If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional air conditioning systems, then a ductless AC unit may be the upgrade for your home. But first, what is ductless air conditioning? Air Tech of Houston AC & Plumbing is here to answer all your AC-related questions!
What Are Ductless Mini-Split Systems?
As the name suggests, ductless AC, also known as mini-split, units operate without the need for ductwork. Because they do not connect to a duct system, each room that you would like to cool requires an installation. Essentially, you can think of these units as “by-the-room.”
Ductless systems utilize a conduit to link the outdoor compressor with the indoor air-handling unit. They perform similarly to an HVAC system, cooling your home by transferring the heat from inside your home to the outside air. However, without the use of ductwork, these models can provide cool air directly into the selected rooms instead of re-circulating throughout the entire house.
At Air Tech, we know how crucial reliable cooling is for Houston homeowners. Although we experience more than our fair share of hot, humid days, Texas weather can sometimes be unpredictable. For those random cold fronts that flow through, ductless mini-splits are also able to heat your home. By reversing its cooling process, they extract heat from the outside air and pump it back into your home.
How Are They Different From Central AC Units?
Energy Usage
With the absence of ductwork, mini-splits avoid the energy loss associated with duct systems. According to Energy.gov, duct-related losses account for more than 30% of energy consumption for space conditioning.
Ductless models also provide heating, eliminating the need for two separate air conditioning and heating systems — and the electricity it takes to power each. These two-in-one units utilize less energy when heating your home by transferring already available heat instead generating it like conventional heaters.
Cost
Ductless air conditioning also helps to cut down your monthly electricity bills by significantly reducing your energy usage throughout the year. However, it is more expensive to install than central AC.
In addition, your home will require multiple indoor air-handler units depending on the number of rooms you have or would like to power with a ductless system. Multiple installations can rack up to a hefty up-front cost.
Zoning Control
Although multiple mini-splits are more expensive to install, they provide more zoning capabilities than traditional units. Each room contains its own indoor air handler, allowing more efficient temperature control and versatility.
For example, one room can be set at 70 degrees while another at 76 degrees. This can be useful for family members with varying temperature needs or if your home has a room that tends to stay warmer than the rest of the house.
Maintenance
While ductless AC units cost more to install, conventional systems are more expensive to repair and maintain. Air ducts require routine cleaning as dust and debris can build up, causing disruptions to your airflow and reducing air quality.
Without the use of ducts, mini-splits require little to no maintenance and provide better air quality due to their direct airflow distribution.
How To Decide Which One Is Right For You?
The great thing is, you don’t have to choose! Ductless options are a perfect solution for any house add-ons that would be too expensive to connect with your home’s existing ductwork.
Other instances where ductless options would be especially ideal and cost-effective include:
- Homes that don’t have or can’t accommodate duct work
- Garages
- Attics
- Basements
- Guesthouses
Contact Us For Ductless AC Installation
At Air Tech Houston, we’re proud to support the heating and much-needed cooling needs of the greater Houston area. Our team wants to make it easy for you, so we offer various financing options to help you secure an installation today. Give us a call to learn more about your AC options!
