Should I Upgrade My Window Air Conditioner?

window ac upgrade

Window air conditioners are inexpensive and do not require a lot of extra equipment to function. However, they do not always provide the best cooling for the home, especially if you only have one. With the information in this guide, you can determine if you could benefit from upgrading to a different air conditioning system.

Basic Facts About Window Air Conditioners

A lot of people start out with a window or room air conditioner because it costs less money to purchase and install compared to central air conditioning with ductwork. Some older homes may not be equipped to handle a standard air conditioning unit with ductwork. Window air conditioners provide limited cooling for the home that is sized to the room where it will be installed. Since people typically operate window air conditioners as needed, they are not considered particularly efficient. Like air conditioning units for central air, window units can last 10-15 years if maintained properly.

Common Problems With Window Air Conditioners

If your window air conditioner is getting up there in years, or you are coping with a number of problems with the unit, you might consider replacing it or upgrading to a better system. Window units are vulnerable to a lot of the same problems as any air conditioner, such as a clogged filter or a blocked condensate drain line. These problems are usually solved with general upkeep and minor repairs as needed. If you notice that the motor is starting to fail, or if you want something that is more appropriate for the entire home, you need help from the Sacramento HVAC experts at Ace air conditioning.

Ductless Air Conditioning Systems

Most people who have central air conditioning use a system of ductwork to deliver the cooled air to each room. However, not every home can sustain ductwork for a variety of reasons. If you want a system that is much more efficient than a room air conditioner, with the flexibility you need to set unique cooling zones in your home, a ductless air conditioning system may be ideal. With a ductless system, you have an exterior air conditioning unit that connects to a series of interior units in each room where you want cooling. The equipment delivering the cooled air can be mounted on the ceiling, wall, or even on the floor. Without ductwork, ductless systems do not have the decrease in efficiency that is notorious for systems that rely on ductwork. Ductless air conditioning systems do tend to cost more than central air conditioning, but their efficiency may make it a wise investment in your family’s comfort.
Turning on the window air conditioner might not be quite as comfortable, once you know what your options are for effective cooling. With information about your window air conditioner, you can decide if it is a good time to upgrade. To learn more about ductless air conditioning systems and other efficient cooling options for your Sacramento home, contact us at Ace Plumbing.