If you have a large house, then it’s most likely that several areas would go unoccupied in different periods of the day. For example:
With this, it’s pretty clear that using central or forced air systems can waste a lot of energy, especially if you continue distributing heated or cooled air in rooms that aren’t in use.
So, if you’re concerned with the energy usage that accompanies central air systems, you may want to consider shifting to a ductless mini-split heat pump. It’s more efficient and designed for this kind of situation.
However, homeowners who have considered this type of HVAC system always have one common question: ‘How many mini splits do I need?”.
In this article, we’re going to answer exactly that and discuss it in detail.
There’s no denying that ductless mini-split systems are getting more popular in the U.S. nowadays.
But why is it even called a “mini-split” system?
The name “mini-split” comes from the fact that the main component of this system is divided into two: an outdoor and indoor unit. A conduit binds the two together, allowing the refrigerant to travel from one unit to the other.
With this system, there isn’t a need for you to install large air ducts throughout your home. The best part about this is that you can install several systems into different zones in your home, but you can independently control the temperatures of each zone.
One outdoor condensing unit of a ductless system can support up to eight indoor air handlers. This means that you can install an indoor air handler for every room (up to 8).
If there are four rooms in your home, then you can install four air handlers for each. If you have eight rooms, then you can install all eight air handlers. And if you’re running a building, then you can install one air handler per floor.
Each system even comes with its own temperature control, so occupants of each zone can change the temperature settings however they like. One zone can be set as cold as possible, while the other zone can be set at a higher temperature, so it’s warmer.
This also prevents any fighting between family members as to what temperature a certain room should be set.
Depending on your home or how many rooms you have, the number of zones your house would need differ for each. So, it would be best to consult with a professional HVAC contractor to know how many zones you should need. They are also the best people who can match the system to your home’s heating and cooling needs.
Another great thing about ductless HVAC systems is that you can add more zones at a later date when necessary. So, you don’t need to purchase all indoor air handlers at once, minimizing the cost you’d have to spend.
Now, let’s discuss the advantages you’d get if you have a ductless mini-split system installed.
The first great advantage of having a ductless mini-split system is that you don’t have to install HVAC ducts.
If you have an old building constructed before modern heating and cooling systems are invented, installing HVAC ducts can be quite a hassle. It’s expensive, difficult, and time-consuming to do.
However, with ductless mini-split systems, the conduit would only require a small hole to pass through. The biggest size an HVAC contractor would have to cut is around three inches to fit the power cables, the refrigerant line, the suction tubing, and the drain line.
This makes ductless installation faster and easier to do. On top of that, the structural integrity of your home is never compromised when you install ductless systems.
Another advantage you can get is that no energy is wasted from duct leakage.
When you use HVAC units with ducts, they could develop holes and cracks over the years. When this happens, conditioned air leaks through the holes, making up a big percentage of wasted energy.
According to Energy Star, around 30% of air leaks through ducts. Because of this, HVAC systems would need to work longer and harder to compensate for the loss, causing them to consume more energy.
To prevent this from happening, you need to get your systems checked by professionals to find these leaks and seal them up, which is another added expense to compensate for.
However, if you get a ductless system, you wouldn’t have to worry about this at all.
Another advantage we would all love is that ductless systems offer improved indoor air quality.
As mentioned above, air conditioners with ducts produce holes and cracks over time. And aside from the fact that it leaks conditioned air, these holes and cracks can also lead to poor indoor quality.
When the ducts have holes, dust and other debris can enter through these small openings and into your system. These impurities will then mix with the conditioned air and will circulate your home when you’re using a central air system.
This is bad, especially for people suffering from allergies. The worst part is, other people might even develop respiratory issues.
With ductless systems, you won’t have these issues, making the filters more effective. Indoor air quality won’t also be compromised, and everyone in your family will be able to breathe better.
Window HVAC units tend to generate more noise because of the compressor. This is the component that faces outdoors and, unfortunately, produces a loud noise. The problem here is that this part is directly attached to the unit, so you can definitely hear the sound inside of your home.
What’s great about ductless systems is that the compressor is separate from the air handler. This means people inside the house would not hear it. This will give you better quality sleep at night.
You don’t even have to worry about setting the fans high because the sounds will continue to be inaudible.
Another factor that could influence this is that the compressor on ductless units tends to sound less noisy than the standard ones.
Another advantage, which we think is very obvious now, is that ductless systems are very efficient.
As mentioned above, a ductless mini-split system does not suffer from air leakage, allowing it to operate more efficiently than central air systems. This is because there is a lot less energy consumption while still providing the same level of comfort.
Another factor that influences the system’s efficiency is that you can control the temperature settings in each zone independently. So, if there are any unoccupied rooms, you can turn off the air handler.
When the rooms that need heating or cooling are active, you’ll be using less energy. And this is not only good for the environment but your wallet, too.
Last but not least, you can lower your monthly energy bills, all because your ductless unit consumes less.
Yes, switching to a ductless system may be costly initially, but the reduced operational cost will surely make up for it over the years. The more you think about it, it’s truly a smart investment.
Given the high energy charges nowadays, it’s really best to consider the total cost of ownership rather than just focusing on the overall ductless equipment price.
Ductless mini-split systems are undeniably versatile.
With all these benefits of ductless systems, along with the fact that ductless systems also reduce energy consumption, lower your bills, improve air quality, offers quiet operation, and can be installed easily, it’s easy to say that this system is a great option.
Tower Energy offers superior heating and cooling services in Hartford County, Connecticut.
Our team of certified technicians can provide you with excellent HVAC services, including tune-ups, repairs, installations, replacements, and more. Each technician has outstanding knowledge and experience to serve your HVAC system needs correctly, the forst time around.
Tower Energy guarantees to provide the most competitive heating and cooling service costs in the area. Our maintenance services ensure to improve your comfort, increase your system’s energy efficiency, and reduce your home’s heating and cooling costs.
Need your system repaired or replaced? We’ll recommend the best one for your home that fits within your budget. The best part is, all our work is backed with a guarantee to ensure your satisfaction.
If you wish to schedule a service appointment, give us a call today! We also offer in-home estimates at no cost at all.
Contact us now or call us at (860) 677-7347 to find out more.
