What Is a Ductless Air Conditioner?

What Is a Ductless Air Conditioner?

Summary

A ductless air conditioner might be the variety you need if you are tired of high energy bills. These mini-split ACs and heaters are efficient cooling systems and money savers.

This post teaches you how a ductless AC works and its benefits. After reading, you can make an informed decision between a ductless or a central AC.

How does a ductless AC work?

The ductless AC system is also known as a mini-split AC and heater. It’s designed to cool or heat your living space. Unlike conventional central air conditioners, it cools and heats without ducts. Call them minimalist air conditioners.

What are the advantages of a ductless unit?

What are the advantages of a ductless unit?

One of the reasons for choosing a product or system is the benefits we get from it. The following are a few benefits a ductless AC brings to your home.

  • High efficiency

High energy costs and inefficient cooling are leading concerns regarding cooling and heating homes. Ductless units have a high SEER rating and high energy efficiency. Its zoning and energy-saving benefits stand apart from the traditional HVAC system.

  • Smart cooling and heating

The unit works with a smart AC controller as plug-and-play convenience. The advantage of intelligent ACs is the ability to control your air conditioner from your smartphone. You can control it anywhere, including away from home, through Google Home, Alexa, or Amazon connectivity.

  • Cheaper option

Though a ductless might appear more expensive than the traditional HVAC, it is cheaper overall! When you consider energy saving, high efficient performance, lower energy bills, and convenience, it’s far cheaper to own.

  • Straightforward installation

Unlike the traditional HVAC with ducts running through the entire house, the ductless unit is hassle-free when installed. The efforts and costs required to install a central AC are not required when installing a ductless unit. It is safe to say ductless installation costs less than half of HVAC installation!

  • Improved indoor air quality

When asked about indoor air quality between central and ductless units, many homeowners claim they breathe better with a ductless unit. The air quality is excellent, and many report clean and allergens-free indoor air.

Which is better – ductless or central AC?

The choice of your AC depends on the need and where it is needed. While central AC delivers a better range of cooling suitable for large homes, ductless is ideal for small living spaces. However, below are things to consider when deciding which of the systems is best for you.

  • Energy efficiency

A ductless unit is best if you need to cool a small space with energy efficiency. It delivers zoned cooling and improved airflow. However, mini-split AC and heaters are pricey when newly installed. While both systems allow zoning, the central air conditioner has ductwork upgrade costs.

  • Cost of purchase and installation

Between a ductless and central AC, it is crucial to consider both the cost of purchase and installation. While a central unit costs more to install, a ductless is more expensive to buy. However, overall costs when you consider running and maintenance costs, a ductless is cheaper than a central air conditioner.

  • Maintenance cost

A central AC takes the lead in terms of maintenance and running costs. Ductwork needs regular maintenance to remove dust, dirt, mold, and possibly animal droppings to improve indoor air quality. A ductless unit has no ducts to maintain.

  • Comfort

For a large home, a central AC has the upper hand in delivering a better range of cooling. At the same time, a ductless unit is better for dehumidification due to its longer cooling cycle. Also, a ductless unit is quieter than a central AC due to its compact components.

  • Home design

Your home design is also a factor to consider. While central AC installation is almost invisible, many won’t notice them. Some ductless units are wall mounted and are easily visible. Therefore, if you want your AC invisible, consider a central unit, and if you don’t mind being seen around, go for a ductless one!

Do ductless air conditioners work better?

Ductless systems cost quite a bit when installed, but they save you money over time because of their long-term energy efficiency. Because ductless systems can zone without additional costs, you have more control over how much energy is spent cooling each room.

Do you need help choosing the best ductless AC for your home?

Do you need help choosing the best ductless AC for your home?

Speaking with a professional and thoroughly assessing your space and available options is the best way to decide whether installing a ductless air conditioner is the right choice.

If you reside in the Coachella Valley or the Inland Empire and are unsure about a ductless AC, let Anthem Heating and Air Conditioning Services help you.

Anthem HVAC services is a reputable, respected, and responsible heating and cooling company that will assist you in making an informed decision without negatively impacting your finances.

Call (760) 895-2621 today!

If you live around the Coachella Valley area – Indio, Indian Wells, Palm Desert, or La Quinta – a reputable heating and air conditioning repair and provider company is nearby. Let Anthem Heating & Air help you with all your air conditioning and heating questions and needs! Visit us at www.anthemcv.com or call now at (760) 895-2621.

