For some people, when they hear “ductless split systems”, they are thinking of something along the lines of multiple window air conditioner units. However, a ductless split system is exactly what the name implies, a decentralized air conditioning system that does not use ducts. These systems still make use of an outdoor condenser unit. But, instead of a central air handler and ductwork, and ductless split system employs various wall-mounted blowers.

There are several reasons for choosing a ductless split system. The first is that some older homes are just not well designed for installing the extensive ductwork required by traditional air conditioners. Additionally, many homes suffer from “hot spots” in which some rooms never become comfortable no matter how much you mess with the thermostat. Finally, some homeowners will choose a ductless split system because they want an air conditioner that is more energy-efficient or environmentally friendly.

Essentially, there are two configurations of a ductless split system: the mini-slip and the multi-split. With the mini-split system, a single air handler is mounted and then connected to an outdoor compressor. On the other hand, a multi-split will have up to 4 zones, each with its own air handler. However, in both instances, electrical wiring and a refrigerant line are fished through the wall. It almost every other way, a ductless split system works like a traditional air conditioner.

Regardless, there are several big advantages that a ductless split system has over a traditional air conditioner. Likely, the benefit that the majority of customers like the most is the flexibility. You can save energy and money by choosing which areas of your home to cool and which to keep warmer. The second big advantage is the installation. Depending on your needs, a traditional can take several weeks to install, but a ductless split system can take as little as one day. There is also the energy-efficiency. There are two reasons for this. Firstly, with many ducted systems, there is cooling energy loss as air moves through the ductwork. But, overall, ductless split systems simply use less energy to run compared to a traditional AC.

Do you have questions? What haven’t we covered yet that is important to you? If you would like to talk about how ductless split systems work, or a related topic, please contact us.