Central air? That’s so last summer.

Split systems and ductless air conditioners are the new wave of HVAC systems. Instead of a central cooling system that courses through airducts into the nooks and crannies of your entire home, ductless split systems remotely connect small individual cooling units — which can be placed in as many rooms as you choose — to a compressor system that can be kept outside. Ductless solutions offer many benefits over central air conditioning units, including:

• Temperature Control: Top ductless air conditioner designs can include separate temperature control units for every room in the house. So if you like to keep a little toasty in the summer while your spouse prefers an igloo, you can set individual rooms to your liking. Customizable thermostats will also help you cut down on cooling costs for rooms you’re not using, saving homeowners an average of $180 every year.
• Energy Efficiency: No duct systems running through the interior of your walls means no chance of leaky ducts, which can be a huge waste of energy. Improperly installed HVAC ductwork can result in higher energy bills by as much as 30%.
• Home Compatability: If you live in an old home that wasn’t designed with a duct system for heating and air conditioning, it used to be that you had to settle for bulky window fixtures to cool each individual room — otherwise, you were plumb out of luck. With split and mini split systems, which are the top ductless air conditioner technologies today, your entire home can be cool and comfortable all summer long. And unlike those window units, a well-cared for split system can last as long as 15 years.
• Peace and Quiet: Noisy central air conditioning units that are constantly turning on and off throughout the day can be a nuisance. The indoor split units placed inside each room are discreet and noiseless, while the compact compressor outside runs quietly enough that you can still hear crickets chirping.

If you’re in the market for a new HVAC system, consider the pros and cons of going ductless. Split systems aren’t for everybody, but they’re increasingly the cutting edge of HVAC technology. Don’t get left out in the cold — or in the heat!