For anyone who has owned a central HVAC system, you know how troublesome ductwork can be. If it’s not designed correctly, it won’t provide continuous air regulation to your whole home. If it leaks or is damaged, an HVAC technician has to come find the issue and fix the ducts – and that’s if you don’t attempt it yourself! Even if your ducts are set up and have no problems, they still collect a buildup of dust and other air contaminants which must be cleaned over time.
That’s a lot of work just to get air in your home!
Did you know there’s another option for heating and cooling your home? Some of the highest performing HVAC systems don’t use ducts at all! Ductless mini-split heating and cooling is becoming more popular – and for good reason.
What’s so great about ductless mini-split systems?
These are some of our favorite things about ductless systems.
Efficiency
Mini-split systems are highly efficient, outperforming most of their central AC counterparts. Most central air systems top out at 21 SEER rating, but typical mini-split systems range from 21 to 30 SEER.
Maintenance
Besides regular maintenance, the lack of ducts in most mini-split systems eliminates the problems that they bring – less air leakage, better airflow and higher indoor air quality!
Zone-Cooling
This is one of the biggest perks of a mini-split system. Zone-cooling technology allows for customizable temperature control for each wall unit. Finally, you can regulate those rooms with poor circulation or end the fighting over thermostat control.
Noise
If you’re tired of the whooshing and rushing that often comes with central air systems, you’ll love the quiet mini-splits.
When should I consider a mini-split system?
If you’re excited by the sound of these mini-split systems, great! But before you invest in one for your entire home, check out whatever HVAC infrastructure your home already has. Whether you’re purchasing a home or replacing a system, if your house already has ductwork laid for a central HVAC system, it is usually more cost-effective to utilize it.
There are several situations where mini-split systems are highly beneficial.
Room Additions and Home Renovations
If a new space has been added on to your original home, it can be difficult to redirect your ductwork to the new room. It can also overload your existing HVAC system to add more space it needs to regulate.
Save yourself from the hassle!
Using a mini-split system will help you avoid messing with your existing ductwork and give you focused temperature control over the space. This can also work out for home renovations.
Maybe you need to replace an old central air system, but hate to get into replacing all the ductwork and its issues. Or you could be retrofitting an older home that never had an HVAC system in the first place. A mini-split system– with multiple air handlers– is an easy solution.
Replace Your Window Unit
In the past, the solution to low airflow spaces has always been a window AC unit, but window units pose many problems!
- Half your window is blocked
- They are not aesthetically pleasing
- Some HOAs prohibit them
- They can make a lot of noise
- They are a high-security risk
Instead of using the old window unit solution, install a mini-split system. They are sleek, silent and efficient– and a much better fit for your home.
Tricky Situations
Mini-split systems are useful for tricky airflow situations too! If you have multiple small rooms, you don’t really want to install a unit in each room – then the system is no longer cost-effective.
Mini-split systems also have a ducted option designed for short duct runs. This can be a good solution to feed several small spaces while still retaining control over room temperatures. For example, one or two ducted mini-splits could be installed in the ceiling and walls to feed several small bedrooms or bathrooms. Minimal air flow is leaked, and you still get all the perks of the mini-split.
Some homeowners use only ducted systems, some use completely ductless. You can even mix ductless and ducted systems throughout your home. It all depends on your space and your needs.
How do I decide which mini-split combination to use in my home?
If you still have questions about which system or system combination you think is best for your home, consult with an HVAC specialist!
There are usually several combinations that will work in your home, but a certified technician has the experience and knowledge to help you decide which will work best. From cost to space to efficiency, we know ductless AC units inside and out. Contact Champion AC & Plumbing today for more information on mini-split air conditioners!