Central air conditioning systems are a common feature in modern homes, and are generally standard on new constructions in warm climates in the United States. Central air systems have many advantages, including better overall air circulation throughout the home, consistent indoor temperatures, and much quieter operation than basic window units. Unfortunately, owners of older homes are unable to take advantage of these benefits and are generally forced to use window units which can be noisy, inefficient, and generally provide inconsistent cooling.

If you live in a home that was constructed before central air became commonplace, retrofitting a central air system into your existing home can be a tempting option. This a great way to make your home more comfortable for you and your family while also increasing its resale value, but as with any major renovation project, there are several challenges which must be kept in mind.

Space for Ductwork

If your home has an existing forced air heating system, it may already have ductwork in place. If not, ductwork will have to be installed and space will have to be made for it. In most homes, this ductwork can be run through the attic and ceiling, but an appropriate amount of space is not always available. It is possible that ceilings will need to be lowered to accommodate the new ducts, which can add significantly to the overall cost of the project.

Even if your home does have existing ductwork, it is likely that ducts installed as part of an older forced air heating system may not be suitable for a modern central air system. In this case, the ducts may need to be removed and replaced in order to accommodate the airflow of your new system. Although this is a hassle, it is generally less costly than running ductwork in a home from scratch.

Upgrades to Windows and Doors

To get the most from your new cooling installation, your home must have a relatively tight building envelope. This means that well-sealed doors and high-efficiency windows are important to keep cool air in and warm air out. This isn't just important to keep your cooling bills down, but also for the overall health of your central air system. A weak building envelope will force your central air system to work harder to maintain a stable temperature, ultimately placing significantly more strain on its components.

Electrical Considerations

A central air unit will place a greater strain on your home's electrical system as well, so it is important to consult with an electrician before undertaking a central air retrofit. If you do not currently have room to install an additional breaker for the central air unit, then an upgrade to your breaker box may be in order. This is an additional expense that can add considerably to the overall cost of the project.