Ductless mini splits have long been popular in other parts of the world, but they were slower to catch on in the United States. Today, however, they’re increasingly becoming the first choice for homeowners. What’s behind this rise in the adoption of ductless mini splits over more traditional central air and heating?
Heating and Cooling in One Unit
It’s possible to purchase a heat pump that both heats and cools your home via ducts. However, it’s more common for homeowners to have separate heating and cooling units if they have a duct system. Virtually all ductless mini splits installed today work as both heating and cooling systems. This versatility is attractive to many people. It’s one less appliance to worry about and saves on space.
Ease of Installation
If you don’t have it already, you’ll need to have ductwork installed throughout your home if you’re getting central air and heat for the first time. This can take a few days and is often a messy, disruptive process.
It can also be expensive. For ductless mini splits, installation is simply a matter of mounting each indoor unit and drilling a small hole in the wall to run cables to the outdoor unit. While one of the drawbacks of ductless mini splits can be the upfront expense, installation costs for conventional central HVAC are often comparable if it also involves adding ductwork.
Good for Additions and Conversions
That easy installation also makes ductless mini splits a great candidate for a heating and cooling system if you’re converting your basement, attic or garage. This is true if you’re building an addition onto your home as well. Even if your home has ductwork, you’d need to add more to heat and cool your conversion or addition. Ductless mini splits eliminate this need.
Energy Efficient
While it’s true that ductless mini splits can cost more up front, they’re generally more efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems. Whether your primary concern is the environment or your power bills, you’ll appreciate the increased comfort and lower costs that ductless mini splits provide.
The Comfort of Zoned Cooling and Heating
This is perhaps the most attractive aspect of ductless mini splits. Most households have parts of the house that tend to be warmer or cooler than others or occupants who prefer different temperatures. Ductless mini splits allow you to set different temperatures for each room or “zone.” Each indoor unit covers a certain area and has its own thermostat. This can be especially helpful in households where people prefer different temperatures for sleeping.
Ductless mini splits have been slow to catch on in the American market compared to other parts of the world. However, as their advantages become more widely understood, energy costs rise, and there is growing concern about the environment, they’re increasingly adopted as the HVAC system of choice. If you live in Washington, DC or a surrounding area and need ductless mini split services, make your first call to FH Furr.
