If you’re considering installing a new AC system, a ductless mini-split system might be on your list of considerations. Mini-split systems are a popular choice these days, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re right for your household. On the other hand, there are situations in which a mini-split system is the superior option. To decide, you need to understand what the pros and cons are.
What Is a Ductless Mini-Split System?
In a traditional HVAC system, cool or warm air is carried through a system of ductwork. A ductless mini-split system, as the name suggests, operates without ducts. Instead, it has a compressor on the outside and an air handler on the inside. Mini-split systems are like window unit air conditioners in that they cool in zones rather than the entire house at once. However, they are much more efficient than those old window units. In addition, some mini-split systems can both heat and cool the house, while others have only cooling capacities.
The Pros of Ductless Mini-Split Systems
Ductless mini-split systems are incredibly popular for many reasons. If you’re looking for some of the features discussed below, you may be a great candidate for one.
Easy to Install
Installing a traditional HVAC system is disruptive and invasive because of the extensive ductwork that has to be done. Installing a ductless mini-split system is much simpler and can be done in just a few hours by a qualified AC installation team. There aren’t many components, and the installation only requires drilling a small hole in the wall.
More Energy Efficient
Ductless mini-split systems use less power than window units or traditional HVAC systems. Traditional HVAC systems lose a substantial portion of cool or warm air through the duct system. With mini-split systems, the air comes straight into your home. You also have the option of purchasing a ductless mini-split system with a high-efficiency rating. This means that over the long run, you’ll save money on your power bill.
Offers More Control
One of the most attractive features of the ductless mini-split system for many people is the amount of control it offers. Ductless mini-split systems cool in zones, which means that you can cool only the room that you’re in. It’s useful for a family because people can adjust the temperature according to their comfort level. The mini-split system is already energy efficient, but the fact that you don’t have to waste power cooling rooms you aren’t using boosts that efficiency even more. Overall, it allows you to manage a greater level of comfort in your home.
Good for Renovations
In the past, if you decided to add on a room or convert a garage or attic for regular use, you’d have to add more ductwork or use an inefficient window unit. Ductless mini-split systems make it much easier and more efficient to cool additions to your home or free-standing structures.
Quiet Operation
If you currently have a traditional HVAC system, you’re probably familiar with the “whoosh” sound it makes as it comes on and air is forced through the system. Ductless mini-split systems operate much more quietly. Some also have different fan speeds that can help you control noise even more.
Better Air Quality
In addition to the air that ducts carry out into your home, they also carry everything else that they have accumulated. This could include dust, pet hair and other allergens. With ductless mini-split systems, multiple layers of air filtration keep your air clean, and without ductwork, you don’t have to worry about dust and debris buildup clogging the ventilation system of your home.
Cons of Ductless Mini-Split Systems
No HVAC system is perfect. For some people, the drawbacks of ductless mini-split systems outweigh the advantages.
Installation Costs
You’ll pay a price for avoiding the disruption of installing ductwork. Ductless mini-split systems cost more to install, and that cost keeps climbing as you add more units to different rooms in your home. You may also pay more for energy-efficient units. Whether this will all add up to savings in the long run will depend on several different factors, but you will need some time to see the savings.
Maintenance
Every type of HVAC system needs some maintenance, but a ductless system needs more than most. While you won’t have to worry about damage to your ducts with a mini-split system, you will need to change the filter more frequently. You also must regularly maintain your system to avoid mildew growth. If you’re the type of person who tends to let this kind of maintenance fall by the wayside, ductless mini-split systems may not be the answer for you.
Aesthetics
Different types of mini-split systems vary in design, so some are sleeker and more discreet than others. However, there’s no getting around the fact that you’re going to have a piece of equipment sticking out of one or more walls inside your house. For some people, this is no problem at all. For others, it can be a deal-breaker. There is one type of recessed system that can be installed in the ceiling rather than on the wall, but the installation costs for those are even higher.
Space
In addition to the aesthetic concerns, you will need to devote a certain amount of wall space to your mini-split systems. They need to be easily accessible for maintenance as well. Keep this in mind if space is already at a premium in your home.
Temperature Zones
The very feature that’s an advantage for many people may be a drawback for others. Maybe you want to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the house. Maybe you have kids who will crank the AC up if left to their own devices. Whatever the reason, if you want the same coverage throughout your entire house, a traditional system might suit you better.
The Bottom Line on Ductless Mini-Split Systems
As you can see, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether you should install a ductless mini-split system or a traditional HVAC system. Consider what your top priorities are. If you have a tight budget for the work you need done, you might go the traditional route. If your family can’t stop fighting about what temperature to set the thermostat at, it might be time to look into mini-split systems.
Professional AC Services
If you’re considering having a ductless mini-split system installed, Loves Air can help you determine if it will work for you. Our cooling services pros also offer repairs and maintenance for your AC system and installation of both mini-split and traditional HVAC systems.
We’ve been around for more than 15 years, and we have thousands of customers throughout the local area. We’ve won several awards for our great work, including multiple Nextdoor Neighborhood Fave Awards. Our many five-star reviews are a testament to our values of integrity, excellence and customer focus. We believe in quality, meaning that we will work hard to find the solution that’s best for you.
When it comes to air conditioning and installing ductless mini-split systems, we’re the best around. Contact Loves Air today for service.
