Central Air Conditioning vs Split System

Choosing the right air conditioning system for your home can make all the difference in comfort, efficiency, and cost. When it comes to cooling solutions, central air conditioning and split systems are two of the most popular options.

Each has its own set of benefits, but they also come with unique considerations. Central (or ducted) air conditioning is known for providing consistent, whole-home cooling through a network of ducts, while split systems offer targeted cooling, allowing you to control temperatures room by room.

Whether you’re aiming to cool an entire house or just a specific area, understanding the differences between these systems is key. In this article, we’ll break down how each type works, compare their pros and cons, and help you decide which one suits your needs best.

What is Central Air Conditioning?

Central air conditioning is a whole-home cooling system designed to keep every room at a comfortable temperature. It works by using a single, centralised unit to cool air and then distributing it throughout your home via a network of ducts and vents.

A ducted system includes an outdoor compressor and an indoor evaporator coil. When you set your thermostat, the system pulls warm air from your home, cools it, and then sends it back into each room through the ducts.

One of the major advantages of ducted air conditioning is its ability to cool an entire home uniformly, providing consistent temperatures in every room.

This type of system is also less visible because the main components are often hidden in basements, attics, or utility rooms. However, it requires significant installation effort and is best suited for homes that already have or can accommodate ductwork.

What is a Split System Air Conditioner?

A split system air conditioner is a versatile and efficient way to cool specific areas or rooms in your home. Unlike central air conditioning, split systems don’t require ductwork.

Instead, they consist of two main components: an indoor unit that mounts on the wall and an outdoor compressor. These units work together to cool the room by drawing in warm air, cooling it, and then circulating it back into the space (or warming the air in winter if you’ve got a reverse cycle system).

One of the main benefits of split systems is the ability to control the temperature in individual rooms independently, which can lead to significant energy savings, especially if you only need to cool certain areas.

Split systems are also relatively easy to install, making them a great option for homes without existing ductwork or for those looking to add cooling to specific spaces. Plus, with their sleek design, split systems blend into the room without taking up much space.

Cost Comparison: Central AC vs Split System

When comparing the costs of central air conditioning and split systems, it’s important to consider both the initial installation and ongoing expenses. Here’s a breakdown:

• Installation costs:
  • Central AC: Generally higher due to the need for ductwork installation, which can be complex and labour-intensive, especially in older homes without existing ducts.
  • Split system: Typically more affordable to install, as it doesn’t require ductwork. The cost mainly involves mounting the indoor and outdoor units and connecting them.
• Operating costs:
  • Central AC: Often higher monthly bills, as it cools the entire home at once, including unused rooms.
  • Split system: More cost-effective for zone-based cooling, allowing you to only cool specific areas, which can reduce energy consumption.
• Maintenance and repairs:
  • Central AC: May require more frequent and costly maintenance due to ductwork cleaning and system complexity.
  • Split system: Simpler maintenance, with no ducts to clean, usually translating to lower repair costs.

Installation and Space Requirements

When it comes to installation and space, central air conditioning and split systems have distinct requirements. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Ducted air conditioning:
  • Ductwork needed: Installation requires a network of ducts throughout the home, which can be complex and time-consuming, especially if your home doesn’t have existing ducts.
  • Space considerations: The main unit is often placed in a basement, attic, or utility room, taking up considerable space, and vents are installed in walls, ceilings, or floors.
• Split system air conditioning:
  • No ductwork: Installation is generally quicker and simpler, as it only involves mounting the indoor unit on a wall and connecting it to the outdoor compressor.
  • Compact units: Indoor units are sleek and wall-mounted, saving floor space. The outdoor compressor is compact and can be positioned discreetly outside, making split systems a good option for smaller homes or apartments.

Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact

When it comes to energy efficiency, both central air conditioning and split systems offer unique benefits, but there are key differences. Ducted air conditioning systems can cool an entire home, but they often use more energy due to their larger size and the need to cool every room.

This can lead to higher energy bills, especially if you’re cooling spaces you don’t use regularly. However, newer central AC models with high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings are designed to minimise energy consumption.

Split systems, on the other hand, are known for their efficiency, as they allow you to cool only the rooms you need. This zone-based approach can reduce overall energy use and lower your carbon footprint.

Additionally, split systems typically use eco-friendly refrigerants, making them a greener option. If you’re looking to minimise energy costs and environmental impact, a split system may offer a more sustainable solution.

Pros and Cons of Ducted Air Conditioning

Central air conditioning offers many benefits, but it also has some drawbacks. Here’s a quick overview to help you decide if it’s the right choice:

• Pros:
  • Consistent cooling: Provides uniform temperature control throughout the entire home, keeping all rooms at a comfortable level.
  • Discreet appearance: Most of the system is hidden in basements, attics, or utility areas, with only vents visible, which can maintain the aesthetic appeal of your living spaces.
  • Whole-home solution: Ideal for cooling larger homes, as it can handle multiple rooms with a single system.
• Cons:
  • Higher installation cost: Requires ductwork, which can be expensive and complex to install, especially in older homes.
  • Energy usage: Can be less energy-efficient, as it cools the entire home, including unoccupied areas, potentially leading to higher utility bills.
  • Maintenance needs: Ductwork requires periodic cleaning, and the system may need more frequent repairs due to its larger size and complexity.

Pros and Cons of Split Systems

Split systems offer a range of benefits, especially for targeted cooling, but they also come with some limitations.

Here’s a quick look at their pros and cons:

• Pros:
  • Energy efficiency: Allows for zone-based cooling, so you can choose to cool only the rooms you’re using, which can significantly reduce energy costs.
  • Flexible installation: Requires no ductwork, making it easier and faster to install, particularly in older homes or apartments.
  • Compact and modern design: Indoor units are sleek and wall-mounted, blending into the room while saving floor space.
• Cons:
  • Limited coverage: Best suited for cooling individual rooms or small areas, so multiple units may be needed for larger homes, which can add up in cost.
  • Visible units: Indoor units are mounted on walls and may be more noticeable, which could impact the aesthetics of your space.
  • Regular maintenance: Filters in each unit need to be cleaned regularly to maintain efficiency, especially in homes with multiple units.

Which System is Right for You?

Deciding between central air conditioning and a split system depends on your home, budget, and cooling needs. Ducted AC is a great choice if you’re looking to cool an entire house with consistent temperatures in every room. It’s especially suitable for larger homes or spaces that already have ductwork installed.

However, the installation and operating costs can be higher, making it more of an investment.

On the other hand, split systems offer flexibility and energy savings by allowing you to cool only the areas you’re using. They’re ideal for smaller homes, apartments, or if you need a simple solution for individual rooms. With easier installation and no need for ductwork, they’re often a quicker, more affordable option upfront.

Ultimately, if you want whole-home coverage, go for central AC. But if you prefer a more customisable and budget-friendly option, split systems are the way to go.

Make a Well-Informed Decision

In the end, choosing between central air conditioning and a split system comes down to your specific needs, home layout and budget. Central AC provides whole-home comfort and a discreet design, but it requires ductwork and can be more costly.

Split systems, meanwhile, offer flexibility, easy installation, and energy savings by cooling individual rooms as needed. Whether you prioritise consistent cooling throughout your home or prefer a tailored solution that fits your lifestyle, both systems have their strengths.

By understanding the differences, you can make a well-informed decision and enjoy a comfortable, cool home all summer long.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.