Ductless HVAC systems (or mini-split systems) are efficient, provide consistent room to room comfort, and are aesthetically pleasing.

They are exceedingly energy efficient. In the average home, you are losing 25%-30% percent or more of your energy to ductwork. Simply by removing the ducts, you are left with a more efficient system. Ductless models also have inverter-driven compressors, which speed up and slow down based on the needs of the system, instead of shutting off entirely like traditional HVAC compressors do. Compressor start-up increases energy consumption.

A ductless heat pump or air conditioner typically consists of a wall-mounted indoor unit combined with an outdoor compressor. Ductless units are most often used where window AC units or baseboard heating would be appropriate, such as a newly constructed addition to a home. Unlike window units, ductless units require only a small hole to be drilled into the wall, making them less vulnerable to air leakage and security problems. In addition, they are less visible and audible. 

If you purchase an ENERGY STAR ductless model, you can save up to 30% on heating and cooling costs for the space in question. In addition, you may qualify for a federal tax credit and local utility incentives as well.

What is the Ideal Situation for Ductless?

Depending on your home’s construction, ductless systems can make sense in a variety of applications, including whole-house heating and cooling.

• New additions: garage apartments, bonus rooms, sunrooms, she sheds, and man caves.

• Downsizing efforts for larger homes.

• Adding AC to a house with no existing ductwork.

To install a single unit in a single room (assuming no complicated construction issues with your home), you may expect job completion to take approximately three to seven hours. Multiple rooms and/or tricky construction may increase installation time by up to one week.