Are you tired of your window-type HVAC systems’ poor energy efficiency and loud noises while running? Or perhaps you’re looking for a way to provide efficient heating or cooling to a new home? If so, you might want to think about upgrading to a ductless system, and in this article, we will tell you why.
Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning is your reliable HVAC company in New Hope MN. In partnership with Lennox Industries, we offer an array of home comfort systems designed with energy efficiency and comfort in mind.
Why Go Ductless?
The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that an average duct system leaks about 20 to 30 percent of its air. Also, older systems can allow up to 50 percent of heated or cooled air to escape through 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 mean spending a considerable amount of money. A ductless system can be a more practical alternative.
Understanding Ductless Systems
All AC systems use the same outdoor components to produce the cold refrigerant that cools the air inside a home. What makes a ductless system different is where that air is cooled and how it’s delivered.
Central air conditioning systems send refrigerant to a central air handler that then distributes cool air into the house through a network of ducts. On the other hand, ductless systems pump refrigerant to indoor units within individual rooms. Each unit operates like a small air handler, delivering conditioned air into its zone only when you need it.
Say Goodbye to Air Leaks
Since these HVAC systems use no ducts, air leaks are no longer your problem. Considering the amount of energy wasted in leaky air ducts, you can save a lot of resources with a ductless system.
Easy Installation
One of the downsides of central HVAC systems is complex installation. Since it involves laying ducts, it consumes a lot of time. You don’t have to wait that long a time with a ductless system. Because it doesn’t require ducts, It’s far less complicated and therefore faster to set up than a traditional central HVAC unit.
But we want to give you a word of caution in terms of installation. Some technicians incorporate a rule of thumb estimate, which often leads to oversizing. As a result, you would pay for more than you have to and suffer from humidity issues at home. A good installer will consider different factors, such as climate, your home’s insulation, and exposure to the sun before making any suggestions.
HVAC Zoning Capabilities
One of the key advantages of having a ductless system installed in your home is HVAC zoning. This feature 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.
The ENERGY STAR Factor
Certain ductless systems are ENERGY STAR® certified. These products are the same or better than standard products, only they use less energy. To earn the ENERGY STAR label, furnaces must meet strict energy efficiency criteria set by the US Environmental Protection Agency or the U.S. Department of Energy. Since they use less energy, these products save you money on your electricity bill and help protect the environment by causing fewer harmful emissions from power plants. And you get the features and quality you expect.
Ask the Ductless HVAC Specialists
For more information on ductless HVAC systems, call Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning. For over 40 years, we have been helping homeowners find ways to stay comfortable while saving energy at the same time. We are your friendly Brooklyn Center heating and air conditioning company.