It is important to have the best and most efficient solution for the available space when it comes to cooling your home. Ductless and window air conditioners are both great options for homeowners looking for a cooling solution for their homes.
Both of these options have advantages, and most people tend to prefer one over the other. This article will examine the pros and cons of each option to discern which air conditioner is better for your home.
Window AC Units
Window AC units are the market’s most common air conditioner units. A window air conditioner usually encompasses a window that has an independent cooling unit attached to it. These units have a single large fan that pushes air around the house.
Built into windows and mounted on the outside, you can control the temperature of a house just by sliding a small unit that connects to an outlet into the window frame. The compressor is powered by electricity and heat and cools air through a series of coils that direct air through the entire room.
It is a good option for small spaces; however, since it is possible to turn up the power, it can also be used for cooling large areas. It is also a good option for rooms that have limited wall space but make up for it with large windows.
Pros
Flexible installation options (usually a do-it-yourself project)
- Affordable price range – depending on the size of your house and the model of window AC you decide to buy.
- The power consumption is low, so much money won’t be spent on monthly cooling.
Cons
It can be noisy during operation.
- It can make a mess if the AC accidentally falls off the windowsill and breaks. The window AC must be hung correctly to stay in place and run efficiently.
- They reduce the natural light entering a home since the AC unit is on the window.
It is important to consider where the window AC unit will be installed. Placing it directly in front of or behind a window can create a hazardous condition within the room and possibly cause the window to break. Remember to always follow the instructions from your manufacturer when installing your window AC unit.
Ductless AC Units
A ductless air conditioner is a wall-mounted air conditioner that cools a room by removing excess hot air from the room and replacing it with cool, conditioned indoor air. The location of the outside unit is not visible because it is installed on the wall or ceiling (depending on the model).
Ductless air conditioning units usually come with multiple indoor units so that you can have various cooling settings in various rooms. These are ideal for spaces large and small, old or new, and they can cool a home without a central duct system.
Pros
- Provides convenient access to the controls
- Makes no noise during operation
- In case of power failure, the ductless AC will keep a house cool without air conditioning.
Cons
- Installation is slightly complicated, especially for the smaller models. You may be required to hire an air conditioning contractor.
- They are quite expensive compared to window AC units.
Which Is Better?
Of course, it depends on your specific situation. If you’re looking to cool a large area with minimal effort, it is best to go with the ductless unit. These units are fantastic for keeping multiple rooms cool.
Ductless AC units are also great when it comes to energy efficiency. A standard mini-split consumes 40% less energy than a traditional window air conditioner.
However, if you want to cool a small space at a relatively low cost, it is best to go with the window AC. These units are great for just about any home.
Conclusion
Both of these units have their benefits and can effectively cool your home. Ultimately, it depends on your specific needs. If you want a cost-effective unit that can cool a large area, it is best to go with a ductless air conditioner.
If you are looking for something that does not require a lot of installation and is easy to use, then the window AC unit may be the best option for you.
