Many Florida homes have central air conditioning, as the climate makes it necessary. However, as new homeowners expect the added comfort of climate control, new homes are being built with central heat and air as a standard. For those who want to add climate control to an existing home, that may not have central air conditioning there are several options available. Depending on your budget, home, and lifestyle you may find one of these options works best for you.

Central Air Conditioning

Central air conditioning systems are a popular choice for many homeowners. These use ductwork that connects each room of your house to a central unit where the air is heated or cooled until your home reaches the temperature you selected.

Pros:

• Consistent Room Temperatures

One of the biggest advantages of installing a central air conditioning system, is that your entire home will be a consistent temperature. These units work off of a central thermostat placed in the home to ensure that all of your rooms are heated and cooled evenly. With newer thermostats available you can automate this process, changing temperatures based on the time of day or even controlling it from your phone.

• Air Cleaning

Central AC systems have a filtration system that helps to clean the air before it is recirculated throughout your home. For those with respiratory problems there are additional filtration options to choose from, such as UV lighting. This can be installed in your ductwork to kill any organic material that may develop.

Cons:

• Upfront Cost (Ductwork)

If you haven’t had a central AC system installed previously, one of the biggest cost considerations is installing ductwork. This installation should be done by professionals as correct placement of the registers and return vent are needed to heat and cool your house evenly.

Mini Split

Mini splits are an increasingly popular option for many homes. The smaller units require no ductwork and multiple interior units can be connected to one air compressor outside.

Pros:

• Room-by-room Control

Mini splits offer room by room control. This means that every indoor unit can be controlled separately. One room can be set to a cozy 72 degrees while another can be set to 65.

• Quick Installation

In contrast to a central air conditioning system mini splits don’t require any ductwork. Indoor units can be connected to the exterior one by creating a small hole to run the refrigerant lines through.

Cons:

• Upfront Cost

The major disadvantage to mini splits is the upfront cost. These are typically the most expensive option to install initially. However, if you need to install ductwork for a central AC system these two options may be more comparable.

• Multiple Indoor Units

While having individual room control is an advantage of a mini split system it also requires that you purchase and install multiple interior units. These units will be mounted to either the ceiling or a wall and each room you want to control. Although they don’t take up a lot of space, they are more noticeable than a central AC system.

Window AC

Window AC units are a popular choice for those on a budget. These small air conditioning units are placed in an open window and cool the air in one room.

Pros:

• Inexpensive

The biggest advantage to a window AC system is its cost. These are by far the cheapest option, but they don’t last as long. If you’re looking for a quick solution to keep one room cool, this may be a good choice for you.

• Easy Installation

These units are also easy to install as they sit in an open window and can be replaced easily if needed.

Cons:

• Low Filtration

Window AC units offer the least filtration of air. Although these systems are getting better, they simply cannot filter contaminants out of the air in the same way that mini splits or central AC systems can.

• Hot/Cold Spots

You will likely notice that there are both hot and cold spots in each individual room you are cooling. This is because it doesn’t cycle air through the house. Rather, it simply blows cold air in. Meaning you’ll be cold in front of the unit, but the corners of the room may be warm.

Most homeowners find that a central AC system is the most convenient option for their home. They offer consistent room temperatures, air filtration, and easy control. If you are interested in any of these options, please contact us. We’re happy to help you decide what unit will work best for you in your home.