Georgia summers aren’t for the faint of heart. Every year, our humid subtropical climate graces the state with sticky temps soaring into the 90s, leaving us with our noses up against the air vent in search of relief. Here, a dependable air conditioner isn’t just about comfort, it’s necessary for survival. In fact, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, 95% of Georgia homes use some type of air conditioning, and 86% rely specifically on central AC systems to beat the heat.¹

As energy efficiency and environmental awareness grow in the state, more homeowners are reevaluating their cooling setups. Whether you’re building a new home, replacing an outdated system, or looking to cut down on your utility bills, we’ll cover the major AC options available and help you choose the right one for your home.

The Most Popular Type of System in GA: Central Air Conditioning

There’s a good reason why central air conditioning dominates in Georgia homes. Central AC systems distribute cooled air through a network of ducts, offering whole-home coverage that’s hard to beat. It’s reliable, powerful, and the best at keeping larger spaces cool.

Unless you live in a particularly old home, you’re more likely than not to have existing ductwork for central heating and cooling. In the US, 91% of homes built in 2000 or later have central air ducts—meanwhile, only half of homes built before 1940 have ductwork.² And when you consider that the median home age in Georgia is only 31 years old, it becomes very clear that central air conditioning is a no-brainer for many homeowners.³

However, central air conditioning isn’t without drawbacks. If your home’s ductwork is old, poorly insulated, or leaking, your system will waste precious energy and money to do its job. Plus, central AC units can be noisier than ductless systems, especially during peak operation.

The Pros:

Most effective for cooling large spaces with multiple rooms.
Widely available and serviced by most HVAC professionals.
Lower initial cost compared to many ductless options.
Better filtration capabilities, improving indoor air quality.
Integrates easily with other HVAC features like smart thermostats, humidity control, and air purifiers.

The Cons:

Prone to costly inefficiencies due to leaky ductwork and poor insulation.
Noisier operation compared to ductless air conditioning.
Expensive and labor-intensive to install if you don’t have existing ductwork.

The Rising Star of Home Cooling: Ductless Air Conditioning

As of 2020, 18% of homes in Georgia used individual AC units—a figure that includes ductless AC systems, window units, and portable air conditioners. But ductless systems, also known as mini-split systems, are gaining popularity in the state.

Ductless AC systems are made up of an outdoor compressor and one or more indoor units mounted on the walls, ceilings, or floors of your home. This type of cooling system was developed by Mitsubishi Electric and Toshiba throughout the 1950s and 1960s as an alternative to window air conditioners in Japan.⁴

Now, ductless air conditioners are found all over the world, readily adopted for its versatile design, energy efficiency, and quiet operation. They’re perfect for homeowners looking to boost efficiency, reduce energy bills, and add targeted cooling to specific areas without the cost or hassle of adding ducts. They’re also a great option for supplementing an existing central AC system.

If you upgrade to a ductless mini split system, you may even qualify for local rebate incentives such as the Georgia Power rebate program, which rewards homeowners for energy-saving home improvements.

Ductless AC vs. Ductless Heat Pumps

We’d be remiss not to mention that ductless mini split systems fall into two major categories: ductless AC and ductless heat pumps.

While ductless AC units strictly provide cooling, ductless heat pumps offer both heating and cooling capabilities. This makes them particularly useful in Georgia, where winters are typically mild and don’t require a heavy-duty furnace.

If you’re upgrading an older AC system and want something versatile that works year-round, a ductless heat pump may be worth the investment. They cost more upfront but can replace both your air conditioner and heater, potentially reducing long-term energy costs.

The Pros:

Highly energy efficient with minimal energy loss.
Zoned cooling lets you customize temperatures room by room.
Extremely quiet operation.
Ideal for older homes, home additions or converted spaces without ductwork.
Compatible with smart thermostats and advanced control systems.
Opportunities to combine heating and cooling in a single system.
May qualify you for home improvement rebate programs and tax credits.

The Cons:

Higher upfront costs than traditional central AC systems.
Indoor units are visible and may not suit all interior designs.
Air filtration isn’t as robust compared to central air conditioning.

The Low-Cost DIY Option: Window AC Units

Window units are still a go-to for many Georgians who need a quick and affordable cooling solution. These compact systems are easy to install yourself and are great for renters or homeowners on a tight budget.

While they’re not great for whole-home cooling, window units can be a viable stopgap for guest rooms, garages, or temporary setups. You just need to be prepared to troubleshoot issues on your own if your window AC suddenly goes kaput.

The Pros:

Low upfront cost.
Simple installation with no structural changes to home.
Great for small rooms or apartments.

The Cons:

Noisy operation, especially older models.
May reduce home security if not installed properly.
Visibly bulky and can clash with home aesthetics.
Limited cooling power, often restricted to one room.
Not typically supported or serviced by professional HVAC companies.

Which AC System is Best for Georgians?

Every home is different, and so are the cooling needs of its residents. The best AC system for your home depends on factors like square footage, insulation, existing ductwork, and personal preferences.

If you already have ducts in place and want a cost-effective solution for whole-home cooling, central air remains a solid choice. It’s also a great fit for homeowners who prioritize better filtration and integrated smart home features.

At the same time, the market in Georgia is shifting toward high-efficiency, eco-friendly systems. According to Statista, the HVAC industry in the state is experiencing increased demand for systems that reduce energy use and carbon emissions, thanks in part to state regulations and consumer awareness.⁵ Choosing an Energy Star-certified system can put you ahead of the curve while also shrinking your utility bills.

How to Choose the Right System for Your Georgia Home

If you keep going back and forth between AC options, ask yourself the following:

What type of system do you currently have?
Replacing a similar system might make financial sense if your ductwork is in good shape. But if your central AC is on its last legs, now might be the time to explore ductless or hybrid options.
How big is your home, and how is it laid out?
Large, multi-room homes may benefit from central air’s full-coverage capabilities, while smaller or uniquely shaped homes can take advantage of ductless zoning.
What’s your budget?
While ductless systems and heat pumps have higher initial costs, they offer long-term savings. Consider your monthly energy bills and how long you plan to stay in your home.
Do you want modern features like smart controls, air purification, or humidity balancing?
Modern systems come packed with smart tech and integrations that can optimize your comfort and efficiency. If there is a specific smart home or IAQ feature you want to integrate with your AC, that may become a deciding factor.

If you’re still on the fence, that’s okay. The most important step is to get personalized guidance from an HVAC professional who knows what works best in your area.

A Licensed Contractor Can Point You in the Right Direction

Choosing the right air conditioning system for your Georgia home isn’t a decision you have to make alone. With so many variables at play, it’s smart to consult an expert who understands the pros and cons of each option and has your comfort in mind. An in-home consultation with an HVAC company you trust is the best place to start. They will be able to measure your home’s dimensions, evaluate your current system’s performance, and provide a curated list of options based on your requirements.