Cooling Your Oil-Heated Home: The Advantages Of Ductless Air Conditioners
Many homes with oil heating systems utilize hydronic heating, so they typically lack HVAC ductwork. Consequently, when summer arrives, homeowners with oil heat often depend on window air conditioning units instead of central air systems. While this might have been practical in the past, the introduction of ductless air conditioners has provided a superior option for air conditioning for old houses.
If you’re considering an upgrade, switching from window AC units to ductless air conditioners is worth serious consideration. In this article from Lawes Company, we explore the drawbacks of window air conditioning units and explain why ductless systems offer a far superior solution for cooling older homes.
Why Window Air Conditioners Are Ineffective Cooling Solutions
Contents
- 1 Why Window Air Conditioners Are Ineffective Cooling Solutions
- 2 Benefits of Using Ductless Air Conditioning For Old Houses
- 3 Why Ductless Air Conditioners Are More Affordable Than Installing Forced Air Systems in Homes Without Ductwork
- 4 FAQ: Ductless Air Conditioners for Oil-Heated Homes
- 4.1 Why Should Oil-Heated Homes Consider Ductless Air Conditioners?
- 4.2 Are Ductless Air Conditioners Suitable for Homes Without Existing Ductwork?
- 4.3 How Do Ductless Air Conditioners Improve Energy Efficiency in Oil-Heated Homes?
- 4.4 What Are the Space-Saving Benefits of Ductless Air Conditioners for Oil-Heated Homes?
- 4.5 What Are the Long-Term Benefits of Switching to Ductless Air Conditioners in Oil-Heated Homes?
- 5 Conclusion
- 6 Reach Out to Lawes Company for Comprehensive HVAC Services
Below, we outline several disadvantages associated with using window AC units.
1. Window Air Conditioners Are Bulky
Central air systems utilize separate indoor and outdoor units that collaborate to cool your home. In contrast, window air conditioners combine these components into a single, bulky unit. Despite years of technological advancements, engineers have not significantly reduced their size. These units protrude substantially from the house, detracting from its exterior appearance and potentially lowering the property’s value because of diminished curb appeal.
2. Window Air Conditioners Are Expensive
Remember that air conditioners consume a significant amount of energy. Therefore, when shopping for a new air conditioning unit, you can focus on more than just the initial price of each model. You need to consider the ongoing costs of operating them. Unfortunately, window air conditioners are expensive to run because they are inefficient. These units consume more energy for their size compared to other cooling solutions, leading to higher energy bills over time.
3. Window Air Conditioners Are Loud
With all components housed within a single unit, window air conditioners can be quite noisy as they cycle through their operations. This can become especially bothersome if you have one installed in your bedroom. The loud bangs and clicks can disrupt sleep, making it difficult to rest peacefully even if the room is cool. Over time, the noise levels often increase, exacerbating the issue. If the constant noise becomes unbearable, it’s time to consider a more efficient and quieter cooling solution.
Transform your home’s comfort with a ductless air conditioner installation from Lawes Company. Schedule your consultation today!
4. Window Air Conditioning Units Don’t Cool Well
Despite their bulk, window air conditioners have a limited cooling capacity. Even the largest models available on the market often struggle to adequately cool large rooms. They are generally suitable only for small to medium-sized spaces. Cooling larger areas would necessitate the use of multiple window units.
5. Window Cooling Systems Adversely Affect Indoor Air Quality
Window air conditioning units often develop gaps around the edges, allowing unfiltered outdoor air to enter indoor spaces. This unfiltered air can carry pollutants that may trigger allergies and respiratory issues. Additionally, poorly designed window air conditioners may not filter air effectively, allowing allergens to remain in the circulated air. Moreover, these units’ moist environments can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, further deteriorating indoor air quality.
Benefits of Using Ductless Air Conditioning For Old Houses
Having discussed the drawbacks of window air conditioning units, let’s explore one of the best alternatives and its advantages.
1. Ductless Air Conditioners Are Energy Efficient
When comparing the energy efficiency ratings of window air conditioners and ductless air conditioning systems, you’ll find that ductless systems excel at converting electricity into cooling power. While the initial purchase cost might be higher for ductless air conditioners, they offer significantly lower monthly energy bills. Over time, this translates into substantial savings for your household.
2. Ductless Air Conditioners Save Space
Ductless systems consist of an indoor air handler and an outdoor unit. The indoor component features a sleek, narrow design, allowing for flexible placement anywhere in a room. Unlike window units, it won’t occupy window space or obstruct natural light. You can install it high on a wall, seamlessly integrating it into your interior without disruption.
