Central Air Conditioning versus Ductless Split Air Conditioning System

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November 13, 2017
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Central Air Conditioning versus Ductless Split Air Conditioning System

Central Air Conditioning versus Ductless Split Air Conditioning SystemAs the summer begins to heat up, a cool and air conditioned home is one of the best escapes from the heat!  If you are tired of your loud, inefficient and energy absorbing window units, it may be time to consider another option for air conditioning in your home.

Thinking past the outdated and energy guzzling portable window units, the main two options for effective cooling systems in your home are central air conditioning and a ductless split air conditioning system.   While both of these systems are very effective at cooling your entire home, they are some substantial differences that you should know about between these two cooling systems.

While most people know what a central air conditioning unit is, many are unfamiliar with a ductless split system.  Let’s start by reviewing what each system does and how it works.

A central air conditioning system treats air at a central location and then distributes it to and from rooms through fans, vents and a series of ducts. Supply ducts and registers carry the cool air from the air conditioner to the home.  As the air becomes warmer as it circulates through the home, it then flows back to the central air conditioner through return ducts and registers to be cooled and recirculated throughout the home again.

A ductless split system has two main components: an outdoor compressor and an indoor air-handling unit. A conduit links the outdoor unit with the indoor unit. It does not require ductwork, making it a more convenient cooling option for older buildings or homes with thick walls. It works to keep a room temperature at a constant temperature, unlike an air conditioning unit that goes on and off throughout the day. According to HGTV.com, some systems can even double as heating systems, and in the colder months the system works in reverse by absorbing heat from the outside air and moving it indoors to heat your home as well.

The main differences between the ductless mini-split system and a central air conditioning system include the price, amount of maintenance required, and the overall aesthetic look of each system. Ductless mini-split units can be more expensive and are not the most attractive, but they require little to no maintenance. However, central air conditioning systems are less expensive and virtually invisible, but they do require annual maintenance.

Both systems can effectively cool your home during warm weather, but each system has advantages and disadvantages that homeowners should take into consideration when deciding on a cooling system for their home. The following is a breakdown of the pros and cons of each system:

Ductless Split Air Conditioning System:

Advantages

  • Small sized units and flexible installation
  • Easy to install
  • No ductwork required
  • Energy efficient

Disadvantages

  • Expensive to purchase and install
  • Sizing of units may not be appropriate for all rooms
  • Units may look unattractive indoors

 

Central Air Conditioning System:

Advantages

  • Virtually invisible
  • Easy to install (with existing ductwork)
  • Energy efficient
  • Improves value of home

Disadvantages

  • Cost of system can be moderately high
  • Unit requires annual maintenance
  • Air ducts require cleaning every three to five years

 

Whatever system you decide on, the professionals at Excellent Air Conditioning and Heating Services Inc. can assist you with choosing and installing the perfect cooling system for your home.  Contact us today at 516-248-2795, 631-427-0677 or 718-428-6987.

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