Central A/C vs. Ductless Mini-Split A/C: What’s the Difference?
With the summer heat just around the corner, it’s no surprise that NY and VT homeowners are looking into their cooling system options. If you’ve been shopping around for a new system, then you’ll know the two main cooling options out there: central and ductless. The team at Bove Fuels wants you to make the most informed decision possible and offer resources to better understand your cooling installation options. Keep reading to learn more about central versus ductless A/C:
Which is Better: Central Air or Ductless?
The question isn’t which system is better as a whole, it’s which system is a better fit for your home and circumstances. First, it’s important to learn the difference between these two systems. Central air uses ductwork to cool air through a single unit in a home while ductless mini-splits use an outdoor compressor, one or more wall-mounted interior units, and no ductwork. Both offer unique benefits that may or may not meet your particular cooling needs:
Central A/C Advantages
Whole Home Cooling: A central A/C system will provide consistent cooling throughout the entirety of your home, which means you never have to worry about certain areas or rooms in your home not receiving the proper cooling.
Minimal Noise: Because central A/C utilizes the existing ductwork in your home, it operates very quietly. In fact, many people don’t realize their central A/C is running at all!
Improved Indoor Air Quality: Thanks to central A/C’s filtration system, you can experience improved indoor air quality. Systems help filter out pollutants like dust and dander, as well as help maintain the proper humidity levels in your home for a safe living environment.
Ductless Mini-Split Advantages
Zoned Cooling: Because ductless mini-split systems require individual indoor units placed in one or multiple rooms, you can zone cool specific areas or rooms within your home. Ductless A/C is often considered slightly more efficient than central air because of this unique zoning feature.
Supplementary Heat Function: Many ductless mini-split systems include heating functions, which means you can use your mini-split throughout the year as opposed to only using it in the warmer months.
Easy Install (No Ductwork): A ductless mini-split system is exactly that: ductless. Additionally, mini-splits are relatively compact, which means installation is extremely simple and can be placed in almost any room.
Central A/C vs. Mini-Split Cost
Central A/C and ductless mini-splits can vary in cost based on your home’s size and the complexity of the installation. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, both systems offer high-efficiency models that may qualify for local or federal rebates, helping to reduce upfront expenses. Over time, these energy-efficient systems will also lead to noticeable savings on your utility bills.
Contact Bove Fuels for Your Next A/C Installation
Still unsure which A/C system is the best option for your home? Bove Fuels can help. Our team of experts will be happy to discuss the details and walk through the installation process with you! Contact our team or request a quote today!