Top 6 Reasons Ductless Mini Split AC Systems are a Good Investment

For years, homeowner’s options concerning residential air conditioners were limited to small, room air conditioners and ducted, central air conditioners. Another option has hit the market in the U.S. and holds promise for the right situations. Mini-split, ductless air conditioning systems are gaining popularity, and for good reason.

Mini-split systems have an outdoor compressor unit just like other air conditioners. Instead of ducts, the refrigerant gas is piped outdoors and enters each room individually. A small unit, mounted about ¾ of the way up the wall, provides cool air and removes humidity. Look at these features and consider whether this option might suit your needs.

Ductless Mini Split AC Systems are More Energy Efficient

The method for rating air conditioning systems uses the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). Regulations require that all central air conditioning units sold after 2022 have a SEER of at least 15 in the south/14 in the north. Very energy-efficient central air systems can achieve a SEER 23 rating, but ducts are notorious for losing energy through leaks and uninsulated sheet metal. Very energy-efficient mini-split systems can achieve a higher rating—up to SEER 33 since there is no energy lost through ducts.

Ductless Mini Split AC System Requires No Ductwork

In application without existing ducts or when going ductless is preferred air conditioning is possible without ducts. That means:

• No build-up of dust, pollen, and dander that attract mites and mold
• No ductwork cleaning
• No ductwork leaking
• Furniture can be placed wherever you like without the worry of blocking floor vents

Ductless Mini Split AC Systems Improved Air Filtration

A central air conditioner has one air filter. With mini-split systems, each room has an individual filter. The air is circulated within the room and dust and pollen are removed at the source, eliminating contaminants before they spread.

Ductless Mini Split AC Systems Also Heat

Mini-split systems air conditioning systems use heat pump technology, which works just like it sounds. Heat is pumped out of your home and into the summer air outdoors, which is already hot. The bonus effect is, that it can do the reverse and serve as a heat pump heater, providing heat during the fall and winter months. When the outside temperature remains above 35⁰ F, the heat pump can extract heat from the outside air and bring it inside to keep you toasty and warm.

Zoned Temperature Control

One mini-split air conditioner condenser unit can serve up to 8 room units and each room unit will have an individual thermostat control. That means that each room can be considered a zone and the comfort levels can vary from room to room. Rooms that are seldom used can have a minimum energy setting to save money. The kitchen that needs a cooler setting while dinner is being prepared will not affect the setting in other rooms. This can add a level of comfort unavailable with a whole-house air conditioner.

Ductless Mini Split AC Systems Are Easy to Install

Ducted systems are installed early during the construction process since most of the ductwork must be covered inside of walls. In comparison, minis-split systems are easy to install near the end of construction or even post-construction. A concrete pad is installed outdoors, and very small holes are made through the walls to facilitate tubing. The indoor components are installed after the walls have been painted or finished. The work is easy, doesn’t take long, and is minimally invasive.

There is no “one-size-fits-all” solution for residential air conditioning solutions. Neither central air systems nor mini-split ductless are perfect for every situation. Options are always good! With options, you come closer to finding “your” perfect solution.

Have a question about Ductless Mini Split AC Systems?

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