Mini-Split ACs: The Benefits
One key benefit of ductless mini-splits is that they are perfect for single rooms or additions and are highly efficient for localized climate control. Many homeowners install mini-splits in renovated spaces like basements or garages to avoid the costly and complex modifications needed to extend ductwork. They also save money by avoiding upgrading to a more extensive central system to keep the new space comfortable.
Mini-splits can also be cost-effective for older homes without existing ductwork or for new builds. These systems consist of an outdoor compressor that powers one or more indoor air handlers, each dedicated to heating or cooling a single room. With one compressor supporting up to eight air handlers, mini-splits offer a practical alternative to a central forced-air system.
Alternatively, mini-splits provide a non-intrusive solution for older homes where installing ductwork would be invasive or structurally challenging. By eliminating the need for ducts, homeowners can avoid the high costs and potential disruptions that duct installation might entail. This makes mini-splits a great option for preserving historic architecture or simply avoiding complex retrofits in homes where conventional systems are not feasible.
Mini-splits are straightforward to install. The placement of the outdoor compressor and indoor air handlers is flexible since the refrigerant line can extend up to 50 feet with many models. Given that the compressor is relatively bulky, this distance lets you position it discreetly, perhaps tucked away in your backyard.
On the other hand, the individual air handlers are sleek, compact units that complement any room’s aesthetic. Our technicians will mount them on the wall or ceiling. Installing them is minimally invasive because the refrigerant line only requires a three-inch hole in an exterior wall.
Another advantage of ductless mini-splits is that they solve several issues associated with traditional forced-air systems. Forced-air systems rely on ducts to distribute air throughout a home, but leaks in ductwork can lead to significant energy loss. The Department of Energy suggests the average homeowner loses 20 to 30% of their conditioned air through faulty ducts. Mini-splits bypass this issue entirely by delivering air directly to individual spaces, making them a more efficient option.