A ductless HVAC system or mini split is a heating and cooling system designed to deliver warm or cool air to a single room or several without the need for connective ductwork. Mini split systems are a great option for room additions, sunrooms, garages or areas of the home that need to be warmer or cooler.

How does a ductless HVAC system work?

Simply defined, ductless air conditioning systems (also known as mini-splits) link individual room units to an outdoor compressor. The indoor unit contains evaporator coils cooled with refrigerant. Warm air from the room blows over and is absorbed by the coils.

How long do ductless systems last?

When adequately maintained, it’s estimated that most mini split ductless air conditioners last for about 20 years. This is far beyond the 12 to 15 years that most conventional systems last, so it’s fairly safe to assume that your mini split system will last longer than most other options.

Do ductless air conditioners need a vent?

Ductless Mini Splits require no venting to the out of doors. Ductless air conditioners and heat pumps circulate indoor air only, and create no exhaust fumes or gases like fossil burning furnaces.

Is ductless air conditioning any good?

Ductless AC units are far more energy-efficient than a traditional HVAC system. The SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating system is used to measure energy efficiency. Generally speaking, ductless units have a higher SEER rating than other options.

Can you install ductless AC yourself?

Mini split systems are easy to install and are perfect for DIYers. You’ll save money by not hiring a contractor and you can complete the installation on your own timetable. Ductless mini split systems are easier to install than other air conditioning systems.

Do ductless AC units also heat?

Ductless systems, also known as ductless heat pumps or ductless mini-splits, are highly efficient heating and cooling systems. These safe, reliable units provide even heating and cooling at a fraction of the cost of traditional electric options.

Do mini splits stay on all the time?

A mini-split system uses less energy and keeps temperatures most consistent when it runs continuously, as in, 24/7. You also don’t need to turn the units on and off or adjust temperature settings when you’re away like you might with a central heating and cooling system controlled with a thermostat.

Do mini splits use a lot of electricity?

Ductless mini split systems are extremely efficient. Compared to conventional room air conditioners like window units and portable ACs, using a ductless mini split cooling system can cut energy costs by 30 percent.

Do mini splits use less electricity?

Because they transfer instead of generate heat, ENERGY STAR certified ductless mini-split heat pumps use 60% less energy than standard home electric resistance-based heating systems. Cutting cooling costs by 30% compared to conventional room air conditioners.

How many rooms can a ductless AC cool?

Both can be used to cool a single room without ductwork. But a mini-split can add more evaporator units (up to 4) to one condenser unit. So technically it can cool up to 4 rooms. Mini-splits are also much more energy efficient than window units and last longer, too.

How many square feet Can a ductless air conditioner cool?

A large ductless system with a BTU of 36,000 can effectively cool a room measuring up to 1,500 total square feet, while smaller units usually start at around 9,000 BTUs and can cool approximately 350 square feet of space (the size of approximately 2-3 bedrooms).

Can a ductless heat pump heat a whole house?

Even though it takes a powerful system – especially in a large home – a ductless mini split is up to the task. With the right size system in place, it’s capable of cooling an entire house, from the basement all the way up to the attic.

How many square feet does a ductless heat pump cover?

How are ductless mini-splits sized?

Do mini split systems heat well?

Mini-split systems are great for both heating and cooling your home. A mini-split system with a heat pump will ensure you and your loved ones are warm all winter long. With granular temperature control, you can set each room to your exact specifications to ensure you are always as cozy as possible.

How many ductless units do I need?

The fewest units you can buy for a multi-zone system is two, but some homeowners or business owners go with as many as five. To determine how many units you’d require for your multi-zone mini-split system, you’d have to count the rooms that need better heating or cooling. Each room is considered its own zone.

Are mini-splits noisy?

Mini-splits normally don’t generate much noise when they’re operating. But there are two situations where they could make sounds. Popping or clicking: This can be because of the plastic housing expanding or contracting while the system is on.

How big of a house can a mini split cool?

For 1,200 to 1,400 square feet of space, your mini split should generate 23,000 BTUs of heating/cooling. Once you exceed 1,500 square feet of space, the capacity rises to 24,000 BTUs and up.