Is a Ductless AC System Right For Your Home?

When it comes to the home heating system we consider the most efficient and highly sought after. This is why many want to install a ductless heating system which is also known as mini-splits heating systems that make use of ductwork and is very common among homes and businesses usually consumes energy based on the amount of heat that is generated for the premises.

Using mini splits will help you reduce the amount of heat loss and energy consumption that is common among ducted systems. Also, mini-splits with heat pumps are relatively easier to install and comes with other great features. Although mini-splits with heat pump might feel like the right option considering its features, it also has a number of disadvantages.
This includes; it can be difficult to purchase especially for those with a low budget. This article will help homeowners determine whether mini-split systems are a perfect choice.

What Are Mini Split Heating Systems?

For those already into non-ducted heating systems, mini splits would be a great addition to your heating elements. Ideally, a ductless heating system makes use of hydropower such as hot water heater or utilizes space heating methods which generate heat via kerosene or propane. So if you want to make some additions to your already existing system, it is advisable you go for mini splits because expanding your duct can be very complex and lead to complications.

The mini splits have two compartments; a compressor or condenser which is usually situated outside the home and the air-handling unit which is situated within the home. These two compartments are connected through a conduit, which consists of a power cable, a condensate drain, refrigerant and suction tubing. If the mini splits have different air-handling unit then each will have its thermostat, the thermostat will help regulate the air temperature in every room that has a unit.

5 Advantages of Mini-Split Heat Pumps

Using a mini split ductless heating system means no installation stress and more improved energy, it has a number of other advantages to homeowners:

1. Better Heating of Individual Rooms/Zones:

The most efficient ways to heat your homes or zones is by using mini-splits with heat pumps. The individual air handling units that are placed within individual rooms or areas in the home helps improves its efficiency, since the unit can be controlled to function only in places where needed, unlike the conventional heating system that provides heat uniformly for every part of the home. Better insulation of your home will help improve its overall efficiency of each air handling units. This will help you spend less on energy costs every year

2. Flexibility/ Increased Placement Options:

Installation of a mini splits system will not alter the original design of your home, because the mini splits system gives you a lot of placement options, this is different from other add-on systems. The Air-handler is flexible enough to be affixed to a wall, suspended in drop ceilings, and even mounted into a drop ceiling. There is even a model from the floor which can come in handy.

3. Easy Installation

For those who have the experience of ductwork, expansion knows how stressful the project can be. The good news is the installation of mini splits system is completely stress-free and would require fewer alterations to your home design at most it requires a three-inch hole which is less invasive than other systems. Also, you can place your outdoor unit 50 feet away from your indoor unit thanks to the varying length of the conduits this will gives you more options to place your outdoor components.

4. Improved Energy Efficiency

Inefficient use of energy is bad for both the environment and to your finance. The way ducts are designed to make them lose a large amount of energy with over 30% of the heat it produces not being utilized, many get lost while making its way through the duct. Since a mini split system doesn’t require duct to disperse heat they tend to save more energy.

5. Ability to Customize:

The ability of the mini-split to customize is another of its amazing features. Most mini splits come with timers and built-in sleep functions, this gives the homeowners the liberty to control the heat however he wants it. Since traditional systems cannot be customized they tend to accumulate unnecessary cost and are less efficient.

Disadvantages of Mini Split Heat Pumps

Most features that are considered advantages of using a mini-split heat pump are its flexible placement options, easy installation and improved energy efficiency. Notwithstanding the mini-split also have its own disadvantages. In most cases, the homeowner has to determine the type of heating system that is most suitable based on the number of rooms, the capacity of those areas and the BTU rating of the unit.

It is a good thing that mini-split is more affordable when it comes to heating cost, but getting it installed in the first place is very expensive. This high cost of installation discourages homeowners especially low-income earners, they end up going for the less costly once. In some situations, discounts or incentives are provided to those who are interested in the ductless heating system because they are more environmentally friendly.

Another disadvantage is that while installing a mini-split system each component must be placed properly and only HVAC professionals can handle it. This is because any improper placement even slightly can lead to short cycling. And when this occurs, lots of energy would be wasted this will contradict the major benefit of having a mini split system. Getting an expert HVAC professional can be difficult and if you find it increases installation cost.

The aesthetics appeal is another factor, all though it is not so important many homeowners find the design of the air handler less appealing when compared to the built-in central heating systems. Another concern is that someone homeowners simply find it appealing to have a outdoor drainage this is why most of them still Stoke to the traditional heating system.

An Informed Decision Requires a Comprehensive Understanding

To choose the right heating system for your home is a decision you shouldn’t just make without proper information, you also have to put into consideration cost-savings and optimum functionality.

To make the right decision, you have to first, understand how all system functions. This comprises of all your available options and the advantages and disadvantages. With strict adherence to this information, the homeowners should be able to make the right decision regarding ductless heating and in their right place in your homes.