Ductless heat pumps save time and expense for the homeowner
Ductless heat pumps are all-in-one heating and cooling systems that do not require ductwork to be installed. This makes them a good choice for homes that require only a small space conditioning system and for room additions wherein installing or extending ductwork is not feasible. There is a lot you need to understand before you decide to invest in this type of system. In this post, we will talk about ductless heat pumps in detail.
How do ductless heat pumps work?
Ductless heat pumps are sleek and super-efficient appliances that comes in two separate units-an indoor unit with an evaporator and an outdoor unit with a compressor and condenser. They work by taking warm air from one location and moving it to another. These systems are either single-zone or multi-zone systems depending on the number of units installed.
The indoor unit is mounted on an inside wall and it spreads conditioned air across the room. A hole through the wall carries refrigerant line, suction tubing, power cable, and a condensate drain line, which connects the indoor unit to the outdoor unit.
Heat is transferred through a cycle of evaporation and condensation. The refrigerant cycles through the system via a compressor pump. Each ductless heat pump has two heat exchanger coils- one condenses the refrigerant and the second evaporates it. During the evaporation process, the refrigerant absorbs heat from its surroundings. On the other hand, the condensing process releases the heat that was absorbed.
Benefits of ductless heating system
Versatility: A ductless heat pump provides both cooling and heating without the need of ducts. Ductless systems are a great choice for homes that do not have space for ductwork. A single air conditioning system can keep you comfortable throughout the year.
Easy installation: Ductless systems can be easily and quickly installed anywhere in the house including rooms with no windows or in new home additions. It only requires drilling a small hole in the wall through which pipes and cable can pass. Installation can be completed in a day.
Cost effectiveness: Ductless systems are smaller in size, so they operate on less power compared to other systems. Also, these heating systems allow homeowners to create zones in their homes. So, they do not have to heat or cool the rooms that are not being used. This also translates into energy and money savings.
Energy efficiency: Ductless heat pumps are more energy efficient compared to other types of HVAC systems because they do not produce heat. Rather, they move heat from one place to another. Also, since there are no ducts, these heat pumps avoid energy losses associated with ductwork. These losses can account for 20 to 40% of energy consumption, especially if the ducts are located in an unconditioned space such as attic.
Better air quality: Microorganisms and other allergens tend to grow and thrive in a home’s ductwork. Since there are no ducts in a ductless heat system, this problem does not arise. Better air quality could mean easier breathing and less allergies for you and your family.
Disadvantages of ductless heat pumps
Aesthetics: Some people may not like the appearance of the indoor unit. It may not blend as seamlessly with the interiors as a central system does.
Correct sizing: It is essential to correctly size each indoor unit and place it at the right location. If the air handlers are located incorrectly and are oversized, it can result in short cycling and wastage of energy.
Considering a ductless heat pump for your home? Get in touch with our HVAC professionals. We will thoroughly inspect your property and recommend the best system for you based on your needs and budget.
