Ductless Mini-split System vs Traditional Central Air Conditioning/AC System
Many people think that a traditional air conditioning system, commonly referred to as central air, is the only way to go when they want to cool their home, but that’s not true! Ductless systems are another great option for both air conditioning and heat, and they’re becoming increasingly popular. However, making the decision between traditional central air or a ductless system isn’t always easy. What should you consider when you compare ductless AC vs a traditional cooling system?
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Zoning & Energy Efficiency
Zoning, simply put, is when you section off different areas of your home so that you have the ability to control the temperature in each section or “zone” separately. Essentially, instead of setting the entire house to one temperature, you have the ability to individually control temperatures by zone.
Current MASS Save rebates for ductless heating and cooling systems are averaging $3,000+, depending upon the system. For more information on current heating and cooling rebates, visit our rebates page.
But why are ductless systems so energy efficient? First, the ductless system has an excellent filtration system and a washable filter, so it is designed to run at peak efficiency. In a traditional central air conditioning system consumers often overlook the very important annual maintenance required to maintain efficiencies and often skip regular air filter changes. Also, ductless systems conserve energy because they’re specifically designed to cool (or heat) only the areas used, whereas many traditional central air conditioning systems waste energy cooling the entire home.
- Indoor Air Quality
The importance of indoor air quality should be a consideration for all of us, but is often a top concern for allergy sufferers. If you want an air conditioning system that provides exceptional air quality, ductless systems are an excellent choice. Ductless systems are powered by electricity (not fossil fuels) and the multistage filtration system captures and removes contaminants that trigger allergy and asthma symptoms. Ductless systems, often referred to as mini or multi-split systems also include a washable filter which with care, will last for a full 10 years. If you opt for a traditional air conditioning system, most will be equipped with paper filters so remembering to change the air filter regularly is very important, or air quality will be adversely affected. If a ducted central air conditioning system is your preference, rest assured there are air purifications products available today specifically designed for those systems as well. One such product is the Lennox PureAire System which actually cleans air as it circulates throughout your home. Whether you choose a ductless or central AC system, ask your Morris Comfort Advisor about indoor air quality, call us at (978) 961-0338 or contact us for a free estimate.
- Quiet
Many people aren’t bothered by the hum of a traditional air conditioning system. Window units are much louder and become quite bothersome. Ductless systems run at a decibel level similar to that of a human whisper, providing powerful cooling without any noise.
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Cost of Air Conditioning Systems
When you purchase an air conditioning system, it’s important to think about both the installation cost and the long-term costs. Cost is a difficult question to answer when comparing ductless vs traditional central air conditioning systems. The answer here would have to be, “it depends”…For some homes, it will clearly be less expensive to install a Mitsubishi ductless system. But in other situations, a traditional air conditioning system would be less expensive. It depends on the size and layout of the home and the desires of the customer. Do you want heat and AC in one room? Are you interested in a cooling only system? Are you interested in heating and/or cooling multiple rooms? Do you have a wide-open space or are the rooms separated off? Is your electrical up to code? This is why it is best to call Morris Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning of Ipswich, MA for a free estimate. There’s no pressure and you’ll get an honest opinion on the best solution for your home. For a free estimate on a ductless or traditional heating or cooling systemclick here
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Wi-Fi
Luckily, thanks to new advances in technology, both the traditional central air conditioning systems and the ductless mini split systems can be connected to Wi-Fi and controlled by a smartphone. So, if you are a high-tech person, we’ve got you covered.
- Aesthetics
Some people prefer ducted central air conditioning because they don’t like the look of Mitsubishi mini split AC systems and/or Carrier wall mounted units, or the exterior refrigerant lines that come with ductless systems. Although the exterior refrigerant lines are not required for new construction, and are often hidden along downspouts, some customers find them unattractive. Keep in mind that if you choose a ductless system, it doesn’t mean you have to detract from the design of your home. The new Mitsubishi ductless systems are now available in designer colors to complement your home including: Glossy Black, Glossy White, and Matte Silver. So, you do have options to keep cool in style.
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Heating and Cooling
While traditional HVAC systems provide air conditioning in one unit and heating in another, with a ductless system you have the option of heating and air conditioning in the SAME unit. For people who have that one room that’s always too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter, this can be very helpful. A sunroom is a perfect example. Ductless mini splits are often installed in sunrooms to extend the enjoyment of these beautiful rooms from an average of 3-4 months to year round. Increased comfort and increased home value, all typically accomplished with a one day installation of a ductless system.
- Simple Installation
While a traditional heating or central air conditioning system can often take multiple days to install and often requires construction to install or modify ductwork, many ductless systems are completely installed in one day! So if you’re interested in a cooling system with a fast and efficient installation, the ductless system is the way to go.
Should I choose a ductless or a central air conditioning system?
That’s a lot of information to digest! Although the ductless system is rising in popularity, there are situations where a traditional central air conditioning system is a better choice. Be sure to consult your Morris Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning Comfort Advisor to give you an expert opinion. Every day we install both traditional central air conditioning/AC and ductless/mini-split systems. Which will be the perfect solution for your home? Whether you choose ductless or a traditional central air conditioning system, you are in good hands. We are a Mitsubishi Diamond Elite Contractor and a Lennox Premier Dealer, which gives you additional warranties on both of these systems and peace of mind knowing that our staff is expertly trained on the full product line. So, the choice is yours, but let us help! For more information, please contact us at (978) 961-0338, or if you’d like us to contact you, click here.