Mini split ductless systems can be the perfect solution for many Maine homeowners looking to make more efficient use of their HVAC unit and save on utility costs. Unlike conventional ducted HVAC units, a ductless mini-split heat pump can efficiently cool or heat hard-to-reach areas in your home like bedrooms, three-season rooms and garages.

What’s more, a mini split ductless system allows for room-by-room temperature control, which means you can adjust the temperature for each room instead of having one thermostat for your entire home. Do you prefer the temperature in your bedroom to be a few degrees cooler than in your living room? A mini split heat pump allows each room’s occupant to set the temperature they prefer.

Are you curious about what a mini split heat pump can do for your home? Find out by calling Valley Home Services at (207) 945-9008 and scheduling a ductless heat pump installation consultation.

What Is a Ducted HVAC System?

Ductwork attached to a furnace and AC unit, commonly referred to as central HVAC, is a type of system which heats and cools an entire structure all at once. Multiple temperature control systems (like a separate air conditioner and furnace) can utilize the same ductwork to deliver heating and cooling throughout a structure.

A ducted HVAC unit is often controlled by a single thermostat. The thermostat runs the heating or cooling system as needed to maintain the temperature you set. For example, if you set your temperature to 75 and thermostat senses the indoor temp is rising above 75, it will turn on the air conditioner to remove the excess heat from your home.

However, the temperature where the thermostat is located isn’t necessarily reflective of the temperature throughout an entire home or structure. This can result in significant temperature variations in different rooms.

Some homes or buildings may have multiple units controlled by separate thermostats using the same ductwork system.

Ducted HVAC System Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Your home likely already has existing ductwork. If you decide to replace a furnace, air conditioner or heat pump the ductwork can likely stay the same and won’t require significant modification.
• A ducted HVAC unit provides consistent and reliable heating or cooling for your entire home.
• The system offers excellent air filtration and purification for your home. Air quality products like HVAC filters, humidifiers and dehumidifiers can be integrated with the system.

Cons:

• Since ductless HVAC systems heat and cool the entire home, you’ll likely be wasting energy and paying higher utility bills to heat and cool rooms or areas you don’t use.
• Your ductwork may require cleaning and occasional repairs, which means additional costs.
• If your home doesn’t have ductwork, installing central heating and air can be a costly and complicated endeavor.
• Ductwork can leak, resulting in reduced efficiency and temperature control performance.
• You don’t have the ability to easily control the temperatures of individual rooms. Attempting to adjust the temperature control of certain rooms by closing the vents can negatively impact a central HVAC system’s efficiency, put strain on the system and reduce its longevity.

What Is a Mini Split Ductless System?

Instead of heating or cooling your entire home, a mini split ductless system is designed to heat and cool individual rooms. The system doesn’t need ductwork since every room has its own air handler. It consists of two unit—an indoor head (up to eight heads can be installed in different rooms and zones within your house) and an outdoor condenser.

When the ductless heat pump is in heating mode, the unit will kick on when the temperature drops below what you have set on the thermostat. At that point the ductless heat pump will pull heat from the outside air and push it inside. The reverse occurs when it’s in cooling mode. The heat pump will move the heat from inside your home to the outside.

One of the reasons heat pumps are so efficient is they’re essentially moving heat rather than burning fuel to generate heat.

Mini Split Ductless System Advantages

• Mini split ductless systems are known for “zoning.” They provide targeted heating and cooling in specific rooms and areas of your home.
• They don’t waste energy controlling the temperature in unoccupied rooms.
• They don’t require the installation or expansion of costly ductwork.
• They will never suffer inefficiencies or poor indoor air quality due to duct leaks.
• Household members or occupants with different temperature preferences can adjust their room’s heat pump without impacting other people.
• Mini split ductless systems are easy to install and can run for decades as long as they’re properly maintained.

Is a Mini Split Ductless System Right for My Bangor Home?

If you’re interested in an energy-efficient way to heat and cool your home, a mini split ductless system may be the right option for you.

The team at Valley Home Services is here to discuss the best HVAC options for your unique space, needs and budget.

To schedule your appointment, call (800) 316-7815.