In setting up your home’s cooling needs, you may be faced with the dilemma of choosing between a split and central air conditioning system. While both systems are effective at cooling your home, they each come with benefits and drawbacks that should be considered carefully before making an investment.

Fortunately, homeowners of Wailuku, HI, can rely on Windward Air Conditioning to help them decide which air conditioning system is right for them. These air conditioning contractors provide heating and cooling solutions to maintain a comfortable home all year-round and offer a variety of products, including central and split air conditioner units.

Central vs. Split Air Conditioning System

A split air conditioning system consists of an outdoor compressor and an indoor air-handling unit. It is not built into an existing forced-air furnace but, instead, is mounted to your wall or ceiling. It works by removing heat from inside your home and taking it outdoors through its refrigerant system. Central AC units can keep an entire home cool using a single thermostat. It treats air at a central location and circulates it to different rooms through a series of ducts.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Each Unit

Typically, a split air conditioner offers less energy waste than a central system, saving you money in the long run. You can also have multiple units installed in a variety of places and set at different temperatures throughout your home. A split air conditioner, however, is not always aesthetically pleasing and can easily be inefficient if sizing and placement are done incorrectly.

Central AC systems ease the cooling process of an entire home with a single thermostat, so you don’t have to go from room to room to adjust the temperature. It’s also hidden from sight and won’t ruin your interior design. Because central units rely on ducts, however, there is a high chance for energy waste and loss of efficiency as well as higher maintenance costs.

Choosing the Best Cooling System for Your Home

Homes with a larger floor area than 2,500 square feet will get better efficiency with a central air conditioning system. You also have to consider your cooling budget. In general, central air systems are more expensive, but, if you have existing ductwork, choosing a central system is more cost effective to set up.

Whether you want to go with a central unit or a ductless split air conditioner, the experts at Windward Air Conditioning are ready to do business with you. Call them today at (808) 242-1144, or visit their website for more information.