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Ducted HVAC systems have been the most popular type of system for heating and cooling for decades. While this delivers the treated air throughout your home effectively, there are definite drawbacks. Mainly the fact that ducted heating and cooling is by default less efficient. Research has shown that you can expect a 30% loss in energy efficiency just from the metal ducts just absorbing the temperature coming from your HVAC system.
Luckily, there is a way to heat and cool your home without using ducts at all. Engineers in Japan during the 70s and 80s invented a way to heat and cool your home without using ducts at all. This ductless HVAC system has become a favorite worldwide. We’ll answer some frequently asked questions, so you can have the info necessary to see if a ductless mini-split is best for you!
How Does It Work Without Ducts?
Ductless mini-splits are actually two different systems that work together in concert. One outdoor unit and one indoor unit are connected by a refrigerant line. This cools the air the same way as the typical air conditioner just without using ducts. The trade-off for this is that ductless units only cool one room at a time. However, one outdoor unit can supply multiple indoor ones to supply whole-home heating with added flexibility.
What are the Other Benefits?
Along with flexibility and efficiency, ductless mini-splits have a lot of other benefits. Let’s start with durability and sustainability. Ducts can have problems such as air leaks, but just comparing the machines of an air conditioner versus the mini-split, the mini-split will last longer. AC’s typically last about a decade, while your mini-split can last about twice as long.
Secondly, mini-splits are ideal for additions to your house or to add HVAC infrastructure to places where ducts don’t normally reach, such as your garage. This is made all the more appealing because these systems can both heat and cool a space.
If you’re interested in installing a ductless mini-splits to save money on your utility bills, contact Earnhardt Heating & Cooling, Inc. at (336) 814-2613 or fill out an online contact form!