In recent years, more and more homeowners have been switching to ductless HVAC systems. Because of their flexibility, ease of installation, and high efficiency levels, ductless systems are increasingly becoming a more popular choice to heat or cool homes.
If you are still using traditional forced air systems with ducts, you probably have experienced fluctuating temperatures and excessively high utility bills. If you want to get rid of these problems, consider getting a ductless HVAC system for your home.
Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning is a top-notch HVAC company in Plymouth MN that offers an array of energy-efficient ductless systems developed by Lennox Industries.
The Need for Going Ductless
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, an average duct system leaks about 20 to 30 percent of its air. In addition, older systems can ooze out up to 50 percent of heated or cooled air into the ceiling or attic space, causing major inconvenience and wasting a lot of energy.
According to ENERGY STAR, there are specific signs that tell your ducts are not working properly. These include:
- Humid rooms that never seem to feel comfortable
- High summer and winter utility bills
- Rooms that are difficult to heat and cool
- Tangled or kinked flexible ducts in your system
- Ducts that are located in an attic, crawlspace, or the garage
Such problems may require an evaluation of your entire HVAC system, or in extreme cases, a total system replacement. This could cost a considerable amount of money. A ductless system easily eliminates these problems.
What Makes a Ductless System Good?
A ductless system functions like a central heating or cooling system sans the ducts. Ductless systems, also called mini-splits, have two main components – an outdoor compressor or condenser and an indoor air-handling unit. They are connected by a conduit, which houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing, and a condensate drain.
Contrary to central air, ductless systems do not need ducts to move air. This is one of the reasons why they are the most comfortable, quietest, and energy-efficient way to create a comfortable living space.
Advantages of Using Ductless Systems
One of the key advantages of having a ductless system installed in your home is HVAC zoning. This allows certain rooms to have individual heating and cooling settings, depending on the occupants’ liking. Ductless systems utilize a separate thermostat for each room, making your home a more energy-efficient and highly economical abode. Compared to central HVAC systems, mini-splits consume 25 to 50 percent less energy.
Most ductless air conditioners and heat pumps have the ENERGY STAR® label, which may qualify for federal and state tax incentives as well as local utility rebates.
A traditional HVAC system consumes a considerable amount of energy to move the air throughout your home. On the other hand, because of the absence of ducts, mini-split systems deliver heated or cooled air directly into a room, which means there is no loss in efficiency.
Conventional systems usually take days to set up. Contrarily, mini-splits are very easy to install and can be ready in as little as one day. This also means you will be paying less for installation.
Who Should Think About Upgrading to a Ductless System?
Ductless systems are good retrofit add-ons to homes with anterior heating and cooling systems minus the ducts. They can also be a good choice for room additions where extending ductwork is impractical.
If you have exorbitant utility costs due to an inefficient central heating and cooling system, getting a ductless system for your home can be a viable solution.
Moreover, if you have seldom-used rooms such as a library or guest room, a ductless system gives you the ability to turn on heated or cooled air only when these rooms are occupied.
Need Help? Call Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning
Fuel costs are only going up but your comfort needs stay the same. If you’re looking for ways to establish a comfortable yet energy-efficient home, consider upgrading to a ductless HVAC system. Our friendly staff will answer any questions you may have and ensure you are presented with the most practical and reasonable options. We are your reliable Maple Grove heating and air conditioning company.