Ductless HVAC systems aren’t new technology, but they only recently started to become popular in the US after they conquered the Japanese and European markets. Ductless AC and heating is extremely useful for those locations, where residences are either too small or too old to have ductwork in them for central heating and cooling.
Using a ductless heat pump for both cooling and heating a home may be the best choice for your home’s HVAC plan, or it may be useful as an addition to a standard HVAC system.
We’re experts at installation and servicing ductless HVAC systems in Maysville, KY, and today we want to give you a basic primer on how they work.
The Components of a Ductless System
A ductless HVAC system, also known as a mini split heat pump system, consists of two main components: an outdoor compressor/condenser unit and one or more indoor air handling units mounted on the walls in different rooms. These components are connected by a conduit that houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing, and a condensate drain.
How Ductless Systems Cool and Heat
When the system is in cooling mode, the indoor units absorb the warm air from the room and pass it over a cold evaporator coil. The refrigerant inside the coils absorbs the heat from the air, cooling it down. The cooled air is then blown directly into the room. The absorbed heat is transferred to the outdoor unit, where it is released outside. In heating mode, the process is reversed.
In both modes, there’s no need for ductwork because the wall-mounted units are already in the rooms: they only need to send out the conditioned air through their vent and straight into the living area.
Advantages of Ductless Systems
- Energy Efficiency: Ductless systems are more energy-efficient than traditional HVAC systems because they avoid the energy losses associated with ductwork. Duct leaks and heat transfer through ducts can significantly reduce the efficiency of a central HVAC system.
- Zoned Comfort: Ductless systems allow for zoned comfort, meaning you can control the temperature independently in different rooms or zones. This can lead to increased comfort and energy savings, as you can cool or heat only the rooms that are in use.
- Easy Installation: Installing a ductless system is generally easier and less invasive than installing a traditional ducted system. There is no need for extensive ductwork, which can be particularly advantageous in older homes or buildings without existing ducts.
- Improved Indoor Air Quality: Without ducts, there is less opportunity for dust, allergens, and other contaminants to circulate through the home. Many ductless systems also come with advanced filtration options to further improve indoor air quality.
Let Us Help You With Ductless Cooling and Heating
Interested in exploring the possibilities of a ductless mini split heat pump? If you have an older home without ducts or plan to construct a new house without letting ductwork take up too much space, ductless may be your top choice. You can also use a ductless system to target hard-to-heat and cool spots in your house. Our team is glad to help you find out what ductless can do for you.