Frequently Asked Questions About Ductless AC Systems

When choosing an air conditioning system for their home, homeowners want to be certain that they invest in the most dependable and efficient model.

Central air conditioning can be a perfect choice for most homes. If, however, you live in an older home that does not have ductwork, installing a central AC could be a costly and time-consuming affair. Instead, consider installing a ductless AC system.

When thinking of installing a new ductless AC system, homeowners have several questions about ductless systems and as an air conditioning installation company in El Dorado Hills, we try to answer some of our most frequently asked questions about ductless AC systems. Check out this list to gain information about ductless systems.

What is a ductless system?

As the name suggests, a ductless system does not need ductwork to control the temperature in your home. A ductless system is composed of an outdoor heat pump and an air handling unit which is installed inside the home.

The indoor and outdoor unit is connected to each other by wiring and refrigerant tubing. Installing a ductless air conditioning is relatively simpler than installing a ducted system. A ductless system can help save space,allows for zoned temperature control, improves indoor air quality and is highly efficient.

How does it work?

Ductless AC systems work in the same way as traditional heat pumps, but, unlike heat pumps, they do not use ducts. In the warmer months, the warm air is allowed to pass over evaporator coils. Evaporator coils contain refrigerant that absorbs heat from the warm air and directs it to the outdoor unit and then out of your house.

During the heating season, the process is reversed. The outdoor unit absorbs heat from the outside air. It then passes through the refrigerant line and then to the air handler unit, which blows the warm air into your house.

How much does ductless system installation cost?

The cost to install a ductless system depends on a number of factors such as the number of air handlers and indoor units used. The more the number of air handlers, the higher the cost.  Another factor that affects air conditioning installation costs in El Dorado Hills is how easy or difficult the system is to install.

 How long do ductless systems last?

With proper maintenance, a ductless system can last 10 to 30 years. How long your system will last depend on a number of factors such as how long you run it, whether you keep on top of maintenance, how it was installed and quality of ductless system equipment.

What are the advantages of a ductless system?

There are several benefits of ductless systems. Ductless systems are easier to install than other traditional ducted systems. Because ductless systems do not have ducts, they avoid the energy loss associated with traditional ducted systems.

So how much more efficient is a ductless system than a traditional ducted system?

Studies have shown that a ductless system can help reduce energy waste by up to 30% compared to a traditional system with ducts.

How is a ductless AC system installed?

To install a ductless AC system, first drill a hole in your wall. The hole should be two-three inches in diameter. It will be covered by the outdoor unit once it has been mounted.

After you have drilled the hole, mount your outdoor unit outside your house and the indoor unit inside your house, near the ceiling. Use a conduit that contains a power cable, a condensate drains and the refrigerant line to connect your indoor and outdoor units.

You can choose a unit that can be suspended from the ceiling or hung on a wall. There are units that stand on the floor.

Their position can be changed as needed. Ductless systems manufactured these days offer quiet operation. If you want to reduce your heating and cooling costs, you can use a ductless system to heat or cool only the rooms that you use.

What is zoned heating and cooling?

A basic ductless system is capable of heating and cooling select areas. This is known as zoned heating and cooling. Install an air handler in every room you want to heat or cool. These rooms will be your zones.

Heating and cooling your house in zones is a great way to eliminate hot and cold spots and reduce your heating and cooling costs as the system heats and cools only those areas that are being used.  When you create zones, a ductless AC system allows every member of your family to control the temperature in their room.

When to install a ductless AC system?

Ductless AC systems are ideal for homes with no existing ductwork and homes that do not have enough space to install new ductwork. A ductless system can be used to heat and cool an area that is not connected to the central air distribution system, Typical examples include a recently built attic or basement.

You can also install a ductless AC system if you are planning to add new rooms to your home and the cost of upgrading the existing central system is too high.

How are ductless AC systems controlled?

Some AC ductless systems have a built-in control panel on the air handler to adjust temperature and settings. Advanced models include a remote for every air handler unit that can be used to control it remotely.

Can I install a ductless AC system myself?

Though installing a ductless AC system is easier than installing a traditional ducted system, we recommend against taking the DIY route as you will need to run refrigerant lines, wires and condensate lines-tasks that need specialized knowledge.

South Placer Heating and Air is a leading air conditioning contractor serving El Dorado Hills. We have extensive experience installing, repairing, and maintaining different types of air conditioning systems. To make an appointment, call (916)246-2089.