Most homes rely on HVAC systems to stay cool in the summer and cozy in the winter. While central heating and air conditioning are the standard, mini split systems offer advantages in certain situations.
Learn more about mini splits – also known as ductless systems – their advantages, and how to know if they’re the best choice for your home.
What Is a Mini Split System and How Does It Work?
Mini splits and traditional HVAC are not that different in their operation. They both use an indoor air handler and an outdoor compressor and condenser, though traditional HVAC relies on one of each and mini splits may have several.
Both systems have an outdoor compressor/condenser and an indoor air handler, but mini splits may have multiple air handlers to control temperature in different areas. They’re connected through copper lines with coolant coils that circulate refrigerant through the system, transferring from liquid to gas and back, releasing the heat outside. The cooled air is then transferred into your home without ducts.
HVAC is ideal for keeping a consistent temperature throughout your home. But because you can only turn the system on and off or adjust the single temperature, it can’t provide warmer or cooler areas as needed. This is the main reason people choose ductless systems for zoned control.
What’s the Advantage of a Mini Split System?
There are many advantages to mini split systems, but the key advantage is the ability to adjust cooling for different spaces. Mini splits are also ideal for retrofitting homes that don’t have existing ductwork or homes that have been renovated.
Mini splits are easier to install because they don’t have the complex ductwork and renovations that go along with it. You may only need a three-inch hole that connects the components with a conduit. This gives you the option to put the condenser in the area that’s best for you.
The same goes for the air handlers. You can mount them on a drop ceiling, on a wall, or suspend them from a ceiling for the best look and function. You also have the option of a remote control for more convenience.
If you’re concerned about indoor air quality, ductless systems have fewer places for dust and dirt to hide. Over time, this debris ends up in your ducts and they need to be cleaned, otherwise, moisture mixes with the dirt and mold can grow. With no ducts, mini splits keep your indoor air cleaner.
What Are Mini Splits Suitable For?
Still unsure if you need a mini split system or conventional HVAC? Here are some things to consider:
Will You Need Ductwork?
This is the biggest consideration between HVAC and mini splits. If you don’t have existing ductwork, the best option may be a mini split to avoid extensive renovations and expenses. This is common in older homes or homes with additions. You can simply get enough air handlers to ensure your whole home is covered.
Do You Want Zoned Temperatures?
Do you like the idea of heating and cooling two different rooms at the same time? Do you have an elderly relative or a baby that needs slightly warmer temperatures than you like? In these situations, conventional HVAC can’t deliver what you want, but mini splits can. Depending on the size of your home and your air handlers, you can have multiple zones of varying temperatures.
Are Certain Spaces Hard to Heat or Cool?
Some rooms are a challenge to keep comfortable. For example, rooms that get a lot of sunshine can get warm much faster than the rest of the house, but trying to cool them with central air will tax your system and waste money. Ductless systems can be ideal in these circumstances to address difficult rooms without affecting the rest of your house.
Are Some Rooms Unoccupied?
If you have rooms you don’t use, such as extra bedrooms, a formal living room or dining room, or an attached garage, you don’t need to spend the money to keep it as cool as your main living space. Ductless systems allow you to manage temperatures in these spaces to make your home more efficient without sacrificing comfort.
Does a mini split sound like the best choice for you? Contact us at Adeedo to see how we can help!
