5 Reasons to Choose Central A/C vs Mini Split

Dustin Edwards • July 9, 2024

With summer in full blast, it's the best time to consider installing some air conditioning. While a window unit may be the easiest form of air conditioning to install, they’re unsightly and not very efficient. Proper cooling is necessary to keep your tenants comfortable during these hot months, helping ensure their satisfaction.


Today, we’ll discuss five reasons for choosing central A/C over a mini-split system.


Reason 1: Efficiency

Central A/C was once considered a luxury, and that would drastically increase the electrical bill. However, in recent years, the efficiency of central cooling has increased drastically, especially for large spaces or homes with many different rooms or living areas. This uniform cooling helps avoid hot and cold spots, ensuring a comfortable environment in every room. While a mini-split may be more affordable in some scenarios, they typically have only one or two air handlers, which can result in those hotspots in larger rooms. As well as difficulty covering hallways and bathrooms.


On the other hand, mini-split systems are better suited for smaller rooms or specific areas of a home. However, multiple mini-split units may be required for larger homes, defeating the purpose as they become less efficient and more costly than a centralized A/C system.


Reason 2: Aesthetic

Central A/C requires ductwork, typically in the attic. These are less visible indoor components, maintaining a cleaner look. The only visible proof of central A/C are the vents and the filter. This allows homes to feel more spacious than homes with mini-split systems. This results in less visible indoor components, maintaining a clean and clean look in your rental.


While easier to install, mini-split systems have large air handlers mounted on walls, which might affect room aesthetics. Central A/C, much like mini-split systems, requires the installation of an outdoor air compressor. Although for central A/C, one compressor can sufficiently cool down every room in the rental, a mini-split system may require more compressors if you want to install an air handler in every living area.


Reason 3: Cost

Central A/C systems generally have higher initial installation costs because of the extensive ductwork and the need for a powerful central unit. Despite the significant upfront investment, central A/C can be more economical for large spaces over time. This can be due to the potential energy savings and the efficiency of cooling the entire home with a single system. Comparatively, mini-split systems come with lower upfront costs, making them an attractive alternative for investors with smaller budgets. Yet, the price can quickly increase if multiple units are needed to cool more than a few rooms. Every additional unit increases the overall installation expense and the electric bill. This makes mini splits far less cost-effective for rentals with more than two bedrooms.


Reason 4: Noise Levels

Central air conditioning systems are known for their quieter operation. This is mainly because the compressor is outdoors, either on the rental side or on the roof. This design ensures that most of the noise is outdoors, keeping the indoor living spaces quiet. The components inside the rental, such as vents and ducts, will usually produce little sound, which can enhance the comfort of your rental property.


Mini-split systems can produce noticeable noise from the indoor air handlers. While not as loud as window units, the sounds from the fan and compressor within the indoor air handler can be heard. While typically not too loud, the noise can be distracting in higher settings on hotter days. 


Reason 5: Durability

Central A/C systems require more complex maintenance because of their extensive ductwork and centralized components. While regular professional servicing is necessary to ensure ideal performance, with proper care, these systems can last over 20 years.


Mini split systems, while offering easier maintenance with simpler cleaning and upkeep, still lack longevity. Although landlords or property management can often handle basic maintenance tasks, mini splits may have a shorter lifespan than central A/C systems. Early signs of failure may occur within ten years, meaning they might need to be replaced more frequently. This can potentially lead to higher long-term costs when compared to central A/C.


Keeping your tenants cool this summer can be incredibly important to their satisfaction. Satisfied tenants are more likely to renew their leases and provide long-term income. If you need more help deciding which kind of air conditioning system is right for your property or need help managing your rental, we invite you to call us today at (562) 888-0247 or complete our Owner Application online.

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By Dustin Edwards • May 17, 2025
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5 Signs It's Time To Replace Your Rental's Roof

By Dustin Edwards • May 8, 2025
Your property’s roof is its first line of defense from the sun, rain, and wind. Which means it will eventually wear out. Many landlords overlook this since a roof is generally designed to last twenty or so years, and they simply forget until the signs begin to show. Below, we’ve compiled a short list of five signs it’s time to replace your roof for when doing property inspections. Tenant Complaints When your roof has become damaged, your tenants will likely be the first to notice. When tenants report water stains on the walls and ceilings, it's a sign that you should inspect your roof. In severe cases, your tenant may notice water dripping from roof leaks. This moisture, if left unchecked, can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can be a health concern for your tenants. Some tenants simply move out, assuming the odors or recurring respiratory issues are caused by the rental and not just the roof. This leaves you with a vacancy to manage, and if you’re unable to find the leak during this period, the following tenant may have a negative experience as well. Many landlords have found it beneficial to have property inspections regularly in order to preserve both the property’s value and the tenant’s trust. Roof’s Age Even with the highest quality materials, a roof still has a shelf life. Most roofs in Long Beach, CA, use asphalt shingles, and these generally last around twenty to twenty-five years. Once they've passed this threshold, the faults begin to show themselves. A sagging roof line is a sign that your roof is due to be replaced, as it's a serious concern. It often indicates that moisture has entered the underlying decking and caused some structural damage. From ground level, you may not be able to notice these problems. However, during an inspection of the property, an experienced inspector should be able to notice soft spots or contours on the roof. These forms of damage often get worse over time. Coordinating these inspections and preventative maintenance can be difficult for landlords with an extensive portfolio, which is why many enlist help. Shingle Damage Damaged shingles are one of the most obvious signs that your roof is deteriorating. If you ever notice cracking, curling, or patches with missing shingles, the roof is no longer providing adequate protection to your property. Although you can buy time with spot repairs, if the entire roof shows signs of damage, it’s likely time to replace the roof. Aside from protecting your property, the roof affects your property’s curb appeal. A patchy and worn-out roof can drive down the rental appeal. Prospective tenants will easily be able to spot the differences between pictures taken in the listing when compared to the property in person. This can not only hurt your chances of filling a vacancy, but it can also hurt your reputation as a landlord. Granules in Gutters After heavy rainfall, it's a good idea to inspect your rain gutters. If you or your property manager notice large amounts of black or gray granules, it means your roof shingles are breaking down. These granules are critical for shedding water off the roof. Once the granules fall off the shingle, the shingle begins to degrade faster under the sun and elements. If you’re not sure how old your roof may be, Loss of granules can be a strong indicator that your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan. Regular gutter cleaning and roof inspections can help catch these problems early before they become expensive repairs . Increase in Utility Bills Your tenants complaining about their utility bills increasing or poor temperature control in the rental may not realize the roof is to blame. A failing roof can result in subpar insulation and ventilation. This can lead to higher heating and cooling bills for your tenant. This can be frustrating for your tenants while putting more strain on the HVAC system. This puts more wear and tear on your HVAC system. Being aware of the warning signs and being proactive can protect your rental property, maintain tenant satisfaction , and avoid emergency repairs. If you need help inspecting your roof or you need help managing your Beach City rental property, we invite you to call us today at (562) 888-0247 or complete our Owner Application online .

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