Ductwork is often seen as a necessary component of heating and cooling systems. However, ductless air conditioners, also known as mini-splits, provide an efficient alternative for temperature control - without the need for ventilation.
Ductless air conditioners effectively cool individual rooms without the need for ducts, bringing both energy-savings and health benefits to your home. Mini-split systems are energy-efficient while maximizing cost savings and require less maintenance than other HVAC systems.
Ductless air conditioning systems consist of an outdoor compressor connected to one or more indoor units that are placed in individual rooms, providing precise temperature control for each space. Unlike traditional systems that require ductwork to distribute conditioned air, mini-split systems utilize refrigerant lines that run from the outdoor unit straight to the indoor units. A conduit links the outdoor and indoor units, housing the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing, and a condensate drain.
These systems are available in single or multi-zone options. A single-zone system has only one outdoor unit connected to one indoor unit, which allows for control over the floor, room, or area where the indoor unit is located. A multi-zone system, on the other hand, has multiple indoor units connected to the same outdoor condenser. Each indoor unit can be independently controlled to allow homeowners to change the temperature of one space without impacting the others.
The advantages of ductless heating and cooling systems are countless. Mini-split systems are small in size and have greater flexibility for cooling individual spaces than other HVAC systems with ductwork. They can also often be easier to install and maintain, and are incredibly easy to operate using the remote control.
Ductless units are also attractive to homeowners who want to preserve the character of their older home while still benefiting from more modern technology. It is important to note that these systems can have a more substantial upfront cost than traditional ducted systems.
Ductless systems are incredibly efficient and lead to reduced heating and cooling costs because no energy is lost through the ductwork. In fact, roughly 30% of all energy produced by a central HVAC system is lost through the ducts. This waste adds up, leading to significantly higher energy bills.
Mini-split systems allow you to adjust the indoor unit, or units, depending on the specific needs of the rooms those units are installed in - without affecting the rest of the home.
Mini-split systems require less maintenance than other traditional systems, but it is important to perform a few things regularly. As with any HVAC system, regular maintenance is essential to keep it working efficiently.
For instance, clean and change the filters on each indoor unit according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Then, wipe down the condenser coils on the outside unit, following the instructions provided in the owner’s manual, to clean off any dirt or debris that has collected on the coils. Simply turn the system off, give it time to cool down, then clean the coils with a dry, clean cloth and turn the system back on when you are done. If you notice any mold or mildew during this process, it is important to contact a professional for assistance.
You can also wipe down the system’s exterior so nothing works its way inside. Simply wipe down the outside of each indoor unit, and the outdoor one, with a damp cloth. It’s also important to make sure nothing is blocking the flow of air from the system, so be sure to remove anything around the units within a few feet, including furniture, decorations, and more.
Ductless systems are also an attractive option for homeowners because they do not require ventilation. Since they are based on indoor cool air circulations, no harmful gasses need to be released outside. The outdoor unit contains a compressor, which boosts the efficiency of the system. Each indoor unit also has its own filter that removes particles from the air, leading to improved air quality and a much more comfortable living environment. This makes multi-split systems less prone to dust, dirt, bacteria, and other harmful pathogens or allergens.
Mini-split systems usually run at a low speed, which results in a quieter operation than other systems. They can be so quiet, you may not even know when they are on and running until you check. These systems let you easily control the cooling of your home with no harmful leaks, gasses, and contaminants - and without the hassle of ducts and wirings.
As an added benefit, some mini-split systems, like Mitsubishi brand options, even have the option to control the entire system through WiFi and have smartphone compatibility.
While ductless mini-split systems may involve more upfront costs than traditional HVAC, the long-term savings and benefits far outweigh that initial investment. Homeowners who opt for ductless systems can recoup that expense through lowered energy bills and reduced maintenance requirements.
Ductless systems enable maximum comfort without the ventilation needs required by ducted systems, while providing room-to-room climate control. For homeowners wanting energy-efficient and individualized heating and cooling, ductless mini-split systems are a smart solution.