Living in a desert climate presents some unique challenges. The biggest one is generally that the extreme heat can make it difficult to stay cool and can lead to your air conditioning running a huge amount of the summer. In this article, we’ll explain everything you should know about split and packaged AC installation as well as heat pump systems, including what makes them different and what the pros and cons of each one are.
Understanding What Split and Packaged HVAC Systems Are
The most common type of central AC or heat pump system is a split system. The term “split system” refers to the fact that there are two separate parts of the system. One part is the AC or heat pump that sits outside the house. The other is the indoor part of the system, which is the air handler, where both the evaporator coil and the blower are located.
Packaged systems are self-contained, meaning everything is located within one large unit that is installed outside. The only parts of a packaged system that are located inside the house are the thermostat and all the air ducts. A packaged system is usually installed just next to an exterior wall. There’s a hole in the wall that connects the system to both the supply and return ductwork.
You can sometimes also choose to install a packaged system on your roof, in which case the system connects to the ductwork in the attic. Packaged rooftop systems are commonly found on commercial buildings. Installing a packaged system on a home with a sloped roof is more difficult and requires first building a sturdy platform on the roof to support the system. However, it’s not always possible, or at least usually not advisable, to install a packaged system on a roof with a much steeper slope.
Pros and Cons of Split HVAC Systems
The main reasons why split HVAC systems are much more common are that they tend to be more energy-efficient and last longer. That’s mainly because part of the system is inside the house, where the temperature stays much cooler, which helps the system cool more quickly and effectively. This is especially the case in places like Arizona, where the weather tends to be extremely hot throughout most of the summer. The SEER rating of any AC or heat pump tells you how energy-efficient it is.
The majority of packaged systems are typically no higher than 16 SEER, although some are up to 19 SEER. The minimum requirement in Arizona for a split system is 15 SEER, but you can find numerous options that exceed 20 SEER. Packaged heat pump systems also typically have lower HSPF ratings than split systems, meaning they don’t heat as efficiently. This is again because the coil responsible for releasing heat and raising the temperature of the air coming into the system is located outside, where it gets much colder during the winter.
The fact that split systems work more effectively also means they don’t experience as much wear and tear, which is part of the reason why they usually have a longer life expectancy than packaged systems. The other reason packaged systems typically have a shorter lifespan is that everything is outside, where it’s exposed to the elements and can be more easily accessed by pests. Although the system is designed to be weatherproof, its components can still be damaged by flying debris, large hailstones, and more. Heavy rains can also flood the unit, resulting in more damage than you’d typically get if the outdoor part of a split system were flooded.
The biggest downside to a split system is that it takes up much more space inside the house since you also have a large air handler in addition to all the air ducts. The other drawback is that a split system is quite a bit louder than a packaged system. With either system, you may be able to hear the sound of the compressor and compressor fan running when in a room next to where the unit is outside. Nonetheless, if you have a split system, you’ll also be able to hear the sound of the blower running in different parts of the house or possibly throughout the whole house.
Pros and Cons of Packaged HVAC Systems
The main drawback of a packaged system is that it usually results in your energy bills being higher than they would be if you had a split system. If you don’t keep the system properly maintained, it will likely have more issues and could occasionally struggle to keep your house sufficiently cool when the temperature outside rises into the triple digits. The good news regarding maintenance is that packaged systems are easier to maintain since all of the components are in one place. That also means it is easier for a technician to troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair any issues the system has.
On the plus side, you’ll save on the upfront costs when you choose a packaged system. The costs to purchase a comparable packaged or split system may be about the same. However, installed packaged systems usually cost less since installation is much easier. You also don’t have the added expense of needing technicians to run the copper refrigerant line set from the outdoor unit inside and then connect the lines to the indoor and outdoor coils by brazing them.
This is where packaged systems have a major advantage since everything is already connected and basically ready to go. All the technicians really need to do is mount the unit outside and then hook it up to the ductwork. While you’ll typically have to pay a bit more if you choose to mount the unit on your roof, the installation cost should still be less than it would be with a split system. The drawback of installing the system on your roof is that it will make it more difficult and expensive when you need to have your roof replaced.
The other great thing about choosing a packaged system is that it frees up space inside your house. This is why packaged systems are more commonly found in smaller homes where space is at a premium. Choosing to install the system on the roof is also a good option if you don’t want to take up extra space in your yard. You can also choose to install the outdoor unit in a split system on your roof, but you still have to account for the extra space it takes up inside.
At Goettl's High Desert Mechanical, we have over three decades of experience providing air conditioning, heating, and plumbing services in Camp Verde, AZ. As one of the leading heating and air conditioning companies in the area, we are experts in heater and AC installation, repair, and maintenance. We also provide air quality services. Our company offers plumbing services that include general plumbing repairs and installation of water heaters, garbage disposals, water softeners, water filters, and drain clearing and cleaning.
To set up a consultation with one of our technicians or plumbers and learn more about all of your available options, contact us today.
