What Are Ductless Mini-Split Systems?
These days, many homeowners and home builders are opting for ductless mini-splits over traditional central heating and cooling systems. Ductless mini-splits are smaller versions of central air conditioning or heat pump systems that serve individual rooms or spaces throughout the home. Instead of one central unit distributing air to every room via air ducts, multiple separate units cool or heat the air in each room individually without using ducts.
Ductless heating and cooling systems have unique advantages, which is why they’ve become so popular in recent years here in the USA (in many countries, ductless mini-splits have been the norm in most homes for years). This article will outline three of the biggest benefits of ductless mini-split systems and why every homeowner should consider switching!
Reduced Energy Bills
Perhaps the biggest advantage of ductless mini-split systems is their massive potential for lowering energy bills. This stems from two main characteristics.
Firstly, since each room or section of the house gets its own unit, homeowners only need to cool or heat occupied rooms, so they won’t need to use additional energy to keep the entire home at the desired temperature.
Secondly, since air is pumped directly from the indoor unit (usually mounted high up on a wall) into a given room rather than traveling through long ductwork passages, there is no heat loss putting a drag on efficiency. Radiant heat loss and air leaks may not seem like a huge deal. Still, they can significantly impact energy efficiency as the HVAC system will have to work longer and harder to maintain the correct temperature. Ductless systems virtually eliminate this concern.
Quick & Easy Installation
Another benefit of mini-split systems is their relatively simple and discreet installation process. A typical mini-split system involves a small air handler unit installed inside a given room and a slightly larger condenser unit installed outdoors, with an electrical conduit and refrigerant lines running between the two. Apart from mounting the indoor unit and drilling a hole for the conduit and coolant lines, very little must be done to the home itself.
By contrast, in a home that doesn’t already have air ducts, conventional air conditioner or central heating installation can be an incredibly expensive and drawn-out process requiring loads of new construction.
This is why ductless AC and heating systems are a great option for retrofitting older homes, cabins, and cottages that don’t have existing ductwork (like those that used to rely on window AC units, fireplaces, or old-fashioned wood stoves). They’re also a good option for small homes or the increasingly popular “tiny homes” that don’t have enough space to install ductwork.
Better for Indoor Air Quality and Comfort
Installing a ductless air conditioning and heating system can also impact indoor air quality and overall comfort levels in the home. Over time, air ducts can become a haven for dust, debris, and other allergens. Mold and mildew growth in ductwork is fairly common in humid climates (Missouri summer, anyone?). So with a ductless system, as long as homeowners change their filters on time, this is a non-issue.
Ductless mini-splits are also unmatched in terms of zone control and home comfort. When every family member has a unit in their room, everyone can keep their space warm or cool without fighting over the thermostat! So going ductless may be just the right prescription for a healthier, happier home!
About Dutch Enterprises
Dutch Enterprises has been one of the most trusted and highly-rated HVAC companies in Cape Girardeau for over 50 years. With their fast turnarounds, clear communication, 24-hour emergency service, free estimates, and rock-solid satisfaction guarantee, it’s easy to see why they’ve won numerous awards, including the BBB Torch Award for Exceptional Ethics and Service. Their punctual and friendly technicians are all licensed and background-checked, so homeowners know they’re in great hands when they call Dutch for ductless mini-split installation in Cape Girardeau, MO!
