Choosing between a ductless mini split and central air conditioning in Calgary isn’t about trends, it’s about what performs best in our dry summers, short cooling season, and wide temperature swings. At Comfort Union, we size, install, and service both systems across Calgary homes, from older bungalows to modern infills, so we see firsthand where each option succeeds or fails.
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Understanding the Two Cooling Systems in Calgary Homes
Central air conditioning uses a single outdoor unit connected to an indoor coil and your home’s ductwork. It cools the entire house at once and is common in Calgary homes with existing forced-air furnaces.
Ductless mini split systems deliver cooling directly to individual rooms through wall-mounted indoor units. They don’t rely on ductwork, making them popular for renovations, additions, and older Calgary homes where ducts are limited or poorly designed.
Installation Cost Comparison in Calgary
Central AC is usually more cost-effective if your home already has ductwork. Ductless systems become more economical when duct installation or major duct repairs would otherwise be required.
System Type | Typical Installed Cost in Calgary |
Central AC | $4,500 – $7,500 |
Ductless Mini Split (1 zone) | $4,000 – $6,000 |
Ductless Mini Split (multi-zone) | $6,500 – $10,000+ |
Pros and Cons of Ductless Mini Splits vs Central Air Conditioners
Let’s go in a more detailed comparison of both.
Central Air Conditioning
Central AC is the traditional cooling solution for Calgary homes, designed to deliver even, whole-home comfort through ducted systems. Before deciding, homeowners should consider duct condition, house size, and their desire for centralized control.
Pros:
- Provides even, whole-home cooling, ideal for large Calgary houses with consistent ductwork.
- Integrates seamlessly with existing forced-air furnaces, reducing installation costs when ducts are already in place.
- Hidden system design keeps indoor aesthetics clean, with only vents visible.
- Simpler maintenance routines, as most components are centralized.
- Works efficiently with programmable thermostats and smart home systems.
Cons:
- Relies on duct quality, so homes with old or poorly designed ducts can experience uneven cooling and hot/cold spots.
- Higher operating costs when cooling areas of the house that aren’t in use.
- Installation complexity increases if ductwork needs major upgrades or modifications.
- Less flexibility for room-by-room temperature control, which can be a concern in multi-level Calgary homes.
Ductless Mini Splits
Ductless mini splits offer a flexible, zone-based approach to cooling, ideal for Calgary homes where traditional ducts are impractical. They allow homeowners to target specific areas while maintaining energy efficiency.
Pros:
- Excellent for zoning, letting homeowners cool specific rooms, floors, or additions independently.
- Perfect for older Calgary homes or renovations where installing ducts is impractical or expensive.
- Offers quiet operation, especially beneficial for bedrooms, offices, or living areas.
- Energy-efficient, as unused zones aren’t being cooled, reducing overall electricity costs.
- Modern units often include heating capabilities, doubling as mini heat pumps for winter or shoulder seasons.
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost for multi-zone systems compared to a single central AC.
- Indoor units are visible, which may not suit all design aesthetics.
- Requires regular filter cleaning to maintain efficiency, especially in Calgary’s dry, dusty environment.
- More complex electronics can lead to costlier repairs if issues arise.
Repair and Maintenance Costs Over Time
Central AC systems in Calgary commonly require capacitor, contactor, or coil servicing, with repairs typically ranging from $200 to $900 depending on severity.
Ductless mini splits have more electronics and control components, so repairs can range from $300 to $1,200, especially when inverter boards or sensors fail. Regular cleaning is critical due to Calgary’s dust and dry air.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs
Mini splits excel at zoned cooling, allowing homeowners to cool only occupied rooms. This can reduce electricity use in homes with inconsistent occupancy.
Central AC systems cool the entire home uniformly, which works well when the duct system is properly designed. In Calgary, the efficiency gap between the two is often smaller than expected because cooling seasons are shorter than in southern climates.
Comfort, Noise, and Visual Impact
Ductless indoor units are extremely quiet and offer precise room-by-room temperature control, but some homeowners dislike their visible wall-mounted appearance.
Central AC systems are visually discreet and provide consistent whole-home cooling, though duct airflow issues can lead to uneven temperatures if the system isn’t balanced correctly.
Best System Based on Calgary Home Type
Older Calgary homes without ductwork often benefit from ductless mini splits, especially for second floors, basements, or additions. Newer detached homes with modern furnaces usually pair best with central AC installed. Basement suites and bonus rooms often see improved comfort with dedicated ductless zoning.
Mini Splits vs Central AC When Heat Pumps Are Involved
Many ductless systems are also heat pumps, which can supplement heating during shoulder seasons. In Calgary, they work best when paired with a high-efficiency furnace rather than used as a sole heat source during deep winter cold.
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FAQs
Are ductless mini splits good for Calgary homes?
Yes, especially for older homes, additions, and rooms with poor airflow. They work well for cooling and shoulder-season heating when paired with a furnace.
Is central AC cheaper than a mini split in Calgary?
Central AC is typically cheaper when ductwork already exists. Mini splits can be more economical when duct installation would otherwise be required.
Which system costs more to repair?
Ductless systems generally have higher repair costs due to electronics and inverter components, while central AC repairs are usually simpler and less expensive.
Can I cool only part of my home with a mini split?
Yes, ductless systems are ideal for zoned cooling, allowing you to cool specific rooms instead of the entire home.
Which system adds more value to a Calgary home?
Both can add value when professionally installed, but central AC is often preferred by buyers in homes with existing ductwork.
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