Is Central AC or Ductless Cooling a Better Fit?

Central AC vs. Ductless AC Units

The most common type of air conditioning system in modern homes is central air conditioning. Central AC uses a network of air ducts in the walls to distribute temperature-controlled air throughout the house. However, air duct installation is not possible for every home. Ductless AC units, such as window AC units and ductless mini-split systems, are alternative options to central AC.

How can homeowners choose which air conditioning system is best for them? They can start by assessing the pros and cons of central AC and ductless mini-split AC units. Homeowners can also work with a trusted local HVAC company to determine which air conditioning system is best for their home.

Pros of Central AC

central AC

  • Consistent Temperatures – Central AC can quickly and efficiently cool the entire house to an exact temperature setting.
  • Quiet Performance – Window AC units can be extremely noisy. Central AC is generally quieter than ductless cooling.
  • Out of Sight – Most of the ugly hardware for central air conditioning is hidden away out of sight. There is no need to take up wall or window space for central air conditioning.

Central AC is the most common air conditioning system for a reason! Most of the hardware is hidden behind the ceiling and in the walls, making it an aesthetically pleasing option compared to ductless systems. One of the only downsides is that homeowners must maintain the ductwork in addition to their HVAC unit. And because of the energy losses that occur in air ducts, they generally have higher cooling costs compared to mini splits.

Pros of Ductless Mini Split Systems

ductless mini split

  • Zoned Heating and Cooling – Ductless mini-split systems are a type of zoned temperature control. This means that each room or zone can be temperature controlled separately rather than having the entire home be at one temperature all the time.
  • Energy Savings – Zone air conditioning can help homeowners save on energy bills in a few ways. First, because they don’t require air ducts, they don’t experience the energy loss that occurs when air travels through ductwork. Also, instead of cooling the entire home like with central AC, with ductless mini-split systems, homeowners can cool just the rooms being used at the time. For example, by only cooling the bedrooms at night rather than the entire house.

When installing AC in a home without air ducts or room for them, ductless mini-split systems are often the best choice. Ductless mini-split systems are more efficient than central air conditioning but are typically more expensive to install and are more visible inside the house.

Other Air Conditioning Systems

Central AC and ductless mini-split systems are the most popular and efficient options for cooling a home, but they are not the only options. Window AC units are another option to cool a space and are convenient to install. The downside to window units is that they are often noisy, and their performance is inefficient.

Portable air conditioners are a great option for rental properties or non-traditional spaces that need cooling. They can be used to add air conditioning to a new addition to the home that isn’t connected to the AC system or a detached garage that gets too hot to work in. Portable air conditioners can offer efficient performance and can be moved around to different areas of the home. When moving houses, the portable air conditioner can also come along.

About Veteran Services

Veteran Services is a veteran-owned company serving Lakeville, MN, and the surrounding areas with reliable plumbing and HVAC services from trustworthy and highly skilled technicians. They offer competitive pricing, financing, and 24/7 emergency services. Call them today for heating and air conditioning services in Lakeville, MN.