Debunking 7 Myths About Ductless Mini-Split Systems in California, MD
By now, most homeowners in California, MD have at least heard of ductless mini-split systems. Unfortunately, multiple misconceptions about these HVAC options prevent more widespread adoption. Here’s the truth about six ductless mini-split myths to set the record straight.
1. Mini-Splits Heat and Cool Unevenly
One common myth about mini-splits is that they don’t heat and cool as evenly as ducted systems. In truth, mini-splits are just as capable as ducted systems and provide even heating and cooling. The key is making sure that your mini-split gets installed properly.
A common problem that harms mini-split performance is under sizing. If your home has a mini-split that’s too small for its comfort needs, it won’t heat and cool evenly. It’s important to realize that ducted systems suffer the same problems in similar circumstances.
2. Mini-Splits Make Too Much Noise
Older mini-split systems had a reputation for having loud outdoor and indoor units. Even though modern systems no longer make much noise, the reputation persists. Today, you’d be hard-pressed to be able to hear a mini-split running indoors, even at maximum output.
Most current-generation systems make at most 60 dB of noise outdoors at maximum. That’s about the same amount of noise you’d expect from the average refrigerator.
3. Mini-Splits Don’t Last Long
Another persistent myth about mini-splits is that they suffer from poor longevity. On average, you can expect a ducted AC to last about 15 years and a furnace about 20. Since mini-splits often replace both, it’s natural to worry about their longevity.
Today, you can expect a well-maintained mini-split to last about 20 years. Some will last even longer than that.
4. Mini-Splits Need Too Much Maintenance
Since mini-splits have more components than ducted systems, people often believe they also require more maintenance. In truth, a mini-split’s maintenance needs are hardly different from those of any other HVAC. The most significant difference is that you must clean multiple air filters periodically with a mini-split.
Like a ducted system, mini-splits require a seasonal maintenance visit from a professional HVAC technician. The costs for the visits are roughly the same, as are the tasks involved.
5. Mini-Splits Aren’t a Whole-Home Solution
For a long time, the most common type of mini-split most people would encounter served just one or two rooms. That’s because homeowners would use them alongside existing HVAC systems or to cover unconditioned spaces. That led to the myth that mini-splits can’t serve as whole-home HVAC solutions.
In truth, a single mini-split outdoor unit may support up to eight indoor units. And you can install multiple mini-splits to cover an entire home if necessary.
6. Mini-Splits Are Bad for Indoor Air Quality
One of the strangest myths about ductless mini-split systems is that they’re bad for indoor air quality. For whatever reason, people believe that ducted systems provide superior air filtration. In reality, the opposite is true.
With a mini-split, each indoor air handler has its own washable air filter. That gives mini-splits significant air filtration capacity. Plus, mini-splits don’t circulate air between rooms, preventing the spread of dust and allergens.
7. Mini-Splits Are Inefficient
Finally, one of the most consequential myths people believe about mini-splits is that they’re inefficient. The reputation might stem from their similarities to window air conditioners, which also serve individual rooms. This myth is entirely untrue, and mini-splits, in fact, offer multiple efficiency advantages over ducted systems.
One advantage is that mini-splits don’t suffer ductwork-related energy losses. Traditional systems may waste up to 30% of the energy they consume that way. And since mini-splits provide zoned heating and cooling, you don’t pay to control temperatures in spaces you’re not using.
The bottom line is that ductless mini-split systems make an excellent HVAC option for any California, MD home. If you’re interested in a ductless HVAC system, contact our experts at Hancock Refrigeration Heating & Air Conditioning today!
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