Putting air conditioners in windows is a common practice in the United States for several reasons:
Cost-Effectiveness: Window air conditioners are generally more affordable to purchase and install compared to central air conditioning systems. They provide a budget-friendly cooling solution for individual rooms or small living spaces.
Flexibility: Window AC units are portable and easy to install, making them suitable for both renters and homeowners. They do not require significant modifications to the building's structure, and they can be easily removed and stored when not in use.
Room-Specific Cooling: Window AC units are ideal for cooling individual rooms or spaces. This allows users to target cooling to the areas where they spend the most time, reducing energy consumption compared to cooling the entire house with a central system.
Single-Room Solutions: For people living in apartments, condos, or smaller homes, a central air conditioning system may not be practical or necessary. Window AC units provide an efficient way to cool a specific area without the need for extensive ductwork.
Ease of Installation: Installing a window AC unit typically involves mounting the unit in a window frame and securing it in place. This simplicity makes it accessible for many homeowners or renters to install without professional help.
Availability and Variety: Window air conditioners are widely available in various sizes and cooling capacities, making it easier to find a unit that suits the specific cooling needs of a room.
Supplemental Cooling: In some cases, people use window AC units in addition to a central air conditioning system to provide extra cooling during particularly hot weather or to cool rooms that are difficult to reach with the central system.
It's important to note that while window AC units are popular in the United States, there are other cooling options available, such as split-system air conditioners and ductless mini-split systems, which offer similar advantages but operate differently and have different installation requirements. The choice of cooling system ultimately depends on factors such as budget, space, cooling needs, and personal preferences.