DUCTED SYSTEM V/S DUCTLESS SPLIT SYSTEM AIR CONDITIONING
| FEATURES | DUCTED SYSTEM AIR CONDITIONING | DUCTLESS/SPLIT SYSTEM AIR CONDITIONING |
| System Type | Central system with ducts distributing air to multiple rooms. | Single system with separate indoor units for each room. |
| Installation | Complex and invasive; requires ducts throughout the building. | Easier and quicker; no ductwork required. |
| Initial Cost | Higher installation cost due to ductwork. | Lower installation cost (unless multiple units are required). |
| Cooling Coverage | Ideal for cooling large spaces or entire buildings. | Ideal for cooling individual rooms or smaller areas. |
| Zoning Control | Limited, unless a zoning system is installed. | Excellent, each unit can be controlled independently. |
| Energy Efficiency | Energy can be lost through ductwork, reducing efficiency. | More efficient as there is no duct leakage. |
| Aesthetics | Ducts and vents are hidden; no visible indoor units. | Indoor units are visible and mounted on walls/ceilings. |
| Noise Levels | Generally quieter with central indoor units; some noise from ducts. | Quieter indoor units, with the compressor placed outside. |
| Maintenance | Requires regular cleaning of ducts and central units. | Easier maintenance; individual units with filters to clean. |
| Space Requirements | Requires ceiling or wall space for duct installation. | Requires wall or ceiling space for each indoor unit. |
| Best Suited For | Large homes, offices, or commercial buildings. | Small homes, apartments, or individual rooms. |
| Temperature Control | Uniform cooling throughout the space. | Each unit can have different temperature settings per room. |
| Energy Usage | Higher, especially if cooling large areas without zoning. | Lower energy consumption as it cools specific zones. |
| Customization | Limited unless advanced zoning is installed. | Highly customizable; add more units as needed. |
| Operation | Centralized system for entire building. | Operates independently for each room. |
| Installation Time | Longer, due to ductwork setup and planning. | Faster, especially for one or two units. |
| Maintenance Cost | Higher due to the complexity of ducts. | Lower, typically for each unit individually. |
| Lifespan | Long lifespan if well-maintained. | Long lifespan with regular maintenance. |
| Air Quality Control | More advanced filters possible for whole-house air quality. | Filters on individual units; can be less advanced. |
SUMMARY:
- Ducted systems are ideal for large homes or commercial spaces where whole-building cooling is needed, and aesthetics are important (as ducts and units are hidden). However, they can be expensive and less efficient if not properly zoned.
- Split systems are better for smaller spaces or where independent room control is desired. They are more energy-efficient and cheaper to install but can be less aesthetically pleasing with visible indoor units.