If it is time for you to invest in a new air conditioner, you may be considering a variety of options. Central air is considered pretty standard, but ductless mini split units are gaining a lot of popularity with homeowners. Each type of system has its own unique pros and cons, and for many households, ductless systems solve common ductwork problems.
What are the differences between ductless and traditional HVAC systems?
- Energy Efficiency: Ductless HVAC systems are typically more energy-efficient because they avoid duct losses, which can account for up to 30% of energy use in traditional systems.
- Zoning Capabilities: Ductless systems allow individual room temperature control, while traditional systems heat or cool the entire home uniformly.
- Installation Requirements: Traditional HVAC systems require ductwork, making installation more invasive and costly if ducts aren’t present. Ductless systems are easier to install, especially in older homes or additions.
- Aesthetic Impact: Traditional systems are hidden within walls and ceilings, while ductless units are visible inside rooms and may affect interior aesthetics.
Maintenance Needs: Ductless systems may require more frequent filter changes due to smaller filters, while traditional systems rely on duct cleaning and centralized maintenance.
Neither system is better than the other one, it just depends on your wants, needs, and your home layout. If you’re interested in ductless HVAC, keep reading to learn more about the differences between ductless and other additional HVAC systems. For more insights, check out 5 signs it’s time to upgrade to a ductless air conditioning system.Then give our team a call to schedule an appointment for an in-home assessment and quote for installation.
Ductless HVAC Benefits for Modern Homes
Let’s start with the key benefits of a ductless mini split system. Experts consider this type of unit among the top technology in the heating and cooling industry. A ductless mini split uses inverter technology to heat and cool your rooms while using very little energy.
One of the most popular benefits is that you can enjoy heating and cooling for individual zones in your house. Usually, each room has its own mini split system. You can heat or cool each individual room separately based on each person’s desired temperature.
Ductless mini split systems are especially good for homes that don’t have a lot of extra space. If you want to use your attic for storage instead of ductwork, a mini split system might be right for you. To better understand how these systems could benefit you, consider exploring why ductless mini splits are a solution to common duct woes.
What to Know Before Installing a Ductless HVAC System
Because each room has its own unit, these units are much smaller. Each one does have an air filter, but it won’t be as powerful as the more traditional alternative. You may have to invest in more mini split maintenance to keep it running at its best.
Mini split systems are also highly visible. Although the units are small, they are still very obvious in each room. The same thing goes for the system lines that run from the outdoor unit to each of the indoor systems. Many homeowners believe that these units affect home aesthetics, which can be a deciding factor.
Why Choose a Central HVAC System?
A central heating and cooling system that has ductwork is going to be less expensive to install upfront. This is especially true if you already have central heating and cooling, and our team can utilize some of the existing features, like ductwork and other connections.
If you have a larger home, a central HVAC system may be the better choice because it’s easier to connect to ductwork through all of the rooms than to add additional mini split systems.
Common Central HVAC Problems and How to Avoid Them
One of the most significant downsides to having central heating and cooling is the increase in your energy bills. You run the risk of losing a lot of your conditioned air through the ductwork. A mini split unit does not have that problem, so it can be much more efficient to run. In fact, you may spend twice as much on your energy costs with central air compared to a ductless mini split system. If energy efficiency is a priority, learn about why fall is the perfect time to purchase a heat pump as another high-efficiency option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What are the main energy efficiency differences between ductless (mini‑split) HVAC systems and traditional central HVAC systems?
Answer: Ductless (mini‑split) systems are generally more energy-efficient because they eliminate duct-related energy losses and offer room-by-room/zoned control. Traditional HVAC systems can lose a significant amount of conditioned air through ducts—often up to around 30%—which increases energy consumption and utility bills.
Question: What are the advantages of a traditional central HVAC system over a ductless system?
Answer: A traditional central HVAC system typically has a lower upfront cost if ductwork is already in place. It offers whole-home heating and cooling with hidden components for better aesthetics and delivers uniform comfort across larger homes or open floor plans.
Question: When might a ductless HVAC system be a better choice than a traditional one?
Answer: Ductless systems are ideal for homes without existing ductwork, spaces like additions or attics, or when you want personalized temperature control per room. They are less invasive to install and avoid the disruption of installing ducts throughout your home.
Shafer Heating & Cooling, LLC: You are just one call away from the comfort and savings you deserve!