Mini Split vs. Central Air: Which Should You Choose For Your Raleigh Home?

Keeping your home cool and comfortable during the summer months is essential. But for homeowners faced with the decision of installing a new air conditioning system, two main options emerge: central air conditioning and ductless mini-split systems. While both systems cool your home, they have distinct advantages and disadvantages that can significantly impact your decision. This guide will explore the key factors to consider when choosing between mini-split and central air conditioning systems for your home.

Central Air Conditioning Systems:

• Function: Central air conditioning systems utilize a network of ducts to distribute cool air throughout your entire home. A central air handler unit, typically located in the basement or crawlspace, houses the evaporator coil that cools the air. A fan circulates this cool air through the ducts, which connect to vents in each room. The cooled air is released into the living space, while warm air returns to the central unit through return vents for re-cooling. An outdoor condenser unit expels heat extracted from the air.
• Advantages:
  • Cost-effective for existing ductwork: If your home already has existing ductwork, installing central air conditioning is generally a more cost-effective solution compared to mini-split systems for whole-home cooling.
  • Whole-home comfort: Central air conditioning provides consistent cooling throughout your entire home, eliminating temperature fluctuations between rooms.
  • Improved air quality: Central air systems can integrate air filtration systems to improve indoor air quality by removing dust, allergens, and other airborne particles.
• Disadvantages:
  • Installation cost for new ductwork: For homes without existing ductwork, installing central air conditioning can be a disruptive and expensive undertaking. The process often involves installing ductwork throughout your walls and ceilings, impacting your home’s aesthetics and potentially causing damage during installation.
  • Uneven cooling: Duct leaks and poorly designed duct systems can lead to uneven cooling throughout your home, with some rooms receiving more cool air than others.
  • Energy efficiency: Central air systems can lose conditioned air through leaky ducts, reducing efficiency and increasing energy costs.

Ductless Mini-Split Systems:

• Function: Ductless mini-split systems consist of two main components: an outdoor compressor/condenser unit and one or more indoor air handling units (fan coil units) mounted on the walls in each room you want to cool. These indoor units connect to the outdoor unit through a small conduit containing refrigerant lines, power cables, and condensate drain lines. The mini-split system cools the air within each room independently, offering precise temperature control in designated zones.
• Advantages:
  • Flexibility and ease of installation: Mini-split systems are ideal for homes without existing ductwork or for cooling specific areas. Installation requires minimal disruption, as only a small conduit needs to be routed between the indoor and outdoor units. This makes them suitable for older homes, additions, and spaces with challenging layouts.
  • Targeted comfort: Mini-split systems offer zoned cooling, allowing you to cool only the rooms you’re using and avoid wasting energy conditioning unused spaces.
  • High efficiency: Mini-split systems typically boast higher efficiency ratings compared to central air conditioning systems. This translates to lower energy bills and reduced environmental impact.
• Disadvantages:
  • Higher upfront cost: Installing mini-split systems for whole-home cooling can be more expensive upfront compared to central air conditioning, especially if you require multiple indoor units.
  • Limited air filtration: While some mini-split systems offer basic air filtration, they may not be as effective as central air systems with integrated filtration capabilities.
  • Multiple indoor units: Cooling a large home with mini-split systems may require multiple indoor units mounted on the walls, which some homeowners might find aesthetically displeasing.

Choosing the Right System for Your Raleigh Home:

The ideal air conditioning system for your home depends on several factors:

• Existing ductwork: If your home already has existing ductwork in good condition, central air conditioning might be the most cost-effective option.
• Cooling needs: Consider the size and layout of your home. Do you need to cool the entire house, or just specific areas? Mini-split systems excel in zoned cooling for targeted comfort.
• Budget: Factor in both upfront installation costs and long-term energy efficiency. While mini-split systems might have a higher upfront cost, their superior efficiency can lead to significant energy cost savings over time.
• Aesthetics: Central air conditioning systems operate discreetly with no indoor units. Mini-split systems have wall-mounted indoor units that might not suit every homeowner’s taste

Whether you install central air or mini splits will depend on your individual needs, and the existing infrastructure in your home or the dwelling that you wish to cool. Bowman Heating and Cooling offers an energy efficient and high powered Mitsubishi mini split model that can be installed just about anywhere.

To learn more, contact us today, or fill out our contact form to schedule a service appointment.