When summer hits Ottawa, staying cool isn’t a luxury — it’s a must. But if you’re considering a new cooling system, you might be wondering whether a ductless AC or central air conditioning system is the better fit for your home.
From efficiency and installation to cost and comfort, here’s everything you need to know to make the right choice — especially if you live in an older Ottawa home without ductwork.
From efficiency and installation to cost and comfort, here’s everything you need to know to make the right choice — especially if you live in an older Ottawa home without ductwork.
Central vs. Ductless AC: What's the Difference?
Central air conditioning relies on a single outdoor unit connected to ductwork that distributes cool air throughout your home. It's a great option for homes that already have ducts in place (usually from a furnace or forced-air heating system).
Ductless AC Ottawa systems — also called mini-splits — work differently. They feature one or more indoor units mounted on walls or ceilings, connected to a compact outdoor condenser via a refrigerant line. Each indoor unit cools a specific area or "zone."
In Ottawa, many older homes were built without ductwork, making ductless AC an ideal option for retrofits, home additions, or specific rooms that need more cooling power.
Ductless AC Ottawa systems — also called mini-splits — work differently. They feature one or more indoor units mounted on walls or ceilings, connected to a compact outdoor condenser via a refrigerant line. Each indoor unit cools a specific area or "zone."
In Ottawa, many older homes were built without ductwork, making ductless AC an ideal option for retrofits, home additions, or specific rooms that need more cooling power.
Installation and Home Layout: How They Compare
If your home already has ductwork, installing central AC can be straightforward. But if it doesn’t, adding ducts can be invasive and expensive — requiring drywall removal and space that may not exist in older Ottawa homes.
In contrast, ductless AC systems:
- Don’t require ductwork
- Only need a small hole for the refrigerant line
- Are perfect for older homes, additions, basements, or any space where traditional ducting is impractical
For Ottawa homeowners looking for a low-disruption solution, ductless AC is often the easier, more affordable choice.
Energy Efficiency and Control: Room-by-Room Comfort
Ductless systems use inverter technology, which continuously adjusts the compressor speed to match the room’s needs. This not only reduces energy use but also maintains more consistent temperatures — achieving SEER ratings of up to 42.
Central AC units typically run in on/off cycles and can reach SEER ratings between 14–20+, depending on the model.
Another key difference? Zoning.
Central AC units typically run in on/off cycles and can reach SEER ratings between 14–20+, depending on the model.
Another key difference? Zoning.
- With ductless AC in Ottawa, you control the temperature of each room individually.
- With central AC, you manage the entire home from a single thermostat — which can lead to overcooling or hot spots.
For homes with varied usage (guest rooms, home offices, etc.), ductless AC in Ottawa provides maximum control and comfort.
Maintenance and Lifespan
Maintenance is crucial for any cooling system, but ductless AC units are often easier to manage. Each indoor unit has a washable filter, and without ducts, there’s less dust circulating through your home — improving indoor air quality.
Well-maintained ductless systems can last up to 20 years, especially if filters are cleaned monthly and annual servicing is done.
Central AC systems require:
Well-maintained ductless systems can last up to 20 years, especially if filters are cleaned monthly and annual servicing is done.
Central AC systems require:
- Annual coil cleaning
- Blower motor checks
- Duct inspection for leaks or buildup
So while both systems benefit from routine service, ductless systems offer simpler upkeep.
Cost and Comfort Considerations
Here’s how it breaks down:
- Upfront Cost: Central AC is often cheaper if ducts already exist. Ductless may cost more initially, especially with multiple indoor units, but avoids the cost of duct installation.
- Comfort: Central AC cools the whole home uniformly. Ductless systems offer flexible zoning — you can cool only the rooms you're using.
- Noise: Ductless indoor units are whisper-quiet. Central AC has quieter indoor noise but often louder outdoor condensers.
In Ottawa, where some homes have unusual layouts or additions, ductless AC provides both flexibility and quiet operation — ideal for light sleepers or home office setups.
Making the Right Choice for Your Ottawa Home
Still unsure? Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Choose Ductless AC Ottawa if:
✔️ Your home doesn’t have ductwork
✔️ You’re renovating or adding rooms
✔️ You want customizable, zone-based cooling
✔️ You're looking for a quiet, energy-efficient solution - Choose Central AC if:
✔️ You already have ductwork in place
✔️ You want whole-home cooling from a single system
✔️ You’re building new or doing a full HVAC system install
Ready to Upgrade Your Home’s Cooling?
At Ercans Heating & Cooling, we help Ottawa homeowners make smart, energy-efficient decisions. Whether you need ductless AC in Ottawa, a new central system, or expert advice — our team is ready to help.
Contact us today to book a consultation and find the perfect cooling solution for your home!
Contact us today to book a consultation and find the perfect cooling solution for your home!
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(613) 596-4240
(613) 596-4240