Choosing the right air conditioning system is a key decision for any apartment owner in areas like Hinsdale, La Grange, or Downers Grove — places known for weather extremes, from scorching summers to bitterly cold winters. At New Comfort Inc., we specialize in helping homeowners throughout Chicago’s western and southwestern suburbs find the best HVAC solutions tailored to their living spaces. One of the most common questions we get is: Should I go with a traditional AC system or a ductless system?
In this article, we provide an in-depth comparison between central air conditioning and ductless mini-split systems, breaking down the pros, cons, energy efficiency, installation costs, and comfort levels — all with the climate and housing styles common in local suburbs in mind.
What’s the difference between traditional and ductless systems?
Central air conditioning
A traditional AC system uses a network of ductwork to distribute cooled air throughout your home. It typically includes an outdoor condenser unit and an indoor furnace or air handler that pushes air through the ducts into each room.
Ductless mini-split systems
Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits, are a modern HVAC solution that doesn’t require ductwork. Each room or zone has its own indoor unit connected to an outdoor condenser via small refrigerant and electrical lines. These systems can often both cool and heat, making them a year-round comfort solution.
Pros and cons of each system
Benefits of traditional central AC
- Even cooling throughout the apartment thanks to the ducted airflow
- Integrated heating and cooling if combined with a furnace or heat pump
- Ideal for new builds or major renovations, where ductwork is planned from the start
Drawbacks of traditional AC
- Higher upfront cost if ductwork needs to be added to an existing building
- Energy loss through ducts, especially if they are old or poorly sealed
- Limited control over individual room temperatures
Benefits of ductless systems
- No ductwork needed, making them perfect for older suburban apartments in areas like Western Springs or Willow Springs, where installing ducts would be invasive or impractical
- Lower installation cost for units in homes without existing ductwork
- Zoned climate control – set different temperatures for each room
- High energy efficiency, with less air leakage and direct operation
- Quiet operation and sleek, modern design
Drawbacks of ductless systems
- Higher unit cost per room – for large apartments, total costs may add up
- Visible indoor units, which may not appeal to every homeowner’s taste
Which system is better for apartments in Clarendon Hills, Burr Ridge & surrounding areas?
In suburban towns like La Grange or Homer Glen, where the weather swings between intense heat and deep freeze, your cooling system needs to be:
- Reliable and efficient
- Cost-effective in the long run
- Simple to maintain and service
Older apartments and vintage buildings
Many older buildings in suburbs such as Willow Springs or Indian Head Park don’t have existing ductwork or room to install it. In these cases, ductless mini-split systems are often the smarter choice. They require minimal construction, preserve architecture, and offer high efficiency without major renovation.
Newer apartments and condos
If your apartment is located in a newer building in places like Elmhurst or Orland Park with pre-installed ductwork, a traditional central AC system may be more practical, especially if you're cooling multiple rooms or larger square footage. In these cases, a properly sized and professionally installed system — like those offered by New Comfort Inc. — can provide excellent performance and long-term savings.
Installation and operating costs
Installation
- Traditional systems can be more expensive to install if ducts need to be added from scratch
- Ductless systems typically cost less to install in apartments without ductwork, though each indoor unit adds to the price
Energy efficiency
- Ductless systems often win on efficiency, especially in smaller spaces or when zoning is a priority
- Central AC can be economical if the ductwork is already present and well-maintained
Air quality and maintenance
Ductless systems include easily accessible filters, making maintenance and air quality control more manageable. Traditional systems, on the other hand, can accumulate dust, debris, and moisture in the ducts over time, requiring regular duct cleaning. For people with allergies or respiratory issues, mini-splits often provide better indoor air quality.
So, which one should you choose?
Ultimately, the decision depends on:
- The age and construction of your building
- Whether or not ductwork is already installed
- Your budget and long-term energy goals
- The number of rooms or zones you want to cool or heat
Final thoughts
Both central air conditioning and ductless mini-split systems can be great solutions for apartments in suburban areas like Hinsdale, Darien, and La Grange — what matters is choosing the system that fits your space and lifestyle best.
If:
- You live in a building without existing ductwork
- You want an energy-efficient, modern solution
- You prefer room-by-room temperature control
Then a ductless system may be your best option.
If:
- You have an existing duct system in place
- You're cooling a large apartment or multiple rooms with a single unit
- You want everything hidden behind walls and ceilings
Then traditional central AC may be more cost-effective and visually seamless.
Still unsure which solution is right for you? Reach out to the experts at New Comfort Inc. for a free consultation and estimate. Our team will assess your space and recommend the most efficient and comfortable solution tailored to your needs.
Trust your local HVAC specialists in Hinsdale, Downers Grove, and surrounding suburbs to keep your home comfortable — no matter the season.
