Is a Forced Air System a Good Choice for Cooling?

When it’s time to upgrade your existing air conditioner, you may be wondering if a forced air system is the right choice. Most homes come with forced air systems as a standard, but you do have other options to choose from.

Keep reading to learn more about a forced air air conditioner in Skokie and how it compares to other air conditioning options. Then give our team a call with any questions you have or if you’re ready to schedule an installation appointment.

What Is a Forced Air HVAC System?

A forced air HVAC system is an air conditioner that is attached to a network of ducts. The unit forces air through the ductwork where it distributes evenly to blow out of vents dispersed around your home – or at least that’s how it’s supposed to work. 

A single central unit is cooling air for your entire house. Potential problems with the ductwork can impact how well a central air conditioner can cool your home. Plus, they take up a lot of space between the central indoor unit and the attached ductwork. 

What Are My Other Cooling Options?

If you don’t want a forced air system, you have a couple of alternatives. The first is a ductless mini split. With a ductless HVAC system, you have smaller units dispersed throughout your home. Each of these individual units is dedicated to cooling a smaller area of your home by blowing air directly into the rooms and circumventing the need for ductwork.

Ductless mini splits do cost more for upfront installation. However, they are known to be highly energy efficient and effective at cooling spaces quickly. Plus, they can cost much less for month-to-month operation, meaning that you can easily recoup the money that you spend upfront to invest in the system.

If you don’t want to switch to a ductless mini split, there is a way to create zones in your house using your existing forced air unit. We can install a zone control system inside of your ductwork that allows you to cool down certain areas of your home while flaps block off other rooms during AC operation. This is a great way to customize your existing system without making the investment in an entirely new unit right now.

Pros and Cons of Switching

First, it’s important to identify your reasons for wanting to switch from a forced air system. The benefit of having a central air conditioner is that one unit operates to cool your entire home evenly. If you’re concerned with energy efficiency, you may consider upgrading to a similar forced air system with a higher SEER2 rating. 

Or you can invest in duct services to seal and clean out your existing ductwork so it can channel air better. This can save you money on upfront installation compared to a ductless mini split while also offering you the added benefit of boosted monthly savings. 

However, switching to a ductless unit is a great choice if space in your home is a concern and you’re tired of having a large indoor system with the attached ductwork taking up so much room. Although it does cost a little bit more upfront, it is well worth the investment to get back some closet and other storage space.

Shavitz Heating and Air Conditioning is your trusted resource for Chicagoland area home services. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for furnace replacement!

Tags: Air Conditioning, Skokie

Monday, May 27th, 2024 at 11:00 am | Categories: Air Conditioning
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