It’s not always a simple process to select the right home heating and cooling system. There are many variations of a highly functional system, and the right solution will depend on what the homeowner needs in cooling and heating the home adequately.
This is a tough decision for many because there are more options than ever. Some of the newest options have improved in their technology, so they may be more desirable than they would have been previously.
To help in the decision-making process, this article will review the various types of air conditioning systems and their features and what each system is most suited for in terms of cooling applications in the home. It will also cover maintenance issues and potential drawbacks of installing each system.
This article seeks to offer facts about cooling systems, so homeowners can be more informed when deciding on the type of system to install in their homes.
Types of System Design
There are three main types of cooling systems. There are variations to each. But, they all come with their own unique sets of features and benefits. A homeowner must decide on the type of system before deciding the brand or model of the unit(s) to be installed.
Split/Wall Systems
Split systems or mini-split systems have heating and cooling units installed in many rooms of the home. An outdoor compressor works with the wall units in each. Wall units contain the fan coils to complete the process.
These systems are efficient and allow for individual adjustments to room temperatures. This may help homeowners save on electricity costs because rooms that are used very little do not need to be cooled as much.
A disadvantage of this type of unit for some homeowners is that every room will have a visible unit installed on the walls, and some homeowners may not want this. These systems have improved over time and are more cost-effective than ever. Today’s models typically receive high energy star ratings, so they are less costly.
Ducted Cooling Systems
Ducted Cooling Systems are very popular because they require less adjustment, as every home tends to have only one thermostat to control the entire home. This type of system requires a compressor to be installed outside the home. The unit takes air, cools it, and then sends it throughout the home using the duct system.
This type of cooling system requires more work for installation. It’s best to install a ducted system when the home is in the process of being built. However, it can be added later but with a significant price tag if there is no existing ductwork. It requires opening walls or access from the ceiling. Then those areas must be closed again in a way that nobody can tell the work was done.
Ducted systems are usually reverse cycles. That means they can also keep the home warm during the colder months. Some split systems also have this feature. An advantage of a ducted system is that only the vents in the rooms are visible, and there are no wall units that some people may find obtrusive.
Ducted systems are easier to maintain because only the outdoor compressor needs to be maintained unless the homeowner chooses to have a professional duct cleaning company clean them periodically. With split systems, each wall unit must be professionally maintained.
An evaporative system is in its own category. It can be used with doors and windows open. It cools the air by taking it in and passing it through wet cooling pads. This type of system does not get as cold as other systems. But, homeowners can have cool breezes through their homes with windows and doors open. This type of system can still make the home comfortable for its residents in the summer heat.
An important benefit of the evaporative system is that it is beneficial to people who suffer from sinus and breathing issues because it adds some moisture back into the home. It is healthier for homes with newborn babies. An evaporative system is also the most economical to operate, as it uses less power than other cooling systems.
A disadvantage of evaporative cooling is that it only cools. It does not heat the home. Homeowners will need to find another way to heat their homes. Either an electric or gas heating system would be needed.
Summary
This article from the contractors at HVAC Livonia was intended to help homeowners understand the various types of cooling and heating systems available and the benefits and disadvantages of each. Being knowledgeable makes it easier for homeowners to make the wisest choice for their particular needs in cooling and heating.
Homeowners who are faced with how to cool and heat their homes must consider which systems are best for their particular needs, how often they are willing to pay for the cost of maintenance, and what their requirements are for heating and cooling. Each system comes with its own set of benefits and its own set of drawbacks.
