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Weighing the Pros and Cons of Ductless Heating Systems

Have you learned about ductless heating and cooling systems? They’re known for their remarkable efficiency, but are they as incredible as they seem? Learn more about the pros and cons of ductless mini-splits to help you decide if going ductless is a suitable choice for your residence in the U.S..

Exploring Ductless Mini-Splits?

If you’re {not sure what “ductless” and “mini-split” refer to, you’re like many others. Ductless mini-splits are relative newcomers in the United States, but have been extensively utilized overseas for many years. These systems have two main components: an outdoor compressor and one or more interior air handling units that can be installed on the wall or recessed into the ceiling.

Unlike traditional forced-air heating and cooling, which depends on ductwork to circulate air across your home, ductless systems provide warm or cool air directly from the wall- or ceiling-mounted air handler. With a dedicated thermostat per indoor unit, you can achieve exact temperature control from one room to the next.

Perks of Ductless Temperature Control

Ductless mini-splits supply numerous compelling benefits. Here’s what makes these systems a great choice for a lot of the U.S. residences.

Easy to Install

If you’re apprehensive about a complicated installation, put your mind at ease. Ductless systems don’t need complex ductwork or drainage systems. The internal air handlers are easy to attach to a wall or ceiling. Then, drilling a few small holes in the wall facilitates running cables and refrigerant lines between the indoor and external units. This process is much easier than removing the ceiling to install ductwork.

So, while traditional systems could take several days to install, a ductless system can be operational in within one day.

High-Efficiency HVAC Option 

Traditional cooling systems commonly have seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings of 14 to 17. While this is impressive, many ductless systems feature SEER ratings as high as 30. This translates into substantial savings every month for energy usage. Greater efficiency also means a more green home, decreasing your carbon footprint while saving you money.

Less Heat Loss 

Ducted systems are known for losing up to 25% of their heated air due to ductwork leaks, holes and failed connections. This inefficiency wastes electricity or fuel—and your earned cash. Ductless systems tackle this challenge by sending air right into each room. Due to the fact that they don’t use ducts, you get 100% of the heating or cooling that you buy.

Control the Temperature in Each Room

If you’ve ever debated with family members over the thermostat temperature, you’ll love the zoned heating and cooling supplied by ductless systems. Each indoor unit can be operated individually, letting you set multiple temperatures in the house. So if you want to keep your bedroom cool and the baby’s nursery warm, a ductless mini-split allows the flexibility to personalize your comfort.

Quiet Operation

Nobody likes a disruptive HVAC system. Ductless mini-splits are engineered for near-silent operation. The truth is, the interior units are so quiet that you might forget they’re even working. That means you are able to have conversations, watch TV or sleep without being bothered by a loud blower.

Space-Saving Performance

Space is difficult to find in many of today’s homes, particularly older ones with minimal room for ductwork and HVAC equipment. Ductless systems are the remedy to this problem. Their small size and flexible placement options make them ideal. Mini-splits don’t have to have a large closet or attic space; a small area on your wall or ceiling will suffice.

Disadvantages of Ductless Heating and Cooling 

It’s important to have a well-rounded perspective of any heating and cooling technology before adopting it. These are some reasons ductless systems aren’t ideal for everybody:

Not Easy to Hide 

In contrast to traditional air vents that often are incorporated into the decor, ductless systems have certain interior components that are hard to overlook. If looks are a extremely important concern for you, the visual impact might be a downside.

Higher Up Front Cost 

The initial investment for a ductless system can be considerably greater than that of a traditional home comfort system. Nevertheless, you can look forward to recoup this cost over time through its increased efficiency.

Limited Heating Options 

Though they provide heating, ductless systems may not be suitable for freezing northern climates. Their heating power is limited and might need an additional heat source to maintain comfort.

Limited Coverage 

Ductless systems are wonderful for targeted heating and cooling in specific rooms or zones. Nevertheless, they may not be the optimal option for more expansive homes with many rooms spread over multiple floors.

Find Your Perfect Comfort Solution in the U.S. with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing

When deciding on the best heating and cooling alternative in the U.S., count on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our ACE-certified technicians and installers offer fast, long-lasting solutions for all your comfort concerns. We stand by our 100% satisfaction guarantee, so if you’re not totally pleased with our job, the staff at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing will fix it.

To learn about exceptional comfort from a ductless mini-split or another type of heating system, call 866-397-3787 today!

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