With the warmer weather fast approaching, you may be considering replacing your central air conditioner to make sure you keep cool this summer. There are a myriad of A/C replacement options available, which might lead to some confusion over which choices are best for your home. Central air conditioner units are classified into two basic types: split A/C units and packaged A/C units. Today we’ll discuss the difference between them and when one type of unit might be a more appropriate choice based on certain situations.
WHAT IS A SPLIT-SYSTEM AIR CONDITIONER?
A split-system central air conditioner has its component divided into two parts, one exterior and one interior. The exterior section of the split-system generally contains a condenser and compressor housed inside a metal cabinet; the cabinet is often installed on top of a concrete slab outside of your house. The interior section of the split-system contains an evaporator coil and can also include a furnace. The exterior and interior parts of the split-air system are linked together by a refrigerant line.
Split air conditioning systems are often beneficial because they are more energy-efficient than packaged air conditioners. However, setting up the exterior and interior sections of the system have higher installation costs.
WHAT IS A PACKAGED AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM?
A packaged central air conditioner system has one housing cabinet that contains the system’s evaporator coil, condenser, and compressor together. The metal housing cabinet of this type of A/C system is typically installed on the roof of a home or on a concrete slab located outside the home.
Many packaged air conditioning systems include a natural gas furnace or electric heating coils, so the unit replaces the need for a separate indoor furnace. Also, this type of A/C system is less expensive to install because there is only one section to the unit. However, packaged air conditioners generally have a lower SEER rating than split-system units so the long-term costs associated with operating this type of system are greater.
POINTS TO CONSIDER
Often, the most crucial point to consider when choosing between the two different types of central air conditioning systems is the construction of your home. Many newer homes have a split air conditioner system because these systems are more energy-efficient. Conversely, older homes, mobile homes, and smaller homes often contain packaged air conditioner systems because these systems take up less space.
If you are a resident of Delaware or Eastern Maryland, contact First Class HVAC to discuss what your best options are for replacing your central air conditioning system. We have been installing, replacing, maintaining, and repairing air conditioning systems, as well as providing heating, plumbing, and ventilation services, for over 40 years.