Ductless Systems
Why Consider Ductless Systems?
Ductless HVAC systems (or mini-split systems) are beautifully efficient and provide consistent room comfort. But the decision to install is different for every homeowner.
A ductless heat pump or air conditioner typically consists of a wall-mounted indoor unit combined with an outside compressor. It’s most often used in a situation where a window AC unit or baseboard heating would be considered, such as a new addition to a house. But unlike window units, ductless units require only a very small hole to be drilled into the wall, making them less vulnerable to air leakage and security problems. Plus, they’re less visible and audible.
They’re also exceedingly energy-efficient. “In the average house, you’re losing 25 percent or more of your energy to ductwork,” says James Bowman, National Technical Manager for RectorSeal and a 20+ year veteran of the HVAC industry. “Simply by removing the ducts, you end up with a more efficient system. Ductless models also have inverter-driven compressors, which speed up and slow down based on the needs of the system instead of shutting off entirely like traditional HVAC compressors do. You consume a lot of energy during compressor start-up.”
What's the Ideal Situation for Ductless Systems?
Depending on your home’s construction, ductless systems can make sense in a variety of applications, including whole-house heating and cooling. But there are certain situations where ductless has a clear advantage:
• New additions.
The main benefit of ductless here is that it will be properly sized for the new space and won’t steal air from other rooms or overload your old HVAC system.
• Downsizing efforts for larger homes.
Many retirees, for example, don’t want to heat and cool rooms they aren’t using, but they often shut HVAC grilles in empty rooms, creating pressure imbalances and mold problems. It’s far better to install a ductless system in, say, the master bedroom and set the house’s main thermostat to run minimally.
• Serving multiple needs under one roof.
Does your family constantly fight over the thermostat? Ductless is ideal for creating independent temperature zones in different rooms, and although you can install zoning in a traditional ducted system, it won’t be as efficient.
• Giving support to a room with specific heating/cooling problems.
If you have a small kitchen with a giant stove, a southwest view and big picture windows, a ductless unit can make your Fourth of July party far less sweaty without having to install new ductwork.
• Adding AC to a house with no existing ductwork.
Ductless isn’t cheap, but it’s less expensive than adding ductwork to an existing house.
Ozone is here to offer assistance with Ductless Systems in the Greater Orlando area, FL.