Which Type of Air Conditioner Do I Need?

Mullin Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioner in Broken Arrow is here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. During the hottest summer months, it isn’t hard to make an argument that you need air conditioning. It regulates your home’s temperature to keep your family happy and comfortable. As you look at your options for heating and air in Broken Arrow, there are four main types of units that you can consider. Here are the advantages and disadvantages to each type of system.

Window Air Conditioners

These are small units that fit inside of a window. They are often used in apartments, dorm rooms and to boost cool air in a specific room. If you are considering this type of unit, contact Mullin Plumbing, Heating and Air in Broken Arrow, today!

Pros of Window Air Conditioner Units

Units that fit inside your window are reasonably small and portable. They are the most budget friendly option when it comes to purchasing cooling equipment for your home. Today’s window air conditioners are much more efficient than those in years past. These often even come with warranties to make you feel more secure about a major purchase. 

Cons of Window Air Conditioner Units

Window A/C units are made to cool a single room. Even if you live in a small apartment, you will need more than one unit to keep your home cool. These units can also be noisy and distracting as they block your entire window. 

If your room is on the top floor, you have high ceilings, high sun exposure or many doors and windows, this type of unit will not work well for you.  If you prefer a unit that provides both heating and air in Broken Arrow, contact Mullin to go over your options

Portable Air Conditioners

Portable air conditioners work like window units except they sit on the floor on wheels instead of in the window. The unit is vented through a hose that can be put out through the window. 

Pros of Portable Air Conditioner Units

Compared to a window A/C unit, these types of units will not block the view from your window or cause you to do any heavy lifting. There is almost no A/C installation with this kind of unit. These are most often used when a room’s windows can not be made compatible with a window unit.

Cons of Portable Air Conditioner Units

Portable air conditioners are more expensive and less efficient than window units and most people simply feel that they do not cool as well. They also typically have a water reservoir that has to be emptied often. 

Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner

These units have a compressor that goes outside your home and a small wall panel inside the home to provide the cool air flow. These are good for small homes with no room for duct work or older homes where there is no duct work. 

Pros of Mini-Split Ductless Air Conditioner Unit

Mini-split ductless air conditioners are relatively small and are very energy efficient. They are a great alternative to central air when you don’t want the hassles of installing central air. These systems are super quiet and because they are heat pumps, they can even heat your home during the colder parts of the year!

Cons of Mini-Split Ductless Air Conditioner Unit

Mini-split ductless A/C units can be expensive and they require professional A/C installation. You should also consider that the panels attach to the walls or ceiling, so you will need to work your interior design around them. 

Central Air Conditioning

The most popular option for whole house cooling is central air conditioning. The components are all outdoor, aside from the registers that deliver cooled air, and the air is distributed throughout the entire house, usually sharing vents with your furnace.

Pros of Central Air Conditioning

Central air conditioning is the most efficient and effective way to cool your entire home. The units are quiet and the components are all located outside the home so they are not unsightly or taking up space. You will have lower bills with this method and if your home already has duct work, A/C installation is pretty straightforward. 

Cons of Central Air Conditioning

Central air conditioning has more upfront costs and will require yearly maintenance to continue working at it’s best. If your home does not already have ductwork, having it added can be expensive and time consuming. 

Air Conditioner Size

The size air conditioner unit you will need will depend on your home. If it is too small it will  not be able to keep the home cool. If it is too large it will burn through parts quickly and cost you more money. 

Air Conditioner Installation

If you need help deciding on the right size or type of air conditioner you need, one of Mullin Plumbing, Heating and Air in Broken Arrow’s knowledgeable service technicians will be able to help you. Visit Mullin Plumbing, Heating and Air in Broken Arrow online to schedule an appointment or for air conditioner installation today!