Have you ever walked into your home expecting cool, refreshing air only to find your split system...
One minute, you’re relaxing in your manufactured home on a scorching afternoon. The next moment, the current cooling system decides to take an unscheduled vacation. During your frantic online research to repair your air conditioning, you find a couple of solutions.
There are two popular options—split AC and window AC units—that both offer benefits like efficiency, cost, and comfort. To choose the best air conditioning system for your manufactured home, you’ll need to compare these factors.
Understanding Your Cooling Options: Split AC vs. Window Units
While both AC systems rely on the same basic refrigeration principle, their design differences create significant variations in performance, installation requirements, and overall user experience.
Split AC systems consist of two main components: a wall-mounted indoor unit that handles air distribution and an outdoor unit that houses the compressor and condenser. These components connect through refrigerant lines that pass through a small hole in your wall.
Window AC units, on the other hand, combine all cooling components into a single box that sits directly in a window frame.
Initial and Long-Term Cost Considerations
When examining the financial element of this decision, window AC units typically win the battle with their affordability. Basic window units generally cost a few hundred dollars, while split systems cost several thousand before installation costs. The price difference often makes window units attractive to budget-conscious homeowners who need immediate cooling relief.
Installation costs tell a different story. Window AC units don’t usually cost anything to install, requiring only the ability to lift the unit into place and secure it properly. Split systems require professional installation, adding labor costs to the investment.
When it comes to energy consumption, split AC units are typically more efficient than window units. Split AC systems use more sophisticated cooling technology, like variable-speed motors that don’t consume excessive amounts of electricity.
Cooling Efficiency in Different Climates
Climate extremes highlight the performance differences between these systems. In very hot climates, split systems maintain consistent cooling performance because their outdoor units can tolerate higher ambient temperatures. Window units can struggle when outdoor temperatures exceed 95 degrees Fahrenheit, as their compact design makes it harder to dissipate heat effectively.
Humidity control is another consideration. The lower the indoor humidity is, the cooler the home will feel. Split systems typically provide better dehumidification since they run longer cycles at lower speeds. This provides additional time for moisture removal.
Window units cycle on and off more frequently. It can leave your home feeling cool but damp.
Installation Requirements for Manufactured Homes
Installing cooling systems in manufactured homes presents unique considerations that differ from traditional housing. Split system installation requires a technician to run refrigerant lines through an exterior wall, which makes the process more complex.
Window AC installation is more straightforward, but manufactured home windows commonly have different dimensions than standard residential windows. Some manufactured homes use smaller or non-standard window sizes that limit AC unit options.
Electrical requirements also differ between the two systems. Window units typically plug into standard 110V outlets, while large split systems often require 220V connections and dedicated circuits. Your manufactured home’s electrical panel might need upgrades to support a split system, which could add to the installation complexity and cost.
Another factor is maintenance access. Split systems require periodic professional service for both indoor and outdoor components. Ensuring technicians can easily access both units becomes important for long-term maintenance success. Window units offer easier DIY maintenance but require the homeowner to remove the unit at the end of the season and reinstall it when it’s needed again.
Noise Levels and Living Comfort
The noise difference between split and window AC systems can significantly impact your daily comfort. Split systems place the loudest components—the compressor and condenser fan—outside your living space. This limits indoor noise and creates sound that’s comparable to a whisper or rustling leaves.
Window AC units generate more noise, similar to moderate rainfall or normal conversation. This sound comes from both the compressor and fan operating directly in your living space. For manufactured homes with open floor plans or bedrooms near the cooling unit, the noise can affect sleep quality and daily activities.
Air distribution patterns also affect comfort levels. Some homeowners position split systems to provide more air circulation throughout the space, reducing hot and cold spots.
Plus, if you install multiple indoor units with a split system, you can enjoy zoned cooling. This allows you to turn off the AC in certain areas when it’s not needed. Window units create localized cooling, which means the cool air won’t reach certain areas of your home if they’re too far from the unit.
Space and Aesthetic Considerations
Window AC units occupy valuable window space, blocking natural light and restricting your view. The visual impact of a window unit also affects your home’s exterior appearance and can reduce curb appeal.
Indoor units in split systems preserve natural light while offering more flexible placement options. Many homeowners mount the units onto the wall. Additionally, the sleek indoor units have a more subtle appearance than the utilitarian demeanor of window units.
Window units require storage space when not in use, while split systems remain permanently installed. For manufactured homes with limited storage space, this difference can influence your decision.
Durability and Lifespan Factors
Split AC systems can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance, while window units average eight to 10 years, depending on usage. This lifespan difference stems from several factors, including component quality, installation environment, and maintenance requirements.
Weather exposure affects longevity differently for each system type. Window units face direct exposure to rain, snow, and temperature extremes, while split system indoor components remain protected. Nevertheless, both systems’ outdoor components must withstand everyday weather conditions.
Make the Best Decision for Your Home
After examining efficiency, cost, and comfort factors, it’s evident that split AC systems generally provide superior long-term value than window AC units. The combination of low operating costs, enhanced comfort control, and long lifespan justifies the initial expense difference.
However, window AC units remain viable options for situations such as temporary cooling needs, rental properties, budget constraints, or homes that aren’t compatible with split systems.
Is it time to upgrade your manufactured home’s cooling system? Contact Capitol Supply & Service for professional HVAC installation services tailored specifically to manufactured homes. Their experienced technicians understand the unique requirements of manufactured home HVAC systems and can help you choose and install the perfect solution for your cooling needs.
