Ductless air conditioning, or mini-split air conditioning, refers to an increasingly popular cooling system that doesn’t require ductwork like traditional HVAC units. Ductless air conditioners use an outdoor compressor unit connected to one or more discreet indoor wall-mounted or ceiling units to cool specific zones in a space. They provide greater efficiency, customization, aesthetics, and installation flexibility compared to central air conditioning units. The following sections will overview everything you need to know when evaluating ductless air conditioning, including system types and costs.
What is Ductless Air Conditioning?
As the name suggests, ductless air conditioning systems do not use ductwork like traditional HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems.
Instead, they utilize:
- An outdoor compressor unit akin to a central air conditioner condenser
- An indoor wall or ceiling-mounted unit to blow cooled air into interior spaces
- A conduit running between the outdoor and indoor units containing power cables, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing, and a condensate drain
This split system allows different indoor fan coil units to be mounted in multiple zones as needed rather than forcing air through ducts throughout an entire structure. Systems can be single-zone with one indoor unit or multi-zone setups with several units connected to one outdoor condenser.
Benefits of Ductless AC
Ductless mini-split air conditioners are popular AC systems because they offer zoning, efficiency, flexible installation, and aesthetic advantages, which are appealing cooling options for many homeowners and builders alike.
Specifically, ductless mini-split air conditioning units offer many advantages over traditional central air systems, including:
- Greater Energy Efficiency: Condition only occupied spaces without wasting energy cooling unused zones.
- Zoning Control: Different areas can be cooled to different temperatures based on needs.
- Flexible Installation: Wall or ceiling units can be mounted easily in old and new structures.
- Quiet Operation: Fan coil systems operate more quietly than forced air.
- Improved Air Quality: Some systems filter allergens from the air.
With capabilities like custom zoning control, energy savings, and flexibility for new and existing structures, it’s clear why ductless systems have become a cooling option of choice for many.
What Types of Homes Are Best Suited for Ductless AC?
Ductless mini-split air conditioners are well-suited for a variety of applications, but excel when cooling:
- Older Home Retrofits: Homes lacking existing ductwork avoid expensive, invasive retrofitting using ductless. Wall or ceiling units can be flexibly placed to directly cool rooms.
- Contemporary Spaces: The modern, streamlined look of indoor fan coil units integrates seamlessly into new contemporary homes and additions.
- Multi-Zone Control Needs: Ductless allows custom control for homes requiring different temperatures across different rooms or zones.
- Tight Floorplans: In smaller homes, apartments, and condos where running ductwork is impractical, ductless AC provides targeted, out-of-the-way cooling.
Offering flexibility, multi-zone precision, and streamlined aesthetics, ductless air conditioning suits older and newer homes alike. Those needing custom control across different spaces see particular benefits.
Types of Ductless Air Conditioners
The ductless mini-split air conditioning marketplace contains an array of system configurations and technologies to consider when defining your ideal cooling solution. From zoning capabilities to efficiency features, choosing equipment aligned with your specific climate control priorities is critical for satisfaction.
Common ductless A/C system types include:
- Single-Zone Systems: One outdoor unit connected to one indoor fan coil unit.
- Multi-Zone Systems: One outdoor unit supporting multiple indoor units.
- Inverter vs Non-Inverter Units: Inverter systems finely adjust compressor speed for efficiency.
- Wall, Floor, and Ceiling Indoor Units: Different mounting options for indoor air handlers.
- WiFi-Enabled “Smart” Units: Systems with app connectivity and remote control.
Carefully investigating the range of ductless system types equips you to Select the zoning flexibility, efficiency level, capacity, and functionality ideal for your cooling needs and budget. Defining these parameters with contractors streamlines the equipment selection and installation process.
Ductless Air Conditioning Costs Overview
Ductless mini-split air conditioner costs are impacted by a variety of factors. According to Today’s Homeowner, you can expect to pay between $1,300 and $4,435 for the purchase and professional installation of a new single-zone ductless air conditioning system, with most homeowners reporting an average total cost of around $2,995. Naturally, if multiple indoor units are required across zones in your home, the overall system cost would increase accordingly based on the number of interior air handlers installed.
Additionally, the type of ductless AC unit impacts price. Basic wall or floor-mounted ductless mini-split units start under $2,000, while discreet ceiling-mounted systems cost up to $2,000 more in equipment and installation charges.
To understand true ductless A/C costs for your application, it’s important to consider several influencing factors covered in the following section. Read our guide on the Cost to Install Ductless Air Conditioning for more information.
Cost Factors to Consider
Several considerations impact the total installation cost when determining how much is ductless air conditioning for your space, including:
- System Type: Single vs multi-zone, non-inverter vs inverter, etc.