3. Ductless Cooling Systems Are Quiet
Ductless systems are designed with most noise-generating components housed in the outdoor unit. The insulation the exterior wall provides means you are unlikely to hear these components. Inside, only the gentle hum of the indoor air handler is audible. This low-level noise is barely noticeable, allowing you to sleep soundly at night and work without distractions during the day, ensuring a peaceful and quiet environment.
Upgrade to a ductless air conditioning system with Lawes Company and enjoy superior cooling efficiency. Get your free estimate now!
4. Ductless Air Conditioning Units Offer Zoning Capabilities
Ductless systems allow you to create multiple zones within your home, each with its own temperature setting. This ensures that each family member can enjoy personalized comfort without being subjected to a single, uniform temperature throughout the house. Individuals can adjust the thermostat in their rooms according to their preferences. Moreover, the system allows you to turn off the air conditioning in unoccupied zones, optimizing energy usage and comfort.
5. Ductless Air Conditioners Offer Higher Indoor Air Quality
Ductless systems eliminate dirty ducts that can degrade indoor air quality. Additionally, they are equipped with advanced multi-layer filtration systems that effectively block pollutants and allergens. This leads to a much healthier indoor environment, promoting better health and comfort for your household.
Why Ductless Air Conditioners Are More Affordable Than Installing Forced Air Systems in Homes Without Ductwork
Homes that utilize hydronic heating systems often lack the necessary HVAC ductwork. Installing a forced-air cooling system in such homes would require the extensive and complex installation of ducts throughout the house. This process often involves tearing down walls and ceilings to accommodate the ducts, making it a lengthy and labor-intensive project that can be very expensive.
Conversely, ductless air conditioners can be installed with minimal alterations to the home. These systems require only a few connections between the indoor and outdoor units, ensuring the installation process is quick, affordable, and non-disruptive.
Choose Lawes Company for all your ductless air conditioning needs—installation, repair, and maintenance. Call us to learn more!
FAQ: Ductless Air Conditioners for Oil-Heated Homes
Here are several common queries about ductless ACs for oil-heated homes:
Why Should Oil-Heated Homes Consider Ductless Air Conditioners?
Oil-heated homes generally do not have HVAC ductwork, making ductless air conditioners an ideal solution. They offer a convenient and efficient cooling option without extensive and costly renovations.
Are Ductless Air Conditioners Suitable for Homes Without Existing Ductwork?
Yes, ductless air conditioners are perfect for homes without existing ductwork. They need only a minimal connection between the indoor and outdoor units, eliminating the need for complicated duct installations.
How Do Ductless Air Conditioners Improve Energy Efficiency in Oil-Heated Homes?
Ductless air conditioners boast high energy efficiency ratings, effectively converting electricity into cooling power. This means you can enjoy reduced energy bills and substantial savings over time, making them an excellent choice for oil-heated homes.
What Are the Space-Saving Benefits of Ductless Air Conditioners for Oil-Heated Homes?
Ductless systems feature a slim indoor air handler that can be discreetly mounted on walls, preserving window space and natural light. This compact design ensures they integrate seamlessly into any room without obstructing views or altering the aesthetic.
What Are the Long-Term Benefits of Switching to Ductless Air Conditioners in Oil-Heated Homes?
Switching to ductless air conditioners offers numerous long-term benefits, including lower energy bills, enhanced indoor air quality, and a more comfortable living environment. Ongoing energy savings and improved home comfort offset the initial investment in a ductless system.
Conclusion
Window air conditioners are an outdated technology with numerous drawbacks. With superior alternatives now available, homeowners should consider upgrading their cooling systems to boost energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and overall comfort. Ductless air conditioners meet all these needs while maintaining an affordable installation process. Contact an HVAC professional to assist you in choosing the ideal ductless AC for your home.
Reach Out to Lawes Company for Comprehensive HVAC Services
Lawes Company is a leading provider of superior heating and cooling services in the Jersey Shore area. Our team of professionally certified technicians excels in various HVAC services, including maintenance, repairs, installations, and system upgrades, ensuring top-notch care for your systems.
Dedicated to delivering value, Lawes Company offers cost-effective solutions that enhance both your comfort and the efficiency of your systems, helping to lower your expenses. Whether you need a repair, a new installation, or simply an estimate for your home, we are prepared to provide affordable, tailored solutions to meet your needs. Contact Lawes Company today to schedule your HVAC service appointment.
Contact us now at (732) 741-6300 to find out more! Click the link to view our service area.
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