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An Introduction to Ductless Heating and Cooling Systems

Central heating and air conditioning hinges on the use of ductwork installed throughout your home to deliver heated and cooled air to each room. However, modern mini-split ductless heating and cooling systems no longer require the installation of ductwork to conveniently heat and cool many rooms at once. These systems offer you a lower-cost option than installing central heating and air conditioning in a home with no existing ducts, as well as a more convenient alternative to single-room heaters and window air conditioners.

How Ductless Systems Work

True to their name, ductless mini-split heating and cooling systems don’t need ductwork to deliver indoor comfort. Ductless mini-split systems are comprised of two units: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. Each unit is relatively small, offering a minimal physical footprint on your property. Ductless mini-split systems only require a small access port to the exterior of your home, typically a few inches in diameter. This hole is needed to house cabling and other connections between the indoor and outdoor units. Ductless systems are available as either an air conditioner or an air-source heat pump; while air conditioners only deliver cooling, heat pumps can be used for heating and cooling throughout the year.

Ductless System Considerations

Ductless heating and cooling systems offer you the convenience of central heating or air conditioning without the need to install ducts. Several indoor air handlers (typically up to five) can be installed in rooms throughout your home and connected to a single outdoor unit. Each indoor air handling unit can be operated independently, allowing you to save energy by only heating or cooling the rooms you are currently using. Because indoor units are needed in each room you want heated or cooled, you will need to have space to accommodate them—indoor units are typically installed on walls near the ceiling or floor and can be operated via remote control. Although ductless mini-split systems can cost up to 30% more than central HVAC appliances, it’s also important to consider that you will need to pay to install ducts in your home if you want to use central HVAC appliances without an existing duct system. The cost of duct system installation could bring the initial purchase price of your HVAC system well above that of a ductless mini-split option. Like any HVAC system, you’ll need to ensure your mini-split system is sized properly to accommodate your needs. However, a properly-sized ductless mini-split system can deliver high heating and cooling efficiency over window units, offering you up to 30% in energy savings over less efficient options.

Your Detroit heating and cooling specialist can help you determine the best type of HVAC system for your budget and your home. We invite you to visit our website to explore our full range of heating and cooling products and services, including furnace, air conditioner, and heat pump installation. Stop by our blog to find out even more about the latest heating and air conditioning industry information and news.