Ductless HVAC continues to grow in leaps and bounds around the world. While window air conditioners were once the only option for single-room cooling, ductless HVAC units are actually downsized heat pumps that can provide both cooling and heat to individual rooms.
Ductless units combine a compact outdoor unit about the size of a large suitcase that includes the system compressor with a low-profile, wall-mounted indoor air handler that incorporates a coil and fan to disperse cooling and heating. The two units are connected by a conduit that includes refrigerant lines and electrical connections and requires only a 3-inch hole in an exterior wall.
Here are some pros and cons of ductless HVAC systems for residential use.
- As the name implies, ductless units don’t need ductwork, so for a one room addition or garage this may be a great solution.
- The compressor in a ductless unit includes advanced inverter technology that allows compressor speed to increase and decrease according to cooling and heating requirements, reducing energy consumption significantly.
- When needing to cool and heat a small area such as a sunroom, bonus room, and even a garage, a ductless system may be the answer.
- A ductless system produces very little noise, which make them a superior alternative to a single window AC unit for a room which is very loud.
- Installation is comparatively fast, with minimum alterations required to your home.
Drawbacks of ductless are few but still meaningful:
- The cost of ductless cooling and heating is generally far less than the expense of extending new ductwork to connect to the existing central system. Your HVAC professional can provide guidance to educate you on the best option for your specific circumstance.
- While a ductless system must generally be installed by a crew of certified HVAC professionals, window units are easily installed and can often be done by do-it-yourselfers.
- Another factor is aesthetics. The ductless indoor air handler installed in the room may be visually conspicuous. These units are designed to blend in discreetly, but some people still feel they do not complement the decor.
- Ductless HVAC systems work well in moderate temperatures, but start to lose efficiency when temperatures get extremely cold or hot.
- A ductless system is not the best solution for an entire home heating and cooling system.
Thinking about a ductless HVAC unit to cool and heat limited spaces in your home? For a fully informed decision, contact the Jackson & Sons professionals.
