In the scorching summers of Pakistan, a reliable air conditioning system isn’t a luxury anymore—it’s a necessity. With global temperatures on the rise and the demand for efficient cooling solutions increasing, homeowners and businesses across Pakistan are faced with a crucial decision in 2025:

Should you invest in a Centralized AC system or stick with a Normal (Split or Window) AC unit?

At Smart Climate Solutions Pvt Ltd, we understand the needs of Pakistani homeowners and commercial clients. In this blog, we’ll break down the differences between Central and Normal AC systems, explore their advantages and disadvantages, and help you decide which cooling solution best fits your lifestyle, space, and budget in 2025.

What Is a Centralized AC System?

A Centralized AC system, often referred to as Central AC, is a large-scale air conditioning unit that cools the entire building from a single point. It uses a network of ducts and vents to distribute cool air across multiple rooms.

Central AC systems are usually installed in:

• • Large homes

• • Office buildings

• • Shopping malls

• • Hotels

• • Hospitals

They are powered by a single compressor unit, often located outdoors or in a utility area.

What Is a Normal AC System?

“Normal AC” refers to commonly used units like Split ACs and Window ACs in Pakistan. These units are room-specific and installed individually in each area requiring cooling.

• • Split AC has two components: indoor (evaporator) and outdoor (compressor).

• • Window AC is a single unit, installed in a window or wall opening.

These ACs are popular among Pakistani households due to their affordability, ease of installation, and energy efficiency for small spaces.

Comparing Central AC and Normal AC: Key Factors

Let’s compare these two systems based on critical aspects important to homeowners and businesses in Pakistan.

1. Installation Cost

• • Central AC: Initial setup is expensive. Ductwork, professional planning, and installation cost more, especially in already-built homes. Average Cost in Pakistan (2025): PKR 500,000–2,000,000 depending on property size.

• • Normal AC: Budget-friendly and simple. No ductwork required. Average Cost in Pakistan (2025): PKR 100,000–200,000 per unit.

Winner: Normal AC (for cost-conscious buyers)

2. Energy Efficiency

• • Central AC: Modern systems come with smart thermostats, zoning control, and inverter technology, reducing long-term energy consumption.

• • Normal AC: Efficient for single rooms, but multiple units running simultaneously in different rooms may consume more power overall.

Winner: Central AC (for larger homes or buildings)

3. Cooling Performance

• • Central AC: Delivers even cooling across all rooms. Ideal for larger spaces and multi-story homes.

• • Normal AC: Cools one room at a time. Limited air distribution.

Winner: Central AC (especially for full-house cooling)

4. Maintenance Requirements

• • Central AC: Requires professional maintenance of ducts, filters, and central units at least twice a year.

• • Normal AC: Easier and cheaper to maintain. You can clean filters yourself or call local service providers.

Winner: Normal AC (for easier maintenace)

5. Aesthetic Appeal

• • Central AC: All ductwork is hidden. Minimal wall units, giving a cleaner, premium interior look.

• • Normal AC: Exposed indoor units may affect room aesthetics, especially in modern or minimalist interiors.

Winner: Central AC

6. Control & Convenience

• • Central AC: Can be automated and controlled remotely via mobile apps or smart systems. Zoning allows you to control temperatures in different rooms individually.

• • Normal AC: Remote-controlled but usually lacks zoning unless you use multiple smart remotes.

Winner: Central AC (for smart home lovers)

7. Suitability Based on Property Type

Property Type	Best Option
Small Apartments	Normal AC
1-2 Room Homes	Normal AC
Villas/Bungalows	Central AC
Offices > 1000 sq ft	Central AC
Schools & Hospitals	Central AC

Climate Considerations in Pakistan (2025)

With cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad facing heatwaves and rising temperatures, the need for energy-efficient and long-lasting cooling solutions is critical.

• • Load shedding and voltage fluctuations still affect some areas, making it essential to choose systems that are inverter-based and UPS/generator-compatible.

• • Centralized AC systems with backup power integration are becoming more common in modern housing societies like DHA, Bahria Town, etc.

Upfront vs. Long-Term Costs: What’s Better?

Factor	Central AC	Normal AC
Installation Cost	Hih	Low
Monthly Bills	Medium (Efficient system)	High (Multiple units)
Maintenance	Moderate to High	Low to Moderate
Lifetime	12–20 Years	5–7 Years

Our Recommendation – Smart Climate Solutions Pvt Ltd

At Smart Climate Solutions Pvt Ltd, we help you make informed choices by offering:

✅ Free site inspection

✅ Customized AC planning

✅ Premium inverter-based AC systems

✅ Installation & after-sales services across Pakistan

✅ Solar integration options for energy savings

Our verdict? If you’re living in a small to medium-sized home or apartment, a Normal (Split) AC system is more cost-effective. However, for larger homes, villas, or commercial properties, investing in a Centralized AC system ensures consistent comfort, better aesthetics, and long-term efficiency.

FAQs: Central vs Normal AC in Pakistan (2025)

1. Is Central AC suitable for homes in Pakistan?

Yes, especially for larger homes or villas. It provides even cooling and better control but requires a higher upfront investment.

2. Can I run Central AC on a UPS or solar system?

Yes. Modern Central AC systems can be integrated with solar panels or industrial-grade UPS systems, but they require proper planning and budget.

3. Which AC is cheaper to maintain – Central or Normal?

Normal AC units are cheaper to maintain individually. Central systems require more technical servicing, especially duct cleaning.

4. Is it possible to add Central AC to an already built home?

Yes, but it may involve renovations or visible ductwork. It’s easier in homes under construction or with a false ceiling.

5. How do I know what AC is right for my property?

Contact Smart Climate Solutions Pvt Ltd for a free assessment. We’ll recommend the most suitable and energy-efficient cooling solution based on your space, usage, and budget.