Which One? Mini-Splits vs. Other HVAC Systems

When looking for a heating and cooling system for your dwelling, it’s critical to choose one that balances efficiency, functionality and budget. That’s why many families use mini-splits for comfort in their home.

Mini-splits—often referred to as ductless mini-splits—provide several advantages that make them an appealing choice for both homes and businesses. They're very energy efficient, lowering energy consumption and saving on utility costs, because they eliminate the energy losses associated with the ductwork found in traditional HVAC systems. They also enable users to customize the temperature in each room, enhancing overall comfort while conserving energy.

If you’re thinking about mini-split installation in Libertyville, it’s worthwhile to first determine if these devices are recommended for your living situation. Here, we’ll explore how mini-splits compare to other heating and cooling devices and appliances.

What a Mini-Split Is and How It Works

A mini-split, or ductless mini-split, is a heating and cooling system that does not use ductwork. It's often used in homes that don't have any air ducts and for homes with rooms that aren’t served well by the residence's existing HVAC system.

A mini-split system has two major components: an outdoor compressor/condenser and an indoor air-handling unit. The two are linked by a conduit housing the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing and a condensate drain.

Here's how it works: the outdoor compressor distributes the refrigerant necessary for heat exchange throughout the coils and the air handler. The indoor device pulls in air from the room, cools or heats it over the coils and sends the conditioned air back into the room.

Mini-Split vs. Central Air

Mini-splits provide targeted cooling in certain rooms or zones of your home. They are known for energy efficiency because they only heat or cool the areas you want. However, they sometimes don't blend seamlessly into every room due to their wall-mounted indoor units.

On the contrary, a central air system uniformly chills your entire home, keeping consistent comfort levels throughout. Its ductwork is tucked away in a mechanical room or closet, preserving the appearance of your home. However, it may not be as energy efficient as a mini-split, especially in bigger homes or residences where certain spots may not need nonstop conditioning.

Mini-Split vs. Window AC/Window Unit

Mini-splits are often more energy efficient and quieter than a window air conditioning unit and are useful for cooling air in multiple rooms. This is why mini-splits are a flexible alternative for numerous homeowners. They also utilize a form of refrigerant that is more eco-friendly, reducing their environmental impact. These devices can even add value to your home due to their durable nature and superior cooling capabilities. However, they come with a larger initial investment.

Having said that, window AC units are less expensive up front. They might be a good fit for homes that cannot accommodate a central Air conditioning system or for people with budget constraints. Even with these advantages, window units can utilize up to 40% more energy than ductless mini-split systems and typically make more noise.

Mini-Split vs. Portable AC

The answer to what is better, a ductless mini-split or a portable air conditioning unit, will depend on on your main concerns. If your main worries are energy efficiency and cooling capability, a mini-split is heads and shoulders better than a portable AC unit. However, if budget is a significant concern, a portable AC costs less.

Mini-Split vs. Gas Furnace

Choosing between a mini-split system and a gas furnace depends on a range of factors which can include the climate in your city, home size, energy efficiency needs and budget.

A mini-split system typically is more energy efficient than a gas furnace. It can heat and cool distinct areas inside of your home, delivering custom climate control in targeted rooms. Mini-splits also are for the most part quieter and have a higher up-front cost, but their operating costs are usually less due to their better energy efficiency.

Alternatively, a gas furnace can be a highly effective heating remedy, particularly in colder climates where mini-split heat pumps may not be able to maintain comfort levels in the bitter cold. Even though they are less energy efficient than mini-splits, gas furnaces likely have lower initial costs. However, their operating costs can be greater, especially if natural gas prices skyrocket.

Mini-Split vs. Heat Pump

Mini-splits and heat pumps use the process of heat transfer. They are both energy efficient, but a heat pump's duct system can be less efficient. That said, the choice between a mini-split and a heat pump often depends on a family's needs and circumstances.

For example, if you reside in a warmer climate and mainly need cooling, a mini-split system might be a better choice. On the other hand, if you want both heating and cooling and already have ductwork in your home, a heat pump may be a more efficient option.

Mini-Split vs. Space Heater

With regards to heating and cooling a home, mini-splits and space heaters each have advantages. However, for all around efficiency, versatility, comfort and safety, mini-splits come out on top. Mini-splits supply superior energy efficiency simply because they deliver conditioned air directly to different zones and can serve numerous rooms at once.

Space heaters are much less expensive to buy but are typically recommended for heating a confined area or an individual room. They also are usually less energy efficient. Unlike mini-splits, space heaters do not provide cooling. The most significant drawback for space heaters is the risk of fire. Industry experts say some 1,700 fires annually involve space heaters.