If your home has a central air conditioner, you’re still probably familiar with ductless cooling systems. Perhaps a friend or relative owns one or maybe you’ve rented a place on Airbnb or been in a shop that had an air conditioner mounted on the wall.
This type of air conditioner is called a ductless mini split. It’s actually a 2-in-1 system that not only provides cooling, but can heat a home as well. If you’re considering AC installation and are curious about these systems, read on to learn the 5 benefits of ductless mini split systems.
As their name suggests – ductless heating and cooling systems do not require ductwork to move air throughout your home. Instead of ductwork, mini-split systems use indoor air handling units. These devices are installed on the walls of rooms, allowing each room to be controlled separately from one another.
Any room with an air handler on the wall can create its own temperature “zone”; each “zone” is fully capable of its own temperature control. When paired with a heat pump,homeowners can heat and cool any room in their home separately from the rest. One ductless unit can accommodate several indoor units.
Ductless System Costs: What to Expect]
The total cost of a ductless HVAC unit can vary widely, and several factors need to be considered. Through our research, the cost can range anywhere from under $3,000 to over $8,000 per ductless system.
While that is a rather extensive range of prices, many variables can affect the price. Here are a few factors that need to be considered when determining the cost of a ductless heating and cooling system.
Manufacturer
Much like any other household appliance you buy, the brand of the unit itself will be a significant factor in the overall price. We are proud to offer Amana and Bryant heat pumps and ductless systems, which are considered some of the most reputable HVAC products on the market.
Total Space
One of the most significant factors that can raise or lower the cost of a ductless system installed in your home is how much area you need to be covered and the square footage of your home. Installing a unit in just one room will be a vastly different cost than outfitting an entire house for heating and cooling. If you plan on using your ductless system for both heating and cooling, you will need an outdoor compressor/condenser in addition to the indoor unit in the rooms you want to be covered. This will add to the overall cost as well.
Energy Efficiency of the Unit
Many homeowners are switching to a ductless system for their energy-saving abilities. This does come with a cost. The higher the SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio), the more efficient the unit will be and the more expensive it will be.
Additional Fees
You also need to keep in mind any additional work the installation company may have to do. If you have an old HVAC system installed, it will take time and resources to have it completely removed from your home. While this typically will not be a significant charge, it can still affect the overall price and should be considered.
Key Advantages of Choosing a Ductless HVAC System
After seeing the various things that can affect the cost of a ductless mini-split system, you are probably wondering if you should make the switch. Ductless systems have a ton of benefits that homeowners love.
Some benefits of a ductless system include:
Lower monthly energy bills from increased efficiency
More eco-friendly
Heating and cooling in one system (when installed with a heat pump)
Easy and fast installation, when you work with the right team
Improved indoor air quality
Contact A-1 Mechanical Today to Learn More!
If you are ready to make the switch and upgrade your home’s heating and cooling with a ductless system, ensure you are working with a team you can trust! We provide quality repair and installation services for all indoor and outdoor units.
At A-1 Mechanical, we pride ourselves on our high level of service and customer service. As the area’s leading authority on ductless systems, there is no better company to work with. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What is a ductless heating and cooling system? Answer: A ductless heating and cooling system, also known as a mini-split, uses an outdoor compressor and one or more indoor units mounted on walls. It doesn’t require ductwork, and each indoor unit can control the temperature of its own zone independently.
Question: How much does a ductless system cost to install? Answer: The cost to install a ductless system typically ranges from around $3,000 to over $8,000 depending on the system size, number of zones, brand, and energy efficiency. Larger or more advanced systems can cost up to $12,000 or more.
Question: What factors influence the cost of a ductless system? Answer: Several factors impact the cost, including the brand, size of the area being conditioned, number of indoor units, energy efficiency ratings, and any special installation needs like equipment removal or electrical upgrades.
Question: Can a ductless system provide both heating and cooling? Answer: Yes, ductless systems can deliver both heating and cooling when combined with a heat pump. Each indoor unit can be adjusted independently, making them efficient for year-round climate control in different zones of the home.
Question: Why might energy efficiency affect the price? Answer: Systems with higher energy efficiency ratings usually cost more upfront but offer lower energy bills over time. Investing in a higher SEER-rated system can lead to long-term savings and improved performance, which raises the initial cost.
Ductless mini split HVAC systems are becoming more popular in homes throughout Grand Rapids thanks to their versatility, efficiency and other great benefits. However, many homeowners are still reluctant to consider this option for their homes because they’re simply not familiar with them. By answering some common ductless mini split questions, we hope it’s easier to see that this system type could be a great solution for your home.
How Does a Ductless Mini Split Work?
Most of us are used to central heating and cooling systems, which is why many people ask us how ductless mini splits work. A ductless system features two main components – indoor air handlers and an outdoor heat pump or air conditioner. Systems commonly feature multiple air handlers connected to an outdoor unit through a line set.
Ductless mini splits have dedicated air handlers installed in each area of the home, which create the ability for zoned comfort. Each one is controlled individually and independently. As such, efficiency can be improved by cutting waste, and comfort accounts for everyone’s preferences and the needs of a space without affecting temperatures across the home. Basements, garages or new home additions can use a single-zone mini split system if they want just that area to receive heating and air conditioning.
What Type of Homes Use Ductless Mini Splits?
Common questions about ductless mini split concern the versatility of the system. A ductless system is extremely versatile and can go where forced air systems often can’t due to space or cost considerations because of lacking ductwork.
Ductless systems are a great solution for scenarios such as:
Homes with no existing ductwork
Homes where there is not enough space to install a new duct system
Providing heating and cooling in a space not connected to the central air distribution system, like a recently finished attic or basement
In new additions where the cost of expanding the current central system to serve the area would be cost prohibitive
In areas of a home where supplemental heating and air conditioning is needed
In garages or outbuildings
How Efficient Are Ductless Systems?
Because there are no ducts involved with these systems, energy waste can be curbed as much as 30 percent compared to an average home with ducts. This is because most duct systems allow for significant heating and cooling loss through air leaks. Plus, the systems offer great energy efficiency ratings.
Is the Indoor Unit Big?
Interior aesthetics are important to homeowners, so questions about equipment are common. While there are a number of different interior air handler units, the units do have some size, but they’re not nearly as big as, say, a furnace sitting in your living room. Interior units come in a variety of finishes and are installed high on walls, so they can blend with your interiors. Some units are even set within the ceiling, so they really don’t detract from the look of the space at all.
How Much Do Ductless Systems Cost?
The cost of a ductless system depends on many things, such as how many indoor units need to be supported. The cost to install a ductless system across an entire home typically is far more than simply upgrading the central units if a home is already equipped with central HVAC. However, their efficiency cuts operating costs, generating savings over time.
A-1 Mechanical Answers Your Ductless Mini Split Questions
If you have more ductless mini split questions, our knowledgeable team is happy to provide you with answers. Let’s chat about our ductless heating and cooling options and if this system type may be right for your Grand Rapids area home – contact us today.
