How To Know If A Ductless Mini Split HVAC System Is Right For You
A ductless mini split installation is probably right for you when you plan to retrofit add-ons to existing systems that lack ductwork. For example, HVAC systems that use hot water, radiant heating vents, wood stoves, and gas or oil heaters can be easily expanded. It is also the ideal solution when you are expanding your residential or commercial space by adding rooms where installing extended ductwork is impossible or simply not practical.
The advantages of the Mini Split installation
This system is extremely flexible and allows you to heat or cool multiple zones independently. Each room or zone has its own thermostat to control the temperature. This translates into energy savings that lowers costs because you only need to comfortably heat or cool the spaces that are used.
Some systems can handle up to four separate zones that all plug into a single external unit. Ultimately, the number of areas that can be adequately serviced is determined by several factors, including how well the various areas are insulated and the desired final temperature level.
Ductless mini split systems are relatively simple to install. All that is needed to connect the indoor unit to the outdoor unit is a 3-inch opening in a wall to accommodate the duct. Manufacturers of these systems often have various lengths of connectors available. It is possible to place the outdoor unit at a distance of up to fifteen meters from the indoor evaporator. This lends itself to better aesthetics as the unsightly compressor can be hidden while providing temperature control to the front view of your residence or commercial building.
Because there are no ducts, you won’t be wasting your money on wasted energy. It is a fact that ducts are directly responsible for consuming more than 30% of the energy needed to heat or cool the interior spaces of any building. There is even more loss when the ducts sit in areas that are not insulated or heated. Most models come with the added convenience of remote control operation. Turn units on/off to suit your own comfort level from room to room as needed.
There are several design options when it comes to installing a mini split system. Hang indoor air handlers from the ceiling, hide them inside a drop ceiling, or mount them on a wall. It is even possible to install units that stand on the floor. They don’t take up much space. Most units are just over a half-foot thick and have covers that are modern and tech-savvy.
Although not normally highlighted as a benefit, let’s not overlook the safety factor. Outdoor air conditioners and those in your windows are attractive entry points for anyone trying to trespass. Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioning System deters intrusions by providing a hole in the wall of only 3″ or less.
The Disadvantages of Ductless Mini Split Installations
It may be more expensive to install a mini split HVAC system. However, it’s not really a disadvantage when you consider the decrease in energy use and the resulting decrease in operating expenses. It’s also important to consider any energy-saving rebates or incentives offered by unit manufacturers or your local power company.
This is not recommended as a DIY installation project. It is important to consult with a professional HVAC installer. Each unit must be of adequate capacity for the size of the room or area and must be placed in the proper location for optimal performance. Installing a unit that is too large or placing a unit in the wrong location can cause inefficient short cycling that wastes energy. Additionally, a mini split system that is too large for your needs will require a larger initial outlay and incur expensive ongoing usage costs.
Your ductless mini split system also needs a place to drain the condensation that will form around the outdoor unit. This is one of many important factors that is often overlooked by the non-professional installer. In fact, many professional contractors are not sufficiently familiar with the process of installing ductless mini splits.