If you’re looking to replace your current air conditioning system, ductless air conditioning might be the best option for your home. While ductless systems are more expensive up front, they are less prone to leakage, which is a downside of central AC. Plus, ductless systems are often more energy-efficient than central air. Adding central air to your home can boost its value by 10%.
Whether you opt for ductless or central air conditioning depends on your needs and preferences. For example, ductless air conditioning requires a professional load calculation, making it difficult to determine which type is right for you. Central air conditioning needs you to clean the air ducts and upkeep the unit every year. Ductless systems require a single furnace and can only cool certain rooms. If you live in a cold climate, you’ll need a separate furnace, which can be costly.
One of the main differences between a ductless and a central air conditioning system is energy efficiency. While effective air conditioning systems adjust the temperature throughout the house, ductless systems can be programmed to regulate different rooms. In addition, if you have several rooms with varying temperatures, you can even turn off the airflow in unused rooms, resulting in significant energy savings. If energy efficiency is your top concern, a ductless system may be the answer.
One significant benefit of ductless air conditioning is its simplicity. Installation is more straightforward than central AC and typically involves mounting indoor units and mounting them on walls. In addition, it requires only one hole in the wall to connect the air conditioning system to the refrigerant line. The ductless system also doesn’t take up much space, making it an excellent option for new additions to a home.
Cost is another factor to consider when deciding which is better: a ductless system is cheaper than a central air conditioning system. The initial cost of a central air system is significantly higher than that of a ductless system, and the US Department of Energy estimates that it will cost you 30% less over time. Additionally, ductless mini-splits often require less maintenance and repair than central air conditioning systems.
A central air conditioning system installation is more complicated if you have a home that does not have any existing ductwork. Ductwork can require tearing down portions of the walls or repairing damaged areas. In some homes, custom-made ductwork is needed. Not to mention, this takes up valuable space. If you can’t afford to remove your existing ductwork, a ductless system is a better choice.
Ductless air conditioning is quieter, and the central unit can be located in an attic or basement. But if you want the lowest noise levels, ductless units may be the way to go. A central air conditioner will service most of your home, while a mini-split unit will serve more of the rooms. It is also more energy-efficient, so you can use a ductless system to cool particular rooms of your home.
