Quick Answer
If your Follansbee home already has solid ductwork, central air is typically the easiest and most affordable choice. Ductless mini-splits are better for older homes, basement apartments, or spaces without ducts. In 2025, ductless systems cost $4,250–$25,500+, while central air systems average $4,200 to $7,175 installed.
Why Follansbee Homes Need the Right Cooling Setup
Follansbee’s hillside streets, older steel-era homes, and new builds near Hooverson Heights create mixed cooling challenges. Many houses still rely on retrofitted ductwork from early gas conversions or unfinished basements prone to moisture. With muggy river air and July highs in the 90s, efficient air distribution matters as much as cost. Choosing between ductless and central air often comes down to layout, insulation, and electrical access.
Why Central Air Still Fits Many Follansbee Homes
Central air moves cooled air through a duct network linked to a single outdoor condenser. For families near Parkview Drive or Allegheny Street, this system delivers balanced, whole-home comfort—especially when ducts are tested and sealed. Central air pairs easily with existing furnaces, keeping heating and cooling under one setup. It’s also less visually noticeable indoors and generally requires less maintenance than multi-zone ductless systems.
When Ductless Mini-Splits Are the Smarter Pick
Ductless systems send conditioned air directly into individual rooms through compact wall or ceiling units. They’re ideal for older two-stories or basement apartments where adding ducts would mean tearing into plaster or concrete walls. Homes near Raymond Street and Eldersville Road often use ductless for these reasons. With up to 30 SEER efficiency, mini-splits reduce electricity use while providing whisper-quiet operation—a plus during humid nights near the Ohio River.
FAQs
Can mini-splits handle older brick homes near the riverfront?
Yes. They cool each zone individually, helping eliminate hot spots common in multi-level brick houses.
Do central air systems need duct upgrades for steel-era homes?
Sometimes. Honest Fix inspects every duct run for leaks and insulation before installation to ensure efficient performance.
Can I add one ductless zone to my current central air?
Yes. Many homeowners combine both systems to handle hard-to-cool rooms or upper levels.
Exact HVAC replacement quotes available at (740) 825-9408 or HonestFix.com/schedule-service.
Author: Alex Largent
Alex Largent
Alex Largent is the Owner and Senior HVAC Efficiency Analyst at Honest Fix Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. With more than 20 years of field experience, NATE and EPA certifications, and a hands-on leadership style, Alex teaches his team to fix systems right the first time — with transparency, precision, and no upsells. He writes about HVAC diagnostics, home energy efficiency, and practical maintenance advice for homeowners across the Upper Ohio Valley. Read Alex Largent’s full bio to learn more about his expertise in the HVAC and Plumbing industry. Updated October 2025.
