Are you thinking of getting a new AC system, or it could be time to replace your current one? Today, you are left with several choices: whether to go with the central air conditioning on a ductless system. How do you choose?
The Difference Between Ductless and Central AC
The biggest difference between a central AC system and a ductless system is that central air conditioning utilizes ducts throughout your home and generally a larger compressor. This is used to distribute the conditioned air throughout your home evenly.
A ductless system uses a smaller compressor and air handlers placed in specific rooms in your home. While a large home can use either system, smaller homes usually use a ductless system because ductwork does not need to be installed.
- Energy Use
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing between a ductless and central air conditioning unit is energy use.
Central air conditioning units are typically more energy efficient. The reason for this is that with a central air conditioning system, you can condition your entire home at once and adjust the temperature throughout the house. While this sounds very convenient, it does have a downside. The downside to a central AC system is that the entire AC unit will turn on and off as needed. This can lead to wasted energy since not every room will be used simultaneously.
Ductless units are designed to condition a single room or a few rooms at a time. This does mean that the AC can be turned on and off as the rooms in your home are used. This may mean that more energy is used over time, but the benefit is that you are only cooling the rooms that are really being used, and there is a much lower risk of using more energy than necessary.
- Installation
Central air conditioning units are more expensive to install. Not only do you have to pay for the ductwork to be installed, but you also have to have a larger unit installed. This means that you have to have a large opening in your home to accommodate the unit, which can be difficult in a home where space is limited.
Ductless units are much less expensive to install. The installation process is much simpler, especially if your current opening is large enough to accommodate the air handlers. This makes ductless systems the ideal choice for homes with smaller rooms. Since the air handlers are so small, it doesn’t matter if you have a small opening for the air handler in the wall.
- Maintenance
Over time, both systems need to be maintained properly to keep functioning. While the ductless system requires more attention to detail since you have to keep it clean, the maintenance is still much more straightforward than a central AC system.
With a more extensive unit, you will have to change the filters, and you will also have to be careful that the unit is not clogged up with debris. Over time you will also need to check the belts and other components to ensure they are functioning properly.
Ductless systems are easier to maintain because they are placed in a single room. This means that you will be able to clean out the air handler regularly without the help of a professional. You will also be able to check the belts and ensure the unit is running properly.
The Bottomline
In the end, when selecting between a ductless air conditioning unit and a central air conditioning unit, you need to look at your home and make sure that you are getting the right fit for your home.
A ductless unit may be a perfect choice if you have a smaller home and need a powerful AC system. However, a central air conditioning unit may be the better choice if you have a larger home and need the comfort of cooling off your entire home.
For your HVAC installation or maintenance needs, New Pipes Inc. is here. We have a staff that is committed to delivering excellent service and reliability. Get in touch with us today.
