A Simple Homeowners Guide
To buy ductless mini-splits or central AC? That is the question many homeowners in the Greater Cincinnati area are grappling with as the warm weather rises over the horizon. The good news is that both are excellent options that will provide reliable, energy-efficient comfort throughout the summer months. The better news is that the team at National Heating and Air Conditioning can help you determine which is best suited for your home, condo, apartment, and, most importantly, your desired comfort.
How Do Ductless & Central Air Conditioning Systems Work?
Ductless systems consist of an indoor and an outdoor unit. The unit circulates refrigerant through a series of coils. As the refrigerant circulates through the interior unit, it absorbs heat and evaporates in the process. As it travels through the coils to the outdoor unit, it’s compressed, releasing the heat and returning to a liquid state. This is an energy-efficient process that will safely and reliably cool any room where the unit is located in your home, condo, or apartment.
The process is similar with a central air conditioner. Warm air is drawn into the indoor unit, where it passes over the cool evaporator coil, which contains the refrigerant, causing it to expand into a gaseous state. It then passes to the outdoor unit, where it’s condensed. However, unlike ductless mini-splits, the resulting cooler air is pushed through the supply ducts and through the home.
5 Factors to Consider Before Deciding
Five key factors should be considered when deciding between a ductless mini-split and a central air conditioner. The right system is highly variable, depending on your needs, the size of your residence, and your budget. At National Heating and Air Conditioning, we can help you narrow down your search to find the ideal system for your needs.
1. Installation Complexity
Ductless systems are easier to install because they don’t require installing ducts. They’re also typically smaller than central air conditioners, which makes them easier to install in apartments, condos, and properties with limited outdoor space.
2. Efficiency
Modern ductless systems and central air conditioners are exceptionally energy-efficient. However, head-to-head, ductless mini-splits are slightly more efficient because there is no energy loss through the ductwork. On the other side, central air conditioners can establish a more consistent climate.
Another thing to consider is that ductless systems can be configured into a multi-unit zoned configuration that gives you greater control over which rooms to cool. Perhaps the biggest advantage for ductless systems in this regard is that many units offer dual cooling and heating functions, which extends these benefits throughout the year.
3. Upfront & Monthly Costs
Ductless systems can cost more to purchase but less to install. However, this can vary depending on whether you have existing ductwork, the size of the property, and other factors. When it comes to operating and maintenance costs, ductless systems are often less expensive.
4. Maintenance
Both ductless and central air conditioners will require annual maintenance. If you have a ductless system with heating and cooling operations, you’ll want to schedule an additional maintenance appointment each year. Both systems will require regular filter changes, cleaning, lubrication, and testing which means they’re both nearly equal in this regard.
5. Durability
Ductless systems can last 20+ years with careful attention to repairs and maintenance. Central air conditioners have shorter lifespans of around 10 to 15 years. These ranges depend on the quality of manufacture, usage, and more.
Schedule a Professional AC Consultation in Ohio
For more than 90 years, the professionals at National Heating and Air Conditioning have helped our clients in the Greater Cleveland area enjoy superior comfort. When you choose our NATE-certified installers, you’ll enjoy the benefits of a team that services all brands, offers free estimates on replacements, 24/7 emergency service, and more. Our 100% satisfaction guarantee ensures you will always receive the superior service, reliable workmanship, and dependable solutions you deserve.
National Heating and Air Conditioning can help you select the optimal cooling system for your needs. Contact us to schedule a consultation with our specialists in Cincinnati and Blue Ash today!
