Window Units Vs. Central Air: Which is Best For You?

It’s the first heat wave of the summer and you’re quickly realizing you can’t make it one more season without installing some type of air conditioning. But should you go with central air or individual units? There are definitely pro’s and con’s to each choice, so take a minute to read over the benefits of both.

Cost:

In general, individual window units are much cheaper than a central air system and can be installed by just about anyone.

If you’re looking to cool down an entire house, buying a wall unit for each room can quickly add up, so you may want to think about central air. The cost of the unit and installation will be higher, but if you’re planning to stay in that house for 15+ years, it will give you a better return on your investment.

Maintenance:

Wall units are quick and easy to install and fit in almost any window. The filter needs to be cleaned about once every season, but takes just a few minutes and can be done yourself. Every few years small pieces within the unit may wear and need to be replaced, but they are typically pretty inexpensive as well.

Central air is much harder to install, so if you don’t have a background in construction, We would advise against hooking it up yourself. The last thing you want is to realize halfway through the job that all the holes were made in the wrong spot. But after a professional installation there is little maintenance, other than the occasional vent cleaning.

Efficiency:

Wall units will easily cool down a bedroom, or studio apartment, but they probably won’t keep an entire floor cool. They also don’t combat humidity as well as central air, but you do have the option to also buy an inexpensive dehumidifier.

Central air runs a bit more efficiently than window units, mostly because they can be hooked up to programmable thermostats which automatically adjust the temperature throughout the day. They are also better at getting rid of humidity in the air, making you feel even cooler.

At Leslie Heating and Cooling, we are ready to help you with any of your air conditioning installation, maintenance or programmable thermostat needs. We are a family-owned and operated business based in Woodridge, Illinois and is here for all of your emergency needs, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To learn even more, give us a call at (630) 576-9235 or visit our website.