When the summertime heat settles in Monmouth County, you need a home air conditioning system installation to keep your family comfortable. Two of the most common options are central air and ductless mini-split systems. Below, we break down how each works, the pros and cons, and what factors can help you decide which is right for your home.

Central Air

Central air is the most traditional type of home cooling. It uses ductwork to deliver cooled air to different areas of your home. A central air conditioner has two main components: an indoor unit (often combined with your furnace) and an outdoor condenser unit. Warm indoor air passes over an evaporator coil filled with low-pressure refrigerant, which absorbs heat. That refrigerant is then compressed to a high pressure, raising its temperature before it’s sent to the outdoor condenser unit. There, heat is released into the outside air. The refrigerant is then cooled, depressurized, and sent back indoors to absorb more heat — repeating the cycle. In many homes, central air is controlled by a single thermostat. However, zoned HVAC systems can divide your home into separate climate zones with multiple thermostats for better temperature control. Central air systems are available in a wide range of efficiency ratings, with higher SEER2-rated models offering better energy performance.

Ductless Mini-Split

A ductless mini-split works on the same cooling principle as central air but doesn’t require ductwork. Instead, it uses one outdoor condenser connected to multiple indoor air handler units through small refrigerant lines. Each indoor unit is typically mounted on a wall, ceiling, or floor in the room it serves. The unit draws in warm air, removes heat via the refrigerant, and circulates cool air back into the same space. Each handler usually has its own thermostat or remote control, allowing you to set different temperatures in different rooms — a big advantage for eliminating hot and cold spots. While ductless systems often have higher efficiency ratings than standard central AC systems, high-efficiency central units can match or exceed their performance.

Existing Home Setup

Whether you have existing ductwork is often the deciding factor. Homes with ducts for a forced-air furnace can usually add central air more cost-effectively. If your home has no ductwork, installing it can be expensive and disruptive. While some contractors can retrofit ducts without tearing out every wall, it still involves significant labor. In these cases, a ductless mini-split offers a non-invasive way to add cooling without major construction.

Cost

Upfront, ductless mini-splits typically cost more per cooling capacity than central AC, especially if you need multiple indoor units. However, ductless systems can reduce long-term costs by eliminating duct losses and offering more targeted cooling. If you already have ductwork, central AC usually has a lower initial installation cost. If you don’t, a mini-split can avoid the high expense of installing ducts.

Heating Capability

Many ductless systems are heat pumps, meaning they can heat and cool your home year-round. This can eliminate the need for a separate furnace or boiler. Central AC units are cooling-only, but a central heat pump can provide both heating and cooling through the same ducts — so central systems can also be year-round if paired with the right equipment.

Overall Aesthetics

Central air is nearly invisible indoors, with only vents and returns visible. The indoor equipment is usually located out of sight near your furnace or in a utility space. Mini-splits are more visible unless you choose a recessed ceiling cassette. Wall-mounted units are the most common and affordable but are more noticeable. Ceiling-mounted and floor-mounted options offer more design flexibility but may require specific space clearances.

Tax Credits and Local Rebates

When buying a new AC system, consider tax credits and rebates that can help offset the cost. Under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, eligible ENERGY STAR-certified air conditioners and heat pumps may qualify for federal tax credits:

  • Central air conditioners: Up to $600 (must meet specific efficiency standards).
  • Ductless mini-split heat pumps: Up to $2,000 (based on efficiency ratings and type).

These credits are subject to annual caps, and total energy-efficiency improvements in a year cannot exceed $3,200. Local utility companies in Monmouth County may also offer rebates, often with higher amounts for ductless mini-splits due to their efficiency. Availability and amounts vary by provider.

Expert AC Installation Service

Choosing between central air and ductless AC depends on your home’s layout, whether you have ductwork, your budget, and your comfort preferences. At One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® in Manalapan, NJ, we install both systems and can help you compare options based on your home’s needs. Whether you’re upgrading your existing system or adding air conditioning for the first time, our team will help you choose a solution that balances comfort, efficiency, and cost.