The Benefits of Central Heat and Air Units

Choosing to upgrade your home to central heat and air units can be a pretty big commitment. Why fix what isn’t broken, right? Local residential building code in South Carolina requires heating be able to maintain an indoor temperature of 70 degrees. That standard is typically achieved with a furnace and central heating, though other options are available, such as heating by wood stove or potable unit. Air conditioning is not required by building code, but during the hottest months of the year, many homeowners choose to use some sort of cooling unit. 

It’s not uncommon to use portable units, wall units, or window units to maintain heat and cooling in a home. For many people, they find these units to be effective enough for their needs. However, there are most definitely benefits to upgrading to central heat and air units, which we’ll go over below. Benefits of Central Heating and Cooling1) More effective heating and cooling throughout the home, hands-down. Potable units may be able to give you some relief, but without a doubt, central air and heat is the most effective heating and cooling you can have in your home. The ductwork moves the air and heat throughout the home to evenly disperse it and ensure uniform heating or cooling in every room. A single unit has a limited range, typically restricted to a single room. It just can’t compare. 2) Central is more energy efficient. When you compare a single central unit to multiple window or portable units throughout a home, you’ll see a notable difference on your energy bill. Portable units draw on electrical power and, depending on how many you use and how frequently, can cause a significant spike in your energy usage. A central unit is a single-source power draw and many are built specifically for energy efficiency. 3) It offers more safety and stability. Portable units will work in the short term, but they’re not necessarily made for consistent use over a number of years. Without proper care and replacement when necessary, they can be a safety risk, raising your risk of electrical short or even fire. Central units are made to a strict manufacturing code that intends for years-long use in a residential home, making them both safer and more reliable. 4) Prevents mold and mildew. Mold and mildew like humid, still air environments. Modern homes aren’t designed for good air flow or air exchanges with the outside. Without central heating and cooling the home can get a stale odor and the mold and mildew can get into cloth furniture, clothing, bedding and more, creating an unhealthy place. These are only a handful of the benefits of central heat and air. As a general rule, you’ll want to consider saving for the investment and taking the plunge. It’ll save you in the long run by offering more comfort and better energy costs, as well as making your home safer and potentially increasing your resale value. PECO Heating and Cooling is here to help you whenever you make the decision. Please call to ask us about the brands we work with and which energy-efficient units we recommend.