Split system vs. ducted system—this question might disturb you for many days until you’ve finally installed a cooling system—or perhaps even after making the decision.
It is a crucial decision that will affect your budget and comfort for future years, so it’s critical to pick the right one.
To pick the right air conditioning system, you must understand some basics. As a tech-savvy air conditioner owner, you must know some key points that impact your final decision and understand the basics of split and ducted air conditioning systems. You must know their differences too to pick which one will be the right one for you.
Factors To Consider When Selecting Between Split System VS Ducted Air Conditioning
Space And Layout Of The Area
The size of the property and room configuration, such as the placement of windows, doors, walls, and overall design, influence the decision to choose between a split system and ducted air conditioning.
While a split system provides better zoning capabilities, you’ll need multiple units for larger properties. They are more functional for smaller spaces. Ducted air conditioning is a more viable option for larger spaces with multiple rooms.
Budget
When selecting a cooling system, consider overall costs, including the unit price, installation, operational costs, maintenance, and repairs.
Different units have different prices depending on size, energy rating, brand, etc. It is valuable to consider units that may have higher initial costs but are budget-friendly in long-term expenses.
Climate And Weather Conditions
Consider climate and weather conditions like temperature and humidity levels while selecting an air conditioning system. If you live in a hot and humid area, you’ll need more powerful system with a dehumidifier. Choosing units according to climate is necessary for better comfort and energy efficiency.
Installation Complexity
Ducted air conditioning installation is more complex and includes ductwork, while a split system is easier. You can easily install a split system air conditioner anywhere, but you’ll require ductwork or space for ductwork for ducted ACs. Installing a ducted air conditioning system is easier in new homes or homes that are renovated to install ductwork. Retrofitting ductwork in already constructed homes is complex and expensive.
In addition to ductwork, air conditioning systems require electrical wiring that can bear the load of heavy electrical appliances. Both systems require professional help to install them correctly.
Number Of Occupants And Usage Pattern
The number of occupants, temperature preferences, and their use habits impact the selection of the required system.
Energy Efficiency
Choose an air conditioning system that provides efficient cooling while consuming less energy. Including tech solutions like zoning, options increase energy efficiency while delivering optimum temperature control.
Insulation And Air Sealing
Well-insulated and properly air-sealed systems retain more cool and prevent conditioned air from escaping the indoor spaces. These factors let owners pick less powerful air conditioning systems.
Maintenance Requirements
Ducted air conditioning systems require more regular maintenance, such as cleaning the ductwork and indoor and outdoor units, than split systems. Split systems have one unit per room, and you’ll need to clean all units throughout the property, which adds to time and resource consumption.
Environmental Considerations
Pick systems with higher Energy Star Certifications as they strictly follow the Energy Star rating guidelines and have minimal effect on the environment.
Aesthetic Preferences
An indoor unit might hinder the interior aesthetics. The indoor units of a split system hang on the wall, which is a concern for many people. The indoor units of the ducted system are hidden in the ceiling or floor, adding an aesthetic and cleaner look.
Noise Levels
Ducted systems create noiseless environments as the indoor air unit (air handler) is typically quiet, and insulation further controls the noise. The indoor units of the split system are also peaceful, while the outdoor unit produces noise. Placing the noisy outdoor units strategically will control the noise levels.
Smart Features
Always choose a system that integrates smart features like programmable thermostat, smart sensors, and WiFi connectivity to offer remote control and increase flexibility in cooling specific areas, not the entire property.
Resale Value
Air conditioning systems impact a property’s resale value. Ducted systems offer more comprehensive cooling solutions for large properties and are an attractive feature for prospective buyers.
Understanding The Split System And Ducted Air Conditioning
Split System Air Conditioners
Split system air conditioners are ductless systems that can be easily mounted on walls to achieve temperature control. It has an indoor and outdoor unit connected with pipes.
Click here for complete details about split-system air conditioners’ working, servicing, and costs.
Ducted Air Conditioners
As the name says, ducted air conditioners require channels of ducts along with outdoor and indoor units to pump conditioned air inside and outside the indoor space. Such an air conditioning system is more practical for cooling larger areas and achieve centralized temperature control.
Click here to learn what is ducted conditioning in detail.
Here’s a detailed view of key differences in features between a split system and ducted air conditioning system.
Feature | Split System | Ducted System |
Air distribution | Involves an indoor and outdoor unit which operate independently. Different rooms may require different units. | Involves a single air handler connected to ducts that distribute air to multiple rooms or zones throughout the building. |
Installation | Easy installation requiring hanging indoor unit and connecting with outdoor unit through pipes. | Complex installation requiring ductwork installation throughout the building. The central unit is larger and often require placement outside or on roof. |
Cost | Generally low cost and cheaper to install. | Expensive due to complex installation especially for larger buildings with multiple zones. |
Space requirements | Minimum space requirements. | Require more space for installation and involve alterations to building’s structure. |
Aesthetic | Indoor unit is visible and mounted on wall which impact room aesthetics. | Indoor unit is hidden inside ceiling or under the floor with only vents or grills visible, making it aesthetically appealing and less intrusive in terms of design. |
Energy efficiency | Generally more energy efficient for smaller spaces as it cools/heats specific room. | Energy efficiency depend on size and design of system. Building’s insulation is another key factor in impacting energy efficiency |
Flexibility | Flexibility to control the temperature in each room. | Usually designed for whole house cooling/heating system. Advanced systems have zoning control options but typically offer less flexibility then split system. |
Maintenance | Relatively simple maintenance as it involves servicing the individual units. | More complex and detailed maintenance requirement. |
Smart features | Supports Wi-Fi capability, app control, or integration with home automation systems. | Advanced systems support Wi-Fi capability, app control, or integration with home automation systems. |
Noise | Noise typically produced by indoor unit is more noticeable in smaller space. | Noise is usually produced by by air handler or fan unit which is usually away from living areas, making the system more quieter and comfortable. |
Advantages Of Split System Air Conditioners
- Energy efficiency: Split system air conditioners are more energy efficient as they minimize energy loss. Advanced systems with inverter technology adjusts compressor speed as per temperature requirements, reducing power consumption.
