Mini-Split vs. Central AC for Rockwall Homes
Quick answer
Is a ductless mini-split better than central air conditioning?
A ductless mini-split is better when you're conditioning a space that has no ductwork — a garage, shop, sunroom, converted attic, or an addition. Central AC is better when a home already has ducts in reasonable condition, because a single central system costs less per conditioned square foot and keeps every room on one thermostat.
Last updated by Art Electric & HVAC · Rockwall, TX
Ductless mini-split
$4,200 – $6,800 single zone
- No ductwork required
- Room-by-room temperature control
- Very high efficiency (no duct loss)
- Quiet indoor operation
- Visible indoor head units
- Higher cost per ton for whole-home coverage
- More filters to clean
Central AC
$6,500 – $13,500 installed
- Lowest cost per square foot whole-home
- Hidden equipment
- Easy whole-home filtration and humidity control
- Ducts leak 15–30% in older Rockwall attics
- One thermostat for the whole house
- Not practical for garages or unducted additions
Our recommendation
Ducted home, ducts intact: central AC. Adding comfort to a space with no ducts, or fixing one always-hot bonus room: mini-split.