When to use a Ductless Mini Split
A ductless mini split is something you may want to consider if you are looking into updating your home’s heating and cooling system. While traditional whole-house HVAC units may be what you are used to, updating your home with a ductless mini split is a good option to consider. If you have a new addition to your home, or a small space that needs better heating and cooling, a ductless mini split is worth looking into.
What is a ductless mini split?
A mini split is a heating and cooling system that allows you to control the temperature of individual rooms and spaces.
How does a ductless mini split work?
A mini split is made up of an outdoor component and and indoor component. The outdoor part is the condenser/compressor and the indoor part is the air handler (evaporator). Installation is really simple. Instead of gouging huge holes in your wall, a small conduit is cut out to connect the two parts. The hole is usually only 3 inches and houses copper tubing, power and communication cables, and a condensation drain line. Each mini split comes with its own control panel so that you can individually set the temperature for that specific room.
Where can I install a mini split?
Although mini splits are great installations to include throughout a remodeled home or new construction, they are also helpful in additions. If your home already has an HVAC unit, but you are building an addition, it may not be cost effective. Adding the ductwork and construction needed to connect the new addition to an already existing HVAC system may be more money than it’s worth. Consider using a mini split in the new space.
You can also use a ductless mini split if your home does not have ductwork. Homes that use hydronic/hot water heat, radiant panels, or space heaters can easily benefit from a mini split. It can operate alongside the other heating methods, so that you don’t have to replace your whole system.
What makes a ductless mini split better than a conventional HVAC unit?
Efficiency – Generally these systems work more efficiently, which is great for the environment and good for your wallet. Because the cooled or heated air doesn’t travel through ductwork, it stays the desired temperature. This means your mini split doesn’t have to work as hard to heat or cool a space, and that saves you energy and money.
Zones – If you live in a home that has a lot of square footage, a mini split might be the best choice for you. Instead of setting the entire first floor to one temperature, you can program each zone to an individual temperature. You might enjoy being a little warmer while working in your office, but at night prefer to sleep in a colder setting in your bedroom. The mini split allows you to do this without having to change the entire temperature of your home. Not only is this more comfortable, it also saves you money on your energy bill.
Size – Mini splits are generally more attractive to look at because they are smaller than a traditional HVAC unit. The outdoor portion can be easily hidden behind a small bush, or it can blend into your homes exterior. They also take up less space indoors because you don’t have to account for ductwork running above the ceiling or under the floors.
Maintenance – HVAC systems rely on ductwork to carry heated or cooled air throughout your home. Making sure that these ducts are clean and running efficiently is something that must be checked regularly. Because mini splits don’t have ducts, that is one less thing you have to worry about.
Ductless mini splits are something to think about if you are thinking about upgrading the heating and cooling system in your home. They are great in many situations – including new construction, remodeling, home additions, and in conjunction with an existing system (like hot water heat or radiant panels). Contact Weather Crafters today to discuss which options would be the best for your home.
For more information on ductless mini splits, check out https://www.hgtv.com/remodel/mechanical-systems/is-ductless-heating-and-cooling-right-for-you
