Galaxy Services – Trusted HVAC Experts in the San Francisco Bay Area
Choosing the right HVAC system for your home can feel overwhelming, especially with so many energy-efficient options on the market in 2025. Two of the most popular systems we install at Galaxy Services are ductless mini-split heat pumps and ducted heat pump systems.
But which one is best for your home, lifestyle, and layout?
Let’s break down the pros and cons of mini-split systems vs. ducted heat pumps to help you make an informed decision.
🌀 What Is a Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump?
A mini-split system uses one or more wall-mounted indoor air handlers connected to an outdoor heat pump. These systems heat and cool individual rooms without using ductwork.
✅ Advantages of Mini-Splits:
- Ideal for homes without ducts
- Zoned temperature control for room-by-room comfort
- Super high HVAC efficiency ratings (up to 30+ SEER2)
- Quick installation, minimal construction needed
- Quiet operation and sleek indoor units
🚫 Potential Drawbacks:
- May require multiple indoor heads for large homes
- Wall-mounted units may not appeal to all homeowners aesthetically
- Upfront cost can be higher than ducted options for whole-home use
🔧 What Is a Ducted Heat Pump System?
A ducted heat pump uses your home’s ductwork to circulate warm or cool air through supply and return vents, just like a traditional HVAC system. These systems have become the gold standard for whole-home electric HVAC in California.
✅ Advantages of Ducted Heat Pumps:
- Centralized heating and cooling from a single system
- Works seamlessly with existing ducts
- Compatible with zoning, smart thermostats, and indoor air quality upgrades
- Keeps your aesthetic intact, no visible indoor heads
🚫 Potential Drawbacks:
- Efficiency depends on duct condition. Leaky ducts = lost energy
- Not ideal for homes without existing ducts (unless retrofitting)
- Installation may be more invasive if ductwork needs updating
🏡 Which One Is Best for Your Bay Area Home?
| Feature | Mini-Split | Ducted Heat Pump |
| Ducts Required? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Best For | Room additions, older homes | Whole-home HVAC replacement |
| Efficiency | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Aesthetics | Wall-mounted heads visible | Hidden vents |
| Installation Time | 1–2 days (typically) | 2–4 days (if ductwork exists) |
| Cost for Whole-Home Use | Can be higher with many zones | Cost-effective with existing ducts |
💡 Need Help Deciding? Let Galaxy Services Guide You
Whether you’re replacing an old gas furnace, upgrading from window AC units, or planning an all-electric HVAC retrofit, we’ll help you choose the system that makes the most sense for your space.
We offer expert installation of:
- Mitsubishi and Daikin mini-splits
- Ducted central heat pumps
- Dual fuel systems
- Zoned HVAC solutions with smart thermostats
📞 Call Galaxy Services today at (925) 578-3293
🏠 Free In-Home HVAC Consultations | Rebates Up to $6,000 Available
🌁 Proudly Serving the Entire Bay Area: Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, San Mateo, San Francisco, and more
Schedule your free HVAC assessment now and let us help you find the perfect heating and cooling system for your home.