Ductless mini-split heat pumps are changing the HVAC industry. It turns out they have distinct advantages over the more traditional systems. Mini-splits are an excellent choice for Floridians because they come with added flexibility due to their ability to heat and cool. Additionally, there’s the added bonus of having electrically powered heating and mini-splits become quite competitive as one of the cheapest HVAC systems out there.
On the other hand, mini-splits are still much less popular than traditional HVAC systems. In this blog, we’ll explain why that is and why you should consider taking a chance on a ductless mini-split system by answering some frequently asked questions!
Ducted systems have been the go-to for decades and decades. However, that doesn’t mean they don’t have some downsides as well. Ducts are the most straightforward solution to getting treated air around your home. Unfortunately, they come with a built-in inefficiency. The ducts themselves absorb a lot of the heat of the air before it even passes into your living area.
This energy loss is usually between 25% and 30%. Additionally, ductwork can collect all kinds of gunk over time. Pollen, dust, and pet hair are all too common and can damage your indoor air quality.
Engineers in the 70s discovered that you don’t actually need ducts to transfer heat around your home. Instead, ductless systems utilize two units that work in unison. One is outdoors and one is indoors. They are connected by a conduit that can transfer heat between outdoors and indoors. With this system, it’s a lot more efficient because you won’t have to deal with any energy loss due to your ducts.
Ductless systems are inherently more efficient than traditional systems because ductwork brings inefficiency. Ductless systems are a bit more flexible as well. Most of these systems are designed to heat or cool only one room at a time. You’ll be able to place them in a few of your main living spaces. That allows you to have highly specific control over the temperatures throughout your home.
It’s also important to consider the fact that furnaces burn fossil fuels. Ductless systems do not. They only require electricity. You may be wondering how this is even possible. Let us explain.
Ductless systems only transfer heat. They don’t generate it by burning fuel as a furnace does. It works similarly to an air conditioner but is able to do so in both directions. It can send heat outdoors making your home colder or it can send heat indoors and warm your living area.
The real question is should you get one. We’ve gone over some of the benefits of the ductless system, but that doesn’t mean it works for everyone. We can install just about any HVAC system for you, not just a ductless system. One reason you may not want a ductless system is if your home already has ducts built. If that’s the case, the additional installation cost of a ductless system may not be worth it.
On the other hand, if your home hasn’t had ducts installed, then a ductless system is a much more attractive option. The last thing you should keep in mind is the aesthetics of a mini-split. The unit will sit on your wall and many homeowners may not love the look of it. If you would like to learn more, we’d love to talk you through it. Just give us a call!
