Considering the Pros and Cons of Ductless Heating Systems
Have you heard about ductless heating and cooling systems? They’re known for their exceptional efficiency, but are they as awesome as they seem? Discover the positives and negatives of ductless mini-splits to help you decide if going ductless is the right move for your residence in Calgary.
Understanding Ductless Mini-Splits?
If you’re {not sure what “ductless” and “mini-split” describe, you’re in good company. Ductless mini-splits are relative newcomers in the United Provinces, but have been extensively utilized overseas for many years. These systems have two key elements: an outdoor compressor and one or more interior air handling units that can be mounted to the wall or recessed into the ceiling.
Unlike traditional forced-air heating and cooling, which requires ductwork to move air throughout your home, ductless systems provide warm or cool air directly from the wall- or ceiling-mounted air handler. With a dedicated thermostat per indoor unit, you can achieve accurate temperature control between rooms.
Benefits of Ductless Climate Systems
Ductless mini-splits supply multiple attractive benefits. Here’s what makes these systems a great choice for a lot of Calgary homes.
Simple Setup
If you’re dreading a complicated installation, put your worries aside. Ductless systems require no complex ductwork or drainage systems. The internal air handlers are quick and easy to install on a wall or ceiling. Then, drilling a few tiny holes in the wall facilitates running cables and refrigerant lines between the indoor and outside units. This process is much easier than ripping out the ceiling to install ductwork.
So, while traditional systems could take a few days to install, a ductless system can be operational in within one day.
Energy-Efficient HVAC Option
Traditional cooling systems typically have seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings of 14 to 17. While this is commendable, many ductless systems have SEER ratings as high as 30. This means substantial savings every month for your household. Greater efficiency also means a more eco-friendly home, lowering your carbon footprint while saving you money.
Less Heat Loss
Ducted systems are known for losing as much as 25% of their heated air through ductwork leaks, holes and poor connections. This inefficiency wastes electricity or fuel—and your hard-earned cash. Ductless systems address this issue by delivering air right into each room. Because they don’t rely on ducts, you get 100% of the heating or cooling you’re paying for.
Control the Temperature in Each Room
If you’ve ever squabbled with family members over the thermostat temperature, you’ll appreciate the zoned heating and cooling provided by ductless systems. Every indoor unit can be controlled individually, letting you set distinct temperatures all through the house. So if you want to keep your bedroom cool and the baby’s nursery warm, a ductless mini-split empowers you with the flexibility to customize your comfort.
Quiet Operation
Nobody likes a loud HVAC system. Ductless mini-splits are engineered for near-silent operation. The fact is, the inside units are so quiet that you might forget they’re even working. That means you could talk, watch TV or sleep without being interrupted by a loud blower.
Small and Discreet
Space is a premium in lots of homes, especially older ones with minimal room for ductwork and HVAC systems. Ductless systems are the solution to this problem. Their small size and flexible placement options make them ideal. Mini-splits don’t need an expansive closet or attic space; a little area on your wall or ceiling will be enough.
Drawbacks of Ductless Heating and Cooling
It’s important to have a well-shaped perspective of any heating and cooling technology before adopting it. These are some reasons ductless systems aren’t ideal for everybody:
Easy to See
Compared with traditional air vents that can be blended into the decor, ductless systems have certain interior components that are hard to overlook. If aesthetics are a top concern for you, the visual impact might be a drawback.
Increased Purchase Price
The initial investment for a ductless system can be considerably more than that of a traditional home comfort system. Nevertheless, you can expect to recoup this cost over time through its increased efficiency.
Limited Heating Options
Even though they offer heating, ductless systems may not be ideal for colder climates. Their heating capability is limited and might need a backup heat source to maintain comfort.
Limited Coverage
Ductless systems are wonderful for specific heating and cooling in specific rooms or zones. Nevertheless, they may not be the most effective HVAC solution for bigger homes with many rooms spread over multiple stories.
Get Comfortable in Calgary with A1 Chesney Service Experts
When choosing the best heating and cooling choice in Calgary, rely on A1 Chesney Service Experts. Our certified technicians and installers offer fast, long-lasting solutions for all your comfort problems. We stand by our 100% satisfaction guarantee, so if you’re not entirely pleased with our services, the staff at A1 Chesney Service Experts will fix it.
To find out about peerless comfort from a ductless mini-split or another form of heating system, call 587-315-5271 today!