The 411 On Ductless Cooling

For years, people thought that you needed ducts to have an HVAC system. Luckily, back in the 70s and 80s, inventors and engineers found a way to circumvent expensive and inefficient ducts with ductless systems. Since then, ductless mini-splits have become popular around the world and more refined as time goes on.

So, how does a ductless mini-split work? Sit back, relax, and we will explain everything you need to know about this cooling alternative so you can make an informed decision about your home climate control.

How Can Any HVAC Unit Function Without Ducts?

Rather than using a network of ducts, this cooling method includes a single delivery unit that will be installed on an interior wall. This delivery unit will be connected to an outdoor compressor, by a refrigerant line through your wall, to adjust your indoor temperature. The result is heated or cooled air, pumped directly into the room where your ductless mini-split is located.

Without ducts, you can actually increase your energy efficiency. It’s estimated that ducts absorb up to 30% of heating and cooling efficiency. Additionally, they are expensive to install and require frequent cleaning to maintain a healthy indoor air quality. However, ductless systems mitigate these maintenance needs and allow for equal cooling and heating function.

What are Some of the Other Benefits?

There are quite a few advantages to ductless mini-split heating and cooling; however, they all relate to increased flexibility. If you install ductless mini-splits throughout your home, you are essentially adding a multi-zone system to your space. This allows zoning capabilities, providing segmented temperature control in each room with a respective delivery unit. So, if you have the common temperature feud in your home, this system will allow different rooms to be set to different desired temperatures.

Additionally, because mini-splits don’t require additional infrastructure, you can add them to your home even if you already have a ducted system. This is ideal for any new construction additions or for adding AC to an exterior dwelling such as a garage.

For more information on ductless mini-splits or some of your other HVAC options, contact Ostrom Electrical Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning at (540) 685-4040“>(540) 685-4040. We are here for you during these challenging times and have implemented the CDC recommended precautions to ensure we provide safe and healthy services for both our technicians and our clients.