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Is a Ductless Mini-Split Right for Your Home?

ductless mini split

Are you looking to improve the heating and cooling system in your home?

If you’re searching for a convenient way to heat and cool your home, a ductless mini-split is a great option. It’s an energy-efficient solution that offers convenience, flexibility, and safety.

What is a ductless mini split?

Ductless mini splits are HVAC systems that appear as wall-mounted fixtures on your wall that you can adjust to blowing hot or cold air into the room—serving as both your heater and air conditioner. The great news for owners of older, more historic homes without ductwork is that they don’t require ductwork.

Most ductless mini-splits include an outdoor compressor and an indoor air-handling unit connected by refrigerant tubing and electrical wiring.

These HVAC systems are called single-zone systems, designed to heat and cool specific areas of your home. There are several styles of indoor units, and installation only requires a single hole in the wall.

This also makes it an excellent option for homes without room to install a traditional HVAC unit due to space constraints.

How does a ductless mini-split work?

The two components of a ductless system work together to provide heat and cool air. The outdoor unit is placed near your home outside, and the indoor units it serves are typically installed in the ceiling or mounted on the walls of each room in your home.

Cooling function

The indoor units are directly connected to the outdoor compressor and push conditioned air directly into the living space—and each indoor unit can be independently controlled.

Heat pump function

Ductless mini splits also heat your home. Heat pumps are designed to use the existing heat energy in the outdoor air (even on the coldest days) and transfer it inside.

Ductless mini split frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Replacing your HVAC system can seem daunting. Here are some of the most common questions we hear about ductless mini-split units:

Q: Do ductless mini splits increase home value?

A: Yes! Ductless mini-splits are becoming increasingly popular as people look for more efficient ways to heat and cool their homes. They save money on energy bills and add value to your home when it comes time to sell it because buyers know they are getting an energy-efficient system installed in their new home.

Q: How loud is a ductless mini split?

A: Most ductless mini splits are relatively quiet when running, typically making only around 45 decibels—about as loud as normal conversation or background music. This makes them ideal if you want something quiet enough not to disturb you while you’re working, watching TV, or sleeping in your bedroom at night.

Q: Do I have to mount the mini-split on my wall?

A: No. If your home has an existing duct system, you could opt for a concealed duct mini-split. This mini split type uses ductwork to circulate air throughout the house from an indoor air handler in a hidden area such as an attic or crawl space.

Q: Can a mini-split be hidden?

A: One advantage of ductless mini splits is that they’re compact. This means it’s pretty easy to have a hidden ductless mini-split in the corner or behind a piece of furniture (as long as it’s not blocking the airflow). Some places to consider hiding a ductless mini split include a recessed wall, a custom-built bookshelf, or hiding it in the ceiling.

Q: How Many square feet is a mini-split good for?

A: The most commonly installed size ductless mini split is a 12,000 Btu, which will heat and cool approximately 450 to 500 square feet. Depending on the size of the room in question, you may need a smaller or larger unit.

Q: How much does a mini split cost?

A: Such systems typically cost between $2,000 and $14,000 to install, depending on the size of your home and how complicated the installation is. Right now, there are fantastic incentives, too. Homeowners who purchase a qualifying high-efficiency mini split system receive a 30% tax credit up to $2,000 and, depending on their income level, qualify for rebates up to $8,000 for the purchase of their system.

Installing a ductless mini split in your North Carolina home

Investing in a ductless mini split for your home could be one of the best decisions you ever make! They provide efficient climate control all year round. They are much quieter than other types of HVAC systems while still providing superior comfort thanks to their customizable temperature settings per room feature.

In addition, they may even help increase your home’s value when it comes time to sell! So, if you're looking for an efficient way to condition your home's air while saving money on utility bills, consider investing in a ductless mini split. The team at A+ Heating & Cooling – Electrical is here to help. Call us at (910) 600-6025.