Central AC vs. mini split systems: which is better for your home

When summer rolls around and the heat cranks up, a solid air conditioning system isn’t just a luxury, it can be a necessity. Maybe you’re debating between installing a central air conditioning system or going with a mini split setup. By weighing your options, you can figure out which one aligns best with your home and wallet, minus the headaches.

The info in this article might not match your exact appliance model. We aim to give handy advice for all sorts of DIY appliance repairs, but different models can have unique troubleshooting steps, error codes, parts, and so on. For spot-on guidance, it’s best to check the manufacturer’s documentation for your specific model or reach out to us if you’ve got questions.

Get the lowdown on central AC and mini split systems

Central air conditioning systems use a main cooling unit (usually located outside) that cools down and dehumidifies air before pushing it through ductwork. The cool air flows into every connected room, giving you a consistent indoor climate. 

A mini split system skips the ducts altogether. It uses individual indoor air-handling units connected to an outdoor condenser, cooling specific zones or rooms, often with their own temperature controls.

If you need a consistent indoor climate, central AC is a go-to choice. But if you want flexibility or don’t have space (or the desire) for ducts, mini splits are worth checking out. Each system comes with its own perks, but what’s right for you depends on your home’s layout, how many rooms you need to cool, and how you like to manage temperatures. 

Think about costs

Deciding whether to upgrade or swap out your current AC system often boils down to dollars and cents. Central AC usually costs more upfront, especially if your home doesn’t already have ductwork. The big-ticket items are installing the ducts and upgrading the indoor air handler. But if you’ve already got ducts, the overall costs might be easier on the wallet.

Mini split systems might seem cheaper when you look at the base price, but each indoor air-handling unit adds to the total. So, if you’ve got multiple large rooms to cool, you’ll need multiple units, which can hike up the cost. However, if you’re just cooling one or two areas, or you want to control the temp in specific zones, mini splits can save you money on both installation and those monthly bills.

We suggest looking at both the upfront costs and the long-term running costs. A system that’s cheaper to install might end up costing more over time. On the flip side, a pricier system with cutting-edge tech could pay off with lower energy bills. 

Step-by-step: Plan basic costs

1. Figure out how many rooms or zones need AC.
2. See if your home already has ductwork for a central system.
3. Estimate the capacity (BTUs) needed for your total square footage.
4. List potential equipment costs (central AC or mini split units) and compare them.
5. Think about operational costs like electricity rates and system efficiency (SEER rating).
6. Don’t forget occasional repair and maintenance costs in your budget.

Energy efficiency

Energy efficiency isn’t just good for the planet, it’s good for your wallet. Central AC units generally perform well if they’re properly sized for your home and the duct system is sealed up tight. But duct losses can mess with efficiency, especially if the ducts run through unconditioned spaces like attics or crawlspaces. Regular maintenance, like cleaning coils and swapping out filters, goes a long way toward keeping things efficient.

Mini splits are all about optimizing energy use in specific rooms and usually come with inverter-driven compressors. These compressors adjust their output based on real-time cooling needs, leading to better efficiency and lower energy bills. Zoning control also means you’re not wasting energy cooling rooms you’re not hanging out in. If cutting energy costs and getting targeted comfort are priorities for you, mini splits often hit the mark.

When comparing efficiency, check out the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings and Energy Star certifications. A higher SEER rating means greater efficiency, but remember that proper sizing, correct installation, and regular DIY maintenance are just as crucial.

Installation flexibility

How flexible the installation can be might sway you one way or the other. Central AC requires ductwork, which can be a big job if your home doesn’t already have it. If you’d rather not open up walls or deal with installing ducting, a mini split can be a simpler, less invasive option. The biggest openings for mini splits are small holes in the wall to run refrigerant lines and power cables to each indoor unit.

If your home already has ducts in good shape, central AC might be the straightforward solution. You just swap out the old unit for a new one with the same or slightly bigger capacity, depending on your cooling needs. Keep in mind that older ductwork might need some patching or insulation upgrades to work at its best. Checking out the condition of your ducts beforehand saves you from surprises later. You also get the chance to replace any damaged or leaky sections. If you spot issues during your inspection, our repair help section has steps to tackle common duct problems.

Step-by-step: Evaluate ductwork

1. Head to your basement or attic where the ducts run.
2. Take a visual look for holes, loose tape, or disconnected segments.
3. While the AC is running, feel around joints for air leaks.
4. Mark any problem spots with painter’s tape.
5. Turn off the AC and use foil tape or mastic sealant to seal gaps.
6. Check insulation around ducts in areas outside your living space. Replace or fix it as needed.

Deal with noise levels

Noise can be a big deal, especially if you’re sensitive to sounds or have light sleepers at home. Central AC systems put most of the equipment outside and use a central blower to move air through ducts, which can sometimes create whooshing sounds or vibrations if the ducts are loose. Some folks don’t mind the background hum, especially if their homes are well-built.

Mini split systems usually have quiet, wall-mounted air handlers that don’t make much noise. The indoor units have small fans, but they typically run quieter than a standard central AC blower. If you’ve got a home office or bedrooms where silence is important, the minimal indoor noise can be a big plus. 

Make the most of your choice

At the end of the day, both central AC and mini split systems can keep you cool when set up right. Central AC is great in homes with existing ducts or in bigger, open layouts that benefit from consistent temps. Mini-splits are fantastic if you want zone control, have smaller spaces, or don’t have ductwork. Weighing cost, performance, energy efficiency, and convenience will help you zero in on what works best for your situation.

Pick what’s right for your home

If you’ve got more questions or need detailed parts info, swing by AppliancePartsPros.com for support. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Twitter for more tips and updates. Give us a call or shoot us an email if you’ve got questions about specific parts, replacements, or general troubleshooting. Check out our repair help section for troubleshooting tips, detailed guides, and directions for finding genuine replacement parts.

We’re here to help you keep your home comfy and efficient all year long.

Read more:

Choosing An Air Conditioner: How Many BTUs Do I Need?

Diy Mrcool Units: Do Your Own Heating And Air Conditioning

What is a Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner And How Does it Work?