Did you know that air conditioners use about 6% of all the electricity produced in America?
If you’re looking energy-efficient AC unit, you’re probably wondering what the difference is between forced air and central air, and if one is better than the other.
Well, you’re in luck because we’re about to break it all down for you. Keep reading because, in this article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of each type of AC unit, as well as some other factors you may want to consider before making your decision.
By the time you finish reading this forced air vs central air comparison guide, you’ll know exactly which type of AC unit is best for your home or apartment.
What Is Forced Air?
Forced air systems are a type of cooling system that uses a blower to push cool air through a system of ducts. These ducts are typically made of metal or rigid plastic, and they deliver cool air to different rooms in your home.
The main advantage of forced air systems is that they are very efficient at cooling large spaces. However, they can also be quite noisy, and the ductwork can be difficult to install and maintain.
Nonetheless, forced air systems remain a popular option for cooling homes and businesses.
Benefits of Forced Air
There are many benefits of forced air. Let’s look at them in more detail:
Finding Replacement Parts Is Easy
For those who heat their homes with forced air, finding replacement parts is usually easy and inexpensive. Forced air is very common, so most hardware and home improvement stores carry the necessary parts.
In addition, many online retailers sell replacement parts for forced air systems. And because forced air systems are relatively simple, DIY repairs are often possible.
Of course, always consult a qualified HVAC technician before attempting any repairs. But for minor issues, replacing a part or two is usually a quick and easy fix.
Can Be Used to Heat and Cool
A forced air system is a type of heating and cooling system that uses ducts to circulate air throughout a home or business. The ducts are usually located in the ceilings, walls, or floors.
Forced air systems can be used for both heating and cooling. In the winter, the system will push warm air through the ducts. In the summer, it will push cool air.
The temperature of the air can be controlled with a thermostat. Forced air systems are generally more efficient than other types of heating and cooling systems, and they can also help to improve indoor air quality.
Ductwork Is Relatively Easy to Install
If you’re installing a forced air system, the ductwork is relatively easy to install. However, if you’re retrofitting an existing home or apartment, the ductwork can be more difficult to install.
This is because you have to work around existing walls, floors, and ceilings. In addition, you have to be careful not to damage the structure of the house.
Nevertheless, it is possible to do a good job if you take your time and follow directions carefully. With a little bit of effort, you can successfully install ductwork in almost any home or apartment.
What Is Central Air?
Central air conditioning systems are common types of cooling systems that are often used in homes and businesses. As the name implies, central air conditioners have a central unit that houses the compressor and other components.
The central unit is connected to a series of ducts that run throughout the building. When the compressor is turned on, it pushes cool air through the ducts and into the rooms of the building.
Central air conditioners are similar to forced air systems, but they don’t use a blower. Instead, they use a compressor to push cool air through the ducts.
Central air conditioners are more expensive to install than window units, but they are more efficient and can cool entire buildings.
Benefits of Central Air
There are many benefits of central air. They include:
Better for Allergy Sufferers
If you suffer from allergies, you know how important it is to have a clean and allergen-free home. One way to achieve this is to choose a central air system over a forced air system.
Central air systems don’t recirculate allergens like forced air systems do, so you can breathe easier knowing that your air is clean.
In addition, central air systems are less likely to blow dust and other allergens around your home, so you can keep your home clean and allergen-free.
If you’re looking for the best way to reduce allergens in your home, choosing a central air system is the way to go.
More Efficient
Central air is often seen as the more efficient option when it comes to heating and cooling your home. Unlike forced air, which uses a blower to circulate air, central air relies on a network of ducts to distribute air throughout your home.
This design results in a number of benefits. First, because there is no blower, central air is more efficient than forced air, meaning it costs less to operate and results in lower energy bills.
Second, the lack of a blower also means that central air is quieter than forced air. Finally, central air is better at evenly distributing temperature throughout your home, resulting in greater comfort.
Whether you’re looking to save money or improve your home’s comfort level, central air is worth considering.
Forced Air vs Central Air: Which One Wins?
So, what’s the verdict? Forced air vs central air: Which one wins? If you want to save on your energy costs and don’t mind doing a little bit of work every year to maintain your system, go with forced air.
But if you want the ultimate in cooling comfort and convenience, central is the way to go.
No matter which type of AC you choose for your home, be sure to check out our blog for more helpful articles like this one.