Before installing a new AC unit, you must understand how the different kinds of AC systems work and whether they will benefit you. Both ductless and central air conditioning systems have advantages and disadvantages, so read below to learn about the major differences in energy efficiency, cost, maintenance, and aesthetics.
Definitions
A ductless air conditioning system doesn’t have a duct, as you can guess from the name. Also known as a mini-split system, it has an indoor and outdoor conditioner working to cool individual rooms rather than the entire house. It’s suitable for homes with limited space where ducts aren’t already inside your walls.
On the other hand, a central air conditioner is part of a home’s HVAC system that may include a furnace or a heat pump. Such a system has a central location where it treats and distributes air to and from multiple rooms in the house through a series of supply ducts. It works well in huge residential homes, commercial spaces, or houses with other cooling systems in place.
Both the ductless and central air conditioning systems operate with the same basic science: warm air gets into the system, it undergoes condensation, and then it’s released outside. The primary difference lies in how the systems deliver the cool air.
The ductless system will release cold air into a single room, whereas with a central system, the air has to pass through supply ducts to get into multiple rooms in the house.
Costs
Ductless air conditioners are easy to install. However, they incur high upfront costs because you have to install the systems separately in each room of the house or commercial space.
Central systems are more affordable to install unless you don’t have ductwork. Without supply ducts, you will incur higher installation costs since you have to pay for repairs on the wall and other furnishings.
Both systems require regular maintenance, such as cleaning or changing air filters to ensure peak performance. However, operation costs for central systems are higher since air has to travel through multiple supply ducts to distribute air. Moreover, central systems also include furnaces and heaters, which could also drive up the cost.
Energy Efficiency
Since ductless air conditioners operate as single units, they’re more energy-efficient than central systems. Additionally, due to the lack of ducts, you save on energy caused by air duct leaks, seeing as Energy Star reports that 20% to 30% of air leaks are through the ducts system.
Ductless systems are also efficient since you won’t have to put the unit in every room; the system allows you to connect up to four evaporator units to a single condenser unit, cooling up to four rooms.
Disadvantages
Ductless systems offer integrated zoning where you can control room temperatures separately. Such a system will be excellent for communal living spaces like assisted living communities and apartments. Unfortunately, most ductless systems are limited in their cooling capabilities and wouldn’t be a good choice for large areas.
With central systems, the biggest issue is unified temperature control. Since air moves from the central unit through the ducts into multiple rooms, you might have to deal with some rooms being too warm or too cool. Moreover, this brings about air quality problems that may cause allergies and health issues.
In terms of design, the central system is better since there is no visible equipment except for your indoor unit, which may be placed in your basement, attic, or utility closet. However, mini-split systems have to be attached to the wall, which can be visually unappealing.
Both systems are effective at cooling and heating. However, to make the right choice, you need to understand your home’s configuration and needs. For professional advice, request an appointment with any of our HVAC professionals.
