With the advancement of technology, it is no surprise to see various types of heating and cooling system available for homeowners. For long, central heating and cooling systems have dominated the market, but the ductless mini split models are giving people something else to think about. But what are these systems?
As the name suggests, ductless HVAC systems do not operate using any duct and contain a compressor unit placed outside the home and small units mounted in the various rooms in a house. They are ideally suited for settings where window air conditioning units are to need. They require no venting, and they cool your home through a few small holes and tubings that are used to contain the refrigerant lines that deliver cool or heated air into your home. All the mainly units can be adjusted as they have their thermostats and this allows for zonal heating and cooling.
Over the years, these ductless systems have emerged as the favored option, and this can be owed to the advantages of using them. However, there is no perfect system in this world, and the ductless systems also have their disadvantages. Read below and find out;
Advantages of Ductless Systems
Easy To Install
The benefits of these systems begin with the initial set up, and they are very simple to install compared to the central ones. They do not have ducts, and this significantly reduces the work needed to set them up. All they need is a couple of small holes to hold the refrigerant lines. The interior units can be installed quickly to the wall as they need to be attached there using some form of mechanism. Looking at the central air conditioners, it is evident that the ductwork takes a lot of time and effort when installing the system and putting up a ductless HVAC unit is a breeze.
Efficient
The ductless air conditioner systems are modern and built using the latest technology, and this makes them more efficient than the old ones. If you look at the ratings of some of the popular models today, you will be surprised at how they can offer you up to 50% savings on your annual heating and cooling refrigerant costs. Ducts are essential to the operation of central air conditioning units, but they also add up to the inefficiencies in that they account for about 25% of losses on heating and cooling systems. The absence of ducts make these systems more efficient as the losses brought by tubes are no longer existent.
Great For Zonal Heating and Cooling
It has been seen that these systems comprise of the main unit that is located outside and several small units in the various rooms of a house. This allows one to cool and heat different parts of the home based on the demands and thus save the energy that would have been used to cool and heat the entire house even when it is not necessary. If you need the living room cooled, all you need to do is to turn on the mini system there and not any other unit. This way you can save more money, and people in the home can adjust their units based on their temperature preferences.
They Are Quiet
Heating and cooling systems make our places comfortable but for long, the central systems have been characterized by their noisy nature. Well, this is something that one cannot run away from if they are using the central units but the ductless systems can cool and heat your home without making a lot of noise. The indoor units only whisper, and the sound produced by the outdoor unit can be equated to that made by your refrigerator.
Small Space Requirement
The main part of the ductless heating and cooling unit is outside the home and that is the largest section of these systems. The indoor units are small in size and won’t force you to do massive readjustments before you can fit them in your room. This makes them house option for older homes and those with limited attic space.
They Are Cleaner
Have you ever spotted dust, allergens or pollen in your home when your central and duct-based system is running? Well, the ductless systems are cleaner than the old ones, and these particles are significantly reduced in your home. All the units have an internal, serial filtration system that keeps bacteria and any other pollutants out of your home.
Disadvantages Of Ductless Systems
High Initial Cost
It is undeniable that ductless systems are the more economical option for homeowners, but the high initial cost is a massive problem for many. These systems cost much more then the central ones, and you need to dig deep into your pocket if you wish to install one in your home. However, if you have the money you could buy it as you will quickly recoup it in the form of life energy savings.
Increased Maintenance
These systems are complicated than the old ones, and you might be required to spend more keeping it in good condition as opposed to what you would have spent on your old system. The air filters of the ductless system require frequent cleaning, say once a month especially for homes with children and pets. These systems are more sensitive to debris, and if you do not clean the filters regularly, you would be forced to pay up much more for a professional clean up. Aside from that, you could find the system working below the required levels and the lifespan significantly affected.
Some of the benefits and cons of these systems have been highlighted and depending on the nature of your home, they can make sense in a couple of applications. They could be suitable as new additions to a home or for people who are downsizing their cooling zones, say for people who do not want to cool unused rooms in their home. All in all, they have their share of pros and cons and you should analyze your options before determining if they are the best option for you.
