Why Ductless HVAC Systems are Advantageous

Why should I get a ductless HVAC system?

Ductless mini-split systems are becoming more and more popular. And for a lot more reasons too! They are among the most efficient and comfortable heating and cooling systems available today. They consistently provide comfort in the area while being astonishingly effective. Nevertheless, installing or purchasing one is a very personal decision for each household.

This post will look at the advantages of ductless mini-split systems as a helpful heating and cooling choice for homeowners. A ductless HVAC system's advantages and disadvantages will be discussed. But first, let's clarify what ductless HVAC systems are.

Without ducts, what are HVAC systems called?

Ductless heating and cooling systems operate without ducts, as their name suggests. These systems are made of an internal evaporator and an exterior compressor, two separate devices. The indoor unit is in charge of bringing calm, conditioned air into the living space, while the outdoor unit releases the absorbed heat outside. A small gap in the wall connects the two teams.

Wall-mounted mini-splits are the most common ductless system. In wall-mounted mini-splits, the indoor unit is mounted high up on the wall, while the outdoor unit is nearly immediately on the other side of the border, either on the ground or mounted on the wall.

For a more detailed explanation of ductless mini-split HVAC systems, please read our articles on what is a ductless HVAC system and how ductless HVAC operates.

Benefits of Ductless Heating and Cooling Systems

HVAC ductless systems have several advantages. Let's look at a couple of them.

1. The running costs of ductless Cooling and heating systems are reduced

For the vast majority of us, this is the conclusion. Why not? Everyone appreciates using devices that lower their monthly energy expenses. Reduced carbon emissions are also essential for the ecosystem.

Compared to HVAC systems with ducts, HVAC systems without ducts are significantly less expensive. Mitsubishi claims it can save 30–40% on energy costs compared to a forced-air system. But how do they manage to achieve it? The main factor is a lack of ducting. Ducts are the most frequent location for air leaks in ducted systems. The causes of conditioned air leakage and energy waste include improper installation, tears, gaps, and ruptures. According to the US Department of Energy, homes with central air conditioning may use up to 30% more energy due to leaking ducts.

2. More Effective HVAC Without Ducts

When looking for an air conditioning or heat pump system, you may have heard of SEER and EER ratings. These ratings are correlated with the amount of energy that your HVAC system can save. A higher SEER indicates that the HVAC system is more efficient.

Compared to their ducted counterparts, ductless HVAC systems often have higher SEER ratings, and some can even achieve a SEER of 30.

3. Ductless HVAC Systems are Simple to Install

Because there are no ducts, ductless air conditioners may be installed significantly more quickly than ducted air conditioners. Low installation expenses are also a result of the minimal installation work needed. Ductless unit installation may cost up to 50% less than ducted installation, especially if you still need to install ductwork.

You don't have to flip your house upside down to install ductless air conditioners. It is optional to take down the ceiling, bring in large machinery, or relocate every item of furniture. The only physical modification to your property caused by installing a ductless system is a tiny 3" x 3" hole behind the interior unit, which is concealed when the system operates. Installation takes very little time and effort.

4. Make use of intelligent HVAC systems

Plug-and-play smart AC controllers can make ductless Cooling and heating intelligent. By allowing you to control your air conditioner from the ease of your smartphone, intelligent AC controllers make your air conditioner WIFI compatible. Your air conditioner can now be used anytime and wherever you desire. These have the same functionality as thermostats for central air conditioners yet are far less expensive.

Smart AC controllers include temperature and humidity-based triggers, location-based controls, weekly scheduling, usage history tracking, and intelligent home interaction with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and other services.

5. Considerably Improved Indoor Air Quality

Even though we might not always be aware of it, the air we breathe significantly impacts our everyday mood and health. People who spend a lot of time indoors need to consider indoor air quality even more to maintain optimal comfort and a healthy lifestyle. Since tiny, invisible particles like allergies, pollutants, and even airborne bacteria and viruses can be harmful to human health, it is imperative to maintain perfect indoor air quality.

The most problematic ducted air conditioning systems are those that utilize ductwork, a substantial source of pollutants. Before spreading throughout the house, mold, algae, and fungi can commonly provide an environment that is especially suitable for growth in the ducting. If the ducts are very old or have holes, small animals like rodents and insects may also be found inside.

6. Needs Minimal Maintenance

Compared to ducted air conditioners, ductless air conditioners require less maintenance. Only the filters need regular washing and cleaning. Additional duties include keeping the outdoor unit fans clear of any bushes or other obstructions and maintaining the inside vents free of obstructions. Ductless air conditioners don't require any specific maintenance compared to ducted air conditioners, saving you money on contractor and maintenance expenses. There are no ducts to maintain, no large leaks to check for, no vents in every room that needs to be opened and thoroughly cleaned, etc.

However, this does not suggest that you should disregard the ductless unit. To extend the longevity of your ductless air conditioner, schedule regular tune-ups before the summer season begins and take the following simple actions.

7. A reduction in carbon emissions

As was already noted, ductless cooling and heating systems provide significantly higher SEER and EER. This greater efficiency instantly leads to a lower carbon footprint than ducted systems. According to its ENERGY STAR accreditation, ductless Cooling and heating systems are far more energy-efficient than the minimal US regulatory criteria. As a result, your energy expenses will be lower, and there will be fewer carbon emissions.

Refrigerant usage is a crucial factor in these systems' lower carbon footprint. The ozone layer's damage from air conditioning is lessened using R410A, an environmentally benign refrigerant.

8. more adaptability

There is much more operating flexibility available with ductless cooling and heating systems. This is because ductless units can be numerous, whereas a single ducted unit only serves one house. Each one can be put in a different room based on your needs. This suggests that only the air conditioner in the now inhabited room needs to be on, unlike ducted systems where every air conditioner in the house must be operating. Even if you only need to cool one room, the entire house's ducted unit must be on. Your utility costs will go up due to the increased electricity demand.

Arguments about the temperature in the house would end with ductless cooling and heating systems! Everyone can easily and independently adjust the temperature.

You may even use an intelligent AC controller to divide your ductless air conditioners into zones if you are in charge of a building or a large region with many units. This makes management so much easier!

9. If you use ductless heating and Cooling, you may be eligible for utility rebates.

Due to the higher efficiency of ductless systems, numerous utility companies are now offering rebates and financial incentives to households and businesses that utilize ductless air conditioners. This is because energy firms will likely use the energy savings from less air conditioning to meet other, more urgent energy needs.

Visit this page to see if your local utility offers energy rebates.

10. A/C systems without ducting Cooling and warmth should be offered

You did indeed read that correctly. Some ductless systems can function as heating and cooling systems without needing further alterations. These ductless systems, also known as "reversible" heat pumps, can operate in summer and winter. This system can heat your home, in contrast to conventional ducted systems, which can only cool your home and necessitate a separate furnace to keep you warm in the winter.