Would you buy a house without central air?

12 years ago

My husband and I are house hunting in the western suburbs of Chicago. We have found several gorgeous bungalows (our style of choice) that are PERFECT for us, minus the fact that they don't have central air; only window units in the bedrooms. Temps can get pretty warm in the upper midwest, and I'm not a fan of heat and humidity so I tend to shy away from those houses, no matter how lovely they may be. But my husband thinks that having mature trees on the lot and lots of windows in the house will help to keep the temperatures comfortable even at the height of summer. What say you?

Featured Answer

studio10001

12 years ago

last modified: 12 years ago

I say comfort is relative!
I would not hesitate to purchase a bungalow style, especially an older one, as they are designed for passive cooling, and a mature canopy is a definite plus. The addition of attic fans down the line can help draw warm air out of the space, giving another 5-10 degree diffference. And, If you decide central AC is needed, it can still be added.

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Comments (6)

Curt D'Onofrio
12 years ago
Does the house have a forced air furnace ? If so, then duct work is already installed. It should be easy then to later install central AC
Jennifer thanked Curt D'Onofrio
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Jennifer
Original Author
12 years ago
I didn't know that, Curt. Thank you!
The listing says, "gas, baseboards, radiators" which is why, I imagine, the current owners installed window units in the bedrooms instead of central AC. They've done so many beautiful updates and upgrades!
armygirl1987
12 years ago
I would also check out how long it gets warm and stays that way?
dlund481
12 years ago
I grew up in a large Craftsman bungalow in Ohio without central air. It had a second floor sleeping porch, which we used instead of the 3rd floor bedroom during the hot months. Ceiling fans also were a huge help. The beauty and charm of the home made up for a few warm nights. I would buy a charming home without AC.
Jennifer thanked dlund481
magahar
10 years ago
I live in Ohio and lived in a spacious condo,that was built in the late '60's, without AC. It was just too hot in summer without AC. It would get so hot I couldn't sleep well and I would wake up feeling just drained. Also family and friends complained that they were not comfortable. I got AC after 2 yrs of living in a hot box and I regretted not getting it much much soon.