Ductless mini-splits are among the hottest trends in home HVAC. Let’s look at the top seven reasons so many Florida homeowners are making the move to a ductless system.
1. Simple and Versatile Installation
A ductless mini-split is suitable for practically any home because there are few installation requirements. You don’t need an expensive network of ducts. The only real requirement is running a small conduit from each indoor unit to the outdoor unit. Even that’s rarely an obstacle.
Manufacturers offer many connection types and adapters. Installation is cheaper than with a ducted system. Most installs take less than three hours, and even larger-scale installs usually finish in under six.
2. Heating and Cooling
You can opt for a mini-split that’s an air conditioner and provides cooling only. The other option is a mini-split that’s a heat pump and provides both heating and cooling. This is a particularly cost-effective choice in areas where a furnace or boiler is often overkill.
3. High Energy Efficiency
Seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) is a rating that indicates cooling performance. Consider that the minimum SEER allowed in the Southeast is 15.0. Most mini-splits have SEER ratings in the 20s, and there are models in the 30s. A notable reason is the lack of ducts. Central HVAC systems often lose 20% or more of their heating and cooling through air leakage and other duct issues.
Higher energy efficiency has several implications for a homeowner. An important one is that the higher the efficiency rating, the cheaper the system is to run. Some studies suggest that the average savings over a central system can be as much as 30% month to month.
Another is that mini-splits are better for the environment. In fact, air conditioning is the top carbon footprint contributor for the average American household. A mini-split can lower yours by a significant amount. Modern mini-splits also use an eco-friendly refrigerant that minimally affects the ozone layer.
A third consideration is that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certifies most mini-splits on the market through its ENERGY STAR program. That may make you eligible for a federal tax credit. There may also be federal and local rebates that help you offset your installation costs further.
4. Zoned Control
Another reason mini-splits are cheaper to run and better for the environment is zoned control. A mini-split system provides inherent zoning. Set cooler or warmer temperatures in the zones you’re using. Maintain energy-saving settings in those you’re not. Zoning is possible with central HVAC, but it’s expensive. It’s so costly that homeowners with central systems often augment it with a mini-split instead.
5. Scalability
Most mini-splits are multi-zoned systems. They can have just one indoor unit, but the outdoor unit can support two or more. The upper limit is usually eight. Perhaps you opt for one unit for the bedroom and another for the living room. If you decide a year from now that you want to add or third or fourth zone, you can do that with minimal cost and hassle.
6. Remote Access and Control
Remote access and control is another set of features that are optional with central HVAC but standard with mini-splits. Just about every mini-split on the market comes with a remote control for each indoor unit. Wi-Fi mode is a common feature. It lets you control all your indoor air handlers from one remote. Many brands offer an app as well. It lets you put your remotes in a drawer and use your phone instead.
7. Other Advanced Features
Modern mini-splits usually feature a programmable and even smart thermostat. Additional savings are available through scheduling your indoor units. Sensors are a popular feature. A sensor will, for instance, let your indoor units automatically adjust airflow direction. Dry mode helps on days with high humidity. Self-cleaning mode helps keep the unit clean between seasonal tune-up appointments.
Would You Like to Install a Ductless Mini-Split in Polk County?
Snowbird Heating & Cooling has served Auburndale and all of Polk County and beyond since 1991. Our team specializes in ductless mini-splits that provide cooling only and those that give you cooling and heating. We also install, repair and maintain forced-air furnaces and central air conditioners and heat pumps. Our indoor air quality team cleans ducts and installs and services air purifiers and UV lamps. You can also count on our plumbers for drain cleaning, fixture repairs and upgrades, water heater installation and much more. Call today or contact us online with questions or to schedule an appointment.
