How would you like a personalized comfort zone within your home—one where the temperature is customized to your preference and may be different than the temperature in the shared living areas or other rooms in the house? This flexibility and customization are precisely why mini-split systems, also known as ductless air-source heat pumps, are so popular.
These systems can also be energy-efficient.
Nuts and Bolts
Let’s unpack some mini-split basics first.
Similar to central heating and cooling systems, mini-split systems have two main components—an outdoor compressor and one or more indoor air-handling units. A narrow conduit links the indoor units to the outdoor compressor.
While central systems have an indoor unit connected by long lengths of ductwork, mini-splits are typically ductless. This means energy is not lost traveling through long stretches of tubing.
Installing the air-handling unit in a room enables you to control the temperature more precisely in that space—instead of the entire house or building—reducing energy consumption.
A Good Fit?
Mini-split systems are a popular option in home additions or to supplement heating and cooling in a space that may be far from the main living area, such as a finished attic or garage. In these instances, it may not be feasible to install or extend the duct-work required for central cooling and heating systems.
Mini-splits are also relatively easy to install, requiring only a small hole for the conduit connecting the indoor and outdoor units.
Most systems can handle up to four indoor rooms or zones connected to one outdoor unit. Each of the zones can be customized because each includes its own thermostat, saving energy and money over time.
Cool Solutions
Mini-splits bring additional benefits. They’re quiet and improve indoor air quality. Many come with remotes to make temperature control even easier, and because of their smaller size, mini-splits have many placement options for indoor and outdoor units.
One of the greatest benefits of mini-splits is that they typically have a higher seasonal energy efficiency ratio than traditional central systems. The higher the unit’s SEER rating, the more energy efficient it is.
Additional Considerations
One of the drawbacks, however, is that, mini-splits can require a sizable up-front investment—about $1,500–$2,000 per ton of cooling capacity to install. That’s about 30% more than central systems (not including ductwork) and may cost twice as much as window units of similar capacity.
But over time, these efficient systems can pay for themselves in energy savings.
While the technology is improving and evolving, those in particularly cold climates may need a fuel backup to run a mini-split system.
Aesthetics are another factor to consider, as some homeowners may not like the appearance of the intrusive indoor units, which are more visible than central AC vents.
If you’re considering an upgrade or additional heating and cooling equipment, talk to a qualified technician to learn if a ductless mini-split system might be the right choice for your home.
