioning as an option due to their upfront costs. However, it would be wise to be aware that upfront costs are not the only type of costs to think over. For example, if you choose to use window units to cool multiple rooms (think five or more), you will likely be paying equal to or more in monthly energy bills than the amount you would pay for central air conditioning. So, you see, it is really not worth it, in the long run, to pay every month for multiple individual window units when you could be paying that much to cool all the spaces in your home instead. Secondly, factor in the window unit’s central air conditioner’s capability to maintain the space at a cool temperature. This will help you dwindle down your options when choosing a model. 

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES & DISADVANTAGES HOMEOWNERS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT WINDOW UNITS? 

Here are some benefits of using window units: 

Pros:   

  • First, note that window units take up a tiny amount of space compared to central air conditioners. As their name implies, they can be installed in a window or even against the wall in some cases for certain models. This comes as an advantage for those who have smaller rooms or maybe the layout of the room is a little challenging. 
  • Window units can only cool one room per unit. So, if your need is to only cool a room or two, this can be beneficial. 
  • Upfront costs are not as high. So, you won’t have to dig deep in your pockets to get cool and comfortable!  

Cons:   

Here are some of the negative points of using window units: 

  • Because window air conditioners are only able to cool the room in which they are installed, this can be considered a setback for some.  
  • From a security aspect, windows can be considered unsafe as they create a hole or gap in the wall or window they are installed in. Once removed, that opening can make your home susceptible to intruders. 
  • Additionally, window units take up window space, and therefore the functionality of the window will be rendered useless. So, if you are one of those who enjoys frequently opening windows to enjoy a fresh breeze, you should consider this.  

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES & DISADVANTAGES HOMEOWNERS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONING? 

Now, onto the benefits of using central air conditioners:  

Pros:   

  • With central air conditioning, you gain the benefit of having your whole home cooled, unlike how window units only cool one room at a time.  
  • Furthermore, central air conditioning also has an easy automation process, so you don’t need to manually power your system off and on over and over again. 
  • Can regulate temperature consistently and controls humidity well. 

The following are a couple of the disadvantages of using central air conditioning: 

Cons:   

  • Upfront costs for central air conditioners can scare people away. Therefore, it’s imperative to keep all costs (i.e., upfront, maintenance, and monthly) in mind. 
  • The second con is that unless your house does not have existing ductwork and vents, they will need to be added before the central air conditioning unit may even be installed. However, the good news is the resale value of your home will be increased! 

If you are in need of a local heating and cooling company you can trust, look no further! Circleville Heating & Cooling would be ecstatic to serve you! We offer a variety of HVAC-related services, and as a plus, we do free estimates for new central air conditioning equipment! So, don’t put it off any longer. If you have any HVAC concerns, call us today at (740) 218-5323, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here