While looking for a way to cool one or two rooms, it's natural to consider a window air conditioner. For decades, window air conditioners have been the solution of choice under such circumstances. They're cheap, relatively easy to install and effective. Lately, however, ductless air conditioners, which are also known as mini split systems, have been giving window units a run for their money. Some people still sometimes rule them out due to the fact that they're more expensive because they don't realize how much they can save in the long run. Should You Buy a Mini Split or Window Unit? If your home is uncomfortably warm, you'd probably like to cool it down as quickly as possible. A window unit is the path of least resistance because it can be purchased locally and installed quickly. Is it really the best option, though? If you own your home and plan to stick around for a while, a mini split system is probably a much better option. Regardless of what you ultimately decide, you should give plenty of thought to the advantages and disadvantages of both units.

The main things you should consider before buying a portable air conditioner or a ductless system include: Security - No matter how it's installed, a window air conditioner reduces the security of your home. While it's significantly safer to install one in an upstairs window, you are still making it easier for burglars to gain entry to your home. With a ductless system, Mitsubishi Electric contractors only need to drill small holes in outdoor walls. Suction lines, refrigerant lines and power cables are drawn through it to link outdoor and indoor units. You can rest assured that the security of your home won't be compromised in any way. Convenience - When you use a window unit, you sacrifice an entire window. The room receives less natural light, and you no longer have the option of opening the window to let in fresh air. You can avoid this problem by opting for a ductless system instead. This option allows you to stay cool and comfortable without having to give up an entire window.

Flexibility - While a window AC unit can effectively cool a single room, it can't do much else. Advanced models sometimes have extra features like multiple fan speeds and digital displays. Some even have remote controls. Many ductless systems have remote controls too, though, and they have additional perks that you won't find with window units. Most notably, mini split systems can be set up for zoned climate control, which means that you can adjust temperatures in specific rooms. ac unit cutting on and offThese systems are known as multi-split systems. low power air conditioning unitAs an added bonus, indoor and outdoor units can be positioned in a variety of ways to achieve optimal comfort, efficiency and aesthetic appeal.running fan on ac unit

Efficiency - In terms of energy efficiency, ductless systems are the hands-down winners. Some window units are ENERGY STAR rated, but they still don't come close to achieving the kinds of SEER ratings you'll find with mini split systems. Comfort - Window units often seem to have no happy medium. They make rooms too hot or too cold. Mitsubishi ductless systems have specialized sensors that detect small changes in temperature and adjust their speeds accordingly. They are able to do this because they have inverter compressors that are capable of operating at various speeds. What's even better is that ductless systems can also provide heat. The most innovative models feature reversible heat pumps that can add warm air from outside just as easily as they can remove warm air from inside. All of this is achieved with a minimal amount of electricity, so energy bills remain reasonable. Noise - Most window AC units are noisy. Some models are better than others, but you're not going to find one that is completely unnoticeable.

Ductless systems make noise too, but they operate a lot more quietly. If noise is a big concern for you, you'll be much happier with a ductless system. Price - You may be wondering "How much do mini split systems cost?" and may be dismayed to learn that they are much more expensive than window units. However, they also last for years and use a lot less electricity. They deliver superior comfort for a lot less money over time, so you should be able to recoup the upfront cost without any trouble. Like many people, your decision may ultimately boil down to how much you have to spend right now. Therefore, the first step is to assess your budget and determine what you can afford. As tempting as it may be to opt for the initial affordability of a window unit, the truth is that you will pay more in the long run. Your electricity usage will soar, so the cost of your energy bills will too. Most window units aren't built to last very long either, so you can expect to replace yours before too long.

Where to Buy Multi Split and Mini Split Air Conditioners If you are sold on the idea of ductless air conditioning, take care to find a reliable contractor in your area. Mitsubishi Electric contractors are specialists in the most innovative ductless systems on the market today. Contact one of the contractors on this site to get started.Older central and window air units cost more to run than newer ones. Air conditioning makes the hottest summer days more enjoyable, but rising energy costs and the growing awareness of energy conservation and resource depletion demands you cool your home as cheaply and energy efficiently as possible. Deciding which cooling method will save you the most -- three window air conditioners or a central air unit -- depends on a few factors. Cooling your home with the proper system saves you money and electricity, and keeps you completely comfortable no matter the temperature outside. Comparing Energy Usage Considering that the average home uses more electricity for cooling than for any other appliance or accessory, if you want to save money on your utility bill, carefully consider your cooling choices.

A central air unit uses more energy to cool your home. As Mr. Electricity states, a window unit uses anywhere from 500 to 1440 watts to run, while a 2.5 ton central unit (about the size for a typical 1,500- to 2,000-square-foot home) uses about 3,500 watts. It's not simply about the size of area cooled, but the fact that central air involves the furnace, too. The air does not flow to the rest of the house without the furnace blower -- so more running parts equal a larger power draw. Cost of Unit Installation It's simple to see that a central unit uses more power than a window unit, but there's more to your cost than just the energy draw. Once you factor in the purchase price and cost of installation, your cost per use may rise significantly. Dividing the total price and installation labor cost by the months you use it dramatically illustrates the true cost of just having the air conditioner, without figuring in the utility bill. Window units sell for a lot less than central units, and the installation typically is do-it-yourself.

It's Not All About the Unit Another factor when determining which cooling unit is best for your circumstances is the condition of your existing HVAC system. No matter how efficient your central air unit, if the ducts the cool air travels through are full of holes, or poorly insulated and exposed to temperature extremes, the efficiency of the whole system goes down -- and the cost goes up. If you choose to run a central air unit, insulating your ducts, and inspecting and maintaining the whole system is important, although it adds to the cost. Compared with window units, which blow directly into the room and need little but occasional cleaning unless they go out, a central unit again costs more. Verdict Although it costs more to purchase and install a central unit -- and responsible owners also spend more on annual service calls for maintenance and inspection -- if you plan to cool three or more rooms, the most cost-effective and energy-efficient choice is the central unit. A central unit has greater resale value, so you recoup more of your investment if you sell your home.