What Are the Pros and Cons of Ductless Mini-Split Systems?
Chill Out This Summer & Stay Warm in Winter with this Cost-Effective Solution
It’s hot outside, but your indoor spaces don’t need to be! Choosing the right cooling system is crucial for comfortable and cozy spaces, especially in Redmond and the surrounding areas, where the weather can fluctuate significantly from week to week.
One installation option that has been gaining popularity is the ductless mini-split AC system. But what exactly is a ductless mini-split, and how do you know if it’s a good choice for your cooling needs? Let’s dive in.
READ MORE: 4 Warning Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Repair
What Is a Ductless Mini-Split AC System?
Consider ductless mini-split systems as miniature versions of the central air conditioning system you might already know. The difference is that they don’t require ductwork. Instead, they consist of an indoor unit mounted on a wall or ceiling in each room or area of your home that you want to heat or cool, plus an outdoor unit connected by a refrigerant line.
Here’s how it works in the summer: the refrigerant inside the indoor unit's coils absorbs heat from the indoor air. The unit then blows air over the coils, cooling the air before circulating it back into the room. The refrigerant, now carrying the absorbed heat, is pumped to the outdoor unit, releasing the heat into the outside air with the help of a fan that blows air over the coils. This process cools the refrigerant and then cycles back to the indoor unit to absorb more heat.
Benefits of Ductless Mini-Split Systems
Because mini-split systems don’t require ductwork, they’re ideal for older homes, garages, or outdoor sheds where installing ducts would be impractical or too expensive. They can be less costly to install because the process is easier and quicker to deploy.
Ductless mini-splits are also known for their energy efficiency. They can be 20-40% more efficient than traditional central air conditioning systems, which could translate to significant savings on your monthly energy bills. With various designs to fit seamlessly into your home’s decor, you can choose from a wall-mounted unit, a floor-standing unit, or a ceiling flush-mount cassette to suit any space.
In addition to the cost and design benefits, these cooling solutions tend to offer cleaner air because there is no ductwork space for dust and debris to accumulate and then blow into your living spaces.
Working with Bob’s Heating & Air Conditioning
A professional team like ours can best help you choose the right mini-split for your home in the Puget Sound area. We will conduct a whole-home assessment to determine the proper BTU demand for each heating and cooling zone, and in addition to our professional installations, we offer Guardian Maintenance Plans to enhance the longevity of your investment.
Potential Drawbacks of Ductless Mini-Split Systems
Though there are many benefits, there are a few potential drawbacks, such as a higher initial cost due to needing multiple indoor units for larger homes and the aesthetic drawback of mounting units on walls and ceilings. While effective for cooling, some ductless mini-splits may need additional backup systems to provide sufficient heating when it’s extremely cold.
It’s Time to Cool Your Home More Efficiently
Our team is here to help. Fill out our contact form, and let’s discuss how to make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient.
