Archive for the ‘Air Conditioning & Heating’ Category

Ductless Air Conditioning: Finding Convenience in Single-Room AC

Thursday, September 18th, 2008

ductless acBack in July, we posted a blog comparing central units to window AC. It focused on the energy costs and conveniences (or lack thereof) in each. In response, one of our readers asked about the prospect of ductless air conditioning and how it would compare. Thanks Maur for checking in! You ask a great question. In response to your comment, here’s what I can tell you about ductless AC:

Ductless air conditioners, also called mini-split systems, do essentially the same thing as window units. What they add is more convenience. Basically, there are two units involved; one is placed in an interior wall and another on the exterior of the home. Two refrigerant lines run between the two units. One delivers electricity and the other carries condensation, or water, away from the interior unit.

Convenience starts with the last two ingredients of the system: a controllable thermostat and a variable quiet blower. Furthermore, a mini-split system can be tied into existing ductwork if your home has it. If not, that’s okay. Again, with ductless AC, you’ll only be cooling one room or area of the home. However, a ductless system is more convenient than a conventional system for a few reasons: (more…)

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Green Wednesday: Tips for Keeping Your AC Healthy

Wednesday, September 3rd, 2008

air conditioning unitAir conditioning is like a friend to many of us. Summertime heat waves so often feel like tidal waves crashing at our front steps that we’ll do just about anything to keep them from getting in. Usually we rely on air conditioning to do the trick, and it works hard, pumping cool air constantly until it finds the comfort zone. Yet, in a way, air conditioners are like people; when they work that hard all the time they get worn down, they don’t work as well and they need a little TLC at the end of the day. Keeping your air conditioner healthy keeps your air healthy, your spirits high, and your energy bills low. Here are some tips for a healthy AC system: (more…)

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Central Units vs. Window AC

Tuesday, July 8th, 2008

air conditionerWith the 4th of July holiday now behind us, we’re beginning to settle into the long, hot days of summer. Many of us are desperately looking for solutions to our discomfort in the relentless heat. With rising energy costs to consider, which are more cost-effective and efficient: window ACs or central units?

The initial cost to install a central unit is significantly more expensive than a window unit. Although each area varies, it can cost up to $6000 to install a central HVAC system. Because it must cool the whole house at one time, a central unit has to work harder and will consume more energy. The pros are that the whole house will be comfortable for you instead of just one room, and you don’t have the eye-sore of a window unit. (more…)

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