There are several reasons why you should consider a mini-split AC as a cooling option.
- Add cooling and heating to rooms without ducts
- Incorporate temperature zoning for different people in the home
- Boost the efficiency of your existing HVAC system
- Add variable temperature control to the entire house
- Forego duct installation in renovations, new builds, or additions
Ductless mini splits use indoor units with coils and refrigerant to pull heat from the air. A heat pump transfers and dissipates the heat via the outdoor unit. The heat pump then moves the heat in the opposite direction for heating. This direct airflow is more efficient than systems using ducts. As air travels through ducts, it immediately begins changing temperature. This results in an energy loss of about 25%. Mini-split AC units cool well in all conditions and heat adequately in climates that don’t dip below 15 degrees Fahrenheit.
Homes with existing central air conditioning can also benefit from a ductless mini-split system. You can add climate zones as needed and reduce the load on the central system. These units are easily scalable to several rooms. The installation process typically only takes a few hours for one unit, as opposed to one or two days for a central AC system. Once technicians install the outdoor unit, adding more indoor equipment is relatively simple.
Maintenance is like central AC units. You should keep the indoor unit clean and replace the air filter every four to six weeks. Once a year, a trained technician should come to inspect the unit and perform a deep cleaning for best performance. The absence of ductwork means fewer places for dust, debris, and other particles to accumulate. Another benefit of having a mini split is its lifespan. A well-maintained ductless mini split can last about 20 years, whereas a central AC usually requires replacement every 10-15 years.
From time to time, repairs may be necessary. Regularly scheduled maintenance should prevent most issues typically caused by a buildup of dirt inside the equipment. Some common problems include poor airflow, refrigerant leaks, and loss of function due to electrical issues. A trained technician can easily fix these.