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Central vs. mini split air conditioners: the showdown!


When you’re looking into a new air conditioning system for your Phoenix home, you’ll find plenty of brands and equipment options. Many of these are advertised as the best solution for keeping your home cool, but which one is the best option for you? Keep the following information in mind when you need to choose between a mini split air conditioner or a central air conditioning system this summer.


How They Work


Central air conditioning systems work by moving cool air through your ducts so that it can reach different areas of your home. The cool air from the ducts flows out of vents and into rooms in your home.


Have you recently constructed a room addition? Do you have a room that isn’t heating or cooling properly? A mini split air conditioner might be the right option for your home. This system moves cool air from a box on your wall to cool an individual room. It does not require vents or ducts.


Installation Process


Our team of trained technicians will work with you to understand your needs and find a solution that’s right for your home. Replacing an existing AC unit is a relatively quick process and typically only takes one or two days. However, installing a central air conditioning system, including new ducts and vents, may take a week or longer.


If you only need one mini split air conditioner, installation usually only takes a couple of days. Our team will install a box in a single room and connect it to the outside condenser. If you don’t have ducts in a room, a mini split air conditioner may be the better option.


Short-Term and Long-Term Costs


The total price for a central air conditioning system will depend on the unit you choose, whether or not you need ductwork or other additional work, and the price of installation. The cost of your A/C unit will depend on what size you need. It’s a classic “three little bears” scenario: you want a unit with enough power to cool your home, not too little and not too much.


Another factor that affects the price of the A/C unit is the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER). The higher the number, the better, but also the more costly. Some A/C units even offer a quieter option, for a price. Think about what’s important to you – noise level, SEER rating, or just having a comfortable, cool home. Our professionals will work with you to determine the right air conditioner unit size and model for your home.


The total price for a mini split air conditioner will depend on the unit you choose and the price of installation. While there won’t be the added expense of ductwork, the system may have a higher upfront cost. The system can run more efficiently than a central air conditioning system, which may reduce your energy bill over time.


Home Comfort and Air Quality


Central air conditioning systems can affect the air quality inside your home. Dust and debris often build up inside ducts and are then carried into your home through the vents. Family members with respiratory problems or allergies can experience health issues when this happens. Central air conditioning systems require routine duct cleaning to remove dust and other indoor pollutants from your home.


A mini split air conditioner system’s filter traps dust and other indoor pollutants. This can help prevent them from getting into your home. These systems tend to have a longer cooling cycle, which helps keep your home from becoming too humid. Even though a mini split air conditioner has no ductwork, keep in mind that regular maintenance is still needed. This helps keep your system running at optimal efficiency all summer long.


Making Your Decision


Whether you decide on a central air conditioning system or a mini split air conditioner, regular maintenance is important to keep it in good condition. Contact Forrest Anderson for help choosing the right system and to set up a routine maintenance schedule at your Phoenix home.


Contact Forrest Anderson Today!

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