How To Choose a Ductless Cooling System

As technology and efficiency have improved over the years, ductless cooling and heating (also call mini-split systems) have increased in popularity. For homes without central heating and cooling or air ducts, and difficult to cool and heat rooms like attics, garages and additions, ductless systems can be a good option. When deciding which ductless system is right for your home, consider the following questions.

How Many Zones?

One of the advantages of ductless mini-split systems is the ability to control each zone separately. Depending on the model, you can have from 1 to 8 separate zones. Maybe you will have only one zone, say a 3-season porch. Or, you may have a zone for every room in your home. Having multiple zones controlled independently not only improves comfort in each room, but it can also save you a lot of money in lower utility bills.

Sizing Considerations

Choosing the right size unit for each room is critical to ensuring comfort and efficiency. The power of air conditioners is measured in BTUs. The higher the BTUs, the larger the volume of air an air conditioner will be able to effectively cool. Some product specs will list the size of a room it is designed to cool. Or, you can also do the calculations yourself based on the products BTU rating.
Generally, the square footage of a room translates into the following number of BTUs needed:

• 300 sq. ft. – 7,000 BTUs
• 350 sq. ft. –  8,000 BTUs
• 400 sq. ft. –  9,000 BTUs
• 450 sq. ft. –  10,000 BTUs
• 500 sq. ft. –  11,000 BTUs
• 550 sq. ft. –  12,000 BTUs
• 625 sq. ft. – 13,000 BTUs
• 700 sq. ft. – 14,000 BTUs
• 1,000 sq. ft. – 18,000 BTUs

Installation Location

One of the main advantages of ductless systems is the flexibility of installation locations. While a window air conditioner is stuck in the window, a ductless unit can be installed in the floor, the ceiling or on the wall. Wherever they are installed, most mini-split units are compact and unobtrusive. 

Other Features To Consider

• Remote control operation – Most ductless systems come with a wireless remote for controlling the unit. Some offer smartphone apps that let you monitor and control the system while you’re away from home.
• Timers
• Reusable filters

  Have questions about ductless cooling and heating for your home? Call Ostrom. We can help answer all your questions.