Getting the best central air system for your home ensures more comfort and long-term energy savings. You could even increase your home’s value. Today, the biggest decision is between ducted central air and ductless mini-split systems. Both have distinct advantages and disadvantages, so let’s break them down and help you make an informed choice.
What is the Difference Between Ducted Central Air Conditioners and Ductless Systems?
Ductwork systems (traditional central air systems) rely on hidden ducts in your floors, ceilings, or walls to distribute treated air throughout your home. It all comes from a single central unit.
Ductless systems, like modern mini-splits, don’t use ducts. Instead, indoor units connect to an outdoor compressor through a small conduit. Units are mounted in various rooms to create “zones” that you can control individually.
Is Mini-Split Better Than Central Air for Efficiency?
Mini-split, in ideal conditions, is more efficient than central air conditioning:
- There’s no duct loss to worry about. Traditional central air systems can lose a significant amount of conditioned air (as much as 20% according to the EPA) through leaks, bad insulation, and holes. Ductless systems prevent the loss because conditioned air is delivered directly to any space.
- Zoning capabilities give you more control than a system with vents and dampers. You can completely turn off mini-splits in spaces that you aren’t using.
- Mini-splits are inverter-driven and compressors run at variable speeds, so energy consumption is better optimized.
If you compare a modern mini-split to a central system from ten years ago it will undoubtedly be more energy efficient and less expensive to run. However, modern central systems can incorporate features like variable-speed compressors and SMART temperature control with an advanced programmable thermostat. Insulating and maintaining ducts can minimize energy loss. High SEER central systems can generate considerable energy savings over time.
Mini-splits are more efficient on paper, but the unique layout of the home will always influence the best solution for your needs.
Is it Cheaper to Run an Air Conditioner or Central Air?
An individual air conditioner like a mini-split will usually be cheaper than central air but the difference is less apparent if you need several mini-splits to condition a large home.
Is Mini Split Better Than Central Air? Here’s What You Should Compare
|
Feature/Consideration |
Ducted Central Air System |
Ductless Mini-Split System |
|
Do You Have Ducts? |
Lower cost if your home has existing ducts. High cost if you need duct installation. |
Minimally invasive installation with no ducts needed. |
|
Temperature Control |
Consistent temperature throughout your home. |
Zone control but consistency depends on placement. |
|
Energy Efficiency |
May lose energy if ducts are old with poor insulation. High efficiency with duct sealing. |
High efficiency without the risk of duct loss. |
|
Aesthetics |
Almost invisible. The most integrated AC option. |
Visible indoor units mounted to walls or ceilings. |
|
Air Quality |
Excellent with regular duct and filter maintenance. |
Excellent with regular filter maintenance. |
|
Noise Level |
Quiet, thanks to the central nature of the unit. |
Wall and ceiling units produce moderate fan noise. |
|
Installation Impact |
Costly and invasive if you don’t have ducts. |
Easier to install. |
|
Resale Value |
May dramatically increase the resale value of your home. |
Doesn’t affect resale value. Sometimes undesirable. |
|
Home Size |
Suitable for all standard home sizes. |
Less suitable for homes over 3,000 square feet. |
The Bottom Line – Should You Install Ductwork and Central Air or a Mini-Split System?
If you have existing ductwork, a central system will be the most cost-efficient solution for home cooling and heating. For a home without ductwork, a mini-split system often makes more sense, thanks to a less-invasive installation process that could work out significantly less expensive.
As with all areas of home improvement and maintenance, the choice is in the details, and some factors only become clear when you have a detailed consultation and load calculation.
Soundview HVAC is your partner for dependable HVAC installation on Long Island. We can integrate complete central systems, as well as mini-split systems that provide heating and cooling for year-round comfort. Talk to us for your free comfort consultation and we will look at your needs, preferences, and budget to help you find the best option for your home.
