The main difference between a central AC and a duct AC is how they are built and where they are used. A central AC cools an entire building, while a duct AC is a smaller setup that can cool a specific area through a hidden duct in the ceiling.
Those are commercial cooling machines; it is used in commercial office buildings and restaurants, and other significant places. They are more costly than other cooling devices.
Introduction.
Air conditioner is now a basic need in our daily life, especially in the hottest and humid areas. You have to choose the right product to fulfill your needs so that it can create a more comfortable environment in your space. Cost is a significant issue, but those products are more costly.
Most people are confused when comparing with central AC or Duct AC because both can cool rooms efficiently or expertly. But they are not the same; they are difference in design, cooling power, control system, and installation method.
I will complete whatthe difference is between central AC and duct AC, includingtheir features, benefits, pros and cons, and how to choose the best one for your needs.
Understanding the Basics
What Is Central AC?
A central air conditioning system has one big outdoor unit and an indoor cooling coil. It cools the air in one central location and distributes it through ducts and vents to each room in the building.
Central AC is standard in large commercial buildings, hotels, hospitals, or big homes with multiple rooms or floors. They can maintain the good temperature across vast areas and be controlled from one central thermostat.
Key Features of Central AC:
- One extensive cooling system for the entire building.
- Comprehensive system of ducts.
- Temperature regulation from a central point.
- Considerable cooling capacity for extensive areas.
- Appropriate for industrial and commercial configurations.
What Is Ducted AC?
A ducted system AC works almost the same way as a central AC, but they are not similar. It has an indoor unit that is hidden inside the ceiling, and it sends cool air through a duct line to different rooms or spaces.
Ducted AC is very popular in modern homes, offices because it looks neat, runs quietly, and provides comfortable airflow. You can only feel the cool air, not see the machine.
Key Features of Ducted AC:
- Indoor unit hidden in the ceiling or false ceiling
- Provides air via ducts and vents
- Can cool one or multiple rooms
- Operation with low noise and energy consumption
- It’s a modern and stylish design.
Central AC vs Ducted AC
This comparison is to help you understand what the difference between central AC and ducted AC is more clearly.
| Feature | Central AC | Ducted AC |
| System Type | Large centralized cooling system | Zone-based concealed cooling system |
| Cooling Capacity | Very high; ideal for large buildings | Medium to high; ideal for homes/offices |
| Installation | Complex and requires large ductwork | Easier and fits into ceilings or walls |
| Control System | Central thermostat (single control) | Individual or zone-wise temperature control |
| Energy Efficiency | Consumes more power | More energy-efficient for specific zones |
| Maintenance | Requires professional service | Easier and less costly maintenance |
| Aesthetic Look | Visible vents and large equipment | Fully concealed, sleek design |
| Cost | High initial and running cost | Moderate installation and running cost |
| Best For | Large commercial spaces, factories, hotels | Homes, offices, showrooms, small buildings |
How Each System Works
Working Principle of Central AC
A central air conditioning system removes warm air from indoors, cools it with an evaporator coil, and circulates the cooled air through ducts to all rooms. The compressor forces the heated air outdoors, and the entire system is regulated by a single primary thermostat or control panel.
Working Principle of Ducted AC
A duct air conditioning system removes the warm air from indoors, cools it, and distributes the cooled air to various rooms via a duct. Ducted type AC has the unique feature of zoning, allowing for different temperatures in multiple rooms. It provides greater flexibility and comfort for all who use the space.
Advantages and Disadvantages
✅ Advantages of Central AC
- Uniform Cooling: Provides the best cooling facilities in every space.
- High Capacity: Perfect for a large building.
- Cleaner Air: includes advanced air filters and purifiers.
❌ Disadvantages of Central AC
- High Installation Cost: It is high costly cooling machine.
- Energy Consumption: It needs more electricity.
- Complex Maintenance: Needs experts or an engineer for maintenance.
✅ Advantages of Ducted AC
- Sleek & Hidden Design: The system is entirely out of sight.
