Ductless Mini-Splits
The Mini-Split functions similarly to the Traditional Heat Pump, Air Handler system, as it is electric and provides both heating and cooling. The key difference is that it is ductless, with the air handler typically wall-mounted in the room it serves.
Mini-splits can also be used for cooling-only if your home already has a heating system (e.g., radiators or a fuel-sourced furnace). Similar to a Traditional Heat Pump, Air Handler system, it includes an outdoor compressor unit and an indoor wall-mounted air handler. The outdoor unit can connect to multiple air handlers to serve several rooms, if equipped.
Ductless Mini-Splits are perfect for new home additions or older homes where installing traditional sheet metal or flex ducts is challenging due to space limitations.
PROS
- Compact exterior units connect to a single indoor wall-mounted unit (or more, if equipped) without ducts. The units are linked by conduit housing the refrigerant lines.
- Indoor air-handler settings are controlled via the wall-mounted thermostat and/or a remote control.
CONS
- In colder climates, the heating capacity may be limited.
- Mini-splits are more compact but typically cost more than ducted systems.