When searching for a heating and cooling system for your dwelling, it’s crucial to choose one that balances efficiency, performance and finances. That’s why many homeowners explore the possibility of mini-splits to heat and cool their home.
Mini-splits—often known as ductless mini-splits—have many advantages that make them a popular solution for both homes and businesses. They're extremely energy efficient, lowering energy consumption and saving on utility bills, because they eliminate the energy losses affiliated with the ductwork found in traditional HVAC systems. They also make it possible for users to control the temperature in each room, improving overall comfort while not wasting energy.
If you’re considering mini-split installation in Milledgeville and Middle Georgia, it’s important to first find out if these devices are recommended for your living situation. Here, we’ll explore how mini-splits measure up to other heating and cooling methods.
What a Mini-Split Is and How It Works
A mini-split, or ductless mini-split, is a heating and cooling device that doesn't need ductwork to function. It's a popular choice in homes that don't have any air ducts and for homes with rooms that aren’t served well by an existing HVAC system.
A mini-split system is made of two main components: an outdoor compressor/condenser and an indoor air-handling component. The two are connected by a conduit housing the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing and a condensate drain.
Here's how it works: the outdoor compressor moves the refrigerant necessary for heat exchange within the coils and the air handler. The in-house device pulls in air from the room, cools or heats it over the coils and sends the conditioned air back into the room.
Mini-Split vs. Central Air
Mini-splits are good for targeted cooling in particular rooms or zones of your residence. They are outstanding for energy efficiency because they only condition the areas you choose. However, they may not blend seamlessly into every decor due to their wall-mounted indoor units.
On the other hand, a central air system uniformly conditions your entire home, keeping consistent comfort levels throughout. Its ductwork is hidden away, preserving the aesthetics of your home. On the other hand, it may not be as energy efficient as a mini-split, especially in larger homes or residences where certain spaces may not need continuous conditioning.
Mini-Split vs. Window AC/Window Unit
Mini-splits are usually more energy efficient and less noisy than a window air conditioning unit and are able to cool multiple rooms. This is why mini-splits are a versatile choice for numerous homeowners. They also operate using a form of refrigerant that is more earth-safe, reducing their environmental impact. These systems can even add value to your home due to their sturdy nature and exceptional cooling capabilities. However, they come with a greater purchase price.
Having said that, window air conditioning units are less expensive initially. They might be a good fit for homes that are not able to accommodate a central Air conditioning system or for people with budget constraints. Despite these advantages, window units can utilize up to 40% more energy than ductless mini-split systems and are often noisier.
Mini-Split vs. Portable AC
The answer to what is better, a ductless mini-split or a portable air conditioning unit, depends on your goals. If your main worries are energy efficiency and performance, a mini-split is much more effective than a portable AC unit. However, if funding is a major concern, a portable AC costs less.
Mini-Split vs. Gas Furnace
Choosing between a mini-split system and a gas furnace depends on a variety of factors which can include the climate in your city, home size, energy efficiency desires and spending plan.
A mini-split system usually is more energy efficient than a gas furnace. It can heat and cool targeted areas in your home, providing custom climate control in targeted rooms. Mini-splits also are normally quieter and have a greater up-front cost, but their operating costs are usually smaller due to their superior energy efficiency.
On the other hand, a gas furnace can be a highly effective heating solution, particularly in colder climates where mini-split heat pumps may not be able to maintain comfort levels in the bitter cold. Although they are less energy efficient than mini-splits, gas furnaces likely cost less. But, their operating costs can be greater, especially if natural gas prices increase.
Mini-Split vs. Heat Pump
Mini-splits and heat pumps use the principle of heat transfer. They are both energy efficient, but a heat pump's ductwork can be less efficient. That said, the choice between a mini-split and a heat pump often depends on individual needs and circumstances.
Case in point, if you reside in a warmer climate and primarily need cooling, a mini-split system might be a good choice. On the other hand, if you require both heating and cooling and already have ductwork installed in your residence, a heat pump could be a more efficient option.
Mini-Split vs. Space Heater
In regards to heating and cooling a household, mini-splits and space heaters each have strengths and weaknesses. However, for overall efficiency, versatility, comfort and safety, mini-splits outperform space heaters. Mini-splits supply superior energy efficiency simply because they deliver conditioned air straight to different zones and can serve numerous rooms at once.
Space heaters are much less expensive to buy but are typically reserved for heating a limited area or just one room. They also are usually less energy efficient. Unlike mini-splits, space heaters do not supply cooling. The biggest drawback for space heaters is the risk of fire. Experts say some 1,700 fires per year involve space heaters.