As HVAC systems have evolved over the past few decades, ductless systems have grown in popularity. If you need to install a new HVAC system in your home, you might be wondering if you should choose a traditional unit or a ductless cooling system.
Since ductless systems aren’t as common as traditional HVAC systems, many homeowners aren’t familiar with the benefits and drawbacks of this option. Luckily, at Aire Serv, we’re familiar with the qualities of each system, so we can help make this important decision a little bit easier. Before you make a choice, consider the pros and cons of each system!
What Are The Differences Between Ductless And Traditional HVAC Systems?
One big difference between these systems is the way they work! A traditional HVAC system uses ducts to transfer air from an outdoor condenser unit to the rest of the home. The air is then pushed through vents in the floor or walls of the home. In comparison, a ductless mini-split system requires an air handler unit in each room or zone of a house that you wish to cool. These units are connected to the outdoor condenser through cables.
The way these units function aren’t the only differences between these systems though. You’ll also see that they have their own set of benefits or drawbacks when it comes to things like costs, appearances, and how efficiently they work.
Expense
If you’re renovating a home that has existing ductwork, opting for a new ductless HVAC system is likely the cheapest option. However, if you’re renovating an older house that doesn’t have an HVAC system or building a new home, your decision will be a little more complex.
The initial cost of a ductless or mini-split system can be more expensive than purchasing a mid-range traditional system. However, the overall cost of each system can vary greatly depending on the efficiency of the system you install. Purchasing less efficient ductless mini-splits will cost less than purchasing a more efficient traditional system and vice-versa.
However, if you’re just building an addition to your home and you don’t want to install ducts and vents in the new room, buying a single mini-split unit is a logical option. That’s because it can save you on the costs of adding ductwork.
Efficiency
The main accompanying factor to cost is the efficiency of the system you purchase. In general, the most efficient mini-split units work more efficiently than the most efficient traditional HVAC system. It’s much harder to achieve peak efficiency with ductwork due to the turns in the ducts the and susceptibility to leaks.
If you’re trying to save money in the long run, a ductless system might be your best option. However, it’s important to know that mini-split units aren’t a great option for larger homes. If your home is greater than 2,000 square feet, the number of units you’ll have to buy for each room might not be worth the extra efficiency of the system. If you’re unsure which system will be most efficient for your home, call a professional AC technician for help! They can examine your situation and help guide you to the right choice.
Flexibility
Both ductless and traditional HVAC air handler systems have the option to regulate the temperature of specific zones of your home. This feature is always available with ductless systems. However, for traditional systems, this feature will need to be added, which can end up costing more money.
To regulate the temperature in specific zones of your home with traditional AC, you have a few options. You can install dampers in the ductwork that are either manual or motorized, which close and open to allow more or less air into specific rooms. You can also install a separate system for the upstairs and the downstairs of your home. Since the upper levels of a home tend to be warmer, this solution can help keep every level of your home comfortable.
Installation
If you have existing ductwork in your home, installing a new traditional HVAC system is the least-obtrusive option. However, for new homes or homes without ductwork, ductless systems can be installed without you having to worry about getting new ductwork as well.
The cables that connect a mini-split unit to the outdoor unit only require a 3-inch hole, while ducts can be well over a foot in diameter. This means that the installation of a ductless system may be less intrusive for your home and easier to build around in the future.
Cosmetic Appeal
While a traditional HVAC system is almost invisible, only requiring small vents in the floor and ceiling, mini-split units are large and are usually mounted on the wall of each room. These protruding units can be an eyesore for some homeowners, so if you’re particular about the way your home is decorated, a traditional system might be more appealing.
Contact The Experts For Fort Worth Ductless AC Installation
If you’re interested in a ductless AC installation in Fort Worth or you want to install a new traditional system, Air Serv is here to help. We are experts in professional mini-split installation, as well as traditional HVAC replacements, so we can help you decide which system is right for your home. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
