CALL US 850-385-3774
When it comes to keeping your home comfortable in Tallahassee’s hot, humid climate, choosing the right air-conditioning system is a major decision. It’s not just about cooling — it’s about energy efficiency, installation complexity, comfort in every room, and long-term cost. In this guide, we’ll compare ductless mini-split systems and traditional central air conditioning, breaking down which system might work best for your home and lifestyle.
A central AC system uses an outdoor compressor and an indoor air handler, distributing cooled air through a network of ducts. One thermostat controls the entire home. Central systems are common in newer homes that already have ductwork and are designed for consistent whole-home cooling.
A ductless mini-split system has an outdoor unit and one or more indoor air handlers, each mounted in different rooms. These indoor units are connected to the outdoor condenser through small refrigerant lines, allowing zone-by-zone temperature control without ductwork.
Many homes in Tallahassee were built before modern ductwork became standard, and high humidity puts added stress on cooling systems. If your home lacks ducts or has inconsistent cooling between rooms, comparing both systems is worth your time.
If you already have ductwork in good condition, a central AC system can be the more affordable choice. Installation typically involves replacing the outdoor condenser and indoor air handler, often taking one to two days to complete. However, if ductwork needs repairs or replacement, costs can rise quickly.
Mini-split systems are typically more expensive upfront but may save money long-term. A single-zone mini-split can cost around $2,000–$4,000 installed, while multi-zone systems for whole homes can range from $7,000 to $12,000 or more. These systems require mounting indoor units, running refrigerant lines, and electrical connections for each zone.
Installing a mini-split often causes less disruption if you don’t already have ductwork. On the other hand, installing new ducts for a central system can mean cutting into walls or ceilings, which adds labor and materials cost.
Mini-splits are known for high energy efficiency. Because they eliminate duct losses (which can account for up to 30% of cooling energy use), they often outperform central AC systems in older Florida homes. Most mini-splits also use inverter technology, which adjusts compressor speed rather than cycling on and off, saving energy over time.
Central systems can also be efficient — especially newer models with higher SEER2 ratings — but they rely on airtight, insulated ductwork. If your ducts run through a hot attic or crawl space, energy loss is inevitable, which can lead to higher utility bills.
While central AC may have lower upfront cost, mini-splits often win over time. In Tallahassee’s long cooling season, homeowners who zone their cooling with a ductless system can save hundreds per year by conditioning only the spaces they use.
Central air conditioning excels at cooling the entire home evenly. A single thermostat controls the temperature throughout your home, making it easy to maintain a steady climate — but this also means you’re cooling rooms you may not be using.
Mini-splits shine when it comes to zoning. Each indoor unit operates independently, giving you full control of temperature settings in each room. This flexibility helps eliminate hot and cold spots, especially in multi-level homes or rooms that face direct sunlight.
Humidity is one of the biggest challenges in North Florida. Central AC systems naturally dehumidify the air as they cool, while mini-splits do so through longer, lower-power cycles. In extremely humid conditions, central systems may have an edge in moisture control — but properly sized mini-splits perform well when installed by a professional.
Mini-splits require regular cleaning of filters (usually every two to four weeks) and professional servicing of coils and drain lines. Because each zone has its own indoor unit, maintenance takes slightly longer but remains simple.
Central systems require seasonal tune-ups to inspect refrigerant levels, clean coils, and test duct integrity. Duct cleaning and sealing every few years are essential for maintaining performance and air quality.
With proper care, both systems last 15–20 years. Mini-splits tend to last longer in humid environments since they avoid the duct deterioration that affects central systems.
If your home already has well-insulated, sealed ducts and you’re happy with one thermostat for the entire house, central AC might make the most sense. If you’re remodeling, have an older home, or want better control of specific rooms, a mini-split can provide better comfort and efficiency.
In some cases, a hybrid setup works best — using a central system for your main living areas and a mini-split for an addition or sunroom.
Choosing between a mini-split and central AC isn’t always straightforward. The right choice depends on your home’s size, insulation, duct condition, and how you use your space. At Tony Kelly Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ll assess your home’s layout, climate needs, and budget to recommend the most effective system.
Learn more about our Mini-Split Installation Services or Central AC Installation in Tallahassee to explore your options today.
Let our licensed HVAC experts help you choose the best system for your home. Call (850) 385-3774 or request service online today.
Yes. Mini-splits perform very well in humid climates when properly sized and installed. Their inverter compressors allow them to run longer, removing moisture more effectively than older, single-speed systems. However, central AC may still have an advantage in whole-home dehumidification if ducts are tight and well-insulated.
Yes, but it depends on your home’s size and layout. For larger homes, multi-zone mini-split systems can cover the entire space, but costs increase with each additional indoor unit. Many homeowners in Tallahassee use mini-splits for specific rooms or additions and rely on central AC for the main areas.
Mini-splits are typically cheaper to operate over time because they reduce energy loss through ducts and allow you to cool only the rooms you’re using. In a humid, long cooling season like Tallahassee’s, that zoning control can result in significant utility savings each year.
Both systems can last 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance. Mini-splits often last longer in Florida because they avoid duct-related wear and tear, while central systems may need duct cleaning or sealing as they age.
Absolutely. Many Tallahassee homeowners choose a hybrid approach — keeping their central system for main living areas while installing a mini-split for rooms that need extra cooling or aren’t connected to existing ducts.
Address:
870 Blountstown Hwy. Unit # 9
Tallahassee, FL 32303
Phone: 850-385-3774
License #: CMC1249702
Call Us At Any Time.
We're Available 24/7!
