Figuring out the best home cooling system for your home in Monterey, CA, or a surrounding area in our great state can be challenging. You’ve probably heard about mini-split systems, also known as ductless systems. You may also be familiar with traditional central air conditioning.
Choosing between a mini-split and central air isn’t always straightforward, as it affects both your long-term comfort and budget. If you’re planning for a new AC installation, it’s not about which system is better overall but which one suits your home and needs. In some cases, a combination of both may offer the best solution. Read on to learn what you need to know about each option.
What Is a Mini-Split?
Mini-splits have gained significant popularity. These systems consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units. These indoor units, often referred to as heads, are typically installed directly on walls or ceilings to deliver conditioned air to a separate room or living space.
The Good Things About Mini-Splits
So, what’s so good about mini-splits? These ductless systems offer some great benefits, making them a strong contender against other air conditioning systems.
A major selling point for any mini-split air conditioner is its high efficiency. These systems utilize advanced technology, such as inverters, to consume very little electricity. This means some mini-split units can have Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings over 30, which is fantastic for cooling.
This level of efficiency is achieved because the inverter technology enables the compressor to adjust its speed smoothly rather than switching on and off abruptly. This means the unit consumes only the energy necessary to maintain the desired temperature, reducing waste and wear on the system components.
Many mini-splits function as a split heat pump, making them equally adept for heating. Their variable-speed compressors enable them to operate at only the necessary level, unlike many central air units that simply cycle on or off. This split air technology contributes significantly to their energy efficiency and can help save money on utility bills.
Built-in zone control is another significant advantage of a mini-split system. You often see ductless systems in specific spaces. Examples include garages, sunrooms, or finished basements where running ductwork would be difficult.
If you have a multi-zone mini-split system with several split indoor units, one can be on while another is off. This gives you amazing control over different rooms. If one room is always too hot or cold, a mini-split can address that issue, ensuring you won’t waste energy cooling or heating rooms that are not in use.
The absence of ductwork, which means less fuss, is a key benefit. Ductwork is useful for traditional central air systems, but it can also present challenges. Cleaning, maintenance, and modifications for new systems require time and money.
Many homes, especially older ones or those built on slabs, lack existing ductwork, meaning that new ductwork needed for central air conditioning would be a significant project. Installing ducts can also be expensive. In these situations, a ductless system is an excellent alternative.
Possible Downsides of Mini-Splits
Although they offer many benefits, there are a few key disadvantages to keep in mind before choosing mini-splits.
One potential downside relates to air filtration limits. Mini-splits do have filters, but they aren’t typically as robust as filters found in central ducted systems.
Consequently, they might not capture as much dust or allergens, which can affect indoor air quality. You can purchase carbon inserts for certain models, which help mitigate odors but require regular replacement. While some systems can accommodate air purifiers, their addition is often limited by the system’s design.
The aesthetics of the connecting lines can be a concern for some. A conduit containing refrigerant lines, electrical wiring, and a condensate drain connects the indoor and outdoor units, requiring only a small hole to be drilled through the wall. If indoor units are positioned in less conventional spots, these lines might be visible running down your home’s exterior.
Some find this unappealing from an aesthetic standpoint. Thankfully, there’s a fix called a “line hide.” It covers the line and can be painted to match your house, but not all installers offer this option, so it’s a good idea to ask.
Condensate drainage must also be considered. Mini-splits pull moisture from the air as they cool. This water usually drains outside using gravity via a drain line. However, if the indoor unit is in a challenging location, such as a basement or an interior wall far from an exterior exit, gravity may not be effective. Then, you need a condensate pump to remove the water. These pumps can increase the cost, generate noise, and require regular maintenance.
Like all HVAC equipment, mini-splits have specific upkeep needs. Their filters need frequent cleaning, potentially every few weeks, if used consistently throughout the year. Many people forget this critical step. This neglect leads to lower efficiency and can eventually damage the unit over time.
A notable consideration is the higher up-front cost often associated with mini-splits. Mini-splits boast high energy efficiency, resulting in lower energy bills. However, the up-front cost for purchase and installation is often higher than for central air, especially if you already have ductwork.
This might seem counterintuitive, given their smaller size compared to central units. However, comparing the area they cool, the initial cost is typically higher. While the per-unit cost might be higher, if you only need to cool one or two specific areas, the total project cost for a single-zone mini-split might still be competitive.
However, for a multi-zone mini-split system designed to cool an entire house, the total investment can exceed that of a new central air unit, especially if ductwork is already in place for the latter. If your home needs ductwork installed for central air, however, the costs might be similar as ductwork installation alone for a traditional ducted system can be very pricey.
Exploring Central Air Systems
Central air conditioning, often referred to as central AC, is the system with which many are familiar. It employs an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. These components collaborate, distributing conditioned air via ductwork to every room.
Why Central Air Is Still Popular
Central systems have been the standard for a long time, keeping them competitive against newer technologies.
A primary advantage of central air, if ductwork exists, is often a lower initial price tag. If your home already has existing ductwork in good condition, installing a new central air system is typically less expensive than a complete ductless system. This cost advantage for central air conditioning is most apparent when replacing an old central unit, where all the ductwork is compatible and in good condition.
Even high-efficiency central air conditioning systems can achieve respectable SEER ratings, approaching 20. Therefore, the energy efficiency gap isn’t always enormous, depending on the specific units chosen. If extensive duct modifications or new installations are required for a central air setup, the cost can escalate.
