Can A Ductless A/C System Cool The Whole House?
Ductless mini-split systems have long been used as an energy efficient and versatile air conditioning solution for Massachusetts homes with no existing ductwork, or in situations where supplemental cooling (and sometimes heating) are needed (a home addition, for example). But can a ductless system handle the rigors of cooling a whole house?
The short answer? YES!
Today’s advanced ductless systems can meet the demands of even the most efficiency-minded new homes and rebuilds, and could even be a sensible alternative to central air conditioning in some new home construction.
Why ductless A/C makes sense
Traditional forced-air HVAC systems can work really well – but there are some flaws inherent in their design and components that make these systems prone to energy loss. For example:
- Ductwork is prone to air leaks, poor design, and inadequate insulation
- Improperly installed systems can create unbalanced airflow from supply outlets to return grilles, which reduces efficiency
- An over- or under-sized cooling system, heat pump or furnace will overwork to heat or cool a space, driving up energy use and possibly premature equipment failure
More Benefits of mini-split A/C
Because a mini-split system uses no ducts, it avoid these problems altogether, delivering better performance and other benefits, including:
- More expansion possibilities – A ductless system can be extended to areas outside the living spaces, such as a workshop, garage, guest house or pool house outbuilding. Ductless systems are available in up to four-ton capacity configurations with as many as four indoor air handlers for each outside compressor/condenser unit; if more cooling capacity is needed, a modular multi-split system with two or more compressor/condenser units can be installed.
- Installation ease – Extending ductwork into a sun room, home office, attic or basement can take weeks with a forced air system; with ductless, it’s a one or two day process.
- Customizability – With multiple air handlers, you can mix and match the size of evaporator coils to precisely match heating and cooling load in each zone of your home – no overwork needed!
- Better air quality – No ductwork means no places for microorganisms like mold to grow, which means you’ll be breathing better air at home.
Of course the key to getting the most out of your ductless system (or any home comfort equipment) is to get your system sized, installed, and maintained by professionals. Our cooling experts are ductless pros, so you know whatever job you need, it will be done right.
Could a whole house ductless cooling system be right for your home or business? Contact us today to learn more or to get a FREE, no obligation estimate for ductless A/C installations in the North Shore, MA!
