When shopping for a heating and cooling system for your dwelling, it’s essential to choose one that balances efficiency, operation and finances. That’s why many property owners explore the possibility of mini-splits to heat and cool their home.
Mini-splits—often referred to as ductless mini-splits—offer a variety of advantages that make them a popular option for both homes and businesses. They're extremely energy efficient, decreasing energy consumption and saving on utility costs, because they avoid the energy losses that can come with the ductwork found in traditional HVAC systems. They also make it possible for users to control the temperature in each room, enhancing overall comfort while saving energy.
If you’re considering mini-split installation in Des Moines, it’s worthwhile to first research if these devices are recommended for your living situation. Here, we’ll examine how mini-splits compare to other heating and cooling systems.
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 good option in homes that don't have pre-existing air ducts and for homes with rooms that aren’t served well by an existing HVAC system.
A mini-split system consists of two major components: an outdoor compressor/condenser and an indoor air-handling device. These are connected by a conduit housing the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing and a condensate drain.
Here's how it works: the exterior compressor moves the refrigerant necessary for heat exchange through the coils and the air handler. The interior unit draws in air from the room, cools or heats it over the coils and forces the conditioned air back into the room.
Mini-Split vs. Central Air
Mini-splits offer targeted cooling in specific rooms or zones of your household. They are known for energy efficiency because they only provide hot or cold air for the areas you choose. However, they might not blend seamlessly into every room because of their wall-mounted indoor units.
Conversely, a central air system uniformly chills your entire home, generating consistent comfort levels throughout. Its ductwork is out of sight, preserving the appearance of your home. But it may not be as energy efficient as a mini-split, especially in larger homes or residences where certain spots may not need nonstop conditioning.
Mini-Split vs. Window AC/Window Unit
Mini-splits are usually more energy efficient and quieter than a window air conditioning unit and are able to cool multiple rooms. This is why mini-splits are a convenient alternative for numerous homeowners. They also utilize a form of refrigerant that is more eco-friendly, reducing their environmental impact. These units can even add value to your home due to their sturdy nature and exceptional cooling capabilities. However, they come with a greater initial investment.
On the other hand, window AC units are less expensive up front. They are often a good fit for homes that can't accommodate a central air system or for families with budget constraints. Even with these advantages, window units can use 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, will depend on on your main concerns. If your main considerations are energy efficiency and ability to quickly cool a room, a mini-split is considered far superior to a portable AC unit. However, if budget is a significant concern, a portable AC is less expensive.
Mini-Split vs. Gas Furnace
Choosing between a mini-split system and a gas furnace depends on a variety of factors including the climate in your city, home size, energy efficiency needs and spending plan.
A mini-split system most of the time is more energy efficient than a gas furnace. It can heat and cool distinct areas in your home, delivering custom climate control in individual rooms. Mini-splits also are generally quieter and have a higher up-front cost, but their operating costs are usually lower due to their better energy efficiency.
However, 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. While they are less energy efficient than mini-splits, gas furnaces likely cost less. Having said that, their operating costs can be greater, especially if natural gas prices skyrocket.
Mini-Split vs. Heat Pump
Mini-splits and heat pumps operate using the principle of heat transfer. They are both energy efficient, but a heat pump's duct system can be less efficient. That said, the choice between a mini-split and a heat pump often depends on a homeowner's needs and circumstances.
By way of example, if you live in a warmer climate and mainly need cooling, a mini-split system might be a better choice. On the other hand, if you need both heating and cooling and already have ductwork in your home, a heat pump could be a more efficient option.
Mini-Split vs. Space Heater
With regards to heating and cooling a home, mini-splits and space heaters each have strengths and weaknesses. However, for all around efficiency, versatility, comfort and safety, mini-splits stand out. Mini-splits provide superior energy efficiency simply because they deliver conditioned air straight to different zones and can serve multiple rooms at once.
Space heaters are a great deal less expensive to buy but are typically used only for heating a limited area or just one room. They also are often less energy efficient. Unlike mini-splits, space heaters do not supply cooling. The biggest drawback for space heaters is the risk of fire. Industry experts say some 1,700 fires each year involve space heaters.