Some Baltimore homeowners are seeking heating and cooling systems that are more versatile and efficient. One system type that is gaining in popularity is ductless mini-splits. However, some homeowners may still wonder if a mini-split is the right choice. Let’s explore what mini-split systems are, how effective they are in Baltimore’s climate, and other key benefits.
How Mini-Split Systems Work
Traditional HVAC systems are commonly found in many homes. These consist of a network of ducts installed throughout the home that distributes warm or cool air. The ducts connect to a large exterior unit and often incorporate a separate furnace for heating.
As their name implies, ductless mini-splits don’t require a large network of ducts. Instead, you have one or more small, interior blower units that are installed in the home. These are connected to a small outdoor unit by refrigerant lines. Refrigerant lines are much smaller than ductwork. The unique design of ductless mini-split HVAC systems when compared to traditional HVAC systems gives them many distinct advantages.
Mini-Split Effectiveness in Baltimore
The climate in Baltimore can vary from summers that are hot and humid to cold winters. While some ductless mini-split systems are made solely for cooling a home, many systems can both warm and cool a home without the need for a separate furnace. This versatility of a ductless mini-split HVAC system is because the same process that is used to cool a home can be reversed to warm a home. For this reason, ductless mini-split HVAC systems can be very effective in Baltimore’s climate.
Benefits of Mini-Split Systems
The ability to both warm and heat a home isn’t the only benefit of a ductless mini-split HVAC system. There are several other advantages that they have over traditional HVAC systems. Some of these additional benefits include:
Improved Energy Efficiency
Ductless mini-split HVAC systems are designed to be more efficient than traditional systems. Traditional systems often lack efficiency due to heat transfer of poorly sealed and insulated ductwork. Additionally, ductless mini-splits use inverter technology that varies the speed based on heating and cooling needs. This creates a consistent operation that consumes less energy rather than the constant on-and-off cycling of traditional units. All this energy efficiency can be directly seen by lowering the costs of energy bills.
Better Indoor Air Quality
While traditional HVAC systems have some air filtration, ductless mini-split systems have multiple levels of air filtration that can help improve indoor air quality even further. The interior mini-split units each blow air. The lack of ductwork leading to interior units means there is one less place for dust and allergens to accumulate.
Easy System Installation
The extensive ductwork for traditional HVAC systems requires an installation process that can be slow and costly. Ductless mini-split HVAC system installation is much easier by comparison. Interior units need to be mounted to a wall or ceiling, but the mounting process is quick in most cases.
Compact HVAC Design
If you have a home where space is limited, ductless mini-split HVAC systems are ideal. The outdoor units are more compact and can often be mounted to an exterior wall rather than needing a large concrete foundation like traditional units. The refrigerant lines are smaller than ductwork and less invasive. Interior units are compact and often don’t take up much more space than a traditional vent.
Reduced Operational Noise
The variable speed of the inverter technology used in ductless mini-split HVAC systems helps them run much quieter. Additionally, interior units are almost silent. The overall reduced operational noise of a mini-split system can be useful to people who work from home or any occupants who are light sleepers.
Better Comfort Control
Traditional HVAC systems typically have a central thermostat that controls the comfort level of the entire home. Ductless mini-split HVAC systems have more personalized control for different parts of the home. The interior units installed in different zones throughout a home have independent temperature and airflow settings. This zone control allows occupants in different parts of the home to adjust system settings to their preferred comfort level. Additionally, if a zone is unused, that interior unit can be turned off and the door to that area closed for lower energy consumption.
Environmental Friendliness
The energy-efficient design of a ductless mini-split HVAC system combined with the ability to turn off unused zones makes it more friendly to the environment. Lower energy consumption lowers the carbon footprint of your household. If you are a homeowner who takes pride in being environmentally conscious, mini-split systems are an ideal choice.
Easier Maintenance
The design of ductless mini-splits allows them to be more easily maintained. One easy maintenance task is that air filters can be cleaned and put back in the interior units by homeowners instead of needing to replace the filters. Additionally, when professional technicians are required for routine maintenance, the lack of ductwork, ease of access, and efficient design make professional maintenance tasks easier.
Various Aesthetic System Options
There are various aesthetic options for interior mini-split units. Some can be completely recessed in a ceiling and look no different than a traditional vent. Wall-mounted units come in several shapes, colors, and other design choices to match your home decor.
Repair Costs Reduced
Another advantage of the efficiency of mini-split systems is that they typically need repairs less frequently. This is primarily due to a lower overall workload and reduced stress of components. While repairs may be needed over time, mini-split systems are also more likely to only need minor repairs due to the reduced system stress.
Longer System Lifespan
Reduced repair costs aren’t the only advantage of the lower stress of an efficient mini-split system. It can also increase the lifespan to last longer than a traditional HVAC system. Although mini-split HVAC systems may have a slightly higher upfront cost, the energy savings, reduced repair cost, and longer lifespan can make them a better cost-effective choice over time.
Additional Ductless Mini-Split Tips
As you can see, ductless mini-splits have many advantages that can make them a great choice for a home in Baltimore. However, here are some additional tips to consider:
Ongoing Maintenance
After having a ductless mini-split system installed in your home, scheduling ongoing professional maintenance is critical. Professional HVAC technicians will do regular tune-ups to optimize your system. If maintenance is neglected, your system will run poorly, and many of the listed benefits will no longer matter.
Home Insulation
Ductless mini-splits are efficient by design, but other things can be done to further optimize energy efficiency. Ensuring your walls and attic are properly insulated can help with unwanted heat transfer in or out of the home. Additionally, you can have professionals check your home for large potential air leaks that are also affecting HVAC efficiency.
SEER Rating
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It is essentially a rating for the energy efficiency of your units. A model with a higher rating will be more energy efficient and the associated efficiency benefits will also be increased. While models with higher SEER ratings typically cost more, the long-term efficiency benefits can make them worth purchasing.
Do you live in Baltimore, MD, or the surrounding area and want a ductless mini-split HVAC system installed in your home? At Your Service Heating & Cooling LLC is at your service. We are happy to help with new installations, HVAC upgrades, heating and cooling maintenance, and repairs. We also offer services to commercial clients. Financing options are available for customers after qualified approval. If you are ready to get a ductless mini-split HVAC system installed in your home, or you’d like to hear more information about our services, please contact At Your Service Heating & Cooling LLC today!
24/7 Services