When to Consider Installing a Ductless HVAC System

Flexibility, simple installation, and high efficiency levels are just some of the reasons why more and more homeowners are choosing ductless systems to heat or cool their homes. If you’re still using central air and having trouble keeping a consistent temperature in your home, or want to save on your utilities in the long run, you might want to look into getting a ductless system.

Four Seasons Air Specialists is a top-tier heating company in Lino Lakes MN that offers energy-efficient ductless systems engineered by Lennox Industries.

What is a Ductless HVAC System?

A ductless system integrates an outdoor unit with an indoor unit to heat or cool a specific zone of the home without the use of ducts.

These highly efficient HVAC systems were developed in Japan in the 1970s and have since become a favored heating and cooling solution throughout Asia and much of Europe. In the United States, ductless systems have been used in commercial applications for more than two decades.

In a ductless system, individual spaces are heated or cooled by location-specific units. Each unit works according to its own settings, having its own thermostat. Temperature management can be made to meet the needs in a given space without creating uncontrolled or inadequate heating or cooling in another area.

Practical Applications

Here are some of the scenarios where ductless systems can be helpful:

If your home doesn’t use central air conditioning and installing an entirely new system is not achievable, a ductless system can be a great option for you. Since these systems do not need ducts to move air, they can be installed in any home.

If you are building a smaller home such as a tiny house where it’s impractical to put a larger system with ducts, you can choose to install a ductless system instead. A central heating or cooling system isn’t just sensible for such a scenario.

If you have rooms that are not regularly occupied such as guest room, a library, or a study room, a ductless system can be an efficient solution.

Also, if you need more space and decide to add an additional room into your home, installing a ductless system shouldn’t be any problem. It can make your new space comfortable without adding strain to your existing HVAC system. A mini-split will save your existing furnace or air conditioner the effort of trying to heat or cool an additional space, which lowers your monthly utility costs and extends your equipment’s lifespan.

Benefits

Greater Energy Efficiency

With a ductless system’s compact size, it allows you to HVAC zone your home, giving you customized temperatures in every room. Ductless HVAC systems conform to ENERGY STAR guidelines, which are more energy-efficient than the minimum standards set by the U.S. Federal government.

Lower Operational Costs

Ductless systems do not need as much power to operate, compared to a traditional setup. They are significantly smaller than forced-air systems, and since the heated or cooled air is delivered directly into a room, you will get the full efficiency of the system.

Flexibility of Installation

Conventional heat pumps and air conditioning systems move heated or cooled air through ducts, which can take several weeks to install. On the other hand, ductless systems are much easier to set up, and depending on the number of indoor and outdoor units needed, can be operational in as little as one day.

Safety

While traditional HVAC systems have holes that can provide easy access for burglars, but ductless systems can help your home become safer. This is because the entire system has only one small hole in the wall.

In addition, ductless systems use a refrigerant called R410A, which is known for its zero ozone exhaustion potential. A home with a ductless system installed has less impact on the environment throughout its life cycle compared to one that uses low to mid-efficiency HVAC systems.

Rebates and Incentives

In addition to all of these benefits, certain ductless air conditioners and heat pumps are ENERGY STAR® rated, which may qualify for federal and state tax incentives as well as local utility rebates.

Call the Pros

If you are considering upgrading to a ductless system, contact your leading Centerville heating and air conditioning contractor, Four Seasons Air Specialists.