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Pros and Cons of Ductless HVAC Systems

Did you know that nearly 90% of households have some form of air conditioning? This is true, although the US is not a hot country by world measures. 

Now that temperatures starting to soar and summer is fast approaching, are you looking to replace your home’s old heating and cooling system? Not sure if ductless HVAC systems are the right solution for your home?

Here are the major pros and cons that could sway your decision. Read on to learn more.

Pros of Ductless HVAC System

Ductless HVAC systems offer a variety of advantages over traditional ducted systems. Ductless HVAC systems have become increasingly popular in recent years due to many reasons. 

Easy Installation and Maintenance 

Perhaps the greatest benefit of a ductless HVAC system is its easy installation and maintenance. There is no need to run ductwork around the entire home. This system makes a less complicated and intrusive process than installing traditional HVAC.

Ductless HVAC is smaller in size and requires only a three-inch hole to be drilled into the wall. Maintaining this system is usually easier than other types of systems. Filters can be easily accessed and replaced, as most of the system components are installed in a single outdoor unit. 

Some areas may require professional installation due to safety reasons. Residential HVAC Maintenance delivers top-quality results for your comfort and peace of mind. 

Environmental Advantages 

One of the key environmental advantages of ductless systems is their efficiency. Ductless systems don’t require air ducts to be installed, which means less energy is used to operate the system. It can reduce energy waste by removing the need for heating or cooling to travel through long, inefficient duct systems. 

Additionally, they eliminate the process of air leakage that is associated with traditional HVAC systems. Because an inverter powers them, they can alter the speed according to the current climate demands and provide more consistent temperatures in the home. Nevertheless, ductless systems offer environmental advantages, making them a great choice for homeowners looking to increase their energy efficiency.

Financial Incentives

When you’ve decided to go ductless, it can be worthwhile to look into additional local and federal financial incentives. These incentives can lower ductless HVAC costs.

Some local governments provide tax credits. Federal government programs can provide rebates and grants for equipment replacement and solar energy. Additionally, some utility companies have rebate programs for ductless systems.

All these financial incentives can be quite cost-effective in the long run. It helps you make the most informed financial decision on a new ductless HVAC system. 

Flexibility

The system allows for individualized heating and cooling. It offers a tailored solution for various areas of an office. It is also a great option for homes with space and ventilation restrictions, like condo units to mid-sized homes.

Accessing air from outside with a single outdoor mounting unit can allow for better air quality as dust from the ductwork is eliminated. It provides more control over user comfort and eliminates room temperature discrepancies due to inconsistent airflow. 

Little Noise

Using ductless HVAC systems in homes can be a great way to reduce noise in a structure. Ductless systems operate quietly and efficiently. It is ideal for spaces where quiet is preferred. 

Cons of Ductless HVAC System

Ductless HVAC systems are popular for homeowners because they provide convenience and flexibility. However, they also have their drawbacks. The cons of a ductless HVAC system must be considered carefully before investing in it.

High Upfront Cost

For a typical ductless HVAC installation, the upfront cost is an average of $7500, depending on the house’s size, the system’s efficiency, and other factors. The upfront cost can be a major factor in deciding whether to purchase one. The cost may be higher than traditional HVAC systems, and more labor may be necessary to install a ductless system.

Limited Capacity

The capacity of a ductless HVAC unit is limited by the number that can be installed, typically one to four. Ductless systems usually consist of a single heat pump or air handler, which limits the unit’s capacity to heat or cool one room or zone. This limitation can be problematic for larger households or homes with multiple levels, as one unit may not be able to adequately cool or heat the entire home.

Poor Air Circulation

Poor air circulation can lead to temperature variations that can be inconvenient. Additionally, it is more difficult to control moisture levels and humidity in spaces with poor air circulation. While ductless HVAC systems can provide some benefits for air circulation, they must be properly sized and maintained to maximize their efficiency and provide proper air circulation.

May Affect Your Home’s Aesthetic

It’s important to consider the potential design drawbacks of ductless HVAC systems before installing one in your home. You may find that some types of ductless units are more visible and potentially impact room design. These units can also disrupt the general flow of the home’s design, especially if you focus on clean lines and minimalism. 

Ductless systems often require outside condenser units, which can take up additional space on the exterior of your home. The aesthetic appeal should include both indoor and outdoor units. While the outdoor system may be small and discreet, the indoor unit could be larger and more visible, disrupting the look of your room.

It is important to assess which type of unit is right for you and your home. This assessment ensures that your HVAC system’s aesthetic appeals to you and matches your home décor.

Consider This Guide to Ductless HVAC Systems

It is important to weigh the pros and cons according to your needs. Ductless HVAC systems offer environmental and financial incentives. It is also easy to install and maintain, flexible, and with little noise. 

However, you must not overlook the downsides, too. These include high upfront costs, limited capacity, and poor air circulation, and they may affect your home’s aesthetics. If you are considering a ductless system, seek out the opinion of a professional HVAC technician.

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