Air conditioning systems are an increasingly common feature in UK households - in most part down to the rising temperatures we experience in the summer months.
Beyond keeping us cool, there are other benefits to having air conditioning in the home, like controlled humidity levels and better indoor air quality. Most modern systems also provide energy efficient heating through winter.
But what types of AC are available to you? And which solution best fits the needs of your home? For a property with multiple spaces you have two options - multi-split AC or central AC.
To better understand how these systems differ, let’s look at each one in turn.
Central air conditioning - also referred to as ducted air conditioning - regulates the temperature and humidity of an entire home. These systems have an external unit, usually installed at the back or to the side of the property, with an internal unit placed out of view, typically in a loft or basement.
The internal unit is responsible for distributing conditioned air throughout the house, which it does through a system of ducts, with vents installed in each room.
A key advantage of central air conditioning is its ability to provide even cooling, regardless of the size or layout of the house. This makes it a good option if you own a larger property and are looking to create a consistent indoor environment throughout.
However, central air conditioning demands considerable space - and the installation of ductwork can be quite intrusive. Because of this, these systems aren’t often retrofitted unless part of a major renovation.
It might be a good option for an energy efficient new build though, particularly when paired with mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR).
Multi-split systems offer a versatile alternative to central air conditioning, and are especially suited for properties where the installation of ductwork may not be feasible.
As with central AC, these systems have an outdoor unit, but instead of just one, there are multiple indoor units connected to it.
Each indoor unit is responsible for cooling a specific zone or room in the house. This zoning capability is a significant advantage, as it enables occupants to adjust the temperature according to their preferences in different areas of the home.
Multi-split systems offer flexibility in terms of installation, as the indoor units can be mounted on walls or ceilings. They require less space compared to central air conditioning, and because they don't rely on ductwork, installation is typically less invasive.
This makes them a good option for both new construction and retrofitting existing homes.
So how do these systems compare? Here’s a breakdown of the key things you’ll need to think about when choosing one over the other.
|
Central AC |
Multi-Split AC | |
| Installation |
Typically requires ductwork installation throughout the entire house. Best for new constructions or major renovations |
No ductwork required, making it suitable for existing homes or individual rooms. Multiple indoor units connected to one outdoor unit. |
| Cost | Higher initial cost due to ductwork and centralised system. |
Lower initial cost for the equipment, but can be higher when installing multiple indoor units. |
| Energy Efficiency | Generally, less energy efficient due to potential loss of cool air through ducts and inability to control individual room temperatures. |
More energy efficient as each indoor unit can be controlled separately, allowing for zoning and temperature control in different rooms. |
| Flexibility | Limited flexibility as the entire house is cooled or heated at the same temperature. |
Offers flexibility to cool or heat individual rooms according to need, saving energy and increasing comfort. |
|
Maintenance |
Maintenance can be more complicated due to the centralised system and ductwork. |
Easier maintenance as each indoor unit can be serviced separately. |
| Space Requirements | Requires space for the indoor unit, outdoor unit, and ductwork. |
Requires space for the outdoor unit and individual indoor units mounted on walls or ceilings. |
| Aesthetic | Ductwork may affect the aesthetics of the home, especially if retrofitting. |
Indoor units can blend with the interior decor. |
| Noise | Can be noisier due to the centralised system and ductwork. |
Indoor units tend to be quieter, especially if placed strategically. |
| Scalability | Difficult to add zones or upgrade without significant modifications. |
Easily scalable as additional indoor units can be added to the system over time. |
Deciding between split AC and central AC depends on several factors, including your home's layout, your cooling and heating needs, and personal preferences.
If you have a large property and want consistent cooling throughout, central AC might be the better option. Its ability to evenly distribute conditioned air via ductwork ensures uniform comfort levels across the house. However, be prepared for higher initial costs and space requirements.
For smaller or multi-story homes where ductwork installation is impractical, multi-split AC offers a flexible solution. With the ability to cool individual zones or rooms independently, multi-split systems provide personalised comfort and energy savings.
It’s also worth noting that the installation of multi-split systems is subject to 0% VAT until 2027.
If you have any questions about the installation of domestic air conditioning, our team of experienced professionals is on hand. We’ll help you assess your home's needs and determine the best solution for you and your family.
