When Is High-Velocity AC The Best Option?
When you think of a central AC system, do you picture big, clunky ducts and large, rectangular vents? This is what's typical of a standard, central AC system. But these days, this is not the only kind of AC system to exist. Another option is high-velocity air conditioning. HIgh-velocity systems have thin tubes, not full-size ducts. The air emerges from small, round vents instead of big, rectangular ones.
So, when is a high-velocity air conditioning system a good choice? Here are three situations when such a system is worth considering.
Your wall spaces are not very wide.
If you have a home without ducts, then adding them could be an issue. Many homes that were not built to accommodate ducts have pretty narrow wall spaces. While some HVAC contractors may be willing to install smaller ducts between the walls, this is still a major project that may require some demolition and rebuilding. Installing high-velocity AC is easier because the tiny tubes can fit into any space. You won't have to knock walls down, either, as the tubing can be fed through small holes about the size of a quarter. Those holes are easy to patch.
Energy efficiency is a big concern.
Most people are at least somewhat cognizant of energy efficiency these days. But if you live in an area where electricity is really expensive, or if you produce your own electricity and have a limited supply, energy efficiency might be a top priority for you. In this case, high-velocity AC is a smart choice. These systems use significantly less energy than standard, central air systems. This is largely because the tubes that air travels through are consistent with no gaps. No cooled air leaks out as it does with ducted systems.
You have really high humidity.
Standard, central air systems do a decent job of removing humidity from the air, but high-velocity AC can do an even better job. These systems tend to remove even more moisture from the air because the air moves through them so quickly. If you live in a really humid area, or if you want to avoid having to install a dehumidifier, then high-velocity AC is a good choice.
While high-velocity AC is not necessarily for everyone, it has become popular for good reasons. It could be a very good option for your home if you are in any of the situations above. Talk to an air conditioning contractor to learn more.
