Central AC Vs. Ductless Mini Split – Picking What’s Best For Your Home

By the late 1960s, traditional central air conditioning had become a staple in most new American homes and has continued to serve homeowners well for decades. With newer technology, including smart thermostats that can be programmed and operated from most electronic devices, staying consistently cool with a central AC system continues to be a popular option.

The ductless mini split was introduced to the HVAC industry by Mitsubishi in 1959. The demand has grown over the years, but to make a valid comparison, let’s take a quick look at what each system is. Central AC sends cool air through your home via a ductwork system using fans and a central unit that is located outside on a concrete slab or gravel. The ductless mini split system features an outdoor condenser, which can deliver cooled air to as many as four individual air handlers, which are usually mounted high on an interior wall. The connection between the condenser and air handler requires just a three-inch hole in the wall, and the condenser can be hidden outside as far as 50 feet away.

How Do Central AC & Mini Splits Compare?

Convenience is a selling point for the ductless mini split system. Each handler can be managed with zoned programming, which means individual rooms can be set to custom temperatures. No more thermostat battles between family members. They are also perfect for home additions or space conversions. The renovated spaces can be easily cooled with a ductless mini split without the need to connect to the existing central AC system.

A common complaint from many homeowners with central AC systems during the summer is uneven cooling throughout the house. Some rooms or areas vary in temperature, or there may be fluctuations from floor to floor. The placement of windows may account for the differences; or even the fact that cold air travels downward; but, the cause of uncomfortable variances could also be an inefficient or damaged AC system. The experts at Masters Heating & Cooling can identify the primary challenges in your home and offer practical and affordable solutions.

What Are the Pros & Cons?

A significant advantage of a ductless mini split system is the small size and their flexibility for zoning individual rooms. Because they have no ducts to promote energy losses due to leaks and each air handler has its own thermostat for custom temperature control, a ductless mini split system can improve energy efficiency by up to 30%.

If you are replacing an older central AC unit with a new one, and using existing current ductwork, one advantage will be lower upfront cost. However, if ductwork repair or replacement is included the overall expense will increase. Many homeowners like the fact that central AC floor registers are less obtrusive than a ductless mini split air handler, which is usually wall mounted.

The Bottom Line

So, what’s the bottom line? There really isn’t a right or wrong answer. Whether you choose a ductless mini split system or traditional central AC really depends on your needs and budget. The professional technicians at Masters Heating & Cooling have the expertise to guide you to the best solution for your home. Schedule an appointment today.