Installing a ductless HVAC unit can fill the need for cooling and heating in limited spaces. In many cases, it’s just not practical to add or extend ductwork when adding a new room to a home or converting a basement or attic space. Combining other independent sources of cooling and heating such as window AC units and space heaters is also an imperfect option with significant drawbacks.
A ductless HVAC unit is actually a downsized heat pump that combines both cooling and heating in a compact, highly efficient option. Commonly known as a “ductless mini-split,” these units provide significant advantages to homeowners who need to add efficient, effective heating and cooling to individual spaces. Here are some reasons why:
- They’re compact and inconspicuous. A ductless HVAC system consists of a downsized outdoor unit about the size of a large suitcase that’s paired with a wall-mounted, low-profile air handler that incorporates a blower fan and a coil. The unit blends well with indoor decor and, unlike a window AC, it doesn’t occupy a window or block sunlight.
- Uncomplicated installation. The system comprises only an indoor and outdoor component, plus a narrow conduit to circulate refrigerant between the two units. This requires just a 3-inch opening in an exterior wall. Because ductwork is not needed, opening up walls and ceilings and other expensive, disruptive renovation is not required.
- Highly efficient operation. Heat pumps move heat to generate cooling and heating. In heating mode, a mini-split does not utilize combustion such as natural gas, making these units inherently energy efficient. In AC mode, the system compressor and blower fan incorporate advanced technology that minimizes electricity consumption. Common ductwork problems such as air leakage from ducts that substantially reduce efficiency and performance are not an issue.
- One outdoor unit, multiple indoor units. A single outdoor component of a ductless system can accommodate up to five indoor air handlers in separate rooms, depending on the unit’s BTU capacity. Each room has its own independent thermostat, allowing different temperature settings for every room.
Contact the professionals at Ace Hardware Home Services for more information about the advantages of ductless HVAC technology.
