Choosing between a mini-split system and central air conditioning? You’re not alone. With more homeowners upgrading or replacing their HVAC systems, the debate over ductless vs. ducted continues to heat up. Whether you're renovating an older home or building something new, the best system for you depends on your layout, comfort preferences, and long-term goals.
Let’s break down the key differences between mini-splits and central AC to help you make an informed decision.
What’s the Difference?
Central AC systems cool your entire home using one large unit and a network of ducts hidden in your walls, floors, or ceilings. Air is distributed through vents in each room. Mini-splits, also known as ductless systems, consist of one or more indoor units connected to an outdoor compressor, with each indoor unit cooling a specific zone.
The biggest difference? Mini-splits don’t require ductwork—making them a great option for homes where ducts don’t exist or are tough to retrofit.
Upfront Cost: What to Expect
If your home already has ductwork in place, installing central AC is usually cheaper than a multi-zone mini-split system. But for older homes without ducts—especially those built before central air became standard—adding ductwork is both invasive and expensive. It often means tearing into walls, ceilings, or crawlspaces, and the labor costs alone can rival the cost of the HVAC equipment.
In contrast, ductless systems can be installed with minimal disruption. While mini-splits may cost more upfront per zone, they can save thousands in remodeling costs and labor. DIY-friendly models also help reduce installation expenses.
Can mini-splits replace central air?
Yes—especially in homes that never had ducts or in spaces where cooling needs vary by room.
Energy Efficiency: Where Mini-Splits Shine
Mini-splits are known for their efficiency. Thanks to inverter technology and zoned temperature control, they only cool the areas you're using. Central AC systems, on the other hand, cool the entire home—even if you only need one room chilled.
This efficiency makes mini-splits a great choice if you're looking to reduce your energy bills. In fact, mini-splits typically use less electricity than central AC.
Which is more energy efficient—mini split or AC?
Mini-splits usually come out ahead, especially when used to condition specific zones or replace inefficient older systems.
Maintenance and Lifespan
Both systems require regular maintenance—filter cleaning, coil inspections, and annual checkups. But because mini-splits don't rely on ducts, you avoid issues like leaky ductwork, which can reduce system efficiency by up to 30%.
Mini-splits also have fewer moving parts in many cases, which can lead to lower long-term maintenance costs. However, multi-zone setups can get more complex if problems arise.
Comfort and Control
Mini-splits offer true zoned comfort, allowing you to set different temperatures in different rooms. Central air provides even cooling throughout the home, which works great if your house is well-insulated and you want a consistent temperature everywhere.
Are mini-splits better than central AC?
They can be—especially if your home has inconsistent hot or cold spots or if you want more control over individual room temperatures.
Aesthetics and Noise
Some people dislike the look of wall-mounted mini-split units, while others appreciate their sleek design and quiet operation. Central AC has the aesthetic advantage of hidden components, with only vents visible inside the home.
In terms of sound, mini-split indoor units are often quieter than the air handlers used in central systems. Outdoor compressors are similarly quiet for both.
What’s Right for You?
Choose Central AC if:
- Your home already has ductwork in good condition
- You prefer a single temperature throughout your house
- You’re looking for a lower upfront cost in ducted homes
Choose a Mini-Split if:
- Your home lacks ducts or has hard-to-condition spaces
- You want room-by-room temperature control
- You’re upgrading a garage, attic, or addition
- Energy efficiency is a top priority
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to cooling your home. But understanding how mini-splits and central AC stack up—and how they fit your home’s structure—can help you make the right call. And if your older home doesn’t have ductwork, a mini-split may be the more cost-effective, efficient, and less disruptive choice.
Ready to explore your options?