In certain parts of the country, air conditioning is not really optional. Yet many people have an outdated system installed and may struggle to make it efficient, so they might be looking at fitting a new solution before temperatures change again. If you find yourself in this position, you may be assessing the options and get confused by some technology. What do you need to know about split systems, ducted systems or reverse cycle solutions?
All-Round Comfort
While the relentless summer heat is certainly a reason to fit a new system, you should also look at those moments when the thermometer plunges the other way. And in this case, reverse cycle technology may be your best bet in order to ensure year-round comfort.
Reverse Cycling
In many respects, a reverse cycle system is counterintuitive. After all, this system pulls in ambient air from outside in both winter and summer. Obviously, you're trying to avoid that chilly air in one season and protect yourself from the oppressive heat in the other. Yet before this system will distribute air through your home, it is fed through a processor, when it encounters a special gas that will condition the temperature accordingly before it is pumped through the house.
Split and Multi-Split
Split systems are commonplace here, with the exterior and interior units connected by a piping system. These tend to be cost-effective and will be relatively cheap to install as well. If you have a larger home or want to heat more than one room at a time, choose a multi-split system. In this case, the outdoor unit is connected to a variety of indoor units. You can set individual temperatures in each room and install timers so that you are always energy-efficient while maintaining comfort levels.
Ducted Systems
With ducted systems, you can also aim for perfect climate control and optimal comfort conditions year-round. In this case, your system will have a compressor, and individual outlets will be placed within the roof space, underneath the floor or around the bottom of each wall. Once installed, everything is hidden out of place, so this is an aesthetically pleasing option for many. The systems are also very quiet, and you can design a plan for your property, no matter the size or complexity. Certainly, the installation cost is higher, but this system may last longer than the split system approach.
Expert installation
As you can see, there are pros and cons associated with each, and this is why it's a good idea to talk with an expert. They will help you decide what to do and make sure that the system is professionally fitted before the weather takes a turn. For more information on air conditioning installation, contact an HVAC contractor in your area.