Whether summer is around the corner or already blazing, you might be looking for ways to beat the heat! When it comes to keeping your home cool, there are a few different options such as central air and ductless mini-splits. Choosing the right cooling system for your home can be a daunting task. Which system is better? Both central air and ductless mini-splits have their own advantages and disadvantages and the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs. In this post, we’re going to discuss both types of air conditioners and the pros and cons for each.
What Is Central Air?
A central air conditioning system uses your home’s duct system to distribute cool air throughout the space and will include an outdoor condenser and an indoor unit. A central air system works by circulating refrigerant between the two – absorbing heat and humidity from the indoor air and releasing it outside while distributing cool air throughout your home using the same ductwork and registers that your furnace uses for heat in the colder months.
Pros
Initial Cost – Assuming your home already has ductwork, it will cost less to install a central air AC system.
Will Cool Your Entire Home – When you lower your thermostat, your central air system works to cool your entire home. This makes it a good option for large houses or homes where every room is currently used.
Indoor Air Quality – Central air is better at filtering harmful particles out of the air than a ductless system.
Improves the Value of Your Home – A central air conditioning system is virtually invisible and will improve the value of your home.
Cons
Cost of Ductwork Installation – If you live in a home without a current duct system, the cost of installation can be quite significant
Maintenance – In general, a central air system may cost more to maintain, including cleaning your air ducts every few years and annual maintenance of the unit itself.
What is a Ductless Mini-Split?
Ductless mini-splits also utilize an indoor and an outdoor unit that works similarly to central air. This ductless AC system is termed “mini-split” because it consists of two smaller units, one that is mounted inside the room you’d like to cool and one that is placed on an exterior wall. Whereas central air includes one indoor unit for the entire home, a ductless system will require an indoor unit in each room that needs cooling. Each indoor unit contains a small fan that pushes the cool air directly into the space.
Pros
More Zone Control – If you have certain areas of your home that aren’t used or have family members who prefer different temperatures, it is easy to control the temperatures of individual rooms with a ductless system.
Energy Efficient – In general, ductless mini-split AC systems are more energy efficient than central air and will likely cost less to run, offsetting some of the initial cost.
Cons
Initial Cost – A ductless mini-split will be expensive to install initially, especially if you’re planning to add several indoor units to your home.
Aesthetics – Depending on your personal preference, some owners would prefer an invisible system as opposed to a wall-mounted unit.
When it comes to choosing the right air conditioning system for your home, the right choice will vary depending on your needs. If you’re still unsure or have more questions about central air or ductless mini-split air conditioning systems, don’t hesitate to ask for a professional opinion. Going over your options will ensure you stay cool all summer long!
Greetings, I’m Dallas. I’m a small business owner living in Winnipeg, MB, Canada and operate Lynn’s HVAC Winnipeg: Heating Cooling Sewer & Drain.
Lynn’s HVAC Winnipeg plumbing, heating, cooling is a small family owned and operated business since 1980. We pride ourselves on quality work completed by licensed technicians. We believe our outstanding customer service sets us apart from other Winnipeg residential plumbing, heating and cooling companies. Experience the difference and be a part of the Lynn’s family! “We provide comfort at your door!”
Services we provide:
– HVAC repair
– AC repair & install
– Furnace repair & install
– Hot water tanks
– water heaters
– clogged drains & sewage
– plumbing
Areas we serve:
Winnipeg
Oakbank
Beausejour
La Salle
Ile Des Chênes
Stonewall
Niverville
Gimli
Ste. Francois Xavier
Landmark
Selkirk
Steinbach
Stony Mountain
Winnipeg Beach
Lorette
& More!
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Air Conditioner Repair Winnipeg
