Ductless AC systems offer a modern approach to home cooling as they don't need ducts to distribute cool air. Instead, they use indoor units mounted on walls or ceilings to blow cold air directly into rooms. Furthermore, ductless ACs can heat and cool, making them versatile for year-round use.
We've also seen ductless mini-splits grow in popularity recently as they're great for cooling specific areas of homes or buildings. Many people use them to cool additions or spaces where installing ductwork would be tricky.
These systems are easy to install and very energy-efficient, making it easy to control temperatures in different zones separately. This means you can cool only rooms that are being used, resulting in lower energy bills.
Understanding Ductless AC Systems
Ductless AC systems offer a flexible and efficient way to cool and heat spaces without ductwork. These systems have unique components and come in different types to suit various needs.
Components and Operation
Ductless AC systems are comprised of an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The indoor unit sits on a wall or ceiling inside the room and blows out cool or warm air, while the outdoor unit is located externally and holds the compressor and condenser. Refrigerant lines, power cables, and drain lines connect these two units.
The system works by moving heat throughout the building. In summer, it takes heat from inside the property and moves it outside. And, in winter, it does the opposite, meaning the system can cool and heat to provide a dual solution.
Types of Ductless Systems
There are three main types of ductless systems:
- Wall-mounted: The most common option. The indoor unit hangs high on a wall and this setup works well in most rooms.
- Ceiling-mounted: The indoor unit attaches to the ceiling and this option is better for larger spaces.
- Floor-mounted: The indoor unit sits low on a wall, near the floor. This solution is recommended for rooms with sloped ceilings or lots of windows.
You can install one indoor unit for a single room or add more units for different zones in a home to control the temperature in each area separately.
Advantages of Ductless Air Conditioning
Ductless AC systems offer several key benefits including saving energy, occupying little space in homes, and having a sleek, modern look.
Energy Efficiency and SEER Rating
Ductless ACs are very energy efficient and have high SEER ratings, which measure how well they cool. Many ductless units have SEER ratings of 20 or higher, improving on traditional AC systems which often have ratings of 13-16.
Ductless systems can cut cooling costs by up to 30% and qualify for ENERGY STAR certification, meaning they meet strict efficiency standards.
Aesthetic and Space-Saving Benefits
Ductless AC units look sleek and take up little room as the indoor units are small, and can be mounted high on walls or ceilings to free up floor and window space. There's also no need for bulky ductwork, making ductless ACs great for older homes, additions, or rooms without ducts.
Ductless systems are quiet as the noisy parts are outside, so indoor units run almost silently. This creates a peaceful home environment. The outdoor unit is compact and discreet too, maintaining the visual appeal of your home’s exterior.
Installation is quick and easy and usually only needs a small hole in the wall for refrigerant lines. This causes less mess and disruption than installing ducts.
Installation and Maintenance
Ductless AC systems need proper setup and care to work well. Let's look at how to install and maintain these units.
Professional vs. DIY Installation
Professional installation is recommended for ductless AC systems as trained technicians have the know-how to correctly set up the outdoor unit, indoor units, and connecting lines and can handle electrical work safely.
Although a DIY installation can save money, it presents risks as, without the special tools and experience mistakes can happen, damaging the system or voiding warranties.
Installation costs vary based on system size and complexity. A basic single-zone setup might cost $3,000-$5,000 to install, while multi-zone systems cost more.
Maintaining Your Ductless AC
Ductless ACs need to be maintained. It’s recommended to clean or replace air filters monthly as this helps the system work better and uses less energy. Remember to wipe down indoor units with a damp cloth every few weeks and keep outdoor units clear of leaves and debris. Also, check for ice buildup in winter.
Have a professional check your system yearly. They'll clean coils, check refrigerant levels, and spot any issues to prevent costly breakdowns. Some maintenance tasks are simple DIY jobs but leave complex repairs to the experts. Proper care can help your ductless AC last 15-20 years or more.
Selecting the Right Ductless AC for Your Needs
Choosing a ductless AC system depends on your home's layout and cooling needs.
Single-Zone vs. Multi-Zone Systems
Single-zone systems cool one room with one indoor unit linked to an outdoor unit. They work well for add-ons like garages, sunrooms, or other smaller spaces.
On the other hand, multi-zone systems can cool several rooms and have multiple indoor units connected to one outdoor compressor. This setup is great for cooling different areas of a larger home. Multi-zone systems are very flexible, and you can set different temperatures in each room to save energy and cater to individual preferences.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a System
Sizing is important when picking a ductless AC as a unit that’s too small won't cool effectively, while a unit that’s too large will waste energy.
In addition to looking for units that have high SEER ratings think about extra features such as:
- Wi-Fi control
- Air purification
- Dehumidification
Brand choice is important too. LG and Gree make good ductless ACs and offer good warranties. Don't forget about your heating needs either as many ductless systems work as heat pumps too, warming your home in winter.
Get in touch to discuss the advantages of upgrading to a ductless AC system.
