Almost 90 percent of American homes use air conditioners of some kind. For many homeowners, however, finding a system that fits their home, their personal needs, and their budget can be a challenge. If you're struggling to keep your home at a comfortable temperature without breaking the bank, a ductless mini split system may be just the solution you've been looking for.
Keep reading now to learn what these systems have to offer and why they might be right for you.
Ductless Mini Split System Basics
What sets a ductless mini split AC system apart from other AC units?
Unlike window units, ductless systems:
- Are built-in
- Do not compromise your home's safety
- Do not need to be installed and removed each year or stored between seasons
- Offer the same convenience and smart-device connectivity that central HVAC systems do
Unlike central HVAC systems, ductless systems:
- Allow for more temperature flexibility
- Can be easily installed in homes that do not have pre-existing ductwork
- Readily extend to cover new spaces or additions, such as man caves or she sheds
A ductless mini split air conditioner system has two parts. There are indoor air-handlers and a single outdoor compressor. The compressor connects to the air handlers by small tubes that carry:
- Refrigerant
- Condensation drainage
- Power cables
These tubes are only a few inches in diameter and can be added to any home. This makes them ideal for homes that do not have the ductwork needed to accommodate central HVAC systems.
The Benefits of a Ductless Mini Split HVAC System
There are many benefits to choosing a ductless mini split air conditioner. The benefits that most appeals to homeowners include:
- Availability
- Convenience
- Efficiency
- Health
- Increased home value
As already noted, ductless systems are available to everyone. They can be installed in homes that cannot accommodate ducted systems, such as:
- Townhomes
- Condos
- Older homes
- Very small homes
This makes ductless systems a great alternative for homeowners who cannot install central air but who do not want to deal with the hassles of window units.
Convenience
Ductless split air conditioners offer homeowners nearly all the same conveniences as central air. They are flexible, low-maintenance, and easy to use.
Ease of Use
Ductless systems can be controlled by a handheld remote or via smart devices. This is ideal for:
- Families on the go
- Homeowners that travel often
- Families with small children who might play with the controls of window units
Flexibility
Ductless mini split HVAC systems also offer homeowners unique flexibility. Window units by design must be installed in windows. Ducted systems can only be installed where it is possible to put ducts in the floor, ceiling, or walls.
Ductless systems, by contrast, can go almost anywhere. This includes:
- Anywhere on the ceiling, including in line with a dropped ceiling
- On any wall
- Over doorways
- Freestanding floor units
Ductless units come in a variety of designs and homeowners do not have to be able to reach them to adjust their settings. This combination of features means that homeowners can seamlessly integrate these units into their home decor and design. They don't have to fuss with moving or removing furniture or other home features to get the airflow and aesthetic appeal they desire.
Easy Installation Without Major Construction
Easy installation is one of the most practical benefits of ductless mini-splits, especially for small space retrofits or room additions. No need for extensive ductwork—just a small hole in the exterior wall to run refrigerant tubing, power lines, and the condensate drain between the indoor unit and outdoor compressor unit.
Most ductless mini-split installations take only a day or two, making them perfect for upgrades where central air conditioners aren’t feasible or cost-effective.
Maintenance
Ductless units are extremely easy to maintain:
- Don't require installation and removal seasonally
- Do not require the seasonal storage or cleaning that window units do
- Don't require the seasonal maintenance that ductwork does
This makes them a great choice for homeowners with mobility issues or who otherwise lack the physical ability to move heavy window units around multiple times per year. It also makes ductless units a good option for homeowners with nowhere to store multiple window units during the offseason.
Efficiency
Ductless mini split air conditioner systems are highly efficient. This efficiency manifests itself in several ways.
High SEER Ratings and Energy Efficiency
Ductless systems often come with impressive SEER ratings, meaning they operate efficiently and can help lower your electric bill. Mini-split heat pumps also provide efficient heating, making them a smart choice for climates with seasonal shifts.
For homeowners with heating needs and cooling needs in specific areas, a ductless heat pump is a two-in-one solution that offers flexibility and comfort year-round.
Unused Space
In a ductless system, homeowners can control each air handler individually. This allows them to turn off the heating or air conditioning to areas of their homes that are not in use. By not heating or cooling unused space, homeowners can significantly reduce their energy consumption.
This in turn lowers their carbon footprints and energy bills. Given that AC alone accounts for an average of 12 percent of a home's annual energy bills, the potential savings are enormous.
Quiet Operation = Peace of Mind
Another standout benefit is the quiet operation of most ductless mini-split systems. Thanks to variable-speed compressors and smaller indoor units, you’ll barely notice the system is on—unlike older room air conditioners or noisy central systems.
The noise levels are low enough to sleep through on cold days or warm nights.
