The main difference between a mini split system and central air conditioner is the way they deliver cool air into your home. An air conditioner uses a network of ducts to distribute cool air throughout your home. The ducts are typically installed in the walls, ceilings, or floors, and the cool air is delivered through registers or vents. Central air conditioners are typically installed as a part of a forced-air heating system, which means that the same ductwork is used to distribute warm air during the heating season. In contrast, a mini-split system does not use ducts to deliver cool air. Instead, it consists of one or more indoor units that are mounted on the wall or ceiling of each room or zone in your home. These indoor units are connected to an outdoor unit via a conduit that houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, and condensate drain. Each indoor unit has its own thermostat, which allows for individual temperature control in each room. Another difference between a mini split and an air conditioner is that a mini split is typically more energy-efficient. Since ductwork can be a source of energy loss, a mini split can avoid this issue and deliver cool air directly to the room where it is needed. Additionally, mini splits typically have inverter-driven compressors, which can adjust the cooling output to match the needs of each room, resulting in less energy waste. Overall, the decision between a central air conditioner and a mini split depends on various factors, including the size of your home, your cooling needs, and your budget. If you have a larger home or need to cool multiple rooms or zones, a central air conditioner may be a more practical choice. However, if your home currently doesn’t have ductwork, a mini split system could be a good option since the cost to install ductwork in a pre-existing home can be very expensive. Also, if you want personalized temperature control and energy efficiency, a ductless system may be the better option.