What Is Ductless Heating & Cooling? (Homeowners Guide)

When it comes to creating a comfortable living environment, few things are as important as an efficient heating and cooling system. Traditionally, central HVAC systems with ductwork have been the go-to choice for many homeowners. However, in recent years, ductless heating and cooling systems have gained popularity due to their numerous advantages.

What advantages, you ask? Well, they include:

  • Uniform temperatures
  • Quiet noise levels
  • Long-lasting and durable

But what is ductless heating and cooling, and what makes it the go-to system for homeowners across the USA? In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of ductless systems, understand how they work, and discuss why they are a compelling option for modern homes.

How Ductless Systems Work

Ductless HVAC systems, also known as mini-split systems, consist of two main components: an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units.

  • The outdoor unit houses the compressor and condenser, while the indoor units are responsible for delivering conditioned air directly into individual rooms or zones.
  • The indoor units are connected to the outdoor unit through refrigerant lines, which require only a small hole in the wall for installation.

Unlike central HVAC systems that rely on ductwork to distribute conditioned air, ductless systems eliminate the need for ducts altogether. Instead, they use a fan and evaporator coil in the indoor units to cool or heat the air directly, allowing for precise temperature control in each room.

Benefits of Ductless HVAC Systems

We touched briefly on the benefits of ductless systems in our introduction, but you’d be surprised to learn just how many benefits there are! Here are four of the biggest pros.

1) Zoned Comfort and Energy Efficiency

One of the primary advantages of a ductless mini-split system is its ability to provide zoned comfort. Each indoor unit can be controlled independently, allowing you to customize the temperature in different areas of your home. This feature is especially beneficial for larger homes or multi-story buildings, where different areas may require different heating or cooling levels. With ductless systems, you can avoid wasting energy and achieve optimal comfort in every room.

Moreover, since air does not have to travel through ductwork, ductless systems avoid the energy losses associated with leaky or poorly insulated ducts. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, duct losses can account for up to 30% of energy consumption in traditional ducted systems. By eliminating ductwork, ductless systems deliver air directly to the desired space, minimizing energy waste and reducing utility costs.

2) Easy Installation and Versatility

Installing ductwork can be a complex and expensive process, particularly in older homes or those without existing duct systems. Ductless systems offer a simpler alternative, as they require only a small hole in the wall to connect the indoor and outdoor units. This makes them an attractive option for retrofitting existing homes or adding climate control to specific areas.

The versatility of ductless systems is also worth mentioning. With a variety of indoor unit options, such as wall-mounted, ceiling-recessed, or floor-standing units, you can choose the design that best suits your aesthetic preferences and space requirements. Additionally, ductless systems can accommodate up to four indoor units connected to a single outdoor unit, providing flexibility and scalability for different areas of your home.

3) Enhanced Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality is a critical aspect of a healthy living environment. Traditional ducted systems can accumulate dust, allergens, and other contaminants within the ductwork, which are then circulated throughout the home. Ductless systems mitigate this issue by eliminating ducts, reducing the potential for allergen buildup, and improving indoor air quality.

Furthermore, many ductless systems feature advanced filtration systems that capture airborne particles, bacteria, and even odors, ensuring that the air circulating in your home is clean and fresh. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with respiratory conditions or allergies.

4) Quiet Operation and Aesthetics

Unlike window air conditioning units or central systems that can be noisy, ductless air conditioners are known for their quiet operation. The indoor units are designed with advanced technologies to minimize sound levels, providing a peaceful and undisturbed environment. This is especially advantageous in bedrooms, offices, or other areas where noise can be a concern.

Moreover, ductless systems offer a sleek and unobtrusive appearance. With their compact design and various installation options, they blend seamlessly into the decor of any room without taking up valuable space. Whether you opt for a wall-mounted unit or a concealed ceiling unit, ductless systems can complement your interior design choices.

Cost of a Ductless HVAC System

Ductless heating and cooling systems offer a range of benefits that make them a compelling choice for homeowners seeking enhanced comfort, energy efficiency, and flexibility. By eliminating the need for ductwork, ductless systems provide zoned control, energy savings, and improved indoor air quality. Their easy installation, versatility, quiet operation, and aesthetic appeal further contribute to their appeal. But is there a downside?

The biggest downside for most homeowners is the cost. The overall cost of a ductless mini-split system will depend on the overall size of your home. Because of this, average costs can vary widely from $2,000-$14,000.

Additionally, it is important to also factor in labor costs, as you’ll want an HVAC professional to assist you with the installation.

Get the Help You Deserve!