- Zoning capabilities: Each indoor unit in a room offer customized temperature control.
- Quiet operations: Advanced indoor units are noiseless and offer quiet operations.
- Ease of installation: Simpler and less invasive installation process requiring only one hole to pass refrigerant pipes.
- Improved air quality: Split systems have in-built filters which clear dust debris and improve the indoor air quality.
- Heating and cooling options: Reverse cycle split system offer both heating and cooling options making them flexible for flexible usage.
- Cost-effective: with easy installation, split system are more cost-effective than other cooling systems.
Limitations Of Split System Air Conditioners
- Upfront cost: Initial cost, that is cost of unit plus installation is higher as compared to portable units or window AC.
- Professional installation requirements: Although simple, but split system require professional installation services.
- Limited cooling range: Split system have limited cooling range and best for cooling one room only. You’ll need multiple indoor units to cool multiple rooms.
- Outdoor unit placement: Outdoor units require sufficient space for proper air flow. Additionally apartments or buildings with limited space for outdoor units, which cause a problem in installation process.
- Not ideal for larger buildings/ homes: Split system are not suitable for larger buildings/ spaces. They will require either multiple split systems or multi-split system, making the set up costly and complex.
- Maintenance requirements: You can simply perform the routine maintenance tasks such as cleaning the filters but require professional help for detailed maintenance.
- Potential for refrigerant leaks: Overtime, refrigerant leaks can occur, which impact the cooling efficiency, and require costly repairs.
- Aesthetic considerations: Placing indoor and outdoor units on walls do not add a nice appeal on indoor or exterior walls.
Advantages Of Ducted Air Conditioning
- Whole home comfort: A single system is sufficient to provide temperature comfort for whole building/ home. There is no need for separate or multiple units.
- Zoning capabilities: advanced ducted air conditioning systems with zoning capabilities allow zoning which improve personal comfort and energy efficiency.
- Energy efficient when used properly: Improving zoning, including inverter and smart technology make ducted systems energy efficient.
- Quiet operations: with air handler placed away from the indoor living spaces, ducted air conditioning system offer more comfortable and noise-less living environment.
- Compatible with smart controls: ducted system are compatible with smart controls like voice command, scheduling, zoning, etc.
- Versatility: You can use the ducted system for both heating and cooling requirements, making them a versatile system.
- Increased property value: Increase in property value as indoor spaces with ducted air conditioner are more attractive for renters or buyers.
- Aesthetic and space-saving: There are no bulky indoor units or indoor units that intrude with the interior design.
Limitations Of Ducted Air Conditioning
- High upfront cost: Ducted air conditioners have a high upfront cost, that is price of unit and installation is higher than other air conditioning systems. The installation includes cost of labor and material required for duct work.
- Require space for ductwork: Ducted systems require space in ceilings, floor and walls for ductwork, which may not be feasible in small homes or apartments. Additionally, spaces without pre-existing ductwork may require significant modifications in the infrastructure. Modifications will also increase the installation costs.
- Complex installation and maintenance: The installation and maintenance of ducted air conditioning system is more complex as compared to the split system. Both services require professional help, time and resources.
- Limited individual room control: While zoning provide option for customization, it is not as precise as with split system air conditioner.
- Potential for air leaks and energy loss: Air leakage and energy loss when ducts and indoor space aren’t properly insulated are a potential risk with ducted air conditioners. They decrease the system’s efficiency and increase the energy costs.
- Long term investment required: Ducted air conditioner are expensive to purchase and maintain. Higher unit and installation price subside the experience of saving on energy bills. Maintenance and repairing ductwork or upgrading the system will again require large sums of money demanding long term or continuous investment.
Final verdict
Deciding split system vs ducted air conditioning is a logical battle. The choice depends on comparison and deep analysis of features with your needs. Both air conditioning systems have their own advantages and limitations. While a split system offers more energy efficiency, zoning control, cost efficiency, it isn’t suitable for large spaces. Whereas, the ducted system with higher upfront costs, maintenance requirements, lesser personalized control and comparatively higher energy bills is a more suitable options for centralized temperature control and larger spaces.
If you are stucked in deciding between split system vs ducted air conditioning, contact Surrey Air to provide expert guidance. Our trained technicians will analyze your requirements according to property and space and help you pick the best cooling solutions!