- Zoning Option: Different rooms can set your different temperatures.
- Quiet Operation: It is quieter in an indoor space.
- Energy Saving: It has energy energy-efficient system cooling.
❌ Disadvantages of Ducted AC
- Initial Cost: It is higher than semi-industrial and lower than central AC.
- Duct Cleaning Required: It needs periodic duct maintenance.
- Installation Space: Requires a ceiling for the duct.
Which One Is Better for You?
If you ask me, which is better? It depends on your cooling needs, budget, and building size.
· A central AC system is best for large buildings like hotels, hospitals, factories, or shopping malls because it has high cooling power needs and can be controlled from one central point.
· A ducted AC system is ideal for modern homes, offices, restaurants, or small businesses. It gives excellent cooling performance, saves energy, and looks clean and stylish since the unit stays hidden.
Duct AC systems have become increasing popular because they are now more affordable, energy efficient, and easy to maintain. AIRCONcare provides a total solution for duct air conditioners and central air conditioners with our expert team and engineers. We have a special AC Service center for all kinds of cooling systems in Bangladesh.
You will get various types of renowned brands for Central or duct AC in Bangladesh, like Gree AC, Daikin AC, Carrier AC, LG AC, Chigo AC, and Midea AC in Bangladesh.
Energy Efficiency Comparison
Central AC and ducted AC can save energy if they are correctly installed and well-maintained. However, ducted AC uses less electricity because it can cool only the rooms you need through zoning.
On the other hand, central AC cools the whole building at once, which can increase your electricity bill if some rooms are not in use.
If you want to save energy and stable cooling, always choose an inverter-type ducted AC.
Cost Comparison
| System | Installation Cost | Running Cost | Maintenance Cost |
| Central AC | High | High | High |
| Ducted AC | Moderate | Moderate | Low to Moderate |
After all costs are clarified, you see that the duct AC system is more cost-effective and budget-friendly for the Bangladeshi people.
Maintenance Requirements
Proper maintenance is a must for both cooling systems for fast and reliable cooling.
Central AC Maintenance Includes:
- Cleaning coils and duct regularly.
- Checking refrigerant level.
- Inspecting a large air filter.
- Servicing the compressor and blower motor.
Ducted AC Maintenance Includes:
- Cleaning return air filters.
- Checking the duct for leaks.
- Servicing the indoor ceiling unit.
- Ensuring smooth zone control operation
For best results, always rely on certified HVAC technicians like AIRCONcare to perform regular servicing and system checks.
If you want to get reliable cooling performance, you need to rely on a certified technician or engineer. So, AIRCONcare is the best platform for AC Cleaning, AC repair, and AC Service in Bangladesh.
FAQs
What is the main difference between central AC and ducted AC?
The main difference is in the size and purpose of use. A central AC is perfect for large buildings and needs extensive ductwork, while a ducted AC is smaller and more flexible, perfect for homes or offices.But, a central AC system is suitable whole building.
Which is more energy-efficient: central AC or ducted AC?
Ducted AC systems may be energy-efficient because they can cool specific zones instead of the entire building, reducing power usage. Central AC systems are not made with inverter technology.
Can a ducted AC cool multiple rooms?
Yes, a duct AC system can cool multiple rooms through the false ceiling or vent, and it can provide cools air in various rooms.
Which system costs more to install?
Central AC systems are more costly, such as product price, install cost, and maintenance. They require larger duct networks. Ducted AC is relatively more affordable than central AC.
Conclusion
Knowing whatis the difference between central AC and ducted AC helps you to choose the best cooling system for your needs.
- A central AC is a powerful and perfect choice for large buildings where you need the best cooling in many rooms or floors.
- A ducted AC is more flexible, energy-efficient, and perfect for homes, orifices, and other places that you need.
Suppose you need professionals and experts for the installation, maintenance, or repair of duct or central AC systems in Bangladesh. In that case, you can rely on AIRCONcare, Bangladesh, because they are the most authentic and reliable AC Service center in Dhaka.