Ductless Air Conditioning The Ultimate Guide

Ductless air conditioning is becoming more and more popular each year. Many people are choosing to go ductless because it is a more efficient and eco-friendly option than traditional air conditioning.

In this guide, we will discuss the benefits of ductless air conditioning, how it works, and some of the most popular brands on the market. We will also answer some of the most common questions about ductless AC units!

What Is Ductless Air Conditioning, And How Does It Work?

Ductless air conditioning is a type of cooling system that does not use ducts. Instead, it uses an outdoor compressor and indoor air handler to cool your home.

Ductless air conditioners and central AC units produce cool air in the same way. Both cooling systems use refrigerants to remove warm air from the room. The difference is that central AC units use ducts to distribute the cool air, while ductless units do not.

The outdoor unit pumps refrigerant to the indoor unit (air handler), which is mounted on the wall or ceiling. The air handler then circulates cooled air into the room.

Ductless air conditioning is a very efficient way to cool your home because it does not lose any cooling power through ductwork. The minimum Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating for it is 15.

Other names of ductless AC systems are mini-split systems and split ductless systems.

Main Components of Ductless HVAC Systems

There are three main components of a mini split air conditioner:

• The outdoor unit (compressor)
• The indoor unit (s)
• A remote control

The outdoor unit is the heart of the ductless HVAC system. It pumps refrigerant to the indoor air handlers.

The indoor air handlers are mounted on the wall or ceiling. They circulate cooled or heated air into the room.

The remote control allows you to adjust the settings on the ductless HVAC system. You can use it to set the temperature, fan speed, and mode (cooling, heating, or auto).

Single Zone Ductless AC vs. Multi-Zone Ductless AC

There are two types of ductless air conditioners: single zone and multi-zone.

Single zone systems have one outdoor compressor and one indoor air handler. They are best for cooling a small space, such as a bedroom or office.

Multi-zone systems have one outdoor compressor but can have multiple indoor air handlers. These systems are best for cooling multiple rooms or large spaces.

Multi-zone systems are more expensive than single-zone systems but are also more flexible and can be customized to your specific cooling needs.

Common Sizes of Ductless AC System

The size of your ductless AC system will depend on the square footage of the space you are trying to cool. BTU (British Thermal Unit) and Ton are two common units of measurement for air conditioners.

One BTU is the heat needed to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. One ton is equal to 12,000 BTUs.

Most ductless AC systems range from 9000-36000 BTUs.

Here is a general guideline of what size system you will need for various square footage:

400 to 650 square feet: 12000 BTU

600 to 1000 square feet: 18000 BTU

800 to 1300 square feet: 24000 BTU

Applications of Ductless Air Conditioning Systems

Ductless air conditioning systems can be used in a variety of applications, including:

• Residential homes
• Commercial buildings
• Schools and universities
• Hospitals and healthcare facilities

Ductless air conditioning systems are a great option for cooling or heating any space. They are especially well-suited for spaces that do not have ductwork, such as:

• Additions
• Attics
• Garages
• Sunrooms
• Dorm rooms
• Server rooms

How Much Does a Ductless Air Conditioner Cost?

The cost of a ductless air conditioner ranges from $600 to $3000. The average cost of a ductless air conditioner is $2000.

The cost of a ductless air conditioner varies depending on the size of the unit, the brand, and the features. Size is the most important factor in determining the cost of a ductless air conditioner. The larger the unit, the more it will cost. 

The brand is also a factor in determining the cost of a ductless air conditioner. The most popular brands, such as Mitsubishi and LG, tend to be more expensive than less well-known brands.

The cost of a ductless air conditioner also varies depending on the features. Some units have features that are designed to save energy, such as variable speed compressors and multi-stage filtration. These features will increase the cost of the unit, but they will also save you money on your energy bills.

Top Brands of Ductless Air Conditioners

There are many different brands of ductless air conditioners on the market. Some of the most popular brands include:

• Mitsubishi
• LG
• Fujitsu
• Daikin
• Samsung
• Panasonic
• Hitachi
• Sanyo

Benefits Of Ductless Air Conditioning

Ductless air conditioning has many benefits, which is why it is becoming so popular. Some of the benefits include:

Flexible Installation Options

Ductless systems can be installed in a variety of locations, including on the wall or ceiling. This makes them ideal for spaces that do not have ductwork, such as additions, attics, and sunrooms.

Energy Efficiency

Ductless mini-split systems are very efficient because they don’t lose any cooled air through leaky ductwork. In fact, ductless AC units can save you up to 30% on your energy bills as compared to window air conditioners or traditional HVAC system.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

Ductless air conditioners have filters that remove allergens, dust, and other airborne contaminants from the air. This improves indoor air quality and helps to keep your family healthy.