Central air systems are particularly effective for larger homes. They’re designed to cool or heat large spaces uniformly. While mini-splits can feature multiple heads for multi-zone coverage, a central system is often more effective for comprehensive whole-home climate control.
Achieving consistent comfort throughout a home is usually simpler with traditional ducted systems. These systems are designed to handle larger volumes of air and distribute it effectively throughout multiple rooms simultaneously.
Central systems work well with various air quality improvement gear. The filter options for central air are much more diverse than for a typical mini-split. Additionally, many air quality products, such as whole-home humidifiers, dehumidifiers, and advanced air purifiers, can easily connect to ducted systems.
These can significantly improve your home’s indoor air quality. For instance, a whole-home dehumidifier can lessen the workload on your AC.
The market offers a wider range of system choices for central air. This means more brands, models, and specific features to choose from.
Things To Consider With Central Air
Of course, central systems also have aspects that may not be ideal for everyone when compared to alternatives such as window units or mini-splits.
One consideration for central air is the potential for higher utility bills compared to efficiently zoned mini-splits. If a mini-split’s zone control helps save money, then heating or cooling your entire house with a central system when only certain areas are occupied can lead to higher utility bills.
A new, efficient central AC will reduce bills compared to an older unit. However, when compared directly with a mini-split, it might not offer the same monthly savings if you can effectively use zoning. Cooling or heating unused spaces is a common source of energy waste with central systems.
Ductwork maintenance is an ongoing responsibility for central air systems. Fixing or changing ductwork can be costly. Regular cleaning and checks are important, and this can be an extra expense not always factored into the initial purchase.
Leaky or poorly insulated ducts can reduce efficiency by up to 30%, negating some of the benefits of a high-efficiency unit. Professional duct sealing and cleaning are periodic expenses that homeowners with central air systems should anticipate. Basic maintenance plans typically cover the equipment rather than major duct modifications.
Central air can have temperature and zone limitations, especially with basic models. Many standard central air conditioners and furnaces operate on a simple on-and-off cycle, while others offer two-speed settings. High-end variable-speed central systems operate similarly to mini-splits, offering excellent temperature modulation and enhanced comfort control.
These advanced air systems include options that can rival the precision of some ductless models. But your budget might lead you to a single or two-speed system. These are still significantly better than old units, but they lack the fine-tuned room-by-room control of mini-splits. If your family uses every room all the time, this might not be an issue.
The Big Question: Mini-Split vs. Central Air for Your Home
So, you’re weighing the pros and cons in the mini-split versus central air debate. There is no single answer that fits everyone. What’s best for your neighbor might not be best for your specific living area or needs.
It all comes down to your home, your family’s needs, and your budget. Think about your house’s size and current ductwork situation. Do you have problem rooms that are never comfortable? Are you planning an addition?
Your answers will point you in the right direction. For instance, if you have an older home without ductwork and adding it would be a substantial project, mini-split air conditioner units could be a perfect solution. Perhaps you’ve previously relied on window units for cooling a separate room and are looking for a more integrated and efficient upgrade.
If you have a large home with existing, good ductwork and want whole-house consistent temperature, central air systems might be more straightforward and cost-effective for the initial up-front cost.
Here’s a final comparison of the two systems:
| Feature | Mini-Split Systems | Central Air Systems |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | No ductwork needed, flexible placement requiring only a small hole. Ideal for homes where ductwork is impractical. | Requires existing ductwork or new installation, which can be invasive and costly. |
| Up-front Cost | Generally higher per zone/unit for ductless air conditioner models. Can be competitive for a single zone. | Lower if good existing ductwork is present. Higher if ductwork is needed. |
| Energy Efficiency | Very high, excellent SEER ratings. Zone control helps save money by cooling and heating only occupied areas. | Good, but potential energy loss through ducts. Whole-home operation can be less efficient than targeted zoning. |
| Zone Control | Excellent, room-by-room temperature control with multi-zone mini-split systems. | Limited, typically whole-home or larger zones. Some advanced systems offer better zoning. |
| Air Filtration | Basic filters in indoor units. Options for better filtration are limited compared to central. | Can integrate advanced whole-home filters, purifiers, and humidifiers for better indoor air quality. |
| Aesthetics | Visible indoor units (wall, ceiling, or floor mounted) and exterior line sets (can be covered). | Mostly hidden. Air delivered through discreet vents and grilles. Outdoor unit is visible. |
| Best For | Additions, specific problem rooms, homes without existing ductwork, achieving high energy efficiency and precise comfort control. | Whole-home cooling and heating in homes with existing, sound ductwork. Often a more budget-friendly initial choice in such cases. |
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the different types of mini-split systems versus central air conditioning depends on several factors, including the size of your living area and your budget. Hopefully, you now have a clearer idea of what might work for you. Sometimes, the answer is even both.
A traditional ducted central system could handle most of your house, while a split air conditioner takes care of a tricky room or a new garage apartment. Such mini-split systems offer flexibility where central systems might be impractical or inefficient for a single separate room.
Conduct thorough research, consult with trusted HVAC professionals, and consider your long-term comfort and energy efficiency objectives. This thoughtful approach will help you make a smart investment in your home’s heating and cooling systems.