Central HVAC (Ducted) vs. Ductless HVAC: Which Is Better?

A Person Is Considering Central And Ductless HVAC To Determine The Best Option

If you just purchased a home for renovation, or if you’re going to be installing a new HVAC system in your current home, then you may want to know the different types of HVAC systems available to you.

There are plenty of different types of HVAC systems, however we’re going to focus on two specific types that apply to most single family homes: central HVAC and ductless HVAC.

So what is the difference between these two HVAC systems, and can they have an effect on your home comfort? Let’s find out.

What’s The Difference Between Central HVAC & Ductless HVAC?

Benefits of Central HVAC

● Central HVAC systems have greater dehumidification capabilities.
● Central HVAC systems can keep the entire house at a uniform temperature and improve energy efficiency with a single thermostat set at a right temperature. If you want a comfortable home anywhere in the home, you don’t have to worry about managing multiple units.
● Central HVAC systems don’t take up any space in the room. Ductwork is hidden from view and run through either the ceiling, the walls, or the basement.

Benefits of Ductless HVAC

● Ductless systems can be installed in almost any home. Because there is no need to install new ductwork, ductless mini-split systems can exist even in homes where there’s no space for ducts. Best of all, they can be mounted on the ceiling, wall, or the floor.
● Ductless systems are relatively quiet. Since you don’t hear the sound of air moving through ducts, you don’t need to worry about excessive noise.

When Should You Choose One Over The Other?

Choose a central HVAC system if:

● You already have ductwork installed. If there’s ductwork, it means the property has been sized and fitted for central HVAC.
● You live in a humid environment. Many houses in Georgia have central AC for this very reason.
● You want to keep maintenance costs low.

Choose a ductless system if:

● You’re adding a brand new HVAC system to a home that isn’t retrofitted for central HVAC.
● There is no space in the home for ducts.
● You need different temperatures in different parts of the home.