Although I live in an area that experiences four separate seasons, the winter weather definitely lasts the longest. It starts to cool off and forces us to close the windows by the end of August. We typically need to start up the furnace sometime in September and expect snowfall by Halloween. For at least six months, we rely on the heating system. It’s so exciting when the snow finally melts and the outside temperature rises above freezing. I look forward to eventually opening the windows, breathing fresh air and spending time outdoors. I am very relieved when I am no longer paying huge energy bills. Although we face temperatures in the upper eighties and high humidity during the summer, it doesn’t last long. Within a few months, we’re back to chilly weather again. I don’t think central air conditioning is necessary. In my opinion, it’s too big of an investment for what we would get from it. I spent a lot less money on window air conditioners for the bedrooms. I set one in each of the windows and we enjoy perfectly cool sleeping conditions. The cooling units are compact, lightweight and fairly energy efficient. Since we only run the air conditioners at night, I don’t notice a big increase in my electrical bills. I make sure to clean the air filters at the start of the season and then I carry them back up to the attic in the fall. The separate air conditioners allow each family member to decide their own comfort level. Plus, the air conditioners are controlled by cordless remote control, so we don’t even need to get out of bed to make adjustments.