When choosing an air conditioning system, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to go with a split system or a ducted system. Both options offer great cooling power — but the best choice depends on your home, your budget, and your cooling needs.
In this blog, we break down the differences to help you decide which system is right for you.
Split System Air Conditioning
What is it?
A split system consists of two units — one inside and one outside — and is typically used to cool a single room or area.
Pros:
- More affordable to install
- Great for individual rooms
- Easy to retrofit into existing homes
- Lower energy use in smaller areas
Cons:
- Not ideal for whole-house cooling
- Multiple units needed for multiple rooms
- Slightly visible indoor unit on the wall
Best For:
Apartments, small homes, or anyone looking to cool a single room or area affordably.
Ducted Air Conditioning
What is it?
A ducted system uses a central unit connected to a series of ducts that distribute air throughout the entire home or building.
Pros:
- Discreet — only vents are visible
- Whole-home cooling from a single system
- Can be zoned to control different areas
- Adds value to the property
Cons:
- Higher upfront installation cost
- Installation requires ceiling or underfloor space
- More energy consumption if not zoned properly
Best For:
Larger homes, new builds, or those wanting complete climate control with a sleek, hidden look.
Which One Should You Choose?
Ask yourself:
- How many rooms do I need to cool?
- What’s my budget for installation and ongoing running costs?
- Am I looking for a whole-home solution or room-by-room control?
Still unsure? No problem — that’s what we’re here for.
Let Evacold Help You Choose Wisely
Our licensed technicians will assess your space and cooling needs to recommend the best solution — split or ducted — based on comfort, efficiency, and value.
