Mini-Split vs. Central Air System: What Are the Pros and Cons?

There are several systems that can heat and cool your home, but the one most homeowners are familiar with is a central air system. A central unit can heat and cool air, circulating it throughout the ductwork in your home and bringing all rooms to the same temperature at any given time. While this is simple and convenient, it’s not the only way to keep your home comfortable — a mini-split installation can also meet your home comfort needs, while making your living space more energy-efficient.

Ductless mini-split units can circulate hot or cold air directly into any room they’re installed in. Usually, they’re connected to an outdoor unit through a small hole drilled in the external wall, so they’re out of the way. Each unit can be set independently of the others, allowing for more granular control over indoor temperatures.

Ductless systems are usually more efficient than central air systems, for several reasons:

• Managing room temperature room-by-room uses less energy than keeping your whole home conditioned.
• Ductless mini-splits use heat pump technology, which can be up to four times more efficient than traditional furnaces.
• Ductless systems never lose air or energy through duct leaks and uninsulated ductwork.

However, ductless systems can also cost more to install than central air systems, so you should always speak with your local HVAC expert to make sure they’ve received proper installation and maintenance training.

If you’re curious about whether a central air system or a ductless system is right for your Orlando home, call Rinaldi’s Air Conditioning Service to discuss your unique household needs. We’re happy to help meet your energy goals!

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Orlando, Florida and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about mini-splits, central air systems and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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