Are you in the process of building a new home and trying to decide between ducted and split air conditioning options? You can make an informed decision with little study and advice from an HVAC specialist. To guide you about this topic, we’ll explore both ducted vs split air conditioning systems. Also, their pros and cons so you can choose the best option for your new home build. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into what each AC system offers to determine which is right for your needs.
Understanding the Basics of Ducted vs Split Air Conditioning
When considering air conditioning for a new home build, it’s important to understand the differences between ducted and split systems. Ducted systems provide a more uniform temperature throughout the home. In contrast, split systems are typically used to cool or heat specific rooms or areas.
Ducted air conditioning is the most expensive option and requires space in the roof cavity for the ducts and venting. The advantage of ducted air conditioning is that it can be zoned to different areas of the home and is quieter than split systems. A ducted system houses all the components in the roof cavity or an adjacent space. No outdoor units are required, so there is less noise from external sources like condensers.
Split air conditioning systems, on the other hand, are more affordable and are best for cooling or heating specific areas. This system requires an outdoor unit and indoor units, which are usually wall mounted. Split systems are much easier to install than ducted; however, they are not as efficient at cooling or heating a large space. Therefore, this air conditioning system is best used in smaller homes and apartments requiring individual room temperature control.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Ducted AC Systems
Regarding comfort and convenience in your new home, ducted air conditioning systems have much to offer. It offers even, consistent cooling and heating throughout your home. Still, it also comes with a few drawbacks.
Advantages of Ducted AC Systems
So, what are the advantages of installing a ducted AC system in your new home? Here are a few to consider:
- Ease of Installation: Installing a single, central unit instead of multiple split units is much easier. You don’t have to worry about extra wiring or piping.
- Control: With a ducted system, you can control the temperature of each room individually. This helps you save energy and money by only cooling or heating the occupied rooms.
- Noise Reduction: Ducted systems tend to be quieter than split systems because all the components are housed in a single unit instead of multiple units throughout the house.
Disadvantages of Ducted AC Systems
However, there are also some drawbacks to consider before installing a ducted system in your new home:
- Cost: The initial cost of a ducted system can be high, especially when installing multiple split systems.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Maintenance or repairs can be difficult and costly with a central unit because you’ll have to access all the components in one place.
- Space Requirements: Ducted systems require access to the roof space or an attic to install ducts. If this isn’t possible, you may have to look for alternative solutions.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Split AC Systems
Split air conditioning systems are a great way to cool your new home. They’re energy-efficient, relatively affordable, and can be installed quickly. This system provides many advantages to homeowners. Yet, it has some drawbacks you should consider before choosing it.
Advantages of Split AC Systems
Split AC systems provide a range of benefits for homeowners. Here are some of the most common advantages of split AC systems:
- Energy Efficiency: Unlike traditional air conditioning systems, split AC systems are energy efficient. This means they will save you money on your energy bills all year.
- Easy Installation: Split AC units are easy to install and don’t require any special parts or tools. This makes them a great choice for new home builds, as they can be installed quickly with minimal disruption.
- Flexibility: Split AC systems can be installed in various locations, including walls, ceilings, or window units. This allows you to choose where to install your system and how to cool your home most efficiently.
Disadvantages of Split AC Systems
While there are many advantages to split AC systems, they also have drawbacks. Here are some of the common disadvantages of split AC systems:
- Limited Cooling Capability: Split AC systems cannot cool large spaces as effectively as traditional air conditioning systems. If you have a large home, you may need to invest in multiple split AC units to adequately cool it.
- Maintenance: Split air conditioning systems require regular maintenance and servicing. This can add to the cost of your system over time if you don’t take proper care of it.
- Noisy Operation: Split AC units can be quite noisy when running, which could be a nuisance for some homeowners. It’s important to determine how loud the unit will be before deciding.
Conclusions
When deciding between ducted vs split air conditioning for a new home build, many things must be considered. The primary difference between the two systems is how and where they deliver their cooled air. With ducted systems, cooled air is delivered through ducts in the ceiling, while split systems cool individual rooms or zones. Both types of systems have their benefits and drawbacks. With careful consideration of all the options available, you’ll be sure to find the ideal system for your new home. Happy cooling!
