Ductless mini-split systems are popular in the United States and easy to install. However, you also need to install one in each room, which can be considered an advantage or disadvantage, depending on how you look at it. This is one example of how the pros and cons can be a bit of a gray area. Nonetheless, we go over some of the common benefits and drawbacks below.

Benefit: Ease of Installation

Installing a mini-split system is easier since there is no ductwork to install. A small hole is needed to connect piping between the outdoor and indoor units. Installing ductwork for a ducted system is more complicated.

Benefit: Energy Efficiency

Mini-split systems have up to a 28.5 SEER2 cooling rating and up to an 18 HSPF2 heating rating. Warm or cool air from a mini-split air handler enters the room directly, eliminating the energy loss common with ducted systems.

Benefit: Zoning Control

Because each room has its air handler, a ductless mini-split system is a zoned system. You can heat and cool each space as preferred, with no need to worry about rooms being too cold or too hot, as may be the case with a ducted system.

Benefit: Low Noise

Mini-split systems also eliminate a source of noise. Air flowing through ductwork can create noise, or the ductwork may vibrate. Air handlers often have variable-speed fans that operate quietly at low speeds.

Drawback: May Not Be Suitable for Larger Areas

With ductless systems, larger rooms may require more than one indoor unit to provide sufficient comfort throughout the space. Ducted systems can provide comfort in larger spaces more easily because of the vents and ducts.

Drawback: Aesthetics

Ductless systems require a wall unit in each room instead of a floor or ceiling. Some homeowners find this to be a problem. It can disrupt aesthetics or detract from other focal points in a room. Plus, it’s not possible to install mini-split systems in rooms with no outside-facing walls.

Drawback: No Fresh Air

Ducted systems bring fresh air into each room because they circulate air throughout your home. Mini-split systems do not circulate air throughout your home. They focus on each room only, which may be a drawback if you’re used to whole-home comfort and freshly circulated air.

Every homeowner has their own opinion about ductless mini-split systems. Some homeowners have some concerns, while others are ready to have them installed right away. Regardless of where you stand with mini-splits, Alta Air in North Salt Lake, Utah is the company to call on today for ductless mini-split service or a discussion of how some of the perceived drawbacks can actually work to your advantage.