A Quick Guide to Ducted vs. Ductless A/C Systems

System Comparison

Both systems cool indoor spaces effectively, but distribute the air differently.

Ducted Air Conditioning Systems

Ducted systems connect to a central air conditioner that pushes cooled air through a network of ducts throughout the home. Air travels through supply vents and returns through intake vents, completing the cooling cycle.

Many homes in Calgary already have ductwork connected to a furnace, making central air conditioning an easy upgrade.

Ductless Mini Split Systems

Ductless systems use an outdoor compressor connected to one or more indoor air handling units. Each indoor unit cools a specific room or zone. This setup works well for:

• Homes without existing ductwork
• Room additions 
• Spaces that need independent temperature control

Installation and Cost Considerations

Installation difficulty can affect which system homeowners choose.

Ducted System Installation

Homes with existing furnace ductwork can usually install a central air conditioner without major structural changes. The outdoor condenser connects to an indoor coil in the ductwork near the furnace.

Homes without ductwork require additional construction to install it, increasing project scope and costs.

Ductless System Installation

Ductless mini-split systems offer flexibility with different indoor units to suit various rooms and layouts:

• Wall-mounted: The most popular choice 
• Ceiling-mounted: Ideal for larger open spaces
• Floor-mounted: Suited for rooms with limited wall space

Efficiency and Zoning Benefits

Energy efficiency becomes a bigger deal once Alberta’s summer heat settles in and the AC starts running most of the day. Nobody wants a system that struggles to keep up or drives up the power bill.

Ducted systems can cool a home efficiently when the ductwork is sealed well and properly insulated. When air moves through ducts with gaps or poor insulation, some of that cooled air escapes before it reaches the rooms that need it.

Ductless systems send cooled air directly into the room, avoiding energy losses in attics or basements. Many models also use inverter technology, which allows the compressor to adjust its speed based on demand. Instead of turning on at full blast every time, it ramps up or down to maintain a steady temperature.

Ductless systems also give homeowners more control over where cooling happens:

• Cooling only the rooms people actually use
• Setting different temperatures for the upper and lower floors
• Improving comfort in rooms with large windows or strong sun exposure

Incentives and Rebates

Calgary homeowners may qualify for the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability program or the Clean Energy Improvement program, which support energy-efficient HVAC upgrades. 

Find the Right Cooling Equipment for Your Home

Every home cools a little differently. Layout, existing ductwork, and how your family uses each room can all influence which system makes the most sense.

Some homeowners want one system that cools the whole house. Others prefer room-by-room control, especially in homes where certain spaces heat up faster than others.

For guidance specific to Calgary homes, BVCM can help you explore the cooling options that fit your space and comfort goals. Contact our team to schedule a consultation and review air conditioning systems suited to your home.

SOURCES:

https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/ductless-mini-split-air-conditioners

https://natural-resources.canada.ca/energy-efficiency/home-energy-efficiency/energy-efficiency-homes

https://albertabusinessgrants.ca/grants/oil-to-heat-pump-affordability-program/

https://www.calgary.ca/environment/programs/clean-energy-improvement-program.html