Selecting the optimal AC system type for your Calgary home requires balancing multiple factors: your home’s structure, budget considerations, comfort requirements, and our unique climate patterns. At Purcell Heating and Air, we assess these variables to identify which system architecture—central, split, or ductless—will deliver maximum value for your specific situation.
Ideal Home Profile: Single-family homes with existing ductwork, open floor plans, whole-home cooling needs
Advantages for Calgary Homes
Whole-home cooling from a single system
Hidden components maintain aesthetic appeal
Consistent temperature throughout the home
Single point of maintenance
Excellent integration with air purification
Typical lifespan of 15-20 years with proper maintenance
Limitations for Calgary Homes
Requires existing ductwork or significant installation investment
Less zoning flexibility without additional equipment
Energy losses through ductwork (up to 30% in poorly sealed systems)
Higher initial investment ($7,000-$15,000 installed)
All-or-nothing operation less ideal for our variable climate
Value Equation
Cost per square foot cooled: $3.50-$7.50
Energy efficiency: Moderate to high (depends on duct quality)
Installation complexity: Moderate (higher if adding ductwork)
Return on investment timeline: 7-10 years
Ideal Home Profile: Most Calgary single-family homes, especially those with existing forced-air heating systems
Advantages for Calgary Homes
Excellent performance in our dry climate
Lower installation costs when utilizing existing ductwork
Good whole-home humidity control
Variable-speed options work well with Calgary’s temperature swings
Good integration with existing furnace blowers
Typical lifespan of 15-18 years
Limitations for Calgary Homes
Still requires ductwork throughout the home
Limited zoning capabilities without additional equipment
Outdoor unit can be affected by extreme weather
Less ideal for homes with space constraints
Installation costs of $6,000-$12,000
Value Equation
Cost per square foot cooled: $3.00-$6.00
Energy efficiency: Moderate to high
Installation complexity: Moderate
Return on investment timeline: 6-9 years
Ideal Home Profile: Older Calgary homes without ductwork, additions, finished basements, homes needing zoned cooling
Advantages for Calgary Homes
No ductwork required—ideal for older Calgary homes
Zoned cooling reduces energy waste
Precise temperature control per room
Excellent for supplemental cooling in problem areas
Lower installation disruption
Higher efficiency in variable climate conditions
Typical lifespan of 15-20 years
Limitations for Calgary Homes
Indoor air handlers visible in each cooled room
Multiple points of maintenance
Higher cost per square foot for whole-home applications
Limited air filtration compared to central systems
Installation costs of $3,000-$5,000 per zone
Value Equation
Cost per square foot cooled: $4.00-$8.00 (whole home), $10-$20 (single zone)
Energy efficiency: Very high
Installation complexity: Low to moderate
Return on investment timeline: 5-8 years
Ideal Home Profile: Energy-conscious Calgary homeowners wanting year-round climate control
Advantages for Calgary Homes
Year-round operation (heating and cooling)
Lower operational costs through fuel switching
Excellent for our variable climate conditions
Reduced carbon footprint
Potential for significant rebates and incentives
Typical lifespan of 15-20 years
Limitations for Calgary Homes
Higher initial investment ($10,000-$18,000 installed)
More complex installation and maintenance
Requires both gas and sufficient electrical service
Not necessary for homes with efficient furnaces
Value Equation
Cost per square foot conditioned: $5.00-$9.00
Energy efficiency: Very high
Installation complexity: High
Return on investment timeline: 8-12 years
Quality and extent of existing ductwork
Electrical service capacity
Space availability for indoor and outdoor units
Whole home vs. targeted cooling
Occupancy patterns and schedules
Problem areas (hot spots, sun exposure)
Initial investment capacity
Operating cost sensitivity
Expected length of home ownership
Potential home additions
Changing usage patterns
Energy cost projections
Climate change considerations
For a personalized assessment of which AC system type will deliver the best value for your specific Calgary home, contact Purcell Heating and Air at (403) 312-9099. Explore our professional installation services at our AC installation page. For Calgary-specific information, visit www.purcellheating.ca/calgary/.
