When evaluating central air conditioning options for a Las Vegas property, one must first take into account the regional climate. While often underestimated or overlooked, Las Vegas's winters can have dangerously low temperatures and sometimes heavy snowfall. However, the real test for any air conditioning is the scorching summer heat. Temperatures frequently soar above 100 degrees, translating into some of the most intense and sustained demands for residential and commercial A/C systems. No less a judge of air conditioning quality than Consumer Reports says the vigorous A/C units required to maintain comfortable living conditions in Vegas should ideally be rated with a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) of 15, although payback periods can stretch to two or three years. Another good option is a variable speed compressor, which can control humidity far more effectively and efficiently than the methods employed in traditional units.
When it comes to types of air conditioning systems, the question arises: is a split system or a packaged air conditioning system better suited for your home? Split systems are the standard choice for residential buildings, and for good reason. Split systems consist of an outdoor compressor and an indoor air handler. They tend to work very well in private residences and in some scenarios are the only option from a performance standpoint. Alternatively, a packaged system, where all the components are housed in a single cabinet, is more often used in commercial spaces, and in some residential scenarios, due to space limitations. When you speak of a "traditional" air conditioning system, you'll likely be hearing about split systems.
Advanced features that enhance the comfort and efficiency of a central air conditioning system are part of any effective installation in Las Vegas. Smart thermostats, for instance, allow very precise control over the temperature of the living space. "You can create an entire schedule for cooling your house," says Jennifer C. Elario, vice president of Carson City-based Elario Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, "which is particularly effective to maximize energy savings during the peak energy usage hours of 2 to 6 p.m." But such a system isn't nearly as effective if you're simply cooling the living room while the master bedroom remains an oven. "Zoning is the next big thing," says Elario. "But you can't do it if you don't have the ductwork or fans." Here are some key things to ponder when considering what kind of central air conditioning to install in your home.