Are you in the market for a new HVAC system for your home or office? If so, then you may want to consider a ductless system.
These systems have been gaining in popularity in recent years. That’s mainly thanks to how energy efficient these systems are, and the fact that you don’t have to add ductwork in order to have them installed.
Despite their growing appeal, certain myths about ductless systems just seem to persist. Let’s bust the most common of these misunderstandings so that you can choose the best HVAC system for your residence or business.
Myth 1: Ductless Mini-Split Systems Are Only for Supplemental Temperature Control.
While it is true that a mini-split ductless unit can be the ideal solution for that new addition that you’re putting on your house, these systems can be just as efficient and effective when it comes to whole-house heating and cooling. An experienced technician can ensure that the ductless system that you choose is properly sized for your home and that it is correctly installed to maximize its efficiency and your comfort.
Myth 2: A New Ductless System Will Need More Maintenance Than A Central System.
The technology associated with mini-split ductless systems has improved in leaps and bounds over the last few years. As a result, most of the newer models don’t need any more professional maintenance than a central HVAC system. In fact, ductless systems are pretty accessible and user-friendly, making it possible for the homeowner to handle many of the routine maintenance themselves. Removing and cleaning the filters on the indoor air handlers on a monthly basis is the most common task, and it’s an easy one for anyone to complete. You’ll only need to call a technician for the same sorts of service calls that would be needed for a central HVAC unit.
Myth3: Ductless Mini-Splits Cannot Operate Through Ducts.
This is definitely a persistent misunderstanding. It actually is possible for your new ductless system to work together with any existing ductwork that may be in your home already. A ducted mini-split HVAC unit uses these ducts to deliver the necessary heating and cooling to your home while also having the advantages of custom zoning and inverter technology.
Myth No. 4: Indoor Air Handlers For Ductless Systems Can Be Installed Anywhere.
Expert, professional installation of both the outdoor compressor unit and the indoor air handling units is required with all ductless systems. This is because it’s essential for those indoor air handlers to be placed in just the right location. Location can affect the effective delivery of hot or cold air, and it can even make the air handler more or less efficient. Accordingly, the sensible thing to do is to rely on the advice of an experienced technician when it comes to deciding where each indoor air handler should be placed.
Myth 5: Ductless Mini-Split Systems Are Only Suitable For New Construction.
It is true that more and more builders of new construction homes and commercial buildings are choosing to add ductless mini-split systems to their designs. This is because ductless systems:
- Tend to be more energy efficient than central systems;
- Offer excellent customization features for adjusting the temperature in various rooms;
- Do not require the addition of a complicated system of ductwork; and
- Come with easy maintenance guidelines.
However, people who are remodeling a home or upgrading a current HVAC system can do just as well by going with a ductless system. If you want to upgrade from baseboard heaters and window air conditioners, then a ductless system can definitely be the way to go. You don’t have to worry about the hassle and expense of having ductwork added to your home to get a much more energy efficient option.
Likewise, if you live in an historic home but want a much better way to provide heating and cooling to your family, then a ductless system could be perfect for you. That’s because you don’t want the original character of your home to be spoiled by the addition of intrusive ductwork. With a ductless mini-split system, all that’s required is a three-inch hole in an outer wall to run conduit from the outdoor condenser unit to the indoor air handlers. This could be the best way to avoid causing major damage to your home’s historic woodwork.
Essentially, with the right contractor, a ductless mini-split HVAC system can be the perfect solution in almost any setting.
Myth 6: Mini-Split Ductless Systems Just Aren’t As Powerful As Central HVAC Systems.
Ductless mini-split systems come in all sizes and capacities. This means that it is possible to find a system that is perfectly sized for your purposes. Are you just wanting to keep things cooler in the master bedroom? Then maybe all you need is a smaller unit with just one indoor air handler.
On the other hand, if you are seeking a new HVAC system that can cool and heat every inch of your 2,000 square foot home, then you’re also making the right decision. However, you’re definitely going to need a much more powerful unit and several indoor air handlers.
Getting it just right can be complicated, which is why it is critical that you always work with an experienced technician who has installed dozens of similar systems in a wide variety of situations. Make sure that your technician performs a Manual J Calculation so that the system will have the appropriate capacity for your home. This will definitely put the project on the right track.
Myth 7: Those Indoor Air Handlers Are So Unattractive.
When you choose a ductless mini-split system, you will have several indoor air handler choices. The most common choice is the wall-mounted unit. Known for its affordability, this unit typically is installed on a wall close to the ceiling so that it can push air down into the room. When thoughtfully mounted, there’s no reason why this air handler has to call attention to itself.
Other people opt for a floor-mounted indoor air handler that pushes air up into the room. These are exceptionally easy to access when you want to clean the filter, and in some rooms, they are far less noticeable.
You also have the option of choosing a ceiling cassette that directs air flow in four directions at once. This can be the perfect solution in a large space or when you lack good wall space for mounting a different kind of air handler. Ask your technician about this option, as it does require significant clearance above the ceiling.
If your home has existing ductwork or you don’t mind adding a discrete amount of ductwork, then you might go the concealed route. This means that you will only see a grille, probably on the wall, of each room. Although it does mean more expense and a more invasive installation process, the finished look can definitely be worth a little extra.
Myth 8: Ductless Mini-Split Systems Are Too Noisy.
This myth is not heard as much these days, but people will sometimes bring up this objection if they were once introduced to the ductless systems of the 1970s. It is true that these old-style ductless systems were known for being annoying noisy. However, the technology has come a long way since then.
Today’s ductless systems are so quiet that they operate at a decibel level that is equivalent to the rustling of leaves. This is definitely not going to interrupt any conversations or even your favorite television show.
Talk to Delaware Heating And Air
Ductless technology can be the perfect solution in situations such as:
- New construction homes
- Historic homes
- Upgrading the HVAC system in an existing home
- Supplementing an existing system
Call Delaware Heating and Air today to learn more about ductless technology, its efficiency and how it could make your home more comfortable in all four seasons.
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