- System Sizing: Required BTUs for space size and climate
- Unit Styling: Wall mounted, floor/ceiling concealed duct, ceiling cassette, etc.
- Added Features: WiFi controls, remote access, air purification, etc.
- Installation: Professional installation recommended
- Brand: Pricing and quality varies between manufacturers
Carefully evaluating all these cost factors upfront is key to determining the total budget for a new ductless air conditioning system. Prioritizing the features and functionality that best meet your cooling needs rather than basing decisions on cost alone will help ensure you invest in an optimal long-term comfort solution.
Installation Considerations
Careful planning and execution of your mini-split air conditioner installation process also influences overall system costs. Typical installation considerations include:
- Electrical Upgrades: Depending on existing infrastructure, a new dedicated electrical circuit may need to be run for the outdoor compressor unit.
- Professional Installation: Paying for a certified technician is strongly recommended to ensure proper refrigerant charging, drainage, and sensor placement for optimum performance.
- Difficulty of Installation: Time and materials costs rise if installers face challenges like limited attic access, long conduit runs between indoor and outdoor units or extensive interior finish work.
- Permits: Your local permitting office often requires an application with system specs to ensure compliance with relevant codes. Permit fees vary by jurisdiction.
Accounting for mini-split AC installation factors during planning helps achieve your ideal ductless cooling solution fitting your total project budget.
Considering ductless air conditioning systems appear simple, some homeowners underestimate proper installation complexity. Attempting DIY ductless installs risks improper refrigerant levels, poor drainage, lack of permits, and forfeiting manufacturer warranties. Investing in a certified HVAC technician ensures your cooling solution functions properly for years to come.
Getting Quotes for Ductless AC Installation
Because exact ductless mini-split air conditioning costs vary widely based on the above factors, getting multiple competitive bids from qualified contractors to find the system and installation best suited to your space and budget is critical.
When getting ductless AC installation quotes, key questions to ask prospective contractors include:
- What level of experience do you have installing ductless systems?
- What brands and configurations do you recommend for my goals?
- Can you provide references from recent ductless AC installs?
Carefully vetting contractors on follow-up support and accessing expert guidance is key to getting satisfactory long-term performance from your ductless air conditioning investment.
The Logan Difference
When it comes to keeping your home comfortable, Logan Services A/C, Heat & Plumbing has been Greater Dayton’s trusted leader in HVAC solutions since 1969. Our experienced technicians have the expertise to install ductless air conditioning systems to deliver energy-efficient cooling properly. As a family-owned company, we treat every customer like family. Our caring culture and commitment to 100% satisfaction is evident in our 5-star reviews. The Logan Difference means unparalleled quality workmanship, fair, affordable pricing, and friendly, prompt service.
While DIY ductless installation may seem tempting, precision is vital in mounting the wall units, connecting refrigerant piping according to code, and charging the system properly for peak performance. Our NATE-certified professionals have extensive training and field expertise in placing and integrating all system components for optimal comfort and efficiency.
In addition to ductless system installation, we service all makes and models of air conditioners and furnaces. Let us handle all your indoor comfort needs! Our seasoned techs can provide maintenance and repairs for today’s advanced HVAC equipment.
Trust Logan Services A/C, Heat & Plumbing for your next ductless AC install and all heating and cooling needs. Contact us today or schedule a free estimate!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do ductless AC systems last?
With proper maintenance, the average lifespan of ductless air conditioners is 15-20 years for outdoor units and over 20 years for indoor fan coils.
Do ductless air conditioners cool well?
High-quality mini-split ductless AC systems provide just as much cooling capability as central air units or window ACs. Advancements like inverter compressors allow more precise temperature control with improved efficiency.
Can I install a ductless AC system myself?
While DIY ductless mini-split installation may seem feasible for a handy homeowner, professional installation is strongly recommended to ensure proper refrigerant charging, drainage set-up, and permitting and to qualify for manufacturer warranties.
What are common ductless AC problems?
If installed incorrectly, refrigerant leaks can occur. WiFi connectivity issues or drainage problems can also occasionally arise. Preventative maintenance helps minimize repair needs over time.
Do ductless air conditioners need regular maintenance?
Yes, like all cooling systems, ductless AC requires periodic maintenance for optimum performance and lifespan. Tasks include checking and cleaning air filters, clearing drain lines, confirming refrigerant levels, verifying fan operation, and cleaning coils.
How often should you service a ductless AC?
Annual inspections of both outdoor condenser and indoor units are recommended to check refrigerant levels, drain lines, air filters, fan operation, and overall functioning.
