
The Pros and Cons of Ductless Heating and Cooling Systems
Window air conditioners, space heaters, and baseboard heating systems were once popular for smaller spaces. Nowadays, ductless heating and cooling systems have become a more popular alternative to traditional air conditioners. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of what a ductless HVAC system is and its pros and cons.
What Are Ductless Heating and Cooling Systems?
Also called ductless mini-split (or mini-split) systems, ductless units split the parts of the HVAC system between indoor air handlers and an outdoor condenser/compressor. Each air handler each serves a single room. There are no ducts; the air handler units are each connected directly to the outdoor condenser. They are typically mounted high on a wall, sometimes on the ceiling, but sometimes installed low to the floor.
Each air handler is controlled by a separate thermostat or remote control. This enables improved temperature/humidity control for each room; some may be warm and others can be set to cooler temperatures. Some units can be installed on outside walls to reduce the length of refrigerant lines.
Advantages of Ductless Heating and Cooling
A ductless mini split air conditioner is best suited for homes heated by hot water or electricity. In addition to overall cost savings and flexible control over individual room temperature, other advantages include:
Disadvantages of Ductless Heating and Cooling
Despite its benefits, a ductless heating and cooling system does have disadvantages. For one, it is many times the cost of a window A/C or supplemental baseboard heater. The cost-effectiveness of the system depends on local climate and electricity rates. Here are some other disadvantages:
Contact Cardinal Plumbing
Are you seeking an alternative to traditional air conditioning or central heat? Cardinal Plumbing serves the needs of home and business owners in Northern Virginia. We’re ready to assist with your air, heating, and plumbing needs during the coronavirus pandemic. Keeping our employees and customers safe by practicing social distancing, using hand sanitizer, and disinfecting our equipment, we can send a technician to determine if a ductless HVAC system is right for you. Call us at 703-721-8888 to schedule a visit by a qualified HVAC contractor today.