Parents seem to have a superpower sense about when someone changes the heating or air conditioning, even if it’s only by 1 degree or so. As a kid, it was annoying but as an adult, you understand why they were so picky about it when you see your own HVAC bill!
One of the reasons HVAC can be so expensive is because traditional systems, with ducts, make it impossible to cool or heat just one room at a time—you’re paying to cool or heat your entire home regardless of whether anyone is occupying the space. Your air can also leak through the ductwork, making your HVAC system work harder (and use more energy) than necessary.
Ductless HVAC systems are a great alternative to traditional ducted systems, especially if you want to save money on your energy bills. Here’s everything you need to know about ductless HVAC systems and HVAC repair, including how they work and the pros and cons of using one in your home.
How do Ductless HVAC Systems Work?
Ductless HVAC systems are also known as mini-splits or ductless splits because they consist of two main parts: an indoor air handling unit and an outdoor condenser unit. The units are connected by a small conduit that houses the electrical wiring, refrigerant tubing, and suction tubes.
The outdoor unit contains the compressor, condenser coil, and expansion valve. The indoor unit contains the evaporator coil, air filter, and blower. The refrigerant in the system absorbs heat from the indoor air and transfers it to the outdoor air. The compressor circulates the refrigerant through the system, and the expansion valve regulates the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator coil.
The blower then circulates the cooled or heated air through your home. You can control the temperature in each room by using a remote control to adjust the airflow and temperature.
Single-zone vs. Multi-zone
A single exterior unit can power up to 5 interior units. That means you can cool or heat 5 separate rooms (or zones) in your home. If you have a large home or areas that are difficult to heat or cool, a multi-zone system is a great option.
With a single-zone system, you can only control the temperature in one room at a time. Multi-zone systems are more expensive than single-zone systems, but they’re a good investment if you want to be able to control the temperature in multiple rooms.
Pros and Cons of Ductless HVAC Systems
There are many benefits to using a ductless HVAC system, including improved energy efficiency, better air quality, and increased comfort. However, there are also some potential drawbacks to using a ductless system.
Here are some of the pros and cons of ductless HVAC systems:
Pros:
1. The system is more energy-efficient than traditional ducted systems because they don’t rely on ductwork to deliver air.
2. Ductless systems are also more efficient because you can control the temperature in each individual room. This means you’re not wasting energy cooling or heating rooms that nobody is occupying.
3. They improve indoor air quality because they don’t recirculate dust and other particles that can be trapped in the ductwork.
4. Ductless systems are also quieter than traditional HVAC systems because the compressor is located outside.
5. They can be used in homes that don’t have ductwork, which makes them a great option for HVAC repair, older homes, and new construction.
6. The system does not produce carbon monoxide.
Cons:
1. Ductless HVAC systems can be more expensive upfront than traditional systems because they require two units (an indoor and outdoor unit). However, they may save you money in the long run with lower utility bills.
2. Installation can be more complex than traditional systems because the units need to be mounted on the wall or ceiling.
3. Since the unit is mounted on the wall or ceiling, it can throw off your design groove. But the units aren’t large and if you find a color that matches your wall, it can easily blend in.
4. Ductless HVAC systems may not be as effective in very large homes because the units are designed to cool or heat a specific area. If you have a very large home, you may need multiple units to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the house.
Don’t Worry About That 1 Degree with Bell Cow Service Company
Now that you know all there is to know about ductless HVAC systems, it’s time to decide if one is right for your home. If you’re not sure, don’t worry! The experts at Bell Cow Service Company are here to help. We’ll take a look at your home and help you decide if a ductless system is the best option. We’ll also give you a free estimate on installation and HVAC repair so you can make the best decision for your home and budget. Give us a call today!