June 12, 2024
Are Ductless Mini-Splits More Efficient?

The popularity of ductless mini-split HVAC systems in Layton, UT, has grown in recent years. A ductless mini-split HVAC system is typically more efficient than traditional systems. However, they also have other advantages. Let’s consider their efficiencies and benefits.

How Mini-Splits Are More Efficient

Ductless mini-split HVAC systems have a different design than traditional systems. A traditional HVAC system has a central unit with ductwork that pushes air to the rooms of a house. Mini-split systems have no ductwork. Instead, refrigerant lines run to interior blower units strategically placed in different zones throughout the home.

There are several reasons why mini-splits are more efficient than traditional HVAC systems:

No Losses From Ductwork

In traditional HVAC systems, ductwork is a component that commonly suffers from efficiency losses. This loss can be due to ductwork leaks, poor insulation, or even obstructed airflow. However, since mini-split HVAC systems don’t require ductwork, they won’t suffer these same efficiency losses.

Zone Control System

With ductless mini-split systems, you control the different zones that the interior units are in. Each unit has individual temperature and airflow controls. This zone control capability allows you to avoid cooling or heating areas when they aren’t occupied, increasing system efficiency.

Inverter Technology

Ductless mini-split HVAC systems use inverter technology to maximize efficiency. An inverter allows the compressor unit to adjust its speed depending on heating or cooling requirements. Traditional systems cycle on and off, which can increase energy waste. However, a compressor with an inverter will run continuously at varied speeds, using less overall energy.

Higher SEER Ratings

SEER stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. SEER ratings show how energy-efficient a specific unit is. The higher the rating, the more energy-efficient it is. Typically, ductless mini-split systems have higher SEER ratings than traditional HVAC systems.

Ductless Mini-Split Financial Benefits

Ductless mini-splits have several factors that make them more efficient than traditional HVAC systems. While ductless mini-split systems can have a higher upfront cost, they can be much more cost-effective over time. Here are some common mini-split financial benefits:

Lower Energy Bills

An obvious advantage of having a more energy-efficient HVAC system is savings on your monthly energy bills. Traditional HVAC systems typically have higher monthly energy bills than mini-split systems. This difference can be most noticeable during the coldest and warmest months when your HVAC system is working the hardest.

Reduced Repair Costs

A multi-split system’s increased efficiency means that components are less stressed than an overworked HVAC system. By reducing the stress on various components, you make the need for repairs less frequent. Additionally, if a problem occurs, the repair cost of mini-split systems tends to be less expensive.

HVAC System Lifespan

With regular maintenance, a modern ductless mini-split HVAC system is more likely to last longer than its traditional counterpart. This extended lifespan is because of its overall design and the reduced stress on components from system efficiency. Replacing an HVAC system is expensive, and this longer lifespan further increases its cost-effectiveness over traditional systems.

Increased Home Value

Some homeowners may be interested in selling their homes in the near future. Other homeowners may be looking to refinance a mortgage. Regardless of your reason, installing a modern and efficient ductless mini-split unit can increase the value of your home and help with these goals.

Incentives and Rebates

Other financial benefits of installing a ductless mini-split HVAC system include tax incentives and rebates. In Utah, you can receive tax credits for making energy-efficient upgrades to your home with qualifying devices. Additionally, some energy-efficient devices have a point-of-sale rebate that can be stacked with tax incentives.

Other Ductless Mini-Split Benefits

The multiple financial benefits of ductless mini-split HVAC systems already make them a great choice compared to traditional systems. However, there are additional advantages that mini-splits provide over traditional systems that you should consider.

Comfort Customization

With interior blower units in different zones throughout your home, people in those areas have more customization and control over the temperature and airflow in that space. With traditional HVAC systems, you typically must decide on a single temperature for the entire home. The custom control of a mini-split system is especially useful for people with specific temperature preferences when sleeping at night.

Easier Maintenance

Compared with traditional HVAC systems, the maintenance of mini-split systems is much easier. Homeowners don’t need to replace air filters. Instead, they simply remove and clean the filters inside each interior unit. Additionally, when technicians are needed for regular maintenance, there is no ductwork to inspect or clean.

Cleaner Indoor Air

Since ductless HVAC systems don’t require a duct system, there is no area where particulates and contaminants accumulate. Additionally, ductless mini-split systems have multiple air filtration levels to help improve indoor air quality. As long as you clean the air filters when necessary, your mini-split system will help keep your interior air clean and healthy.

Easy Installation

Installation of mini-split systems is usually much easier than installing a traditional HVAC system. While some interior units need to be mounted, there isn’t any extensive ductwork that needs to be installed. This means that the installation of your mini-split system will typically take less time, so you can begin warming or cooling your home sooner.

Quieter Operation

Another advantage of a ductless mini-split HVAC system is that the operation is typically quieter than in a traditional system. The outdoor unit runs quieter; you don’t have to listen to constant on-and-off cycling. People who work from home or are lighter sleepers can appreciate the quieter operation of a multi-split system.

Remote Control

If you want to adjust the temperature settings of a traditional HVAC system, you typically must get up and walk to the part of the house with the thermostat to change it. Interior units of a multi-split system usually come with a remote control, so you can easily adjust the settings without getting out of your seat. Some multi-split systems even allow you to control units with an app installed on a tablet or smartphone.

Various Design Options

With the interior units installed, there are various styles, colors, and other design choices. These design options allow you to choose an aesthetic style that matches your home’s decor.

Space Saving

Outdoor mini-split units are typically smaller than traditional units and take up less space. The lack of ductwork also makes mini-splits ideal for homes with limited space. While interior units take up little space inside a room, these units are commonly mounted high on a wall, and the wall space needed is like traditional vents.

Importance of Ongoing Maintenance

The efficiency of mini-splits and the additional benefits that come with them can be enticing. However, like any HVAC system, ongoing professional maintenance is essential. Ensuring you schedule regular maintenance will keep your system running efficiently and preserve all the other benefits your mini-split system offers.

Do you live in Layton or the surrounding area and want a ductless mini-split installed in your home? Smedley Service is ready to help. We proudly offer various HVAC services for all types of HVAC systems. Our services include new installations, HVAC upgrades, system maintenance, and repair work. In addition to helping with your HVAC needs, we also offer extensive plumbing services. For more information, contact Smedley Service today!

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