Ductless Mini Split HVAC
Ductless mini splits remove the need for ductwork. This allows for greater flexibility in terms of the location where outdoor and indoor units are installed.
Selecting the right size for your mini-split is crucial. This is achieved by a process known as load calculation. A professional can ensure that your system is designed to meet your needs.
1. Energy Efficiency
Ductless mini splits are an energy-efficient way to heat and cool homes. This is because they don’t rely on air ducts to distribute conditioned air. Indoor units use an air-cooled compressor to cool or heat air. A blower then sends the air directly into the room through refrigerant tubing. The system’s high SEER2 ratings permit it to make use of less energy than a conventional air conditioner, which results in lower monthly energy costs.
A ductless system could also save you money by removing the need for costly ductwork. Traditional duct systems often add up to 30% to the home’s energy bill. This is because air loses energy as it travels through the duct system. This problem is not experienced by mini splits that don’t use ductwork.
These systems can also be installed on areas which are difficult to heat and would be difficult to retrofit with ductwork. Some homeowners convert their garages to gyms and want the space to be comfortable to work out in. These rooms can be outfitted with a ductless heating and cooling system that can be attached to the ceiling or wall.
Many homeowners prefer a ductless system because it’s more attractive and doesn’t have to deal with ugly vents in ceilings or walls. Additionally, a lot of systems are designed to be sleek and minimal and blend seamlessly within the space without any changes.
It is essential to choose the right size unit when installing a split system with ductless. A technician can assist you determine the right British thermal units (BTUs) for the room based on its usage and your requirements. This will help you identify the most efficient units and install them in a proper manner. Then, the mini-split ductless will function efficiently and save you money over time. In fact, you can expect a complete return on your investment in as little as five years! You will also save a lot of money if you compare your bill to the one of your neighbors with ductless heating and cooling systems.
2. Convenience
Mini splits that are ductless don’t require ductwork to work, and they’re easy to set up. A coolant liquid transfers heat from the heat pump to the air handler and back again. This is accomplished by flexible tubing, which can be installed behind your walls or ceilings. This makes a ductless system ideal for rooms such as sunrooms, basements and garages that don’t have ductwork. It’s also a great option for adding a new space to your home such as a patio or sunroom.
You can set the temperature of each zone independently, as each indoor air handling unit and distribution unit comes with a thermostat. This allows you to keep areas that are often occupied at the same temperature as rooms that see less use and can save money on your electricity bill.
Another benefit is better indoor air quality. Without ducts, your air doesn’t circulate through dirty and clogged filters that collect debris, dust as well as allergens and germs. The high-efficiency filter inside your mini-split with ductless technology can help reduce respiratory irritation and other health issues.
The majority of ductless systems provide the option of heating during cooler months. Combined with a dehumidification mode, this versatility can make your home more comfortable all year long.
Ductless mini splits are an ideal solution for homeowners who wish to cool a finished basement or bonus room, but don’t have the money to invest in traditional HVAC. The cost of a unit with ductless air conditioning depends on the number of units you purchase and the degree of difficulty involved in the installation. It is important to hire a qualified HVAC contractor to ensure that you are getting the best system that fits your budget. It is also a good idea to get an estimate from a variety of companies to compare costs and services. Consider opening a HELOC or borrowing against equity, to finance your ductless systems. These options will help you avoid the cost of interest while you pay off your debt.
3. Versatility
Mini splits with ductless technology come with multiple operating modes. They can do more than just cool your house. They can also be used to heat your home, which is ideal for the cold winters in Washington. They are designed to run quietly.
This flexibility is what makes ductless systems so ideal for renovations, room additions and new construction. They’re perfect for homes with no ductwork or aren’t suited for ductwork installation, as well as areas like garages, patios and sunrooms. These spaces tend to be hard to cool or heat using a standard HVAC system. You can create a zoned solution for these spaces using a duplex system.
Many ductless systems are able to provide cooling and heating for up to four rooms or spaces, and some even up to eight. These systems are able to accomplish this by connecting multiple indoor air handlers to an outdoor compressor. This design eliminates ductwork and saves time and money on installation and maintenance.
In contrast to traditional HVAC systems that use fossil fuels to heat and cool your home, a ductless system uses an environmentally friendly electric heating pumps to transfer heat to or from your space. This reduces the carbon footprint of your home and makes it healthier.
They also remove air pollutants which is beneficial for your health. This includes cigarette smoke, dirt, dust, allergens and other pollutants. By cleaning your filters, you can help improve your home’s air quality while protecting the longevity of your ductless system.
While these systems are fantastic for a number of reasons, they aren’t the ideal choice for every home. If your home has slab foundations, an older homes that don’t have ductwork or if you plan to build on it in the near future it is recommended to look into both ducted and ductless alternatives. Ask your contractor how often to change your filter. These systems are effective but regular cleaning will aid in prolonging the life of your unit.
4. Installation
A mini split with ductless technology is a fantastic alternative to central air conditioning. Installation is fairly simple, especially in homes that do not have ductwork. It can also be put in sunrooms garages as well as attics, home additions, and garages. It is also a great way to convert three-season rooms, such as exercise or bedroom spaces, into livable living spaces.
A ductless AC also offers heating. The same thermostat that controls air conditioning can operate in a variety of modes. Modes include sleep, dehumidify, and auto, which decides the operating mode based on the ambient temperature.
The ductless system is energy efficient and helps save electricity. It uses smaller units compared to other types of systems. This reduces the amount refrigerant needed to cool the room. Installing a ductless split system requires an experienced professional, since it involves the charging of refrigerant and the running of electrical wiring. This kind of installation could be risky, and a botched installation could result in component damage and expensive repairs.
An HVAC expert can help determine the proper size of the system by analyzing square footage, insulation, and ceiling height. He or she can determine if a system needs to be downsized or upsized depending on the amount of people who will use the space. A professional can help you avoid a system that is under or over-sized, leading to an unneededly large electric bill.
Ductless ACs also provide better indoor air quality. They can lessen respiratory and allergies by eliminating dust, allergens and bacterial buildup. You’ll also spend less time and money on annual duct maintenance.
A qualified technician should connect electrical wiring from the indoor unit to the outdoor unit, in addition to charging the refrigerant. This task should only be performed by an experienced and licensed technician to minimize the risk of accidental shock or injury. The technician must ensure that the compressor unit can circulate freely and isn’t restricted by snow, bushes or accumulation of water.