Central AC
Cools the whole home through your existing ducts and pairs with a separate furnace for heat. The usual pick when the AC has died but the heater still works.
Gas furnace
Heats with natural gas through your ducts. The usual pick when only the heating side needs replacing.
AC + gas furnace
Replaces both halves of a ducted system in one project — common when both are 10-15+ years old, and cheaper than two separate installs.
Heat pump
One ducted system that both heats and cools by moving heat instead of making it. Very efficient, and it qualifies for a federal tax credit of up to $2,000.
Ductless mini-split
Wall-mounted units that heat and cool with no ductwork needed. Great for additions, older homes without ducts, or room-by-room control.
Still not sure? Quick rules of thumb:
- Only the AC quit and your furnace is fine → Central AC
- Both are old and you're replacing everything → AC + gas furnace or Heat pump
- No ductwork in the house → Ductless mini-split
- Want the lowest bills and the $2,000 tax credit → Heat pump