You’ve likely seen ductless heating and cooling units on the walls at your friends’ or families’ houses or at your favorite restaurant, and you might wonder if it’s something you should add to your home. Below we’ll take you through some of the pros and cons of a ductless HVAC system and what the ideal situation for its use might be.
Pros of a ductless system
Flexibility
Because each room has its own unit, a ductless system is far more flexible in its ability to heat and cool specific areas of the home than a forced air system.
Easy installation
A ductless system is installed with a single unit to a room, only requiring a small hole drilled into the wall before mounting the unit. This makes them especially useful for additions to a house or in a house that isn’t already outfitted with a forced air HVAC system.
Savings
Where forced air systems lose a lot of energy through the ductwork before the air is delivered into your home, a ductless system delivers the air directly from the unit into the room saving energy and lowering your power bill. Additionally, many programs offer tax credits or utility rebates for homeowners who install ductless systems.
Better air quality
Dust and allergens can often build up in air ducts, even when cleaned regularly. Ductless units have air filtration that can reduce dust, pollen, bacteria, allergens and other particulates and deliver clean air right into the room.
Environmentally friendly
Just as a ductless system will save you money on your power bill, they save the environment by creating less energy waste thus reducing your carbon footprint.
Cons of a ductless system
Up-front cost
Although ductless heating and cooling systems save money on utility bills and cost less money than adding ductwork to an existing house, they can have a large upfront cost that is off-putting to some buyers.
Regular maintenance
Just like your forced air HVAC system, ductless systems require monthly air filter cleaning. However, because a ductless system places a separate unit in each room, you’ll need to clean the filter for several units rather than just the one.
Aesthetics
Finally, some people don’t like the aesthetics of the ductless units or find that they clash with the existing aesthetics of the room.
Ideal situation for a ductless system
After looking at the pros and cons, you might be wondering if your home is well situated for a ductless HVAC system. Here are a few instances where it might be ideal.
Additions to the home
If you’re planning an addition to your home or converting your garage to an apartment, a ductless system might be less costly than installing ductwork and provides all the advantages outlined above.
Downsizing
For couples who find themselves in a home where they don’t use every room, adding some ductless units can be a good alternative to closing vent grilles, which can lead to pressure imbalances and mold problems in a home.
Supporting a specific room
If one room in your house consistently has a problem with heating or cooling, installing a single ductless unit in that room can help balance it with the rest of the home.
Ductless systems may not be for everyone, but after looking at the pros and cons, you might find that it’s just right for you. If you’re interested in a ductless system, call a professional technician who can make sure to give each room just what it needs.
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