Comparing Window Units and HVAC Systems

When the hot Radford, VA summer comes around, you're going to need an air conditioning setup that you can rely on. But should you invest in a central air HVAC system or a window unit for your household? There are quite a few differences between the two kinds of cooling systems, and each type has its pros and cons.

<h2>Window Units Are Less Expensive</h2>

If your primary goal is saving money, you probably should go with a window unit. The biggest savings come from the fact that window units cost far less to purchase and install than central air systems. The savings don't stop there, though, as window units also tend to cost significantly less to operate on a month-to-month basis. Because they require less energy to operate, your electricity bills will be consistently lower than with an HVAC unit.

<h2>An HVAC System Will Cool the Whole House</h2>

One of the biggest downsides to having a window AC unit is that it will only be able to cover a relatively small area. Unless you have a very small home, you would likely need more than one window unit to sufficiently cool down the entire house. If you end up buying multiple window units, that will offset a lot of the money you saved by foregoing an HVAC system. Central air HVAC systems, on the other hand, are typically effective at controlling the climate of entire homes.

<h2>Window Units Don't Control Humidity</h2>

Whereas HVAC units work to reduce household humidity in addition to providing cool air, window units are only able to do the latter. So, when the Virginia summer arrives and it starts to feel muggy, a window AC unit won't do anything to reduce the moisture in the air. That means that having an HVAC system may save you the cost of purchasing a separate dehumidifier. This goes to show that while window units can absolutely save you money, it always depends on your circumstances and personal needs.

At New River Heating & Air, we've been serving customers throughout the New River Valley for over three decades. Some of the many quality services we provide the area include heating, cooling, duct cleaning, indoor air quality, residential new construction, and more. In 2017, we won the Angie's List Super Service Award, and we have also been honored by the New River Valley Home Builders Association. If you'd like to schedule an appointment with our team, contact us at New River Heating & Air today!