Introduction: Duct vs Ductless – Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re trying to decide between a duct vs ductless AC system, you’re not alone. Homeowners in Las Vegas and Pahrump often face this choice when installing a new air conditioner or upgrading their old one. Both systems can keep you cool, but they work differently, have different costs, and suit different types of homes.
In this guide, we’ll compare ducted and ductless air conditioning systems side by side so you can see which one’s right for your space, budget, and comfort needs — especially in our desert climate.
What Is a Ducted AC System?
A ducted AC system, also called central air, uses a network of ducts to move cooled air throughout your home.
How It Works
A central unit cools the air and pushes it through hidden ducts in your walls or ceilings, sending cool air into each room through vents.
Pros of Ducted AC
- Cools large homes evenly.
- Quiet operation.
- Hidden design (no visible wall units).
Cons of Ducted AC
- Higher installation cost, especially if your home doesn’t have existing ducts.
- Energy loss through leaky or poorly insulated ducts.
- Duct cleaning and maintenance required — especially important in Las Vegas dust conditions.
Typical Lifespan: 15–20 years with proper care.
Average Cost in Las Vegas: $6,500–$12,000 depending on home size and ductwork condition.
Read More: Which is cheaper to run: ducted or split system?
What Is a Ductless AC System?
A ductless AC system, also called a mini-split, doesn’t need ducts. Instead, it uses small indoor units mounted on your wall or ceiling, each connected to an outdoor unit.
How It Works
Each indoor unit cools just the room it’s in. You can install one or several units depending on how many rooms you want to cool.
Pros of Ductless AC
- Lower installation cost if you don’t already have ducts.
- No energy loss through duct leaks.
- Independent temperature control in each room.
- Faster installation.
Cons of Ductless AC
- Wall-mounted units are visible.
- May need multiple units to cool a large home.
- Indoor units need filter cleaning every few weeks in dusty climates.
Read More: What are the disadvantages of ductless system?
Typical Lifespan: 12–15 years.
Average Cost in Las Vegas: $3,500–$8,000 depending on the number of indoor units.
Duct vs Ductless: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Ducted AC | Ductless AC |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Cost | $6,500–$12,000 | $3,500–$8,000 |
| Energy Efficiency | Lower due to duct losses | Higher — no ducts to leak |
| Best For | Cooling large spaces evenly | Zoned cooling, older homes, no ducts |
| Maintenance | Duct cleaning every 3–5 years, filter changes | Regular filter cleaning |
| Lifespan | 15–20 years | 12–15 years |
| Installation Time | 3–5 days (longer if new ducts needed) | 1–2 days |
| Appearance | Hidden vents | Wall/ceiling units visible |
Which System Works Best for Las Vegas & Pahrump Homes?
Our climate is hot, dry, and dusty. Here’s what that means for your AC choice:
- Ducted AC is great for large, newer homes where ducts are already in place. Just make sure your ducts are sealed and insulated to prevent energy waste.
- Ductless AC is ideal for older homes without ducts, home additions, or for people who want to control the temperature in different rooms separately.
If you live in a smaller home or want to lower your monthly bill, ductless may save you more in the long run.
Cost & Installation Time in Las Vegas
Ducted AC: $6,500–$12,000; installation takes about 3–5 days.
Ductless AC: $3,500–$8,000; installation is usually done in 1–2 days.
Prices vary based on home size, number of rooms, and any upgrades like high-efficiency units.
Energy Efficiency & Monthly Bills
In Las Vegas heat, every bit of efficiency matters.
- Ducted systems lose 20–30% of their cooled air through duct leaks.
- Ductless systems avoid this problem and can cut your summer energy bills by 20–40%.
For maximum savings, choose models with high SEER ratings.
Maintenance & Lifespan
- Ducted AC: Needs duct cleaning every 3–5 years, plus regular filter changes. Lifespan: 15–20 years.
- Ductless AC: Filters need cleaning every 2–4 weeks in dusty conditions. Lifespan: 12–15 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is ductless better than ducted AC?
It depends on your home’s layout and needs. Ductless is often more efficient and cheaper to install in homes without existing ducts.
2. Which lasts longer, ductless or ducted?
Ducted systems typically last longer — up to 20 years — if maintained well.
3. Which is cheaper to install in Las Vegas?
Ductless AC is generally less expensive unless you already have ducts in good condition.
4. Does ductless work well for large homes?
Yes, but you may need multiple indoor units for full coverage.
5. Can I switch from ducted to ductless?
Yes, but installation needs to be planned to match your cooling needs.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Both ducted and ductless AC systems have their strengths. In Las Vegas and Pahrump, your best choice depends on your home size, budget, and comfort preferences.
Not sure which system is right for you? Our HVAC experts can help you decide and give you a free, no-obligation estimate.
Call The A/C Guys today for professional AC installation and replacement in Las Vegas.
