Cool Your Home Right: A Guide To AC Units
Different buildings require different types of HVAC equipment. If you’re considering replacing your current AC and heating setups, you’re probably wondering whether ductless or central air is the best for you.
What’s The Difference Between Ductless and Central?
If you’re not familiar with ductless air conditioning, we’ll explain: ductless AC units have no air ducts. A ductless system is similar to the traditional central unit in that it utilizes a condenser located outside the house and an air handler situated inside. But ductless systems cool single areas rather than using ducts to distribute cool air throughout the home.
Having a small, easy-to-install air conditioning system is a huge benefit to some homeowners, which is why mini-split units are growing in popularity. But there are still some instances in which it might make more sense to choose the traditional central HVAC system. Here are some factors you’ll need to look out for when you’re considering your next air conditioning system.
Ductless AC (Mini-Split) Units
- Installation ease — Effortless to install, as they don’t require ductwork, resulting in less mess and a faster process. Perfect for homes without existing ducts or new additions.
- Energy efficiency & zoning — Highly efficient due to no energy loss through ducts. They offer individual room control (zoning), allowing you to cool only the spaces you’re actively using.
- Aesthetics — The indoor air handler units are mounted on walls or ceilings and are visible, which some homeowners find less appealing.
- Upfront cost — This can be more expensive upfront, especially if you require multiple indoor units (heads) for whole-home cooling.
- Air quality — They generally have simpler air filtration than full central systems.
Central Air Conditioning
- Whole-home cooling — Designed to provide consistent, uniform cooling throughout your entire house using a network of ducts.
- Aesthetics — Equipment is largely hidden (ductwork in walls/ceilings, central unit outside), making it virtually invisible inside.
- Installation & ducts — Cost-effective to install if your home already has existing, functional ductwork. Installing new ductwork in an old house can be expensive and disruptive.
- Energy efficiency & zoning — Less efficient if ducts are leaky or uninsulated (can lose up to 30% of energy). It typically offers limited or no room-by-room zoning control.
- Air quality — Often includes more robust filtration systems to clean the air distributed through the ducts.
Compare Ductless & HVAC: Main Components Expanded
Ductwork Or No Ductwork?
When picking the type of air conditioning system you’ll use, this is one of the biggest factors to keep in mind.
Many homes in Texas already have ductwork installed. If this is the situation you’re in, the most cost-effective solution is likely a traditional central air conditioning unit. Many newer homes already have ductwork in place, so if you’re purchasing a modern residence, it may be best to use a traditional HVAC system. This will allow you to maximize what you currently have instead of working around it or paying a hefty fee to get rid of it.
However, the older the residence is, the less likely it is that ductwork will already be installed. If you’re considering purchasing a home that doesn’t currently have any ducts in place, a ductless air conditioner is a great choice for you. While they still require the attention of a professional HVAC technician, these systems are smaller and easier to set up than central air conditioning units. Instead of worrying about the installation of ductwork followed by a new central cooling system, you’ll be able to bypass this problem in favor of a simple mounting process.
Living in a home without pre-existing ductwork makes a mini-split system a great option. This system will also make it easier for you to maintain your indoor air quality. Because there aren’t any ducts that need to be inspected, cleaned and maintained, this means you won’t have to worry about a buildup of dust and contaminants circulating around your house.
The Look Of Your AC Matters
Depending on the layout and decor of your home, you may not want to have any sort of HVAC material in plain sight. If you’re trying to make your air conditioner as inconspicuous as possible, then a central air conditioner is right up your alley because ductless systems must be mounted on a wall in your home. While they have a sleek aesthetic and offer some creative ways to style them with your existing interior, the unit will be in sight. If your home is larger, you’ll also likely need more than one unit.
Central air conditioning systems rely on outdoor compressors and condensers, and the parts of the system that are indoors are out of sight. Installing this type of HVAC unit means you won’t have to worry about the appliance getting in the way of your interior decor.
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Zone Cooling Technology
Central air conditioning units circulate cool and hot air throughout your house. Because of this, your energy bills may end up being a bit more expensive than you’d like. Some people see this added exertion as a waste if they’re living in a home that contains multiple rooms they don’t spend much time in, like guest rooms and bathrooms. If you want to experience zoning cooling and channel your air to specific areas of your residence, a ductless cooling system is exactly what you’re looking for.
This is one of the best benefits of the ductless AC system. Ductless AC units have the ability to utilize and harness zoning cooling, a method of pinpointing the areas of your home you want to heat or cool. In many instances, we only want to focus on the rooms we use the most, such as our bedrooms and bathrooms. This also prevents the thermostat wars that wage when one family member prefers different temperatures from another.
Cost Differences Between AC Units
If you’re only looking at the initial installation, mini-split systems appear to be more expensive than central air conditioning units. However, a mini-split unit can actually save you money in the long term by consistently delivering lower energy bills than a central system.
The best ductless units are incredibly energy-efficient and easily surpass their central counterparts. The top mini-split air conditioners generally max out at 27 SEER, while central systems are capped at 21 SEER.
AC Unit Maintenance Breakdown
In most cases, a ductless air conditioner will be easier to maintain. This is because you won’t have to worry about duct leaks occurring and paying for expensive air conditioning parts and supplies. Newer central air conditioning systems are more durable and easier to fix when issues occur, but they still don’t compare to the longevity and simplicity of mini-split systems.
Need More Advice? Mission AC & Plumbing Can Help
Picking the right air conditioner for your home is important. As a homeowner, you definitely want to maximize efficiency and comfort while staying within your budget.
As a licensed company, Mission AC & Plumbing has the experience you need to help you make the right choice for your unique needs. Our expert technicians can evaluate your home and ensure we recommend the best product for you.
Contact us today for more information about ductless and central AC installations.
