When a Ducted Air Conditioner May Be a Better Option Than Ductless

A ducted air conditioner is often called central air conditioning, because the outside unit pushes cool air from one central location through all the ducts in your home. A ductless system is like a portable or window unit but is mounted in your home's ceiling or wall, and which cools just one large space. While a ductless system may offer certain advantages, note when it's good to invest in a ducted system for your home even if you need to repair or install ducts or if this option is slightly more expensive.

For a consistent temperature

A ductless air conditioner only cools one large space, which can be a challenge for a family or those who don't stay in one area of the home at a time. For example, if you have a baby that you often need to put down for a nap during the day, you don't want just the living room to be cool while the bedrooms are hot and stuffy. If one person works in the home office while another is busy in the kitchen or is upstairs in the bedroom, it's difficult and cumbersome to be consistently switching on various ductless systems in the home. A central air conditioner that works through all the ducts can ensure a consistent temperature in every area of the home.

For removing humidity

Older homes with poor insulation may allow moisture and humidity to collect, especially in the upper levels of the home. This humidity can actually get trapped and then cause damage to building materials, including mold and mildew growth. It can also be very uncomfortable, especially during the hottest summer days. A ductless air conditioner may remove some humidity from the space that it cools, but a central system will remove humidity from the entire house; humidity is more likely evaporated when the entire home is cooler.

For resale value

Investing in ducted air conditioning can positively affect the resale value of your home, as potential homebuyers may appreciate the system more than portable or window units, or a ductless system that only cools one part of the house. If you're thinking of putting your home on the real estate market anytime in the future, you might note the homes in your neighborhood and if they have ducted systems or not; if so, it's good to invest in this so your home will be competitive when you do decide to list it.

If you're thinking about installing ducted air conditioning in your home and would like more information, contact a contractor like Ridge Airconditioning.