Ductless mini-split systems, the wall-mounted units that can both heat and cool your home, are gaining in popularity. But like anything, there are pros and cons to weigh before deciding if one is right for your space. Here’s a closer look at their strengths and where they might fall short.

The Perks: Why So Many People Are Drawn to Mini-Split Systems

Of all the benefits ductless systems offer, there is none more attractive than energy efficiency. These systems do not depend on ducts to transport air, so there’s no energy lost because of leaky ductwork. With your standard-issue central AC or heating, air comes through a set of ducts. A lot of times, though, there’s some air loss before that air can reach the rooms in which it would be useful. Ductless systems actually blow air right into the rooms where the units are installed, which can wind up saving you money on your energy costs over the long term.

In addition, if you have a room that’s constantly warmer or cooler than the rest of the house, a mini-split system could be well-suited to you because it allows you to set the temperature for that room without affecting the entire house. It’s called “zone control,” and it can be an enormous comfort and energy-saver in households with a wide variety of heating (or cooling) needs. These systems are often simpler and cleaner to install compared to ductwork, which entails significant construction.

The Cons of Going Ductless

Though there’s much to like about mini-split systems, there are a few possible drawbacks that you should be aware of before making a decision. One major factor is what they look like. The indoor units hang on a wall, and they come in a variety of styles. However, they can still get in the way in your living space. Some people don’t mind, but others prefer to keep a lower profile with traditional vents.

The price can be higher up front, too, more than for a window air conditioner or even a conventional central AC system. This is particularly true if you need to install multiple indoor units to cover all the rooms in your home. So, while you may save some money down the road through reduced energy bills, the initial investment can be something to consider. In addition, as these systems are more complex than window units, you must trust maintenance and repairs to someone with specialized experience. Because of this, they could potentially be more expensive to fix if anything went wrong.

If you are unsure which heating and cooling system is right for you, contact an HVAC professional. Call the friendly experts at Sky Heating, AC, Plumbing & Electrical in Tualatin, OR, and we’ll be happy to discuss your options and help you decide if a ductless mini-split system is the best fit for your home.