Ductless AC System Basics

Since the late ‘60s, most homes in the U.S. have been fitted with central heating and air conditioning systems. They retain their popularity, with more than 80% of homes using central heat and/or air conditioning. However, the HVAC market has been changing a little in the last few years.

Almost 40 years ago, Japanese engineers used heat pump technology and developed compact air conditioning systems that do not require ductwork. The applications became very popular across Europe and Asia and are growing in popularity now in the U.S. Ductless AC systems rely upon heat pump technology but do not require a network of ducts to circulate conditioned air.

Heat pump systems are very efficient at heating and cooling–efficient until the temperature becomes extremely cold. However, heat pump technology is advancing, and low ambient mini-split systems can function at 100% efficiency to 0⁰ F. This makes mini-split systems a viable option for homes throughout the U.S.¹

How Do Ductless AC Systems Work?

Heat pumps use basic gas chemistry: compressing gas will raise the temperature of the gas and suddenly releasing the pressure results in rapid, dramatic cooling. While the gas is in a closed system of copper, air moving across the tubes collects the cold and releases its heat into the gas.

Central air conditioners and hybrid furnace systems use the same technology, but the cold/heat transfer takes place inside. A blower motor pushes the conditioned air throughout the house via ducts. Strategically placed return ducts bring the air back to the central unit to completely circulate the air.

Mini-split systems complete the cold/heat transfer in small, wall air handler units, one installed in each room. A small blower motor moves the air across the tubes and circulates the conditioned air within the room. One outdoor condenser unit services as many as six-room units; they are connected by copper tubes that move the refrigerant gas as needed.

Advantages of Ductless AC Systems

• Energy Efficiency Ductless AC. Both mini-split and central systems employ a heat pump system; they are recognized as a very energy-efficient method of heating and cooling. However, instead of a large blower motor pushing air throughout the entire house, mini-split systems use smaller, room-sized units. According to ENERGY STAR, this arrangement saves as much as 30% of cooling costs.
• No Ducts Needed.
  • Mini-split systems are ideal for older homes without existing ductwork. The demolition/construction required to retrofit ducts is expensive and very disruptive.
  • Mini-split systems are good options for room additions. The added space might overwhelm an existing central HVAC system.
  • Mini-split systems also add assistance for hard-to-reach or problem areas; a sunroom or an upstairs space might need some extra help with heating or cooling.
  • With no floor vents, mini splits offer greater freedom for furniture and accessory placement.
• Individual Room Control. Since each room has a dedicated air handler, it is possible to customize comfort for each room. The air handler is controlled with a remote-control style thermostat, allowing each room to be set to a different temperature according to preference.

Zoned temperature control distributes conditioned air to the desired spaces so evenly, it conserves energy compared to central HVAC systems.

• Improved Indoor Air Quality. With central HVAC systems, a single air filter removes airborne dust and allergens from the whole house. With mini-split systems, each room has an air filter for the air circulating within the room.

Questions About Ductless AC Systems?

Our four decades of experience as an Air Conditioning contractor, AirPro Houston provides you with the skill and expertise to you with Ductless AC questions.

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 HVAC repair and installation needs.

¹ https://www.ecomfort.com/stories/1341-Keeping-Your-Mini-Split-Working-Through-the-Winter.html