Ductless, mini-split AC systems, or mini-splits as they’re often referred as, are rather versatile AC systems that can be effective for residential, commercial and institutional facilities throughout Chesapeake, VA. However, you’ll most commonly find them in multifamily homes, or as add-ons to homes without ducted heating systems.

Many people have discovered that mini-split AC systems work extremely well for room additions, as well as for apartments, where installing (or extending) ductwork just doesn’t make sense or isn’t possible.

The Two Main Components Of A Mini-split Ac System

Mini-splits are made up of two main components:

• An outdoor compressor or condenser
• An indoor air-handling unit

In addition, a conduit houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing, and a condensate drain, and links both of these units (outdoor and indoor units).

Why Would You Want To Use A Mini-split Ac System?

Most people who decide to use a mini-split AC system do so because of their small size and flexibility for zoning and cooling individual rooms. Each “zone” has its own thermostat, giving you the power to condition a specific room only when you want to. This, in turn, helps you to save a considerable amount of money on energy costs.

Many mini-split models feature up to as many as four indoor air handling units, meaning you can control up to four zones – or rooms – from one outdoor unit.

Another advantage of the mini-split AC system is that these systems are generally easier to install, versus other systems. For example, in order to connect the outdoor and indoor units, you generally only need to make a 3-inch hole through a wall. Manufacturers also offer a variety of lengths of connecting conduits, allowing you to place your outdoor unit as far as 50 feet away from your home, if you’d like.

Stop Losing Power Through Your Ducts

Ductwork and central forced air systems lose energy. In fact, Energy.gov states that duct losses account for more than 30% of energy consumption, particularly if your ductwork is located in an unconditioned space, such as an attic. Without that ductwork, more of the energy you’re paying for is actually doing its job of cooling your home.

Have More Control Over The “look”

There are other add-on systems available; however, few give you the flexibility in interior design options that the mini-split does. Indoor air handlers can be mounted into a drop ceiling, can be suspended from a ceiling, or can be hung on a wall. You can also purchase a floor-standing model as well.

ARE THERE ANY DISADVANTAGES TO A MINI-SPLIT AC SYSTEM?

While there are a large number of benefits to installing a mini-split AC system into your home, there are some drawbacks as well. Chief among them is the cost, Many mini-splits will cost about 30% more than central systems (not including ductwork), and often cost twice as much as window units that provide a similar capacity.

Another disadvantage is that you have to ensure that your installer knows what he’s doing, because oversized or incorrectly located air-handlers can result in what’s known as short-cycling. This wastes energy and will not adequately cool you home or offer humidity control.

Finding a qualified installer for mini-split AC systems in Chesapeake can be a challenge, but it’s absolutely imperative that you work with a heating and cooling expert who has experience with these systems. That’s why so many people throughout Chesapeake, VA, turn to Comfort First for their mini-split needs. Contact us today to learn more.