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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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3 Common Issues That Cause Heaters To Go Bad

By Dustin Edwards • December 19, 2024
If you're properties are suffering from lack of heating this winter, these 3 common issues could be the cause.

Do These 3 Things To Help Tenants Stay Warm During Winter

By Dustin Edwards • December 12, 2024
Although Southern California’s winters are typically mild when compared to other parts of the country, tenants still value a warm home during the cooler months. Taking steps to maintain a comfortable living environment shows your tenants that their needs are being prioritized. This is crucial for tenant satisfaction, especially during the holidays. Below are three methods to help keep tenants warm during the winter season. Maintain Heating System It's required for landlords to provide rentals with a working heating system, however, it's not uncommon for these to fall into disrepair either because of lack of maintenance or negligence. Scheduling regular inspections and maintenance before the coldest weather can help to ensure the heating is reliable and efficient. Cleaning air filters, and checking for cold spots, or irregular noises can help prevent small issues from escalating into expensive repairs. Preventative maintenance can help to reduce the chances of inconvenient calls for emergency repairs. Being proactive with your maintenance can also help you protect your investment while earning goodwill from your tenant. Another factor that can affect your heating system is drafts around windows and doors. These drafts can cause your heating system to overwork which makes the system less efficient, and reliable and ultimately reduces the lifespan of your heating system. You can address this by inspecting the seals around doors and windows for gaps or cold spots. Replace worn-out seals and caulking where it's needed. Offer Smart Thermostats Consider providing your tenants with a smart thermostat for energy-efficient heating. This can not only give tenants control over their comfort, but it's also a great tool to reduce energy usage. By providing this upgrade to your tenant, you show a commitment to your tenant’s satisfaction which can in turn result in a long-term tenant. These kinds of devices definitely benefit your tenants, though they can also contribute to the longevity of your rental property as well. Additionally, you can give your tenant a smart thermostat as a holiday gift . This can show your tenant that you’re not simply collecting rent while protecting your investment. Reverse Ceiling Fans The direction in which a ceiling fan rotates is oftentimes overlooked, and it can have a great effect on the temperature of a home. A ceiling fan is typically seen as a way to cool down a home during the hotter seasons without using the air conditioning . Reversing the spin of a ceiling fan can help to circulate warm air more efficiently during the cold season . This is because warm air rises, and a fan rotating clockwise will push the warm air back down helping maintain warm temperatures. Most fans have a switch on the motor and it is easily accessible for most people with a step ladder. This easy adjustment helps reduce the need for your tenant to use the heating system. Tenants will notice a more consistent and comfortable temperature indoors. This should also help reduce costs on their energy bill. Reversing the rotation of the ceiling fans also takes some of the strain off of the heating system. This helps to ensure it operates efficiently for years by reducing the wear and tear on it. Taking proactive steps this winter season to ensure your tenant’s comfort demonstrates a landlord’s commitment to their tenant’s comfort. A comfortable tenant is a satisfied tenant , which can lead to a long-term tenant and steady rental income. Consider it a small investment for long-term success. If you need help keeping your rental warm or managing Beach City rental property, we invite you to call us today at (562) 888-0247 or complete our Owner Application online .

Top 3 Gifts For Tenants

By Dustin Edwards • December 5, 2024
Discover 3 Gift Ideas for your tenants this holiday season.
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