Heating FAQs: Do Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump Systems Really Work?
Yes! Ductless mini-split heat pump systems not only work, but when installed correctly and appropriately maintained, they can be incredibly efficient. This means that they can be used all year long. They are also incredibly versatile and can work well in small spaces or in older homes that do not have existing ductwork.
Ductless mini-split heat pump systems are a great option for:
- Garages
- Workshops
- Basements
- Room additions
Ductless systems also allow homeowners to create heating and cooling zones. Zoned heating and cooling enables you to heat or cool specific areas or the areas you use the most without wasting energy on unoccupied areas of your home. For those looking to reduce their carbon footprint, you should consider setting up a zoned HVAC system utilizing ductless mini-splits.
More Benefits of Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump Systems
Once upon a time, ductless were inefficient, noisy and difficult to install. However, with recent innovations in ductless HVAC technology, this is no longer the case. Instead, ductless mini-split heat pump system has become not only a more viable option for homeowners but a more attractive one as well.
Many people choose ductless systems because they:
- Are incredibly energy efficient
- Require a minimally invasive installation process
- May be less expensive than expanding a central air system
- Allow for customized, zoned heating
- Can be quieter than central air systems
Ductless systems also have long lifespans, often lasting for 20 or more years. With a fast, easy installation and low maintenance requirements, this system is a great option for homeowners and business owners. They only require one small hole to be drilled to connect the outside and inside units - and they can be installed in unobtrusive areas where they will hardly be noticed.
Potential Drawbacks to Ductless Systems
Every day at Valley Heating, Cooling, Electrical and Solar, we see how beneficial ductless systems are. However, we also recognize that a ductless system may not be the right option for everyone. Before moving forward with a ductless system, you should consider a few things.
You may not want to install a ductless system if:
- You already have a central air system with ductwork that is in good condition
- The installation area you are considering does not have space for the unit to be installed
- You do not like the way the ductless system looks in your home
- You donandrsquo;t have the budget for a ductless system
And, though we donandrsquo;t have to worry about this in San Jose, those who live in very cold climates may require a backup heating system in addition to their ductless system. Not all models can handle below zero temperatures and the ones that can may be cost-prohibitive.
Can You Heat an Entire Home with a Ductless Mini-Spit Heat Pump System?
We are sometimes asked if it is worth converting a home from a central air system to a ductless mini-split heat pump system. Usually, when someone is asking about this, they are looking for a way to reduce their energy consumption and thereby reduce their energy costs. Ductless systems are incredibly energy efficient; however, because of the upfront cost of installation throughout your home, you may be better served installing a new, energy-efficient central heating system instead.
That said, if you have an older home built without central air or ductwork, it is worth considering installing ductless mini-split heat pump units. Installing new ductwork is frequently very expensive and if the house wasnandrsquo;t built with ductwork in mind, you might not have the space for it. In these cases, going the ductless mini-split route may be best.
As you can see, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to ductless heating. Generally speaking, we recommend that anyone considering a ductless mini-split heat pump system speak with one of our heating specialists at Valley, especially if you are looking for a whole-home heating solution. Our technicians are well-versed in all heating systems, from central forced air to electric heat pumps to a ductless mini-split heat pump. We can help you identify the best heating method for your situation and property.