Central AC systems have been the traditional way to cool U.S. homes for many decades. Mini-splits are an alternative originally innovated in Japan that has become increasingly popular over the years. They’re often much more energy efficient for a variety of reasons. Mini-splits can, in theory, lower operating costs and reduce your household carbon footprint. Let’s explore whether a conversion is practical and will provide you with the benefits you’re seeking.
Is It Possible to Switch?
It is possible. Ductless mini-splits allow for highly flexible installations. That means that they’re suitable for most homes. A home that can accommodate central AC can most likely accommodate a mini-split. Whether a mini-split is the better choice depends on several factors, including the home’s layout and cubic footage.
The Potential Advantages of Switching From Central AC to a Mini-Split
Another important question is why you would want to switch. Energy efficiency is the top reason and what could make this worthwhile in the end. One consideration is that central AC ducts are imperfect systems. There is some air leakage even in new ducts.
As ducts age, leakage is often at least 20% and can be greater than 40%. That dramatically affects your comfort, operating costs, environmental impact, and wear on the system. Leakage isn’t a concern with mini-splits since they don’t generally use ducts and blow air directly into the living spaces.
The other important consideration is zoning, and mini-splits are inherently zoned. Zoning is an option with central AC. Yet, it can be an expensive one that involves adding a variable-speed blower, duct dampers, and other equipment. With a mini-split, you don’t have to spend money on unnecessary cooling. You could, for instance, maintain cool bedroom temperatures overnight but a more modest temperature throughout the rest of the home. A zoned system provides up to 30% energy savings over a non-zoned system.
System Sizing and Home Layout
If money is no issue, a ductless mini-split is usually superior from the perspectives of comfort and environmental impact. That said, most consumers need to weigh the additional upfront costs against the potential long-term savings.
The typical mini-split has a single outdoor unit and two to four indoor units. That accommodates most small to medium-sized homes. Adding more zones will increase your initial costs. Adding a secondary outdoor unit will increase them even more.
The best approach is to have an HVAC installer perform load calculations. Load calculations account for your square footage, ceiling heights, floor plan, building envelope, and more. From there, you’ll know the cooling output you need. You can compare appropriate central AC options versus appropriate ductless mini-split options. You’ll also have a clearer understanding of what tax credits, rebates, and other energy incentives are available to you.
What to Do With the Ducts You No Longer Need?
If you decide to install a mini-split, you’ll need to decide what to do with your ducts. One option is to remove them. We can remove duct panels, mounting hardware, insulation, and more and recycle most of it. Another option is to seal them.
Sealing them prevents dust from building up and significantly reduces the chance of moisture and pest infestations. The other option is to keep them as is and use them for other purposes. Ducts are effective for adding mechanical ventilation, air purification, UV purification, dehumidifiers, and humidifiers.
An Alternative: Mini-Splits as Central AC Add-Ons
Mini-splits and central AC systems don’t have to be an either-or proposition. You can reap the benefits of both approaches by adding a mini-split to your current central AC system. Central AC makes it efficient to deliver consistent cooling throughout a larger home. You’ll benefit from the zoning in your bedrooms and other key living areas. You can also opt for zoning in those hard-to-cool areas, such as sunrooms and home additions.
Professional Ductless Mini-Split Installation in Greater Charlotte
Located in Mooresville, NC, Putnam Mechanical has been a local HVAC service provider since 2006. Our company is AHRI-certified, and we employ NATE-certified technicians. We are a proud Lennox Premier Dealer but install all mini-split brands.
The mini-splits we sell come with industry-leading warranties. We also stand behind our mini-split installations with a service guarantee and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call today or contact us online to schedule an in-home consultation for AC installation.