More Control With Zoned Temperature Settings
One of the biggest Mini-Split pros is the ability to set different temperatures in different rooms. With multiple indoor air handling units, you can independently control the temperature in each space. Whether it’s a warm living room or a cool bedroom, every family member can enjoy their preferred comfort level.
This feature—also called zoning capabilities—not only boosts your home’s comfort, but also makes your cooling system significantly more energy-efficient, especially in large homes or home additions.
A mini split system allows homeowners to create temperature zones within their homes. This can make a home a more comfortable and functional space while also saving homeowners money.
Many modern ductless air conditioning systems also work seamlessly with smart thermostats or come with a built-in remote control. This means you can monitor and control your system’s performance and temperature zones from your smartphone—great for busy families or second homes.
Using remote controls, homeowners can set bedrooms at a lower temperature to promote good sleep. At the same time, they can set home offices or living spaces at more moderate temperatures for the comfort of waking family members or guests. External spaces with air handler units such as man caves and sheds can be set at customized temperatures for maximum personal comfort, as well.
Heat and Cooling in One
Like central air systems, ductless systems can provide both heating and cooling. This prevents homeowners from having to juggle window units in the summer and space heaters in the winter.
This saves time, energy, space, and money all year round. It also creates a cleaner, less cluttered look in the home. Finally, it can improve home safety.
Energy Star Units
For the maximum efficiency and green living, homeowners should choose Energy Star ductless systems. Energy Star units can use less than half the energy required to power traditional HVAC systems.
Cost
Installing a central HVAC system in a home with no preexisting ductwork is expensive. So is buying enough window AC units and space heaters to reasonably control home temperatures throughout the year. Installing a ductless mini split AC system is a far cheaper alternative.
Installation can usually be completed in as little as one day, creating a low-stress and low-disruption experience for homeowners.
Cost savings at installation are only the beginning, however.
Ductless mini split air conditioner systems can contain up to eight air handlers with a single compressor. This allows high-efficiency ductless systems to heat and cool entire homes, including:
- Garages
- Basements
- Attics
- Outbuildings
Due to their efficiency, ductless systems cost far less to run in all these areas than the alternatives. Smart use of temperature zones and remote access to ductless HVAC systems enable homeowners to further reduce their HVAC energy consumption. This keeps energy costs low.
Finally, installing a ductless system can qualify homeowners for utility company rebates or tax deductions.
Say Goodbye to Duct Losses and Energy Waste
Did you know up to 30% of conditioned air can be lost through leaks in air ducts? Ductless mini-split systems eliminate that problem altogether. Since they use refrigerant lines, not ducts, to transfer cooled air, you avoid the energy loss common in traditional ducted systems.
If you’ve noticed rising utility bills but your central air conditioning system seems to be working fine, hidden duct losses may be to blame.
However, ductless mini-split systems can come with a higher cost upfront—especially if you need multiple indoor units. But the long-term savings in energy efficiency, reduced utility bills, and lower maintenance often make it the best option over time.
If your current system is aging or no longer keeping up with your home heating and cooling needs, it’s time to consider the upgrade.
Health
More than nine percent of adults and around eight percent of children have respiratory allergies. These allergies can be aggravated by traditional HVAC systems and window AC units.
HVAC ducts can collect dirt, bacteria, allergens, and other pollutants. Those pollutants are then circulated throughout the home whenever the system is run.
Window AC units can be prone to mold in humid environments or if they are not cleaned regularly and properly. They then circulate dust and mold spores whenever they are in use. This can aggravate any allergies, asthma, and respiratory conditions that family members have.
Ductless systems do not collect or circulate mold or pollutants. In fact, many systems include filtration options that can help reduce air pollutants in your home. As a result, many homeowners find that ductless systems help keep their families healthier.
Unlike traditional systems, ductless heating and cooling options usually include multi-stage filtration. This helps reduce allergens, dust, and other contaminants that typically collect in air ducts. If indoor air quality is a concern for your family, ductless mini-splits are an excellent choice.
Just remember to keep your air filter clean in each indoor air-handling unit to keep air flowing freely and your cooling system performing at its best.
Increased Home Value
Homeowners nationwide often find that the return on investment for installing a traditional central air system is low. Upgrading to a ductless mini split air conditioner, by contrast, is very likely to increase the value of your home.
This is because ductless systems increase home energy efficiency. Energy efficiency upgrades are attractive to buyers and command a premium in the housing market. Ductless systems are also extremely low maintenance, which makes them additionally appealing to prospective buyers.
While upgrading to a ductless system may result in only a modest total increase to home value, it also positions homes as highly desirable. That can help them sell faster.
It can increase competition among buyers for the home, ensuring that homeowners get the best possible price for their property when they are ready to sell.
Is a Ductless Split Air Conditioner Right for You?
If you are still unsure whether a ductless mini split system is right for your home, you don't have to decide alone. Our HVAC experts can help. Schedule a service call today and let our experienced techs help you choose the right system for your needs.
