Weighing the Pros and Cons of Ductless Heating Systems
Have you learned about ductless heating and cooling systems? They’re known for their remarkable efficiency, but are they as incredible as they seem? Explore the positives and negatives of ductless mini-splits to assist in the decision if going ductless is a suitable choice for your home in the U.S..
What Is a Ductless Mini-Split?
unclear what “ductless” and “mini-split” mean, you’re like many others. Ductless mini-splits are comparatively new to the scene in the United States, but have been commonly employed overseas for decades. These systems have two main components: an outdoor compressor and one or more interior air handling units that can be affixed to the wall or recessed into the ceiling.
Unlike traditional forced-air heating and cooling, which necessitates ductwork to distribute air throughout your home, ductless systems provide warm or cool air directly from the wall- or ceiling-mounted air handler. With a dedicated thermostat per indoor unit, you can gain exact temperature control between rooms.
Upsides of Ductless Temperature Control
Ductless mini-splits offer numerous compelling benefits. Here’s what makes these systems a excellent choice for numerous the U.S. homes.
Easy to Install
If you’re apprehensive about a complicated installation, put your worries aside. Ductless systems do not require any complex ductwork or drainage systems. The inside air handlers are easy to attach to a wall or ceiling. Then, drilling a few small holes in the wall facilitates running cables and refrigerant lines between the indoor and outdoor units. This process is considerably more straightforward than tearing out the ceiling to install ductwork.
So, while traditional systems could take a few days to install, a ductless system can be operational in a day or less.
Extremely Energy-Efficient HVAC Option
Traditional air conditioners commonly have seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings of 14 to 17. While this is impressive, many ductless systems boast SEER ratings as high as 30. This results in significant savings every month for energy usage. Increased efficiency also means a more environmentally friendly home, decreasing your carbon footprint while cutting your costs.
Eliminate Heat Loss
Ducted systems are known for losing as much as 25% of their heated air through ductwork leaks, holes and failed connections. This inefficiency wastes energy—and your hard-earned cash. Ductless systems eliminate this issue by delivering air directly into each room. Because they don’t use ducts, you get 100% of the heating or cooling you’re paying for.
Individual Room Temperature Control
If you’ve ever debated with family members over the thermostat temperature, you’ll love the zoned heating and cooling supplied by ductless systems. Each indoor unit can be modified individually, letting you set multiple temperatures in the house. So if you prefer to keep your bedroom cool and the baby’s nursery warm, a ductless mini-split allows the flexibility to customize your comfort.
Quiet Operation
Nobody likes a disruptive HVAC system. Ductless mini-splits are built for nearly silent operation. The truth is, the interior units are so quiet that you might forget they’re even working. That means you are able to chat, watch TV or sleep without being disturbed by a loud blower.
Space-Saving Performance
Space is difficult to find in many of today’s homes, particularly older ones with limited room for ductwork and HVAC devices. Ductless systems are the solution to this problem. Their compact size and flexible placement options make them ideal. Mini-splits don’t need a roomy closet or attic space; a small area on your wall or ceiling will do.
Cons of Ductless Heating and Cooling
It’s relevant to have a well-shaped understanding of any heating and cooling technology before adopting it. Here are a few reasons ductless systems aren’t a perfect fit for everyone:
Visible Installation
Unlike traditional air vents that can be blended into the decor, ductless systems have larger interior components that are hard to miss. If aesthetics are a top issue for you, the visual impact might be a drawback.
More Expensive Price Tag
The price tag of a ductless system can be considerably greater than that of a traditional HVAC system. Then again, you can hopefully recoup this cost over time through energy savings.
Limited Heating Capacity in Extreme Weather
While they provide heating, ductless systems may not be ideal for very cold climates. Their heating capability is limited and might need an additional heat source to maintain comfort.
Not for Large Residences
Ductless systems are wonderful for precise heating and cooling in individual rooms or zones. Yet, they may not be the most effective HVAC solution for more expansive homes with many rooms spread over multiple stories.
Explore Ductless Heating Options in the U.S. with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing
When picking the best heating and cooling choice in the U.S., count on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our ACE-certified technicians and installers offer fast, long-lasting solutions for all your heating and cooling issues. We stand by our 100% satisfaction guarantee, so if you’re not fully satisfied with our work, the staff at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing will make it right.
To find out about unmatched comfort from a ductless mini-split or another kind of heating system, call 866-397-3787 today!
