The Core Difference
Central air conditioning uses ductwork to distribute cooled air throughout your home from a single indoor unit. Mini splits (ductless systems) deliver conditioned air directly into specific rooms via individual wall-mounted units.
When Mini Splits Make Sense
- No existing ductwork: Older homes, additions, and renovations
- Zoned comfort: Different temperatures in different rooms
- Single-room needs: Home offices, sunrooms, garages
- Efficiency priority: No duct losses (which can waste 20-30% of energy)
- Historic homes: Where ductwork installation isn't feasible
When Central Air Makes Sense
- Whole-home cooling: Even temperatures everywhere
- Existing ductwork: Already have ducts from a furnace
- Aesthetics: No wall units visible in rooms
- Lower upfront cost: For whole-home cooling with existing ducts
Cost Comparison
For a typical 2,000 sq ft home:
- Central AC with existing ducts: $3,500-$7,500 installed
- Central AC with new ducts: $10,000-$15,000 installed
- Multi-zone mini split (4 zones): $8,000-$15,000 installed
- Single-zone mini split: $1,500-$4,000 installed
Operating costs favor mini splits by 20-30% due to zoning and no duct losses.