Ductless HVAC vs Ducted AC

Whenever homeowners prepare for the replacement of an air conditioning system, they may encounter information concerning a new and unfamiliar option. Most homes in the U.S. have ducted central air conditioners. But the applications in which ductless mini-split air conditioners are expanding, including into spaces that are typically reserved for traditional central air systems. If you are unfamiliar with ductless HVAC systems, read on for a simple comparison of the two systems.

Similarities

Both ducted and ductless systems use the same basic cooling technology. The refrigerant gas is compressed to about 440 pounds per square inch (psi), which heats the gas to around 200⁰ F. The pressure of the gas inside the coolant lines is then released to about 118 psi in an appropriate cooling chamber. The drop in pressure results in a drop in gas temperature to about 40⁰ F. Inside air is passed over the cold coolant lines, removing humidity and quickly cooling the air moving into the house. For reference, this is like taking air from your refrigerator and distributing it around the house. ¹

Both types of systems have two major components, one inside and one outside. The outdoor component is the compressor and condenser unit, generally a boxy-looking cube or cylinder with a big fan inside. The indoor component is called the evaporator chamber, and this is where the two systems become very different.

Differences

A traditional ducted central air conditioner system will have a substantial cabinet, often in a closet, garage, or basement. The central portion of the cabinet contains the evaporator coils, where the heat and cold are exchanged. Significant humidity condenses in this chamber and the stream of water is carried away by a drain tube. A large blower motor circulates the entire volume of your home every couple of minutes, so usually, you hear the fan during the cooling cycle. The air moves through a network of ducts to every space in the house—hence the term “ducted.”

A Ductless HVAC system does not have a large, central evaporator chamber, but a much smaller chamber installed in each room. The same process happens but at a fraction of the scale of a ducted system. The fans are much smaller and are very quiet in comparison; it only needs to circulate air in a single room to accomplish the same task as the larger blower fan.

Applicational Advantages of Ductless HVAC

Which system is better? It depends upon the application. Both systems are energy efficient and will serve your home well. Here are some considerations to determine which system is right for your application.

• Replacement options. If your home was constructed with a duct network in place, changing to a ductless system could be complicated. However, an older home without central air conditioning would be a good application, as would a remodel that stretches your current system beyond its capabilities.
• Consult with an HVAC professional to help determine which option bests suits the size and configuration of your home. If your home has a second story of your home that is inadequately cooled by your present system, a ductless system could augment your present ducted system.
• Ductless mini-split systems have a decided advantage over ducted systems when it comes to how much noise each generates. If your application would benefit from less background noise, a ductless system might add value to your home.
• Perhaps every room in your home does not need the same measure of cooling at all times. Each space will have an individual thermostat to demand air conditioning on an “as needed” basis. Zones within the house can be customized for the comfort level of each family member.
• The same components that produce cold air in the summer also produce heat in the winter. Most ducted systems have an auxiliary system for heating. Ductless HVAC systems perform poorly when the temperature drops below 34 degrees and do not have an auxiliary heating backup system.

Have questions about Ductless HVAC?

With our four decades of experience as an AC Repair and Ductless HVAC contractor, AirPro Houston provides you with the skill and expertise to assist with the steps to answer questions about Ductless HVAC.

We have several financing options available with great options with up to 72-month terms with approved credit. Call us today at  281-880-8805 and let us partner with you for all of your Furnace Repair, Tune Up maintenance, and AC Replacement needs.