Ducted vs. Ductless A/C Systems: Making the Right Choice for Your Calgary Property
Most people don’t realize how much their A/C setup affects monthly costs, indoor comfort, and even property value. In Calgary, where temperature swings are part of the deal, the wrong system can underperform and create long-term headaches.
Keep reading to learn the difference between ducted and ductless a/c systems and how to choose the one that works best for your space.
System Comparison
Before considering pricing or installation, let’s explore how each system works:
Ducted A/C Systems
Ducted systems are the traditional choice, especially for homes that already have ductwork. These systems use a central air handler to push cooled air through a network of ducts to each room.
Ducted systems often tie into your existing
furnace or air handler, making them a natural upgrade if your home already uses forced-air heating.
Ductless Mini-Splits
Ductless systems offer flexibility and a solution for properties without existing ductwork. Many of them are also heat pumps and can supplement the building’s primary heat source. Mini-splits have an outdoor condenser and one or more indoor units, usually mounted high on walls. Each indoor unit cools a specific zone, allowing for customized comfort in individual rooms.
Installation and Cost Considerations
Your installation cost and timeline will vary depending on the type of system and the layout of your home or commercial property.
Ducted A/C System
Installing a ducted A/C is cost-effective when ducts are already in place. However, retrofitting ducts into an older property can quickly become invasive and expensive. The system itself may have a lower unit cost compared to ductless options, but labour and construction work can increase the total bill.
Ductless A/C System
Ductless A/Cs typically have a higher upfront equipment cost per unit, especially when installing multiple zones. Installation is usually quicker, less disruptive, and doesn't require significant changes to walls or ceilings.
Efficiency and Zoning Benefits
Ductless systems often outperform ducted setups in terms of energy efficiency, thanks to inverter technology that adjusts the compressor speed to match demand. There’s no energy loss through ducts, and you can control zones for customized comfort.
Ducted systems can be efficient when properly installed and sealed, particularly if paired with smart thermostats and variable-speed blowers. But ductless options offer more granular control and often lower monthly operating costs.
Incentives and Rebates
To help offset installation costs, homeowners and property managers in Alberta can take advantage of federal and local rebates for energy-efficient upgrades.
The
Canada Greener Homes Grant offers up to $5,000 for improvements like heat pump systems, including many ductless mini-splits. Some Alberta municipalities and utilities offer incentives to encourage the switch from fossil fuels to alternative energy sources for heating and cooling.
Still Deciding? Let’s Talk It Through
The right system depends on your layout, energy goals, and how much control you want over your indoor climate. Both options bring different strengths, but only one will deliver the performance your property needs.
Talk to the BVCM team. We’ll assess your space, explain your options, and help you choose a system that pays off in comfort and long-term savings.
Let’s get you a
free quote.
