CENTRAL AIR OR WINDOW UNIT, WHAT’S BEST?
In 2017, we know budgets can be tight, and many people may be struggling to find the cheapest and most efficient options to stay cool; especially in Florida. A common question may be, window unit or central air? Find out which option could be best for your home with some of these important points.
COST
Home Advisor states that the cost of installation on average for a central air unit is about 5,314 dollars. As for a window unit, they average between $200 and $1000 at any local home improvement store. The average monthly cost of air conditioning in Jacksonville, FL is about 20% of the total home budget. Central Florida doubles that number, at 40% of the entire home budget. That’s huge! Del-Air states that 27% of Floridians energy usage is used on air conditioner, and as of 2009, an average annual electric bill was $2000, or about $166 per month.
Energy Usage
In comparing energy usage, we see that central air uses over 1000 watts more in energy than a window unit. Home Guides states that the average central air unit runs at about 3,500 watts per a 1,500 to 2,000 square foot home, while a window unit runs at 500-1,400 watts for the same size home. Why such an enormous difference? Home Guides explains that a central air unit requires energy usage from various other running parts to therefore cool the entire home. If you need more information on energy usage in your specific home, Progressive Air & Mechanical Inc., provides consultation meetings for air conditioning services in Jacksonville.
Efficiency
A key factor to note is that you will need multiple window units to cool the entire home, and in perspective, the costs may level out. Home Guides concludes that three window units add up to more than one central air unit. If you have a larger house, you made even need more than three window units, especially if it is a two-story house. If you need to cool multiple rooms and/or floors of a house, the most resourceful choice would be a central air unit. Progressive Air & Mechanical Inc. provides professional HVAC technicians for all of your air conditioning services in Jacksonville.
Which One!?
It truly depends on your specific needs and budget. It’s important to weigh out all your deciding factors, down to the number of times you switch between rooms of your home per day; that could impact your energy bill. Think about how often you are physically home, and if you are willing to maintain central air inspections and maintenance.
Progressive Air & Mechanical, Inc.
Here at Progressive Air & Mechanical, Inc., we offer nothing less than the best. From air conditioning installations, repair and various other air conditioning services in Jacksonville, we have everything you need. If you’re struggling to decide which route to go (central or window) we offer consultations to help you decipher which is best for you.