Mini-split vs central AC installation

Ductless mini-split vs central AC: compare installation cost, energy efficiency, zoning flexibility, and which cooling system fits your home's layout and ductwork situation.

A ductless mini-split system consists of one outdoor compressor connected to one or more indoor air handlers via refrigerant lines — no ductwork required. A single-zone system (one indoor unit) costs $3,000–$5,000 installed; a multi-zone system (3–5 indoor units) runs $7,000–$15,000. Installation takes 1–2 days, requires only a 3-inch hole through the wall per indoor unit, and causes minimal disruption. Mini-splits offer individual room temperature control (true zoning), heat-pump capability for both heating and cooling, and exceptional energy efficiency — many models reach 20–30 SEER2. The drawback: each room has a visible wall-mounted unit, and multi-zone systems cost more per ton of cooling than central AC. Central air conditioning uses a single outdoor condenser, an indoor air handler or furnace, and a network of supply and return ducts to cool the entire house. A new central AC system costs $3,500–$7,500 for the equipment and $5,000–$12,000+ installed when existing ductwork is in good condition. Adding ductwork to an unducted home costs $10,000–$25,000 extra. Modern central units reach 16–21 SEER2. Central AC is invisible inside the home (just registers), handles the whole house on one thermostat, and works well with existing forced-air heating systems. The ductwork itself loses 20–30% of cooled air through leaks and thermal transfer in unconditioned attics or crawl spaces — sealing and insulating ducts is critical. For homes without existing ducts (older homes, additions, converted garages, finished attics), mini-splits are almost always more cost-effective than installing new ductwork. For homes with existing, well-sealed ducts and a working furnace, central AC is usually cheaper and less visually intrusive.