Ductless, Mini-Split AC Systems: Faqs And Their Answers


If you have a home that lacks ducts but want to install air conditioning, one of your best bets is going to be a ductless mini-split air conditioning system. This type of system has an outdoor compressor and a big box that mounts on your wall to blow the cold air into your home. Ductless mini splits are becoming quite common, but they're still a bit of a mystery to most homeowners. Here's a look at some questions you may have about this type of system.

How hard is a ductless system to install?

You will need to have the system installed by a licensed HVAC contractor. However, the installation is not extremely time-consuming, especially in comparison to the process for adding new ducts to your home for a standard AC system. In most cases, your HVAC contractor will be able to complete the installation within a day. They will need to make one hole in your wall for the air handling unit.

How do you control the AC system?

Usually, the thermostat and controls will be located directly on the air handling unit. Some systems to integrate with a separate thermostat, which your HVAC contractor can place on the wall and connect to your air handler either with wires or wirelessly. There are also systems that come with remote controls, and the most innovative systems come with smartphone apps so you can turn the AC on and off remotely.

How much do ductless mini-split systems cost?

The average homeowner pays about $1,900 for one of these systems, which includes installation. Your costs may be a bit higher if your home has an outdated electrical system and your contractor needs to update your breaker box to accommodate the new air conditioner. Since ductless AC units are often seen as an eco-friendly choice, you may also be eligible for certain tax deductions when you purchase one. Your HVAC contractor should be able to tell you about any credits or deductions available in your area and point you in the direction of systems that qualify.

Will the unit keep your whole home cool?

These systems can keep a pretty large space cool. A 36,000 BTU system will cool a home up to 1,600 square feet! If your home is on two floors or has an intricate floor plan that leads to a lot of air pockets where air does not flow well, your HVAC contractor may recommend installing several air handling units rather than just the one. These can still be connected to the same outdoor compressor.

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About Me

cool and hot areas of the home

I live in an older home that we are working to renovate. There are three areas of the house that just don't seem to get cool in the summer or get warm in the winter. I have done all that I can to try to keep these areas comfortable, but I wasn't able to do much until I hired an HVAC technician to come out and figure out why those areas were so uncomfortable. This blog will show you what can be causing areas of your home to be less comfortable than other areas when it comes to temperature during both winter and summer.