When it comes to cooling your home, traditional central air conditioning isn’t the only option. Ductless air conditioning systems, also known as ductless mini-splits, offer a flexible and efficient alternative. But are they the right choice for every home?
At Hall’s Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration, we help homeowners choose the best cooling solution for their needs. Here’s a guide to when ductless air conditioning makes sense—and when it might not.
Ideal Scenarios for Ductless Air Conditioning
Ductless AC systems are made up of an outdoor compressor and one or more indoor air handling units, connected by refrigerant lines. Because they don’t require ductwork, they can offer precise and customizable comfort where traditional systems may fall short.
1. Homes Without Existing Ductwork
This is where ductless systems shine. If your home was built without central air and doesn’t have ductwork, installing ducts can be expensive and invasive. Ductless mini-splits allow you to cool your home without tearing into walls, ceilings, or floors. They’re a great solution for older homes, historic properties, or any home where adding ductwork isn’t feasible.
2. Home Additions or Converted Spaces
Have you recently added a new room, sunroom, garage apartment, or finished your attic or basement? Extending your existing ductwork into these new spaces can be costly and may affect the performance of your central system. A ductless unit can independently cool or heat the space without overloading your main system.
3. Zoned Comfort Needs
With ductless systems, you can install multiple indoor units in different rooms, each with its own thermostat. This is ideal for households with varying comfort preferences or for cooling only specific areas during certain times of the day. You get greater control and energy savings since you’re not cooling the entire home when it’s not necessary.
4. Energy Efficiency Goals
Ductless air conditioners are highly energy-efficient. Without ducts, there’s no loss of cooled air due to duct leaks—a common problem in older duct systems. Many ductless systems also come with high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings and inverter-driven compressors that adjust output based on demand, which can lead to lower energy bills.
When Ductless May Not Be Ideal
While ductless systems are versatile, they aren’t always the best solution for every home.
1. Very Large Homes
For large homes that require cooling across many rooms or multiple floors, a central air system may be more practical and cost-effective. While you can install multiple ductless units, the upfront cost can add up quickly. In such cases, a central system with zoning may be a better investment.
2. Homeowners Concerned With Aesthetics
Indoor air handlers for ductless systems are typically mounted on walls or ceilings. While modern units are sleek and low-profile, some homeowners prefer the hidden ductwork and vents of a traditional system for aesthetic reasons.
3. Limited Outdoor Space
Ductless systems require a place for the outdoor compressor unit. In situations where outdoor space is limited or noise is a concern, installing a mini-split system may be more challenging.
Professional Help Makes All the Difference
Choosing the right cooling system isn’t just about the equipment—it’s about the right installation and design. If you’re wondering whether ductless AC installation in Vivian, LA is right for you, let the local experts at Hall’s help. We’ve been serving Shreveport and the surrounding areas for years with top-quality HVAC services and customer-first solutions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover the best way to stay cool and comfortable all year long.
Hall’s Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration is here for your ductless and standard AC needs. Call the doctor of home comfort today.
