We all want to cool our homes, but there are many different options. You need to figure out which type of air conditioner is right for you and your circumstances. We will make it easier for you by breaking down the differences between ducted air conditioning and split system air conditioning.
A split air conditioner is an aircon system where part of the system (the condenser) is located outside and the other part of the unit (the blower) is located inside. Split systems typically have a single blower or head unit inside the house, either mounted on a wall or as a freestanding unit.
The biggest advantage of a split system is that it’s very easy to install in a house without air conditioning. Because it doesn’t need ducts (we’ll talk about ducted systems below), it can be installed with minimal intrusion. Split systems are generally intended for cooling a single room or a few rooms, and depending on the size of the home, you may have more than one split system.
Because they’re easier to install and smaller, split air conditioners are also inexpensive. They’re generally not putting out the amount of cooling energy that a ducted air conditioning system is. But when it comes to the price difference between ducted and split, if you’re only cooling a small area, the split system will be more cost-effective. Put simply, a single split system is cheaper than a ducted air conditioner with a central unit.
The biggest drawback is that it only cools a small area. One way to combat this is to use a multi-split system air conditioner or multi-head split system, which gives you multiple blowers or heads in different parts of the house, all of which still run on one outdoor unit.
However, a split system has other limitations. Many people cite its unsightly appearance. A ducted air conditioner blows air out a series of ducts and vents, which can be relatively invisible. However, a split air system is extensive and prominent on a wall.
A ducted air conditioning system is hidden in the walls and floor of the building, with a central condenser typically outside the house, and the ductwork runs throughout the entire house, cooling everything.
When it comes to multi-head split systems vs. ducted systems, ducted systems will undoubtedly be more expensive. That’s because they do a more extensive job: cooling the entire building. Many people hate split systems because, during the summer heat, they find themselves restricted to one or two comfortable rooms in the house. A ducted air conditioner supplies cool air throughout a home.
This isn’t to say that the split system will always win the battle of the cost of ducted air conditioning vs the split system. Advanced ducted systems can be zoned to only blow air to specific rooms. A split system vs ducted efficiency can be negligible if the zoned system is run well.
Another benefit is that the same ducts that provide cool air can also be used for the furnace, so they can cool or heat the house.
The biggest problem with ducted air conditioning systems is that they cost a lot to install if they aren’t included in the house. A ducted system assumes that there is room for ducts to run between the floor joists and up the walls of a house. If the home isn’t built for that, it can be an expensive remodel.
Choosing between ducted air conditioning and split system units comes down to personal preferences and the specific needs of your home. Ducted systems offer a seamless and centrally controlled cooling experience, ensuring consistent temperatures across multiple rooms. This makes them ideal for larger homes or those seeking a discreet and aesthetically pleasing solution.
On the other hand, split systems provide versatility, allowing you to cool individual rooms independently, making them a cost-effective choice for smaller spaces or homes where zoning isn’t a top priority. Both options have unique benefits; ducted systems offer a comprehensive and energy-efficient approach, while split systems provide targeted and customisable cooling. Ultimately, the decision hinges on your lifestyle, home layout, and the level of control you desire over your indoor climate.
Get in touch to find out what option is best for your situation.
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