Duct vs Non Duct Air Conditioning System

When choosing an air conditioning system, one of the key decisions is whether to opt for a ducted or non-ducted system. Both have unique features, advantages, and ideal applications. Here’s a detailed comparison:

1. Definition

• Ducted Air Conditioning System: Uses a network of ducts to distribute cooled or heated air from a central unit to different rooms or zones within a building.
• Non-Ducted Air Conditioning System: Does not use ducts; instead, it directly delivers cooled or heated air into the room or space from individual units.

2. Types

• Ducted Systems:
  • Central Air Conditioning
  • Packaged Units
  • Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) with ducting
• Non-Ducted Systems:
  • Split Systems (Wall-mounted, Floor-standing, Ceiling-mounted)
  • Window Units
  • Portable Air Conditioners
  • Ductless VRF Systems

3. Installation

• Ducted Systems:
  • Requires extensive ductwork installation, typically within walls, ceilings, or under floors.
  • Best suited for new constructions or major renovations.
• Non-Ducted Systems:
  • Easier and quicker to install; requires mounting the indoor unit and connecting it to an outdoor compressor via refrigerant pipes.
  • Ideal for existing structures without ductwork.

4. Cost

• Ducted Systems:
  • Higher upfront cost due to the need for ductwork and complex installation.
  • Cost-effective for cooling/heating large spaces in the long run.
• Non-Ducted Systems:
  • Lower initial cost; installation is less expensive.
  • Operating costs may be higher if multiple units are required for larger spaces.

5. Aesthetic Impact

• Ducted Systems:
  • Minimal visibility; air is delivered through discreet vents.
  • A clean, seamless appearance ideal for homes or offices with modern interior designs.
• Non-Ducted Systems:
  • Indoor units are visible (e.g., wall-mounted units).
  • Offers flexibility in design but can impact aesthetics.

6. Energy Efficiency

• Ducted Systems:
  • Can be less energy-efficient due to potential duct losses (leakage, poor insulation, etc.).
  • Zoning options can improve efficiency by targeting specific areas.
• Non-Ducted Systems:
  • Highly energy-efficient as they avoid duct losses.
  • Advanced models often feature inverter technology for optimized performance.

7. Maintenance

• Ducted Systems:
  • Regular duct cleaning is essential to prevent dust buildup and maintain air quality.
  • Maintenance may involve complex inspections and repairs within the duct network.
• Non-Ducted Systems:
  • Easier to maintain; involves cleaning filters and servicing the indoor/outdoor units.
  • No ducts to clean or maintain.

8. Noise Levels

• Ducted Systems:
  • Quieter as the central unit is often located away from living areas, and air travels through insulated ducts.
• Non-Ducted Systems:
  • Some indoor units can be noisy, though modern designs minimize sound levels.

9. Flexibility

• Ducted Systems:
  • Provides whole-house or large-area climate control.
  • Zoning systems allow customization for different areas, but flexibility is limited compared to non-ducted systems.
• Non-Ducted Systems:
  • Offers excellent flexibility, as individual units can be installed in specific rooms or zones.
  • Ideal for spaces with varying cooling/heating needs.

10. Applications

• Ducted Systems:
  • Large homes, offices, hotels, or buildings requiring centralized air conditioning.
  • Ideal for concealed installations and unified temperature control.
• Non-Ducted Systems:
  • Single rooms, apartments, small offices, or spaces without ductwork.
  • Suitable for retrofitting or temporary cooling needs.

Comparison Table