Is a Mini Split Right for You?

May 16, 2018

A mini split system, also known as a ductless HVAC system, is an efficient option for heating or cooling your home that is certain to provide consistent comfort in a given room. However, this type of HVAC option is not necessarily right for every homeowner.

Here is some information from an HVAC contractor in Tampa, FL about the pros and cons of a mini split and whether such a system could be right for your home.

The pros and cons of a mini split

Ductless HVAC system usually consist of wall-mounted units indoors and compressors outdoors. These systems tend to be used in circumstances in which you might use a window air conditioner unit or a baseboard heating system, often in new additions to houses or smaller, separated areas. However, unlike window units, mini splits only require you to drill a very small hole into the wall, which means you won’t need to worry quite as much about air leakage or security.

Mini splits are usually much more energy efficient options than standard forced air systems. These ductless models also have inverter-driven compressors, which will adjust their speed based on what the system needs rather than turning off entirely like a normal HVAC compressor. This cuts down on the energy that would otherwise be expended during compressor startup.

On the downside, there are several big disadvantages that come with using a mini split, the foremost being a larger upfront cost, a need for more regular maintenance and the units being generally more obtrusive than standard ductwork systems.

After spending the initial cost to have the unit installed, you’ll need to wash the filter in the unit at least once a month (likely more if you smoke or have pets). The design options in your home will also be greatly limited due to the bulky presence of the units.

When to consider a mini split for your home

So when does it make sense for you to consider a ductless HVAC system? Here are a few examples:

  • New additions: Any time you have a new addition to your home, it makes sense to go ductless so you don’t overload your existing HVAC system and so you can properly size the system for your space. Think new rooms, sunrooms, garage apartments or newly finished basements.
  • Downsizing: If you find yourself not using certain rooms in your home, especially if you are an empty nester, it can make financial sense to downsize and install ductless systems in specific rooms in your home.
  • Support problematic rooms: If you have certain rooms that tend to be harder to heat or cool than others, it might be sensible to add a ductless unit to support the work your existing HVAC system is already doing in that space.
  • No ductwork: If you want to add air conditioning to your house but it is so old that it doesn’t have any ductwork already in place, ductless is probably your best option. While there is an initial expense associated with installing mini splits, it is still significantly less expensive than retrofitting your house with brand new ductwork.

For more information about mini splits and when to use them, contact an HVAC contractor in Tampa, FL.

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Kenny's Air Conditioning & Heating Services, Inc.