When the weather in Central Texas turns hot and humid, nothing in your home is more essential to your comfort than your air conditioning system. That cooling comfort comes at a cost, however. If rising energy bills have you thinking about a new AC installation, summer is a great time to explore your options. Ductless air conditioning offers exceptional energy savings and is becoming an increasingly popular choice. These mini-split systems are engineered to deliver a complete comfort experience, and they can make your home a healthier place to inhabit as well.
No Ducts Required
The absence of ducts is the primary difference between traditional central AC systems and their duct-free counterparts. Instead of distributing air through a complex maze of ductwork, air is delivered directly into individual living spaces. This space-saving feat is accomplished by incorporating independent cooling components into each air handler. The compact blowers are then connected through conduit lines to a single outdoor unit. It’s an ingenious solution for homes where installing ductwork isn’t feasible, and it offers a number of additional advantages over conventional systems too.
Superior AC Efficiency
The efficiency of any cooling system is measured by its seasonal energy efficiency ratio, or SEER rating. The higher the SEER number, the less energy the system needs to consume to keep you cool and comfortable. One of the first things you’ll notice when comparing AC systems is that those without ducts have exceptionally high SEER ratings. The lack of ducts is one reason for this energy savings. Without proper ductwork repairs and services, ducted systems can develop leaks that can reduce system efficiency by as much as 30 percent.
Mini-split systems come with other features and functions that enhance AC efficiency too, including:
- Variable-speed motors that save energy by automatically adjusting operation to match your cooling needs
- Zoned air conditioning that means you don’t waste energy cooling unoccupied rooms
- Air handlers that can be positioned on the wall, ceiling or near the floor for optimal efficiency
- Multiple fan speeds that let you lower air velocity when cooling demands are low
- Individual remote controls that allow you to maintain different temperatures in different rooms
Cleaner, Fresher Air
We spend the majority of our time indoors, and that makes indoor air quality an important factor to consider when installing a new AC system. Numerous studies have shown indoor air is typically more polluted than the air outdoors. Floating around in the air you breathe is a mix of airborne particulates ranging from microbial growth spores and dust mites to animal dander and pollen. Indoor air pollution is a real concern for household members with asthma, allergies, or chronic respiratory conditions, but prolonged exposure poses a health threat to otherwise healthy individuals as well.
When it comes to indoor air quality, mini-split systems have distinct advantages over central AC systems. Forced-air systems not only circulate existing contaminants throughout your home but can introduce additional pollutants via leaky air ducts too. If the ducts become damp from high humidity or water intrusion, they can become a breeding ground for microbial growth, mildew, and bacteria. Equipped with advanced filtration systems, mini-split systems help prevent allergens and irritants from entering your home in the first place.
Ductless HVAC Solutions from Wood Comfort Systems
At Woods Comfort Systems, our wide selection of ductless products ensures that you will find the ideal system for your home — one that saves you money on energy expenses while enhancing your health and comfort. To explore all of your AC options, take a look at our air conditioning solutions or give us a call at 512-842-5066. Our HVAC experts will be happy to help you make comparisons and crunch the numbers to help you select the cooling system best for your needs and budget.
Image provided by Shutterstock
