Mini-Splits: Are They More Efficient Than Central Air?

Mini-split systems are a great way to keep your home cool during the summer. They’re less expensive than a central air system; they use significantly less energy and are much quieter. But are they better than central air? The answer is yes.

Mini splits are typically ductless heating and cooling units installed in an existing space. They utilize a refrigerant, which is circulated by a small compressor. They’re individually controlled or zoned; it’s possible to control the temperature in each room independently of the rest of the home. It’s also common to have a remote control that allows you to adjust the temperature from anywhere in the house.

WHAT MAKES MINI SPLITS MORE EFFICIENT THAN CENTRAL AIR?

Central air systems are prone to air leakage. There’s always a bit of duct leakage. This is because the ducts have been damaged by settling, shrinking, and expanding from temperature changes. Some refrigerant escapes during the off-season, which means you need a new charge for the system regularly.

ZONED COOLING

This allows you to adjust the temperature in specific rooms. For example, you could set the thermostats on your bedroom and spare bedroom lower than the rest of the house. It’s also possible to cool just one room at a time. This can be very useful if you rent out a room or if certain rooms are less used at different times of the year.

A mini-split system can control the temperature of each room individually. You can easily adjust the temperature of each zone separately and forget about the rest of the house when you’re running errands or out of the house to run errands.

IMPROVED AIR QUALITY

Poorly maintained ductwork can create unhealthy indoor air, whether the AC system is running or not. Dust and debris can be pulled through the ducts if a system isn’t being cleaned regularly. Even if you have central air conditioning, dust and debris from your household and mold spores from outside can find their way into your ductwork. This can become a health hazard if you suffer from allergies or asthma.

Mini-split systems do not require ducts, so dust, debris, and mold spores have no way to enter your home. This will help keep your indoor air quality higher than with older, central AC systems. Depending on where you live, this can be an essential consideration.

QUIET OPERATION

Since mini splits use a small compressor, they’re much quieter than central air systems. You won’t be able to hear them through the walls or the ceiling. Central air is prone to rattling and vibration.

This is because of the ductwork that runs through the walls of your home. Mini-split systems do away with this ductwork, so they’re much quieter than central air systems. The unit itself is smaller.

IMPROVED ENERGY EFFICIENCY

A central air system isn’t an energy hog. However, mini splits are even more efficient. They can provide you with the same level of comfort without requiring as much energy.

Most energy is lost through the ductwork in a central AC. This is because there’s a ton of ductwork in a central AC. This also means that there’s a ton of opportunity for air to leak out of the system and loss of energy through poor insulation.

With a mini-split system, there’s no ductwork. The system isn’t subject to loss of energy from the ductwork. So it’s much more energy efficient than a central air system. As long as the system is installed correctly and handled responsibly, the system can be very energy efficient for many years.

VERSATILE INSTALLATION

It’s easy to install mini-split systems because there is no need for ductwork. You can install them in a detached garage or your pool house. As long as an electrical outlet is nearby and the space has enough room for the system, you can install it anywhere. This makes mini splits one of the most versatile options for cooling your home without ductwork.

Mini-split systems are less expensive to install than central air systems. This is because they don’t require ductwork and don’t require as much work from an HVAC contractor.

In conclusion, mini splits are more efficient than central air because they don’t require ducts to circulate the air throughout your home. They’re also much quieter, easier to maintain, and energy efficient. You should consult a professional if you have questions about mini splits or getting a mini split installed in your home.

Contact Fire ‘n’ Ice Heating & Cooling, Inc. today for more information. We offer heating, cooling, and indoor air quality services to Downers Grove, IL residents.