Quick Takeaways
- With powerful cooling and heating capabilities and no need for duct work, ductless mini split systems are great for Pensacola’s climate.
- Mini split systems operate quietly and efficiently, making them ideal for homes without central AC and for room additions
- Mini split systems are a cost-effective option for older homes as well as for cooling sunrooms, garages and other warm areas in your home.
- With zoned heating and cooling, mini split systems save energy, lower energy costs and optimize your comfort throughout the year.
What Is a Ductless Mini Split System?
A ductless mini split system is designed with an indoor unit and an outdoor compressor, and it stands apart from a central cooling system in notable ways. The indoor unit and outdoor compressor are used to heat and cool a specific room or zone, so ducts aren’t required. Temperature is controlled via a smart thermostat or remote specifically for that room or zone.
Why Pensacola Homes Are a Great Fit for Mini Splits
Deciding which type of heating and cooling system to install in your home is a major decision, so you need all of the facts. What makes mini split systems great for Pensacola homes?
1. Hot, Humid Summers & Mild Winters
Pensacola’s humid, subtropical climate features hot, sticky summers and relatively mild winters. The long summer season and the high humidity means that you run your AC system throughout most of the year.
Even in the winter when the temperature is reasonable, you might still run your AC system simply to combat humidity. If the weather turns chilly, mini split systems also have heating capabilities. These systems provide zoned comfort and operate with peak efficiency to keep your energy bills lower.
2. Older Homes Without Ductwork
Many of the homes in Pensacola were built decades ago before central air conditioning systems were standard. While some local homes have been upgraded with a central heating and cooling system over the years, others have relied on fans and window AC units.
These homes lack ductwork. Installing ductwork throughout your home is a messy and expensive project. Because mini-split systems work without ducts, they are an affordable and effective alternative to a central HVAC system.
3. Home Additions & Converted Spaces
In some homes, the central AC system is simply inadequate. For example, upstairs rooms can get several degrees warmer than the first-floor rooms.
New additions, such as a sunroom or ADU, may require a cooling solution. If you spend time working in your garage, a separate cooling system can dramatically increase your comfort.
Top Benefits of Ductless Mini Splits
A ductless mini split system stands out as a superior option for many Pensacola homes because of its notable benefits. What are the top benefits of a ductless mini split system?
1. Energy Efficiency
Ductless mini split systems are small units that are highly energy efficient. In addition to having high SEER ratings, the ability to heat and cool specific areas of your home as needed allows you to save energy and avoid higher energy costs.
2. Zoned Comfort
Mini split systems control the climate in specific rooms or zones in your home. You don’t need to cool a space that you aren’t currently spending time in with a mini split system. In addition, if different people find comfort at different room temperatures, a mini split system can optimize comfort.
3. Easy Installation
While installing a central HVAC system is a long and invasive process, this isn’t the case with ductless system. Duct installation is unnecessary, so much ductless mini split systems can be installed in less than a day.
4. Quiet Operation
Ductless mini split AC systems are compact units that run quietly. They also don’t propel air throughout the entire home, which creates additional noise. The quiet operation enhances indoor ambiance and makes these units ideal for bedrooms and home offices.
5. Dual Function: Heating & Cooling
While chilly days are far less frequent in Pensacola than warm, humid days, a mini split system is more than an air conditioner. It features heat pump technology, so it had dual functionality. Whether you want the space warmer or cooler, a mini split system can keep the zone ideally temperate.
How Mini Splits Compare to Traditional HVAC Systems
The two main options to consider for home climate control are mini splits and a traditional HVAC system. Comparatively, a mini split has a higher installation cost, and this is largely due to the fact that you may require multiple units to cover your entire home.
However, this cost is recouped over the years because of how energy efficient mini split systems are compared to HVAC systems. In addition, the zoned functionality of mini split systems enhances energy efficiency as well as comfort throughout the house.
Plus, mini split systems are easier and more affordable to maintain. These is because the small system has two parts that are easily accessible. The lack of ductwork also decreases maintenance requirements for mini split systems.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
While there are extensive benefits associated with a mini split system, there are a few drawbacks that require consideration. While there are ducts with a mini split system, the interior component of the system is visible in the room. Today’s mini split systems have a low profile.
In addition, the initial installation cost is comparatively higher than with a central HVAC system. For larger homes, multiple mini split systems could be needed to do the same job as a central heating and cooling system.
Is a Ductless Mini Split Right for Your Pensacola Home?
A ductless mini split system offers substantial benefits, but it’s not the best option for all homes. This system is a smart choice for homes without existing ductwork as well as for homes with troublesome hot or cold spots.
Often, mini split systems are used in older or historic homes as well as homes with ADUs and add-ons. Because of how energy efficient they are, these systems are preferred by homeowners who are energy conscious.
FAQs
Can ductless mini splits cool my entire home?
Yes, a single ductless mini split system can cool a small home. Multiple units can be installed to cool larger homes.
Do they work well in Pensacola’s heat and humidity?
Absolutely. Today’s systems are well-suited for hot, humid climates like the Gulf Coast.
How long does installation take?
Most installs can be completed in one day, depending on the number of units.
Are mini splits noisy?
No. In fact, mini splits are quieter than central AC systems and operate at low decibel levels.
Do they require maintenance?
Yes, as is true with central HVAC systems, mini splits should be cleaned and serviced regularly,
Ready to Install a Ductless Mini Split system in Your Home?
At Pensacola One-Hour, our experienced technicians will help you stay comfortable and lower energy costs throughout the year with mini split installation service. We proudly serve our valued customers in Pensacola and surrounding areas.
You can count on us to treat your home and family with respect. We always do quality work, and we’re always on time or you don’t pay a dime.