In an era where we can create an environment to support our living preferences, one of the best technologies we have come up with is the ductless HVAC system. Efficient, reliable, and customizable, ductless mini-split systems have made our indoor environments comfortable and safe all-year-round. By far, many experts consider ductless systems as the best option for both residential and commercial buildings. Ductless HVAC systems allow buildings to have effective cooling and heating without installing bulky air ducts. They tend to be more efficient and offer multi-room zoning heating and cooling comfort.
Explore The Advantages Of Ductless HVAC Systems
Contents
- 1 Explore The Advantages Of Ductless HVAC Systems
In this article, we discuss what ductless HVAC systems are and the advantages that they offer.
What Is Ductless Mini-Split Cooling And Heating?
A ductless mini-split is commonly used in residential and commercial properties to cool and heat multiple rooms. In structures that do not have a system of ductwork installed, ductless mini-splits can be added for effective heating and cooling. They are also quite effective for small apartments where the installation or extension of ductwork is not possible. They work well as supplemental HVAC systems or in problematic rooms. Also, many homeowners have installed them in sunrooms, finished attics, garages, sheds, and more.
The two main components of a ductless mini-split system are an indoor air-handling unit and an outdoor compressor. Due to the inherent design of ductless mini-splits, installation of the system does not require making major changes to the structure of a wall or ceiling. This aspect is quite appealing to homeowners who do not want to deal with a major construction project like tearing down walls to have HVAC ductwork set in place. Mitsubishi ductless systems, for example, can be installed with the minimum work done on the walls of a building.
Ductless HVAC: Single-Zone Vs. Multi-Zone
Single-zone ductless HVAC equipment delivers cooling and heating to a single room or area. If you have a central HVAC system already installed but want to extend conditioned air to another area, adding a single-zone mini-split AC will cool/heat just that area. Multi-zone ductless systems, on the other hand, lets you connect several air handlers indoors to the outdoor component so you can cool/heat multiple zones inside the home.
Either single-zone ACs or multi-zone systems will work for you, depending on your needs.
If you need to control the temperature only for a single enclosed space such as a garage or an enclosed patio or porch, a single-zone is your best option.
If you need to cool/heat multiple areas in your home or want to customize comfort in every area or room, the multi-zone ductless system is the right choice.
Talk to your HVAC contractor, such as PFO Heating & Air Conditioning, about your requirements so you can weigh your options carefully and make an informed decision.
What To Expect From A Ductless Mini-Split System
Energy Efficiency
One of the distinguishing characteristics of ductless mini-splits is their energy efficiency. The absence of ductwork is a major contribution to this benefit. Estimates claim that around 15% to 35% of energy is lost along the ducts when the system is used. Inefficiency in an HVAC system is costly. Simply put, it means paying for energy that you did not use. It can also be disadvantageous to the environment.
Mini-splits do not require the installation of ducts to disperse cool or warm air throughout a building. As such, there is no loss of energy or waste of money. You could also save more when you choose a ductless model that has a high Energy Star rating. Many of these models can help you cut a significant amount on the cost of heating and cooling your home. Plus, you may even take advantage of utility incentives and federal tax credits if you qualify.
Easy Installation
Any HVAC technician will readily tell you that ductwork installation is complex and difficult work. Since mini-splits are ductless, the installation is easy and relatively quick for most normal setups. The technician will drill a three-inch hole in the wall through which the conduit will pass. The work is mainly non-invasive and does not require a lot of time and labor compared to other types of systems.
Placement Options
With the installation of a heating and cooling system, the main concern that most homeowners have is the location of the unit. Window type systems, for example, have to be installed through a significant hole in the wall or on a window sill that has to fit correctly to avoid leakage. Furthermore, there is a concern about the placement of electrical outlets. This often limits the placement of the indoor and outdoor units of the system since certain considerations must be made, particularly where ductwork is concerned.
Ductless mini-splits, on the other hand, offer better flexibility, which means there are different placement options available. Depending on the need, design considerations, and structural limitations of a building, there are various options that homeowners can choose from. Ductless installation locations include ceiling, walls, and even floor units. With a ductless system, it is possible to work with the existing style and design of the room or area. They are less visible and can be installed out of the way, leaving more living space.
Targeted Heating Of Rooms Or Zoning
Although other types of heating and cooling systems can keep a room at a comfortable temperature, they do not offer the kind of zoning capability of ductless mini-splits. One of the reasons why ductless systems are more efficient and save on cost is that individual air-handling units can be placed in different rooms or areas. These individual units can be turned on and off, or adjusted to a certain temperature independent of other units. As such, it is possible to heat or cool only areas or rooms that are in use and keep other areas unheated or uncooled. This ensures tremendous savings on energy use.
Ductless mini-splits also offer better control of the temperatures in different rooms. In buildings or homes where residents have different temperature needs, ductless systems are a far superior choice over other types. Since zoning areas can be set up, temperatures can be customized based on the needs and requirements of those who will be occupying those areas.
Safety
With a ductless system requiring only a small hole to be drilled through the wall, there is no added concern about larger holes that may be used as an entry/egress for small creatures such as mice and snakes. There is also a minimal risk for loss of heat or cool air.
Air Quality
One very important advantage of ductless mini-splits is that these are more likely to produce better air quality than ductwork-based HVACs. Dust, dirt, pollen, mold, and VOCs tend to become trapped in the ducts. Over time, the air that passes through the ducts becomes polluted, significantly reducing the quality of air that is breathed indoors.
Furthermore, HVAC ductwork systems need inspection, cleaning, and maintenance periodically. The problem is, many homeowners either neglect or forget this task because ducts are out of sight. Mini-splits, on the other hand, do not have ducts that would collect pollutants. They also keep the air safe, thanks to multi-stage filtration features that prevent particulates, microorganisms, and potential allergens from polluting indoor air.
Customizable
We all want appliances and equipment that will cater to our needs, and ductless mini-splits can do just that. Mitsubishi systems, for example, offer different features built into the units, such as sleep functions and timers. Simple, customizable features like these not only improve comfort and function, but they also help save energy.
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Call PFO Heating & Air Conditioning To Learn More About Ductless Systems
Comfort and safety for every home are non-negotiable. With so many options in terms of technology and appliance design, homeowners will always have the opportunity to choose the best and most reliable heating and cooling systems for their homes. Mitsubishi ductless mini-splits remain unrivaled when it comes to benefits in terms of efficiency, cost-savings, and comfort. Furthermore, with the release of newer technologies, these systems will only become more and more efficient.
When you need trusted HVAC services, contact PFO Heating & Air Conditioning. Our team of NATE certified technicians have the education and training to work with all makes and models of HVAC systems, including Mitsubishi ductless heat pumps. We provide superior services that are fast, reliable, and affordable. We specialize in installations, tune-ups, repairs, and replacements. Call PFO Heating & Air Conditioning today for a free, in-home estimate.
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