Now that winter is well and truly here, you might be wondering how to keep your home cosy for the next couple of months.
The thing is, it can be hard to justify the expense – and the nuisance – of a separate heating system. Especially when winters are so short on the Central Coast. But if your toes are feeling frosty and you’re after a solution that’s useful all year round, let us introduce you to the reverse cycle air conditioner.
Simply, a reverse cycle air conditioner combines two functions – cooling and heating –in one system. Most units are wall mounted and controlled with a thermostat so you can set your preferred temperature day and night, anytime of the year. They are more environmentally friendly, and cheaper, to run than traditional gas and electric heaters. They work well even in large or open plan-houses, and typically include extra functions, like dehumidification and air purification.
The heating function works by trapping heat from outside and transferring it inside. While not ideal for climates that frequently stay below zero degrees, they are an efficient solution for colder months in places like the Central Coast.
Reverse cycle air conditioners come in a couple of common varieties. Ducted systems are installed in various places throughout the home and warm and cool via ducts placed in different rooms. Split system air conditioners are stand alone units typically mounted to a wall. There are pros and cons for both systems. Ducted units are more expensive to install but do a better job regulating temperature if you have a very large home. Split system units are cheaper upfront but may not be enough in a large home with lots of rooms. However, split system units are still very efficient in comparison with single gas or electric heaters. They are good choices for most dwellings.
Reverse cycle air conditioners are great all-rounders for temperature regulation. They need a little more investment upfront than regular heaters, but you’re likely to save on bills and hassle in the long run. As we always advise our customers here at Coastal Air Conditioning – the right system for you will depend on your household’s individual requirements. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to air conditioner installation. Every home is different. Here are some reasons why a reverse cycle air conditioner might be the best choice for you.
1. It’s time to trade in your old air conditioner
If you spent last summer changing filters, booking repairs, and helplessly fiddling with the thermostat, it might be time to think about an upgrade. Maybe your old machine came with your home when you moved in and it’s old, tired and dysfunctional. Maybe you have never had an air conditioner before but want to invest in one. Whatever the reason, if you’re in the market for a whole new unit – there is really no more efficient way to prepare for any weather.
2. You want to make greener choices
Reverse cycle air conditioners are a greener choice compared with traditional gas or electric heaters. This is largely because these systems convert air from outside and use a thermostat. A thermostat allows you to pick the perfect temperature, which means you don’t use more energy than you need. Where your unit is installed can also make a big difference to energy efficiency. That’s one of the reasons why a professional air conditioner installation is the best bet to get the most out of your system.
3. You want to save on bills
Another welcome side effect of energy efficiency is the money you save on bills at the end of the month. A University of Melbourne study found that reverse cycle air conditioners were cheaper to run than gas heating in every city they tested. It found that the cost of running a reverse cycle air conditioner can be up to one-third of the cost of running a gas heater. If you have solar panels installed, it will lower your utility costs even more.
4. You want to save space
Whether you choose a split system or a ducted reverse cycle air conditioner, having one unit do the heavy lifting in summer and winter is a huge space saver. Modern split system units are stylish appliances that are mounted to a wall in your home. If you choose a ducted version, the vents will just blend into your rooms and work without you even noticing.
5. Someone in your home has allergies
One little-known benefit of reverse cycle air conditioners: many systems have an air-purifying function. They get rid of dust particles in the air, and keep your home fresh and sneeze-proof, even during allergy season.
Reverse cycle air conditioners are a great choice for households who want to combine heating and cooling for year-round comfort. Remember, the installation of your air conditioner (where it’s installed in the home) is key. A well-chosen, wisely installed reverse cycle air conditioner is space saving, energy efficient, and effective. If you want to know more about which unit is right for you, get in touch with one of our professionals at Coastal Air Conditioning.
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