Many homeowners choose between ductless and central HVAC systems when selecting a new heating and cooling system. A ductless and central HVAC installation each has unique benefits, but the right choice depends on your property’s requirements. Here are some key differences between these two options:
System Design
Central HVAC systems use ducts to deliver heated or cooled air from a central unit throughout the building. Ducts are installed behind walls, above ceilings, and in attics. A single thermostat controls the temperature for the whole property. Vents in each room distribute conditioned air, ensuring a consistent temperature throughout the house.
Ductless mini-split systems use an outdoor condenser connected to one or more indoor air-handling units. Since no ducts are required, ductless systems work well in older buildings without ductwork infrastructure or with asbestos insulation. A single indoor unit serves one room or area with an individual thermostat. This allows for customized temperature zones and may increase energy efficiency. If a room remains unoccupied, the unit can be turned off, reducing utility bills by avoiding cooling or heating unused spaces.
Energy Efficiency
Leaky, damaged, or uninsulated ductwork can lead to heat exchange and reduced energy efficiency. Central HVAC systems work harder to replace lost conditioned air. This can drive up energy usage and utility bills. For optimal efficiency, ducts should be inspected, sealed, and insulated. Ductless units deliver air directly into a room, avoiding duct-related energy losses. Many ductless systems have inverter-driven compressors, variable-speed fans, and advanced controls. These features help reduce energy consumption.
Installation Needs
To run new ductwork, open spaces in walls, ceilings, and attics are needed. This raises labor and material costs when installing central HVAC systems. A ductless HVAC installation requires only a tiny hole in the wall to connect the indoor and outdoor units. Small refrigerant pipes are installed through walls or ceilings. Tenants can continue using their spaces while technicians work, making ductless systems well-suited for retrofitting older buildings or adding climate control to new home additions.
Heating and Cooling Methods
Central HVAC units distribute cooled air through duct systems. Air flows over evaporator coils inside the ductwork where refrigerant circulates. The refrigerant absorbs heat and is returned to the outdoor condenser to be compressed and cooled before the cycle repeats. A central unit’s evaporator coils, compressors, and fans provide complete climate control.
In ductless systems, refrigerant lines travel through pipes to the indoor units’ evaporator coils. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the rooms and returns to the outdoor condenser, where the heat is exhausted outdoors. This zoned heating and cooling method achieves the desired temperature for each room.
Noise Levels
Central systems have motors, fans, and compressors within the leading indoor air handler unit. This consolidated operation generates some noise that can be audible inside homes. For ductless systems, the noisy outdoor condenser is several feet from the home’s exterior wall. Only the evaporator coil and fan activity occur inside the room’s air handler unit. This decentralized function helps keep operational noise low.
Maintenance Demands
Technicians access central HVAC units to replace air filters, clean coils, inspect parts, and perform furnace repair. They also remount, insulate, and seal ducts as needed. Most system faults or equipment issues manifest in the central unit, so routine maintenance to maximize performance and longevity requires only attention to the central HVAC system. Ductless systems rely on outdoor condensers and multiple indoor air handling units. Tasks like coil cleanings may be done room by room rather than all at one access point.
Book a Reliable HVAC Installation Today
Central HVAC systems work well in buildings with existing ductwork, open floor plans with one shared temperature zone, and spaces that may not support multiple indoor air-handling units. Ductless systems, with their zoning capabilities and energy efficiency, are a preferred option for renovations and upgrades. Evaluate your property’s infrastructure to determine if a ductless or central system best suits your climate control requirements. Schedule a professional HVAC installation assessment today.