Mini-Split Air Conditioners and Why You Should Buy One

Mini-Split Air Conditioners and Why You Should Buy One

Indoor temperatures affect our comfort, health, and productivity. Choosing the right cooling system makes a difference in the quality of life and overall productivity. Consider the ductless mini-split system over central air to regulate your home or office temperature. This post explains what a mini-split system is, how it works, and its advantages over the central air cooling system.

What is a Ductless Mini Split System?  

A mini-split system is a decentralized heating/cooling system that controls the temperatures in individual rooms or spaces.

The ductless mini-split system features an outdoor compressor or condenser and one or more indoor air-handling units (evaporator). The air-handling units go to the individual rooms requiring cooling and come with remote control, so you can use it to regulate temperatures.

You may mount the indoor air-handling units to a wall or suspend them from the ceiling. The outdoor unit connects to the indoor unit via a refrigerant line, so there is no ductwork when installing the mini-split systems.

How Do Mini-Split Systems Work? 

Mini-split systems are available in two options: the mini-split air conditioner and the mini-split heat pump.

The mini-split air conditioners provide cooling only, but the mini-split heat pumps cool and heat spaces.

Therefore, if you opt for the mini-split heat pump, you can switch between cooling and heating modes. For that reason, mini-split heat pumps are a popular option today.

While the mini-split heat pump costs slightly more than the mini-split air conditioner, the two feature similar functionality. The condenser and evaporator units connect using copper refrigerant lines/copper tubes.

The mini-split air conditioner and the mini-split heat pump feature a drainpipe and come with a remote controller.

Mini Split System vs. Central Air

While both the mini-split systems and the central air effectively regulate temperature, they feature some significant differences:

  • Mini-split systems are ductless, while the central units feature a duct system.
  • The ductless mini-splits use a remote to control temperatures, while the ducted central air units feature a central thermostat.
  • Central units keep the house evenly cooled to a consistent temperature, while mini-splits allow room-by-room temperature settings.
  • Central air units feature a lower upfront cost, while the operational cost is higher than the mini-splits.

What Are the Benefits of Mini-Split Systems? 

Mini-split systems make an ideal cooling and heating appliance for your home or office. They are not only efficient HVAC systems, but they also allow great flexibility and ease of installation. Here are additional benefits of mini splits over the central air units.

  • Avoids Duct Work, Hence Easy to Install 

Instead of difficult-to-install, leaky, and bulky ductwork, the ductless mini-split heat pumps connect to outdoor units via the refrigerant line. Therefore, the installer needs to make a three-inch hole through the wall during installation.

  • Allows Room-by-Room Temperature Control

Each indoor unit comes with separate remote control and phone apps, providing the room occupants with the option to customize their heating or cooling requirements. Unlike the central air unit, which has a centralized thermostat and keeps the entire space evenly cooled or heated.

  • Energy Efficient and Cuts Operational Costs

ENERGY STAR certified ductless mini-split systems deliver up to 60% cooling/heating cost-cutting compared to the conventional central air units. The energy efficiency is because these units feature sophisticated compressors and fans that adjust the speed and save energy. Besides, mini-splits allow users to switch off cooling or heating in different rooms when they do not need it.

mini-splits

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are Mini-Splits Good for Heating and Cooling?

The mini-split systems are ideal cooling and heating solutions for commercial and residential spaces. First, the mini-split systems are easy to install, provide zone cooling/heating, and use less energy, making them an excellent solution for HVAC needs. Besides, the mini-split units come with interior design flexibility as you can opt to mount, hand on the ceiling or go for the floor-standing options.

  • How Long Will Mini-Splits Last? 

With professional installation, proper handling, and regular maintenance, the mini-split air conditioner or mini-split heat pump can last two to three decades. Just clean the unit regularly, replace the filters when needed, and engage a professional HVAC contractor to correct maintenance procedures.

  • Do I Need a Professional to Install a Mini-Split Air Conditioner? 

Consider hiring a professional HVAC contractor during the mini-split AC installation process to avoid making errors, which could void the warranty. A professional will follow manufacturer-recommended procedures during the HVAC installation process and use the right tools.

Conclusion 

Most of us cannot survive indoors during summer without an efficient air cooling system. Likewise, we need an efficient heating system to keep us comfortable during the winter months. Mini-split systems make a great HVAC choice. Contact the professionals to ensure you are buying the right mini-split for your home or office. An experienced HVAC expert will guide you and offer ongoing maintenance to keep your investment functioning at optimal levels.