The most recent figures suggest that around 90% of US homes have air conditioning. Traditionally, we are used to central air systems. The air is cooled and then moved around our homes in a series of ducts, making every room a cool and comfortable place.
However, increased interest in energy-efficient cooling means more US households are considering ductless cooling benefits. But you may wonder, how does ductless air conditioning work?
Let's take a deep dive into everything you need to know about ductless AC systems so you can decide whether they're right for your home.
Decoding Ductless AC Systems
Most US homes have been built with AC ducting for a long time. However, some homes do not have ducts, and adding them may not be a good option. Also, many homes have ducts, but they are in unconditioned spaces, making them expensive to use.
What a Ductless AC Looks Like
Ductless AC, or a mini-split system, has three main parts:
Outdoor unit
Indoor unit
Conduit
The outdoor unit is similar to the condenser in a traditional, ducted AC system but much smaller. It is installed outside but typically not too far away from the indoor unit. It houses the compressor, condenser coil, and fan.
The compressor circulates the refrigerant between the indoor and outdoor units.
The indoor unit will be mounted high on the wall inside a room. It delivers the conditioned air directly into the space. Each unit has an evaporator coil and fan to circulate cooled air around the room.
The conduit is usually narrow and unobtrusive. It allows the refrigerant, power, and condensate to flow, keeping the system running.
How Does Ductless Air Conditioning Work?
You can program each mini-split system to come on and off at a set time or simply use the remote control to get cooling on demand. When you turn a ductless AC on, the following processes kick in.
1. Refrigerant Flow
As soon as the system fires up, the compressor starts pumping refrigerant from the outdoor unit. This flows through the conduit and into the indoor unit.
2. Heat Absorption
The indoor unit draws in warm air from the room and passes it over the refrigerant coils. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the air, turning from a liquid into a gas. The indoor unit's fans then circulate the cooled air around the room.
3. Heat Transfer
The refrigerant is now warm and returns to the outdoor unit. The compressor converts the refrigerant back into a liquid. The heat is then released outside, and the process can start again.
The air temperature in the room is usually controlled using a remote control. You can adjust the fan settings and desired temperature. Some mini-split systems may offer modes such as cool and dry to suit different climates and preferences.
Ductless Cooling Benefits
The basic operation of a mini-split system is very similar to central air. However, it has several advantages, including convenience with zoning, energy efficiency, and versatility.
Zoning Capabilities
Each ductless AC unit operates separately, only cooling the room in which it is installed. This allows you to create different temperature zones within your home.
Maybe grandma likes it warmer, while the kids like it colder. With a mini-split system, as long as they are in different rooms, they can adjust the temperature to meet their preferences.
Energy-Efficient Cooling
According to the Department of Energy, duct losses can account for over 30% of energy consumption. That means every time you run central air conditioning, $3 out of every $10 you spend on energy gives you zero cooling benefit. A ductless system can help you avoid those losses and waste.
Also, zoning means you do not cool parts of the home you are not using. For example, you can cool only the living room during the day and then only your bedroom at night. Since your system won't cool unused rooms, it can minimize energy waste.
You can also get cooling on demand.
Suppose you decide to take a nap in your bedroom during the hottest part of the day. Simply turn on the AC, and within minutes, the room will be cool. When you're ready to get up, simply turn it off to avoid wasting energy.
Versatility
Since mini-split systems don't need ducts, they're more versatile in terms of installation locations. An HVAC professional can install them in places where a ducted system may not be practical or a good idea, such as:
Garage conversions
Converted attics
Room additions
Better Air Quality
Each ductless air conditioning unit has its own filtration system. This can remove the following irritants and pathogens from the air:
Dust
Pet dander
Bacteria
Pollen
The filters are easy to remove and clean. Regular servicing will keep the system running to optimum levels.
Air ducts can become clogged with dust and dirt, and mold could develop in a dark, humid environment. Installing a ductless system will save you the cost of regular duct cleanings.
Mini-Split System Drawbacks
While there are many benefits to ductless AC installation, it is not the best choice for every home.
One major consideration is the initial cost. If you install multiple ductless units, the upfront cost of the ductless AC installation may be higher than that of a central air system. However, they can still be more cost-effective in the long run since they're more energy-efficient.
Additionally, some people do not like the look of a mini-split system. It is more obtrusive than central air, and this alone may tempt some people to explore other home cooling solutions.
Choose Home Comfort Solutions for Ductless Air Conditioning
Central air may be convenient, but it's not always the most cost-effective or energy-efficient cooling option. Now that we have answered the question, how does ductless air conditioning work, are you ready to consider it for your home?
At Home Comfort Solutions, we have the expertise and experience to recommend the right system for your home. We offer comprehensive ductless AC installation, maintenance, and repair services to Carbon County and beyond!
Call us today at 484-464-3681 or reach out online, and we will get back to you very soon.
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