The use of ductless mini-split air conditioners and heat pumps has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years. The outdoor part of a ductless mini-split system is almost exactly the same as a central AC or heat pump. The difference between the two is that a ductless system has one or more air handlers that directly heat or cool the room they’re in instead of relying on a central air handler and ductwork to distribute the hot and cold air. In this article, we’ll explore some of the biggest benefits a ductless mini-split can provide to your home.
1. Excellent Energy Efficiency
The first thing you should understand when considering a ductless mini-split system is that almost any option you choose will be more energy efficient than central air conditioning and heating. Mini-splits typically have much higher efficiency ratings compared to central units. Part of the reason for this is that most ductless systems installed nowadays have variable-speed inverter compressors. This type of compressor can automatically adjust its speed based on current heating or cooling needs so that it maintains the correct temperature while using as little energy as possible.
Another reason mini-splits are more efficient is that they don’t have the same energy waste issues as central HVAC systems. Central HVAC systems almost always have an issue with the conditioned air they produce gaining or losing heat as it travels through the ducts on its way to each room. Ductless systems, on the other hand, heat and cool more quickly and effectively since each air handler pumps hot or cold air directly out into each area. You also never have to worry about duct leaks contributing further to energy waste like you often do with central HVAC.
Another benefit if you have a ductless system with an air handler in each room or part of your house is that each unit will only run as needed. The outdoor unit may still run as much as with central HVAC, but not all of your indoor units will need to be on at the same time. This is especially the case if you adjust the temperature in any unoccupied rooms so that the air handler in those rooms doesn’t run nearly as often.
2. Zoned Temperature Control
Another great benefit of installing a ductless system is that it gives you total control over the temperature in every part of your house. You can use the remote or program a thermostat for each air handler to whatever temperature you want for that room. Let’s say you have one person in your household who prefers to sleep in a warmer environment and another who prefers their bedroom much cooler. With central HVAC, it really isn’t possible to keep different rooms at different temperatures unless you spend money upgrading to a zoned system. With a mini-split, you’ll have no issues since each air handler can be set to any temperature and will always run as often as it needs to maintain the correct temperature.
3. Overcome Issues With Cold and/or Hot Spots
Many people also opt to install mini-splits to supplement their existing central air and heating. For instance, if you have a room or part of your house that often doesn’t receive enough heating in winter or enough cooling in summer, adding a mini-split with an air handler in that room or those rooms will help ensure they’re always comfortable. This can be especially useful for ensuring your basement stays warm enough in winter or keeping the upper floor cool enough in summer. It’s also a great option if you have a room with large windows or skylights that often ends up being much hotter than you want in summer due to the added heat gain from the sun shining in.
At Snowbird Heating & Cooling, we’ve been helping residents in Auburndale and throughout the Polk County area with their air conditioning and heating needs since 1991. As one of the most experienced HVAC companies in the area, we’re ready to help if you need any installation, repair or maintenance services. We offer a range of top-quality ductless and central HVAC systems from some of the best brands in the industry and will work to ensure you get the option that best meets your needs. To set up a consultation and learn if a ductless mini-split AC or heat pump is right for your home or to schedule any other HVAC or plumbing service, contact us today.
