Should You Have Central Air Conditioning Fitted?

Most people like the idea of central air conditioning as a way to cool many rooms of their home or office instead of the single room that a window air conditioner cools. However, it is simply not feasible in all homes or small offices. Here are some helpful hints that will help you determine whether or not it is suitable for you.

Where and When It Works

If you are building a brand new home or office and are thinking about having central air conditioning, talk to your building contractor and see what needs to be done to provide the space and the appropriate area to have the necessary duct work installed. New homes are more likely to be able to accommodate these units as the home can be readily designed at a minimum cost for the necessary duct work that this type of system needs.

Some existing homes have duct work from central heating systems that may be suitable for air conditioning too. Have this duct work checked out by a professional who can let you know whether it can be used for the unit you have in mind. Chances are if you have a newer model home the duct work will accommodate the unit. However, homes with older duct work may have issues that would make installing it difficult.

What Kinds of Homes Shouldn't Have It?

If you have a home that has no duct work what so ever, putting it in may not be a good choice as you may have limited areas and space in which to run it. Many times older homes, even those with attics, crawlspaces, and basements, are just not suitable for this type of unit without tearing out entire walls and doing major renovations which simply don't make sense.

If you live in an area where you seldom need cooler air even during the warmer months, going to the expense of putting in this type of air conditioning may also not be worthwhile. Small portable or window units may actually prove to be the better choice in situations where you seldom need to cool your home or office.

There Are Alternatives

Talk to a professional so that he can help you to assess your needs. Even if your home or office is not suitable for this type of air con, there are alternatives available that may serve the purpose at a far lower cost and with less headaches. He can look at your home or office, talk to you about your specific needs and make helpful suggestions that will keep you cool when that hot weather strikes.