In large households, differences in temperature preferences can lead to frequent arguments over thermostat settings. Some residents run hot while others run cold. Throughout the day, most homes have multiple empty rooms as well. These things prove problematic with central heating and cooling. Central HVAC systems heat and cool homes uniformly by creating the same temperature in every room. To reduce energy waste and keep everyone happy, a ductless mini-split system is the best choice for climate control.
What Is a Mini-Split System?
Ductless mini-splits are similar to central heat pumps. They provide heating, cooling, air filtration, and limited humidity control. A mini-split has an outdoor condenser/compressor unit and indoor air handlers. But while a central heat pump has a single air handler that distributes air to all rooms, a mini-split has separate air handlers in each service area.
Each air handler has its own thermostat, and residents can control individual thermostats independently. If someone in your household wants heated or cooled air, they can turn their air handler on and set its thermostat accordingly. If someone does not, they can turn the air handler in their immediate area off or make the necessary thermostat adjustments. This level of flexibility saves energy while providing customized comfort throughout the building.
The Efficiency Benefits of Mini-Split Heating and Cooling
For many households, uniform temperature control isn’t necessary. With the ability to adjust thermostats in each area, you can avoid heating and cooling unoccupied spaces. In some households, this selective climate control can reduce heating and cooling-related energy use by 30% to 50%.
Unlike central HVAC systems, mini-splits don’t route conditioned air through long and complex networks of ducting. Instead, they distributed conditioned air right where it’s produced: from their air handlers. This eliminates duct-related energy waste. In central heating and cooling systems, air ducts can waste as much as 40% of an HVAC system’s heating and cooling energy, especially when uninsulated.
Mini-Splits Provide Many Other Impressive Benefits
Choosing a climate control system that lacks ductwork can also improve your indoor air quality (IAQ). Conditioned air can pick up dirt, dander, and other allergens and contaminants when passing through ducting. The air that comes directly from mini-split air handlers is often much cleaner.
Among the top benefits provided by mini-split systems is their remarkable flexibility. These systems don’t require any ducting, and they work well in older homes that lack HVAC air ducts. They also work well for supplementary heating and cooling in new building areas and remote, underserved spaces.
Experience Customized Climate Control With a Mini-Split
If you don’t have central heating and cooling because your home lacks ductwork, installing a mini-split is an excellent choice. These systems are far more efficient than baseboard heaters and window ACs, and they significantly enhance home values. A mini-split is also a worthwhile addition if you have an attic bedroom, basement, attached garage, or other area that isn’t serviced by existing HVAC. With the ability to support up to eight air handlers, a mini-split will provide efficient room-by-room climate control throughout the year. If you live in Tucson, AZ or a surrounding area and need ductless mini split services, make your first call to Pride of Tucson.