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Is Ductless AC System Worth It? Pros and Cons of Mini-Split Units

Image of Amanda Triolo - CEO of Grasshopper
Amanda Triolo, CEO of Grasshopper Heating & Cooling
Published October 20, 2022

Your Clifton Park home should be an oasis of comfort, and your HVAC equipment works hard to maintain optimal temperatures. Surprisingly, heating and cooling can be a cause of major arguments in homes.

Some people have a higher or lower heat tolerance. Traditional heating and cooling systems make it impossible to please everyone. You get one constant temperature for the entire home. Fortunately, ductless mini-splits can bring these arguments to an end. But are ductless mini-splits worth the money?

Let’s discuss the pros and cons of ductless mini-split systems in this guide.

What Are the Pros of Mini-Split Systems?

Many homeowners in Clifton Park and the surrounding areas know that their heating and cooling equipment needs to be energy efficient and environmentally friendly. Because of their energy efficiency, ductless systems are becoming the most installed HVAC systems. They also offer tons of other benefits.

Tailor the Temperature of Each Room

The chances are that there is a room in your house that never seems to get to the ideal temperature. It gets too cold during winter and too hot during summer. It might be a basement, man cave, sunroom, spare bedroom, home extension, or attic. A mini-split system is all you need to create a more livable space in your home.

Flexibility

Unlike conventional HVAC systems, mini-split systems can add more flexibility to controlling your home’s temperature. Depending on how many zones you choose, each family member could set the desired temperature in their rooms. You can also reduce the heating and cooling that goes into parts of the house that see little use.

Energy Efficiency

Ductless mini-split systems are designed to be more energy efficient than conventional systems. For instance, most mini-splits use inverter technology to regulate how hard your system works. As a result, these systems use minimum energy to provide consistent heating and cooling throughout the year.

On average, central air conditioners use around 3,000 to 3,500 watts per hour. In contrast, mini-split air conditioners use about 2,000 watts per hour. Beyond that, the SEER rating of mini-split systems is between 16 and 22, while central air conditioners have a lower rating.

Better Humidity Control

These systems can also control humidity to improve indoor air quality in your home. Some mini-splits have a dry mode that you can use to remove excess moisture from the air. Removing that mugginess from your home can make it more comfortable and prevent mold and mildew growth.

Range of Styles and Sizes

Mini-split systems come in various styles, sizes, and shapes to fit your home’s unique needs. You can choose between wall-mounted mini-splits and ceiling cassette systems. Wall-mounted systems are perfect if you want to heat or cool a wide area. On the other hand, ceiling mount mini-split systems are ideal if you don’t have wall space. It is also the best choice to hide the intrusive unit from view. You can also opt for a concealed mini-split system for a more discrete appearance.

Ductless

Mini-split systems don’t use ductwork to distribute cool or warm air throughout your home. You won’t have to deal with expensive and time-consuming ductwork maintenance. You also won’t lose conditioned air through leaky ducts.

Easy to Install

Since mini-splits don’t use ductwork, they are easier to install than ducted HVAC systems. However, the installation process is not so easy to be considered a DIY project. It still requires the expertise of trained technicians.

They Are Quieter

Mini-splits have lower decibel ratings than conventional systems. Some brands run as low as 19 decibels. For context, a ticking watch is 20 decibels, and a whisper is 30 decibels.

What Are the Cons of Ductless Mini-Splits?

Like all your home comfort equipment, your ductless mini-split system also has its fair share of drawbacks.

They Cost More Upfront Than Traditional Systems

One of the drawbacks of mini-split systems is that they cost more upfront than traditional systems. For instance, a central air conditioner costs around $3,500 to install, while a mini-split system costs more than $5,000 per zone.

They Might Be Less Attractive

Since mini-split systems are installed indoors, they can be less attractive than conventional systems. Fortunately, homeowners can install concealed and ceiling-mount mini-splits for a more discrete appearance.

Ready to Go Ductless and Save Money?

Whether you are tired of dealing with a ducted HVAC or looking for a reliable system for your new home, the technicians at are ready to help. Count on us to help you explore different mini-split systems on the market and provide reliable installation for optimal performance.

Our technicians also provide reliable heating and AC repair, installation, and maintenance. We are also the trusted experts for indoor air quality services. Contact today to learn more about our services.


Image of Amanda Triolo - CEO of Grasshopper
Amanda Triolo
Amanda Triolo is the CEO of Grasshopper Heating & Cooling, a rapidly growing HVAC company based in Albany, New York. She leads by focusing on creating opportunities that positively impact both employees and customers.

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“Love Grasshopper! They did an awesome job! When we had an issue they came out the same day, did a quick fix and got us back up and running during a heat wave. Courteous and clean service. Everything from our first meeting to installation of mini-splits – all great experiences! 10/10 would recommend.”

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“Tyler and Peter just came to my home. I was having problems with my air conditioner. They appointment was made quickly. They called before they came out. Diagnosed the problem and resolved it. They were professional and explained what the problem was. The pricing was fair and affordable. I definitely recommend Grasshopper”

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