Are you considering installing a new air conditioning system in your home? If so, you should know that there are many types of air conditioners available for selection. Of all the types, ductless mini-split ACs continue to grow in popularity. As their name suggests, ductless mini-split air conditioners have no ductwork. Instead, they utilize an outdoor unit connected to one or more units inside by tubing. Read on to discover some of the pros and cons of this unit and determine if a ductless mini-split air conditioner is the best cooling system for your property.
Pros of Ductless Mini-Split AC Systems
1. Easy to Install
Easy installation is one of the most common pros of ductless mini-split air conditioning systems. Unlike traditional AC units, which are usually complex to install because they have central units and ductwork, installing mini-split systems is very straightforward. In general, installation involves mounting the indoor and outdoor units and drilling a small hole through the wall to thread the conduit that connects the two with refrigerant, power, and drainage.
2. Better Air Quality
Another benefit of ductless mini-split ACs is improved indoor air quality. Since these systems lack ductwork that can become dirty and clogged, they tend to circulate cleaner air than conventional AC units. In addition, if you use multiple indoor units, you’ll inherently have individual filters in each area to remove dirt, dust, pollen, pet hair, and other pollutants from the air before circulation. This further cleanses the air, translating to better indoor air quality.
3. Improved Efficiency
Ductless mini-split air conditioners are efficient and boast higher SEER ratings compared to traditional AC units. These air conditioners are efficient because they lack ductwork, which can leak conditioned air due to damage or age, particularly if you haven’t kept up with maintenance. Plus, because mini-splits inherently allow you to create zones for your HVAC system within your home, you can send conditioned air only to where it needs to be at any given time instead of cooling/heating your entire house at once.
4. Less Noise
Unlike traditional systems, ductless mini-split air conditioners make less noise. Generally, ductless mini-split systems are the quietest air conditioners, with a mean noise level of 32 decibels. Since the systems only require small holes to pass air from the outdoor unit to the indoor one, they reduce the whooshing noise common in ductwork circulating air from a central unit.
Cons of Ductless Mini-Split AC Systems
1. High Purchasing and Installation Costs
One downside of ductless mini-split air conditioners is expensive upfront costs. Purchasing the system is costly because you must get multiple units for installation in all of your rooms or zones. Installing units in multiple parts of your property can also increase labor costs, though your total will vary depending on the number of units needed.
2. Maintenance Is More Important
The need for frequent maintenance services is another disadvantage of ductless mini-split air conditioning systems. Unlike traditional systems, ductless AC units need more maintenance because they operate nonstop. Operating 24/7 means they undergo many issues that can affect their structure and functioning, hence the need to maintain them regularly to ensure they’re always in good condition. As a general rule, you should always invest in regular maintenance for your HVAC system, but it’s even more crucial with ductless mini-splits.
3. Less Effective in Extreme Temperatures
Ductless mini-split air conditioners are less effective in areas with extreme heat or cold conditions. In areas with extreme heat, the units will consume more energy and still fail to cool your house as needed. Conversely, cold conditions can result in frost buildup, preventing the system from heating your home properly.
Dependable Ductless Mini-Split AC Systems Experts
Heatwave Heating & Cooling is a reputable heating and cooling company serving residents in Amherst and its environs. For more than 15 years, our family-owned business has been providing high-quality services to help people in the area stay comfortable. We take pride in employing NATE-certified technicians who can tackle all kinds of heating and cooling services, including installation, repairs, maintenance, and more. We charge competitive rates, and our pricing is upfront. Contact our staff today at Heatwave Heating & Cooling to book a professional service or for more details about ductless mini-split AC systems.