Ready to make the leap and invest in a ductless system? Aquarius Home Services can help! Our highly trained HVAC professionals can help install your new heating and cooling system to ensure maximum efficiency and longevity. Contact us today to learn more about our services!

Nicholas Kintigh
Nicholas Kintigh
1739846058
Wyatt was very knowledgeable and friendly. He seemed to know what needed to be done and explained everything.
Jodi Powell
Jodi Powell
1739844907
Great customer service!!!! I would highly recommend!!!!
Charlie Cremers
Charlie Cremers
1739835727
Justin from Aquarius Kincetico was great. He was very knowledgeable about our drinking water system, and our water softener system. He walked through everything with me. Thank you again for all your services
Diane Chaussee
Diane Chaussee
1739834775
Derk was so informative and always asked if we had any questions. He answered every question that we asked him. He was pleasant, knowledgeable, and very nice. It was a wonderful experience and we are so happy we have this system now to drink good water! Thank you!!!
Rod S
Rod S
1739831646
Very friendly and knowledgeable. Nick is a great representative of your company.
Jim Molitor
Jim Molitor
1739831493
Very knowledgeable and helpful
J Carroll
J Carroll
1739828599
On time, professional, and efficient. Ryan / Aquarius knows what he is doing!
kurt nyberg
kurt nyberg
1739827475
The people there are supper great and did a great job explaining what we needed to know about it and installing in the time he said
Greg Wax
Greg Wax
1739827456
Rena Shepard
Rena Shepard
1739827174
Anthony was very nice and patient with all. Did a great job and explained everything to me. Thank you
Robert Boyle
Robert Boyle
1739825454
Great and professional installation.
jane larson
jane larson
1739823632
Mike was very thorough and explained everything he was doing. He was a great representative of Aquarius Home Services.
Erik Johnson
Erik Johnson
1739818756
Great service
Maria Fernandes
Maria Fernandes
1739818541
Technician was awesome and did a great thorough job with routine maintenance and system inspection, including taking sensor measurement data at a ceiling vent. World-Class professional knowledge, talent, and technical skill. Thank you, Alec! We look forward to AC inspection in the approaching season, as well...
Gail Brandt
Gail Brandt
1739817675
Gordy provided great service.
Donna Kodet
Donna Kodet
1739810757
Great experience with work done today.Excellent explanations on systemThey were happy to make adjustments as requested. Highly recommend them
Andrew Blattner
Andrew Blattner
1739747698
Great service and experience! Andrew was awesome!
DAN KOLAND
DAN KOLAND
1739683557
Nick repaired our furnace on a Saturday night. He walked me through what was was wrong and had it working after a short period of time. Nick and Aquarius are the best! It would have been a cold night without them.
Christopher Sobraske
Christopher Sobraske
1739658824
Ryan Kahl did a phenomenal job! Extremely knowledgeable about our system and was able to answer all my questions. He was very professional and helpful especially with taking the time to make sure I was 100% confident in our system along with giving me helpful tips above and beyond our system. He really exceeded the value we expected from our service plan.
Corinne Klitzke
Corinne Klitzke
1739645858
Heather Reynolds
Heather Reynolds
1739644317
Max was very helpful!
Bill Enloe
Bill Enloe
1739570182
Pete Hayes
Pete Hayes
1739565324
Was a bit hesitant on keeping up with Kinetico!! But your two service techs ( Justin and Hannah)went above and beyond what I was expecting!! They spent so much energy and information related to my issues , making it a pleasant experience. Like I gained two new friends. Plus explained how a different service should take care further issues. Definitely would like to see them for my next service!!! Even got my wife back on board. Thanks again. Pete Hayes
Debbie Doyle
Debbie Doyle
1739561479
Aquarius came out this morning and replaced two toilets and did some plumbing work downstairs all in one morning. The plumber, Joe, was efficient, answers questions, provided helpful information, and was very friendly and personable. I will DEFINITELY use Aquarius again.
Matt Van Beusekom
Matt Van Beusekom
1739558449
Excellent and efficient work. Would definitely recommend!
Josey Dooley
Josey Dooley
1739557030
Amazing service!
Jessica Tracy
Jessica Tracy
1739556713
Gordon was very friendly and knowledgeable - makes the visit/process so much easier.
James M
James M
1739555300
After months of high water bills and feeling itchy, the Aquarius team came to the rescue. My 25 year old kinetico softener finally gave up and was constantly cycling. At the end of the service call we realized the old unit wasn't worth repairing. They sent out a salesperson the same day, providing a great range of options to fit my price point. My new softener arrived early so we were able to move up the install date. Install was flawless and we're back to having the softest water ever. I'm super happy with every interaction I've had with the Aquarius team. They are all super friendly, knowledgeable, and professional. I rarely leave reviews and only leave them when I'm really impressed. That's definitely the case with this company.
