Trying to decide between keeping your window AC units, upgrading to central air, or making the switch to a heat pump? Each option comes with its own benefits and trade-offs, and it isn’t always easy to decide which cooling system to go with.
This guide will walk you through the pros and cons of each so you can decide which type of cooling system is the best fit for your home, preferences, and budget.
Window Air Conditioners
A window air conditioner is the simplest type of cooling system. They’re installed in a window opening and can be used to cool one room or area. Window ACs are the most affordable option, but they have a lot of limitations.
Pros of Window ACs
Window air conditioners offer benefits that make them a good fit in certain scenarios. Benefits include:
Low upfront cost
Fast and easy to install—no professional help required
Can be purchased at most big-box stores
Cons of Window ACs
Unfortunately, window air conditioners also come with a lot of drawbacks:
Only cools a single room
Loud when running
Blocks windows and natural light
Inefficient and can be expensive to run
Requires seasonal setup, take-down, and storage
Central Air Conditioning
Central air conditioning is a whole-home cooling solution that uses a central AC unit connected to air ducts to distribute cool air throughout the house. It’s quieter and more effective than window units, especially in homes that already have ductwork in place.
Pros of Central Air Conditioning
Central AC has many benefits that make it a better choice than window air conditioning units:
Cools your entire home
Quiet operation
Doesn’t block windows or take up interior space
Works with smart thermostats and zoning systems
Cons of Central Air Conditioning
Central air conditioning does come with its drawbacks—primarily cost.
Higher upfront cost compared to window units
Requires existing ductwork or the added cost of installing it
Less energy efficient in homes with duct leaks or poor insulation
Disruptive to install in older homes without air ducts
Heat Pump Air Conditioners
A heat pump is an all-in-one system that provides both heating and air conditioning. It’s generally the best option for an AC installation because you get a highly energy efficient air conditioning system that can also work as a heater.
Types of Heat Pumps
There are two types of heat pump HVAC systems:
Central Heat Pumps - Connect to air ducts and provide centralized heating and cooling.
Ductless Mini Split Heat Pumps - Do not use ductwork, delivering heated and cooled air directly into the rooms they’re installed in. Can be sized for partial or whole-home heating and cooling.
Pros of Heat Pumps for Air Conditioning
Heat pumps have a lot of benefits and are often the best choice for Rhode Island homes.
Cools and heats your home with one system
Highly energy efficient
Can be installed with or without ductwork
Qualify for rebates, including new Clean Heat Rhode Island heat pump rebates
Cons of Heat Pumps for Air Conditioning
While heat pumps are a smart long-term investment, there are a few things to consider:
Higher upfront cost compared to window units
Ductless systems have visible indoor units
May need electrical upgrades in some homes
Find the Best Cooling System for Your Home
An air conditioning upgrade is a big decision, and CARJON is here to help you find the best solution for your home. We install high-efficiency central air conditioning systems, ducted heat pumps, and ductless mini split heat pumps, and will help you make all of the right considerations for your new system. And with second-to-none installation service, you can rest easy knowing you’re getting the most for your investment.
Ready to upgrade your window air conditioners? Call 401-232-9400 to get a free estimate!
Need better AC?
Get a free quote for heat pump or central AC installation.
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