Central Air Vs Ductless Mini Split: What’s Right for Your Home?

When it comes to cooling your home, you have two main options: a central air duct system or a ductless mini split. Both have their pros and cons, and choosing the right one for your home depends on a number of factors. In this article, we’ll break down the differences between central air ducts and ductless mini splits to help you decide which one is right for your home.

For your next air conditioning installation in Philadelphia, PA, it’s important to know what options are out there. Let’s talk about which option makes the most sense for you with a list of pros and cons.

Central Air Conditioning Systems

As the most common type of home air conditioning, you probably already have this in your home. Air is sent through an outdoor cabinet and into the ducts of your home, then to your vents. Let’s talk about what you can expect from these systems.

Central AC Pros

• Even cooling across your home. Air is distributed throughout your home with the use of ductwork and vents, so you enjoy comfort throughout.
• Cost-effective solution: As the most common type of air conditioning, it’s a pretty standard upfront cost to get started with central AC.
• Good longevity. Ductwork doesn’t require constant maintenance and these air conditioners can last for 10-15 years.

Central AC Cons

• Eventual duct maintenance is a pain. Because ductwork is in your ceiling and attic, it’s hard to pinpoint and fix problems when they occur.
• Insulation is expensive. The cost of insulating your air ducts can be pricey at first, though this doesn’t need to be updated for a long time after.
• Prone to leaks. When your ductwork leaks, you lose energy efficiency fast.

Ductless Mini Split Systems

Ductless mini splits are wall-mounted units that can be used to heat and cool your entire home and replace central air conditioning. You can install multiple split heads in different rooms for better zone control. Let’s talk about what they bring to the table.

Ductless Mini Split Pros

• Highly energy efficient. Ductless mini splits are highly energy efficient compared to central ACs.
• Installation is simple. Don’t like lengthy installation times? Neither do we. These are quicker to install than ductwork.
• Zone control. Do you want to control your bedroom temperature and make it different from the living room temperature? You’ve got it.

Ductless Mini Split Cons

• Upfront cost. It’s not exactly cheap to go this route, and there’s a bit of sticker shock involved with it.
• Reduced room aesthetics. Having these wall-mounted units can look a little out of place. Central AC at least hides in plain sight.

Ductless Might be Right for You

There’s a reason that a lot of your neighbors are making the switch to ductless mini splits. Take the time to weigh the pros and cons and see why central air conditioning might be better left in the past. Whatever you choose, we’ll be happy to install it for you.

Contact Synergy 3 today to schedule your air conditioner installation, whether it’s central AC or a ductless mini split. Let’s get you set up as soon as possible.