Mini Splits vs. Central Air: Which One Saves You More in 2025?

When choosing a home comfort system, most homeowners ask: "What's going to save me more money in the long run—mini splits or central air?" The answer depends on several factors including your home layout, energy costs, and how you use your system. Here’s how they compare in 2025.

MINI SPLITS

7/16/20251 min read

Initial Installation Costs

Central Air: Installing a new central air system (with ductwork) in Missouri can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $12,000 depending on home size and duct conditions.
Mini Splits: A single-zone mini split typically costs $2,500 to $4,500 installed. Multi-zone systems can run from $5,000 to $10,000. But there’s no ductwork, so you avoid that major cost.

Energy Efficiency and Monthly Bills

Mini splits use inverter-driven compressors, which operate at variable speeds. That means they only use the energy needed for the task, while central systems usually run full blast.

Average Savings:

Mini split users report energy savings of 20% to 40% compared to central systems (source: U.S. Department of Energy).
In Missouri, where the average electric bill is around $140/month, that could mean $400–$600 saved per year.

Zoning and Usage

Central Air: Typically cools the entire house at once—wasting energy in unused rooms.
Mini Splits: Offer room-by-room zoning. Cool only the rooms you use. That equals less waste, more savings.

Maintenance and Lifespan

Central Air: Requires regular duct cleaning and filter changes. Duct leaks can reduce efficiency by up to 30%.
Mini Splits: No ducts, fewer parts to break. Most systems last 15–20 years with simple annual maintenance.

Missouri Climate Consideration

Mini splits work extremely well in humid Missouri summers. Advanced models dehumidify better than central air, improving indoor air quality and comfort.

Final Verdict

If your home already has ductwork in good shape, central air might be slightly cheaper upfront. But if you're looking for long-term energy savings, flexibility, and comfort—especially in older or partially renovated homes—mini splits are hard to beat.

Still not sure which system is right for you? Call 636-222-3509 for a free consultation. We’ll help you compare options based on your actual home and budget.