30 Sep What’s the Difference Between Central Air and Forced Air HVAC Systems?

The age-old question, what’s the difference between central air and forced air? Is there a difference? Forced air and central air HVAC systems are the heating and cooling elements in your home that are essential for maintaining a comfortable living space. You might hear “forced air” and “central air” used interchangeably since they are referring to the same system in your home, but there is a difference between the two systems.

How is Forced Air Different from Central Air?

Generally speaking, forced air refers to the heating system in your home while central air refers to the cooling system. However, the central air system will use the forced air system’s vents and ducts to deliver cool air into your home.
Central air systems produce hot or cold air in a central location and deliver the conditioned air into the home. Air conditioners are central air systems independent of your furnace and they use an outside unit to create cool air.

What are the Benefits?

In Texas most homes are heated using a forced-air system. This is because with a forced-air system the ductwork used to distribute warm air to your house can also distribute cold air during the summer time.

Energy Efficient

Central Systems help to improve the overall air quality by filtering humidity, allergens and harmful gases for not only your family but also the environment. This benefit does require maintaining and changing out the filter regularly. We recommend changing out your filter every month.

Reduces Humidity Levels

A stand-alone unit like a window unit cannot control the overall humidity in the home like a central air system can. Dehumidifying the air will improve the overall indoor air quality, and prevent mold from growing in your home.

Mangeable Maintance

New systems require little maintenance. We do recommend our Quarter Moon Care maintenance program that can be catered to your needs. Our maintenance program includes annual parts warranty (no labor), bi-annual tune-ups, priority service, and transferable coverage. Think of annual maintenance like a tune-up for your car. It will keep components clean and working properly for the upcoming season before any major issue happens.

Central Air Provides For All Seasons

Central air will provide high air quality and comfort for the entire household. With routine maintenance, the system can improve the air quality in your home and increase energy efficiency. Be sure to check out Quarter Moon Plumbing, AC & Heating for more information about new HVAC installations!