Our Ductless AC Installation Will Help You Chill Out
In Portland, traditional ductwork isn’t always present in homes – something you may not realize unless you grew up here. If your home lacks ductwork, you might be contemplating the best cooling system. The solution? A ductless AC mini-split, an ideal cooling system for homes without ductwork. Read on to learn more about ductless mini splits, including how they work and the differences between other AC systems.
What is a Ductless Mini Split?
When it comes to cooling your home, you have many options. Most homeowners are familiar with central air, which cools air and distributes it throughout your home via ductwork. But what if your home lacks ductwork? That’s when a ductless AC system becomes a prime candidate for your cooling needs.
A ductless AC, or a mini-split, is a highly efficient cooling method for a more customized cooling experience. It consists of an indoor unit mounted on your ceiling or wall, connected to an outdoor condenser through a conduit. The refrigerant passes through the conduit and into the room, providing immediate cooling.
Ductless air conditioning systems offer several advantages. They provide greater flexibility in cooling individual rooms or zones within a home, allowing for personalized temperature control and potential energy savings. Ductless systems are also easier and less disruptive to install than traditional ducted systems, making them an excellent choice for older homes or additions where ductwork isn’t feasible.
The absence of ducts can also improve air quality by eliminating a common area where dust and other allergens can accumulate. Like all HVAC systems, ductless AC systems require regular maintenance to ensure efficient operation.
What is the Difference Between Central AC and Ductless AC?
While both central AC systems and ductless AC systems aim to cool your home, they achieve this in very different ways. A central AC system cools air at a central location and then distributes it throughout your home using a network of ducts. Conversely, a ductless AC system, also known as a mini-split system, cools the air directly in each room where it is installed.
A key difference between the two systems is the need for ductwork. Central AC systems require ductwork to distribute the cooled air throughout the home, while ductless systems do not. This makes ductless systems an ideal choice for homes without existing ductwork or for spaces where installing ductwork might be difficult or impractical.
What is the Difference Between Ductless AC, Mini-Splits, and Heat Pumps?
The terms ductless AC, mini-splits, and heat pumps are often used interchangeably, but they refer to slightly different systems:
- Ductless AC: This term broadly refers to any air conditioning system that doesn’t rely on a network of ducts to distribute cooled air. It includes both mini-split systems and multi-split systems.
- Mini-Splits: A mini-split system is a type of ductless AC system comprising an indoor and outdoor unit. The indoor unit is installed in a specific room and only cools or heats that room.
- Heat Pumps: A heat pump is an HVAC system that can heat and cool a space. It works by transferring heat from one area to another. In the summer, it removes heat from inside your home and expels it outside, effectively cooling your home. In the winter, it extracts heat from the outdoor air (even when it’s cold) and brings it inside to heat your home. Many ductless AC systems also function as heat pumps, providing heating and cooling capabilities.
Whether you have a central air conditioner or a ductless AC system, rest assured that we’ll address any issues as promptly as possible. Our team at Central Air is experienced with all types of HVAC systems and is prepared to ensure your comfort all year long.
What are the Benefits of Ductless Mini-Split Systems?
Ductless mini-split systems offer numerous advantages, including:
- Temperature Control: With ductless AC, you can control your home’s temperature using zoning. You can cool only the rooms in the zone you want and turn down the rest. This leads to substantial energy savings.
- Less Noise: These units operate very quietly. The only sound you might hear is the gentle whirring of the indoor fan.
- Greater Efficiency: Without traditional ductwork, which can develop leaks or holes, ductless AC systems don’t waste energy through the leakage.
- Easy Installation: Installation is straightforward and quick. Our professionals can install these systems in your home in less than a day.
Why Mini-Splits are Popular in Portland
Mini-splits are becoming increasingly popular in the Pacific Northwest, especially in older homes less likely to have ductwork installed. Portland has lower central air conditioning rates than the rest of the US, making ductless systems an excellent choice.
Call Central Air for Ductless Mini-Split AC Installation, Repair, and Maintenance
Our NATE-certified professionals are ready 24/7 to take your calls and can arrive at your doorstep with cooling solutions. If you’re ready for ductless AC installation in your home or need repair or maintenance, call us today.
Ductless AC FAQs
Is ductless AC cheaper to run?
Ductless AC systems are generally more energy-efficient than traditional ducted systems because they avoid the energy losses associated with ductwork. This means they can be cheaper to run, potentially leading to lower electricity bills. However, the exact cost savings will depend on various factors, including the energy efficiency of the specific model, the size of the space being cooled, and local electricity rates.
How many rooms can a ductless AC cool?
A single ductless AC unit typically cools one room or area of a home. However, multi-zone ductless systems can cool multiple rooms. These systems have multiple indoor units connected to a single outdoor unit. The number of rooms a ductless AC can cool will depend on the number of indoor units installed.
How long will a ductless heat pump last?
The lifespan of a ductless heat pump can vary based on the model and the quality of its maintenance, but on average, you can expect it to last between ten to twenty years. Regular professional maintenance and prompt repairs can help maximize the lifespan of your ductless heat pump.