Brian Hagen
Brian Hagen
1739551834
Steve Sherwood
Steve Sherwood
1739551765
Great service. Prompt and knowledgeable
Peter T
Peter T
1739551605
Dirk did a good job communicating and installing the system. Recommend.
Nancy Lahmann
Nancy Lahmann
1739551066
Dylan checked boiler and did a thorough inspection. Very polite. He also knocked off a big ice chunk outside …extra service and much appreciated.
Ann Marie Haerter
Ann Marie Haerter
1739550777
Friendly, efficient, knowledgeable
Kenneth Schwebach
Kenneth Schwebach
1739498359
Great service tec! She was very knowledgeable and helpful.
Neal Kempel
Neal Kempel
1739497034
First, Aquarius responded to my interest in an RO system promptly. After deciding to commit to their solution, the installation, Including a water softner solution, it was scheduled the same week. Michael was the installer and he called when in transit and arrived right on schedule. We went over the work to be done and the placement of the equipment with only one issue that arose. The RO and water softener installation would not be a problem, but plumbing for the outdoor outlets would require additional material and labor, not included in the quote. I was looking forward to using the outdoor faucets without switching the system over. We elected to continue with the installation and Michael kept us informed throughout the day of his progress and completion time. He had everything cleaned up and provided us with a review of the system. To date, we are very pleased with the system and want to thank Michael for a great install. My only recommendation to Aquarius would be to take an additional step, during the initial meeting possibly, and physically look at the plumbing to ensure the quote covers all the materials to meet the customer request.
Jacqueline Garberg
Jacqueline Garberg
1739496644
Wyatt was thorough, considerate, a trusted service professional! Thank you!
Deb N
Deb N
1739489085
Tyler from Aquarius Home Services did a great job! He was extremely knowledgeable and helpful.
Jeffrey Ek
Jeffrey Ek
1739486327
The techs are always very cordial, explain what they are doing, and in and out as quickly as makes sense. Having said that, I’ve never felt that they rushed through their work.
Keith Wolff
Keith Wolff
1739485872
Everything was checked out and explained the tech was very informative would recommend them. Thank you!
Jessica Fisher
Jessica Fisher
1739484813
We have had our Aquarius services longer than a decade. During this time, the equipment has never failed us, but more importantly we have received absolutely outstanding customer service anytime we have needed anything. Today was no different, Wyatt came to our house to do our periodic inspection and was able to help troubleshoot a problem and find a solution the very same day. The entire time he was here, he kept his workspace, clean and orderly, and he was very polite and respectful of our home. The shocker came when he was about to leave and told me this was his fifth day On his own! Very impressed, not only with him as a person, but the quality of employees that come out out of Aquarius. Highly recommend this company.
Jane Ogren
Jane Ogren
1739484717
Friendly and knowledgeable
Mike Gunderson
Mike Gunderson
1739483907
I had an old furnace that was on its last legs and needed to be replaced ASAP.Day one: Service Tech arrived 2 hours after initial contact with Aquarius. Sales Rep arrived within an hour of the request. Deal was made and installation appointment scheduled for the NEXT DAY!Day two: Contacted by the installation team at 7:00 am. Arrived at 7:30. Finished up by 2:30.All of the staff that I dealt with were friendly, professional and great to work with. They explained everything very well. I was expecting to wait 2-3 weeks for a new furnace and A/C. This was all done inside of two days. I would 100% recommend Aquarius to anyone needing any type of home service.Tall Mike, Mike Sippel, Chris Oigard, Dave and Luke it was great to work with you. Thanks for everything!Oh, they like dogs too.
Katie Raymond
Katie Raymond
1739481339
Sue Ufheil
Sue Ufheil
1739471348
Colton was very professional and explained everything he was doing. Very happy with service today.
Jarrod Wieland
Jarrod Wieland
1739470866
James Grant
James Grant
1739469886
Wonderful experience with Andrew & Joey , installed new efficient electric water heater . Courteous , clean , efficient, highly recommended
Jeremy Ruth
Jeremy Ruth
1739468208
Justin and Hana were super friendly and they helped figure out an issue with our RO system. Great appt
James Dixon
James Dixon
1739466779
Creative problem solver, pleasant personality, efficient and cleaned up well.
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