Quiet Operation

A ductless mini split system is very quiet because the compressor is located outside. This makes it ideal for bedrooms and other rooms where you want to limit noise.

Easy Installation

Ductless air conditioners are easy to install because they don’t require ductwork. This makes them a great option for do-it-yourselfers and homeowners who want to avoid the mess and expense of ductwork installation.

However, ductless air conditioners must be installed by a professional to ensure that they are installed properly.

Disadvantages of Ductless Systems

Ductless air conditioners are not without their disadvantages. Some of the disadvantages include:

Higher Initial Cost

Ductless air conditioners tend to be more expensive than other types of air conditioners, such as central air conditioners and window units. However, the higher initial cost is offset by the lower operating costs and improved efficiency of ductless systems.

Regular Maintenance

Ductless air conditioners require regular maintenance, such as cleaning the filters and coils. Failure to properly maintain your ductless system can lead to decreased efficiency and shortened lifespan.

Difficult to Hide

Ductless air conditioners are larger than other types of air conditioners and can be difficult to hide. If you want to keep your ductless system out of sight, you may need to install it in an unobtrusive location.

How to Choose the Right Ductless Air Conditioning System For Your Home

When choosing a ductless air conditioning system for your home, there are several things you need to consider. Some of the things you need to take into account include:

The Size Of Your Home

The first thing you need to consider is the size of your home. Ductless air conditioners are available in various sizes, so you need to choose a large enough unit to cool your entire home.

The Climate

You also need to take into account the climate you live in. If you live in a hot, humid climate, you will need a larger unit with more cooling capacity.

The Number Of Rooms

Another thing to consider is the number of rooms you want to cool. If you only want to cool one or two rooms, you can choose a smaller, single-zone unit. However, if you want to cool multiple rooms, you will need a larger, multi-zone unit.

Your Budget

Of course, you must also consider your budget when choosing a ductless air conditioning system. Ductless systems range in price from $600 to $3000, so you need to choose a system that fits within your budget.

How to Install a Ductless Air Conditioning System?

Installing a ductless air conditioning system is not a do-it-yourself project. Ductless systems must be installed by a professional to ensure that they are installed properly.

If you are considering installing a ductless system in your home, you first need to find a qualified contractor.

We specialize in ductless air conditioning installation and would be happy to help you choose the right system for your home. Give us a call today to schedule a free consultation.

Once you have found a air conditioning contractor, you need to get several quotes to ensure you get the best price. When comparing quotes, be sure to compare apples to apples and ensure that the contractors include all necessary parts and labor in their quotes.

Once you have chosen a contractor, you must schedule an installation date. Most ductless air conditioning installations take one or two days to complete.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting Tips for Ductless Air Conditioners

Ductless air conditioners require regular maintenance to keep them running properly. Here are some tips that will help you keep your ductless system in top shape:

• Dirty filters are one of the most common causes of ductless air conditioner problems. To keep your system running properly, you need to clean the filters at least once a month.
• The coils on your condenser and evaporator need to be kept clean. To clean the coils, simply remove them and brush off any dirt or debris.
• If your system is not cooling properly, you may need to charge the refrigerant. This is a job that should be done by a professional.
• If your system makes strange noises, it may be due to loose bolts or screws. Simply tighten any loose bolts or screws to stop the noise.

FAQs about Ductless Air Conditioning

What sizes do mini split systems come in?

Most HVAC units come in different sizes, with the most popular being 9,000 BTU, 12,000 BTU, 15,000 BTU, and 18,000 BTU. However, some people may need a larger unit, like 24 000 or 36 000BTUs.

Can I install a ductless system myself?

No, you cannot install a ductless system yourself. Ductless systems must be installed by a professional to ensure they are installed properly.

How long do ductless air conditioners last?

Ductless air conditioners typically last between 15 and 20 years. However, proper maintenance is required to keep your system running properly for the long term.

Do ductless air conditioners use a lot of electricity?

No, ductless air conditioners are actually very efficient and use less electricity than traditional central air systems.

The Bottom Line

Ductless air conditioners are a great option for cooling or heating your home. They are energy-efficient, flexible, and easy to install. If you are looking for an alternative to traditional central air conditioning, ductless air conditioning is a great option.

If you are considering installing a ductless system in your home, give us a call today to schedule a free consultation. We specialize in ductless air conditioning and ductless heat pump and would be happy to help you choose the right system for your home.