As summer heat sets in, homeowners often find themselves facing the age-old dilemma: what’s the best way to cool your home efficiently? If you’re weighing options like central AC or a split system, it’s not always clear which one will provide the best comfort and savings for your space. The right cooling solution depends on your home’s layout, climate, and specific needs. At Dick Ray, we’ve helped countless homeowners make this decision easier, and in this guide, we’re breaking down the differences between the two to help you find the perfect fit for your home.
What is a Split System?
A split system typically includes an indoor furnace or air handler, a large outdoor AC unit, and a network of ducts that carry cooled air throughout the home. This setup is what most homeowners are used to—it’s standard in our area and has been around for years.
If you’re willing to invest in a high-efficiency model, split systems can perform very well. They provide consistent cooling and are ideal for homes already outfitted with ductwork. If your home is a single-level ranch, airflow tends to stay pretty even throughout the space. These homes tend to stay cooler and don’t face the same cooling challenges as multi-level houses.
How Central AC Performs in Multi-Level Homes
Here’s the truth: if you live in a two-story home, it’s always going to be harder to keep the upstairs cool. That’s just how heat works—it rises. Unless your home was designed with a separate system for each floor, you’re going to notice that the second level is warmer, especially during the summer months.
If your house wasn’t built with two systems, we often recommend installing a zoning damper system in the ductwork. These dampers help direct airflow to the areas that need it most. For example, once the lower level is cooled and the thermostat there is satisfied, the dampers will close, forcing all the cool air to the upper level until that space reaches the desired temperature. It’s a great way to balance out your home’s comfort and ensure your system works smarter—not harder.
The Growing Popularity of Mini-Split Systems
Mini-split systems are extremely common outside the U.S.—in fact, about 75% of the world uses them. And for good reason. These systems include a small outdoor unit and one or more indoor “head” units that are typically mounted high on a wall. Unlike central AC, mini-splits don’t require ductwork, which makes them a perfect fit for older homes.
Some mini-split systems on the market today are incredibly efficient. We’re now seeing cold-weather heat pump mini-splits that maintain 78% efficiency even when temperatures drop to -22°F. That’s impressive performance, especially here in the Midwest.
When Mini-Splits Are the Better Choice
We recommend mini-split systems in several situations, especially:
- In older homes that were never set up for central AC
- In homes with boilers and window units
- In areas like Ward Parkway and Brookside, where ductwork wasn’t part of the original construction
Mini-splits are great because you can install one outdoor unit and pair it with multiple indoor heads. This means you can cool multiple rooms independently. Don’t need to cool your guest room today? Just shut off that head unit. Only want the bedroom and living room cooled? You’re in control.
This zoned cooling also leads to lower energy use—because you’re only cooling the rooms you’re actually using.
Addressing Airflow and Comfort
Even in homes that stay fairly cool, airflow can still be a concern. Some rooms might feel stuffy or stale if air isn’t moving. If you’re using a central system and want to improve circulation, one solution is to keep your system’s fan running continuously. This helps move air more evenly and prevents certain areas from feeling warmer than others.
Whether you go with a split system or a mini-split, how your system handles airflow is just as important as temperature. Proper circulation plays a big role in overall comfort.
So, Which Cooling System Is Right for You?
If your home already has ductwork and a relatively consistent layout, a central AC system or split system might be the most straightforward, cost-effective option. These systems have been around for decades and can be very efficient—especially when zoned properly in a multi-level home.
However, if you live in an older home without ducts, or you’re tired of relying on window units, a mini-split system can offer you efficiency, control, and comfort with minimal disruption to your home’s structure. Plus, the latest cold-weather heat pump models are proving they can handle Kansas City winters without missing a beat.
In Summary
Whether you’re upgrading your current system or cooling your home for the first time, the choice between a split system and central AC depends on your home’s layout, age, and how much control you want over energy use. If you’re dealing with hot upstairs rooms, outdated window units, or no ductwork at all, a mini-split may be your best option. If your home is already set up for central AC and you just need better airflow or zoning, we can help with that too.
Contact us at Dick Ray to schedule a free consultation. We’ll assess your home and recommend the best system to keep your family comfortable year-round—efficiently and affordably.
