Based on the mild winter and warm spring we’ve had in Minneapolis, it seems likely we are facing down a steamy summer.  You may be considering the installation of a new air conditioning system to ensure you are prepared to spend the summer in a comfortable, cool home. If that is the case, you may be wondering the difference between the various types of air conditioners on the market and how you can decide the best fit for your home.  Today we’ll focus on the benefits of a ductless air conditioning as compared to a central air conditioning system.

• Lower cost, quicker installation: Because a ductless system does not require insulated ductwork, less time is required for installation, which lowers your costs when compared to installing central air.

• Set different cooling temperatures for each room:  This is what’s called a mini-split system. You can set the thermostat at a constant comfortable temperature instead of listening to a traditional window unit blast on and off. Also, you don’t have to move a spilt system in and out of the window as the seasons change. The variable speed compressor adjusts itself to the temperature in the area you want to heat and cool. For example, one condenser can cool up to eight rooms, all individually temperature controlled. If you shut down two units, the condenser adjusts itself, saving electricity and reducing your energy bill. Having your heating and cooling coming from one system saves you money too. No furnace; no electric heater.

• Better air quality: Air quality can be much better compared to a duct system, especially if you live in an older home and haven’t had your ducts vacuumed regularly.

Sometimes it makes more sense to install a mini-split system than to extend your existing air conditioning, such as with a room addition or an enclosed patio. Your current air conditioning may not have enough power to push the air to this additional room. For the greatest efficiency safety, we recommend that you run your ductless air conditioning on 220/240 volts and provide a dedicated electric line that only powers the heat pump.

While a split system may require more maintenance than single-box central air conditioners, the cost savings and convenience of this ductless air conditioning may outweigh any advantages to central air conditioning.

If you need service on your heating or air conditioning system, call Welter Heating and Air Conditioning 612-825-6867 for service or installation.

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