With the summer sun blazing, staying cool and comfortable indoors becomes a priority. For many homeowners, window AC units seem like a quick and easy solution. But before you wrestle one into your window ledge, here’s why installing a window AC unit is not the coolest decision.
Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Install a Window AC Unit
1. Energy Guzzlers
Window ACs are notorious for sucking up energy. Their inefficient design means they work harder to cool a space compared to central AC systems. This translates to higher electricity bills, so while you might think you’re saving on the initial cost of the unit, this negates any perceived savings on the upfront cost.
2. Cool (But Not Really)
Window units also struggle to cool an entire home effectively. Their cooling power is limited to the room they’re installed in, leaving the rest of the house uncomfortably warm. For multi-room cooling, you’d likely need multiple units, further increasing energy use and noise pollution.
3. Security Risk
Plus, by blocking a large part of your window, window ACs create an easy entry point for intruders. Leaving them unattended poses a security threat, especially on lower floors. Not to mention, they also pose a risk of falling out of your window and causing damage to your property or harm to family or neighbours.
4. Noise Nightmare
Window ACs can be quite noisy, churning out a constant hum that disrupts sleep and daily activities. This can be a major drawback in apartments or shared living spaces.
5. Moisture Monster
These units tend to generate a lot of condensation as they cool, which can drip outside and potentially damage your siding or create a breeding ground for mould. Improper installation can also lead to water leaking inside, causing damage to your walls and furniture.
Better Cooling Alternatives
While window units might seem like a budget-friendly option, the disadvantages and long-term costs outweigh the initial savings. Consider the following more cost-effective and energy efficient options first.
- Central Air: While it does require a bigger investment upfront, central air conditioning efficiently cools your entire home and offers better temperature control throughout.
- Heat Pumps: These superstars provide both efficient heating and cooling for your entire home, sometimes even surpassing central AC systems in efficiency. They can even help remove unwanted moisture from the air.
- Ductless Mini-Splits: For targeted temperature control in specific areas and homes without ductwork, ductless mini-splits are a great option. They boast energy efficiency and a sleek design that eliminates the bulky eyesore factor of window units.
With one of these alternatives, you can achieve cool comfort throughout your entire home without the drawbacks of window ACs. You could even end up saving money on your energy bills in the long run!
Contact Delta for professional help finding the right cooling system for you and your family!
Delta Air Systems Ltd. has been proudly serving the HVAC needs of the Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, and Guelph regions since the 1950s. We strive to provide our clients with reliable service and cost-effective solutions.
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