Ductless central air conditioners or mini split-system air conditioners are different than the standard central air conditioning systems. Central air conditioning systems are usually installed by using existing ductwork or even adding ductwork when adding central air to your space. This makes for plenty of pros and cons when deciding whether or not ductless central air conditioning is right for you. Here is a list of the pros and cons to help you make your decision.
Pros
• Ductless central air conditioners are easier to have installed considering ductwork isn’t needed. The evaporator can be pretty distant from the condenser and the compressor as to make it more manageable when having it installed and to make it cool larger spaces.
• The sizes of mini split-systems are relatively smaller in size and come with several indoor units so that you can cool several different rooms within a space.
• You don’t need to use a contractor to purchase a ductless central air conditioner like you do with a packaged or standard central air conditioning unit. Mini split-systems are easily available, even for online purchase.
• Energy loss isn’t as big of an issue with ductless systems as it is with systems that need ductwork to cool throughout a space. The reason for this is that there aren’t any leaks where the cool air can seep out causing the system to work harder to cool the rooms.
Cons
• Ductless systems tend to be rather expensive. They cost quite a bit more than a packaged unit, not including ductwork and they cost nearly 2 to 3 times more than window units.
• Mini split-systems must be meticulously placed throughout the rooms as well as properly sized. Otherwise, it could be wasting energy and not cooling the space properly.
• Ductless systems are usually mounted on a wall, making them obvious to anyone in the space. This could be hindrance to anyone who cares about the décor of their room. There are some floor standing models available too, however they need to be placed in the open, clear from any furniture in order to cool your room properly. Therefore they are still in an open visible space.
• Finding a contractor to install the mini split-system may be difficult. Mini split-systems are relatively new and not all contractors that work with installing central air conditioners are qualified to install them.
Ductless central air conditioners are a great solution to those who want cool comfort throughout their home or space and you do not have any ductwork available for this central air conditioning to be installed. Although there is always the option of having ductwork installed, it could make the project even more expensive. Remember that mini split-systems are better when it comes to saving energy, so in the long run, you will not only be helping the environment but you will be saving money too. Hopefully be reading the list of pros and cons above, you will be able to make a sound decision on what is right for you.