Central Air HVAC vs Mini Split systems?

[Gary F.]

Hello BPers.

I have an old central air system that needs replacing.  Its 18 years old and wasnt used much but the compressor isnt working anymore. Looking into the mini split systems it seem like this would be more energy efficient since you're only servicing rooms/zones not the whole house.  Are they all the hype? Ive seen them more in Asia, but not much here in the states.  

[David Floyd]

I have used a few mini splits in small one bedroom apts that never had ductwork or even a central AC.  They are LG and I did have a few issues but were able to resolve them.  They are extremely energy efficient.  I have had to clean one due to a tenant frying food all the time and clogging up the coil.  They are cheap enough that you could just by extras for spare parts.  Mitsubishi are the best but expensive then Fujitsu/LG.  Chinese brands such as Pioneer can be bought cheap but you get what you pay for.