It’s not easy to choose an AC unit that will satisfy all your needs. That’s why it’s essential to do your research before deciding on a unit thoroughly. If you consider installing a ductless mini-split, you should first read about the most common myths and misconceptions about this kind of AC unit.
A ductless mini-split could be an excellent solution for you if you search for a new AC unit. But due to much misinformation surrounding them, be sure to read more about them before deciding to be sure that a mini-split is the right fit for you.
What Is a Ductless Mini-Split?
We should first introduce you a little more to mini-split units before we dig deeper into the myths surrounding them.
Ductless mini-split is a type of wall air conditioner. It is a heating and cooling system that lets you individually control the temperature in each room you have one mini-split installed.
They consist of an outside and an indoor unit installed on the wall. They don’t need any ducts to work, so they are perfect for homes without ducted heating systems.
These AC units have many advantages and minor disadvantages and are perfect for residential buildings, small apartments, offices, or as an addition to particular rooms in your home.
Myths About Ductless Mini-Splits
You may have come across various myths and misconceptions about this type of wall air conditioner, but these are the most common:
- It costs more than other AC units
- It requires more maintenance
- It can’t provide enough comfort as other models
- It’s not energy efficient
- It’s only good as an add-on
It Costs More Than Other AC Units
Many will tell you that a mini-split costs more than other AC units and that the installation costs are often higher. It is a misconception, and you shouldn’t jump to conclusions when you hear this.
If you live in a small apartment or only need a unit for a room, a mini-split is an excellent choice. And by that, we mean that it’s not expensive, and the installation costs are much lower than installing a complete HVAC system or replacing an old one.
Sometimes the cost of a mini-split can add up if you want to install one unit in every room of your house, and it definitely is not a cheap option for larger spaces. Still, it doesn’t require a ductwork system, so it’s often a good option.
A ductless mini-split is cheaper for small spaces, and it doesn’t cost more than other units. However, if you need a system that will cool off/warm up a large area or multiple rooms, you should skip mini-split because the installation cost can add up.
It Requires More Maintenance
Every HVAC system requires maintenance, and you shouldn’t skip on regular maintenance if you want your system to work perfectly. You should change air filters on every unit, no matter the type, and you should also care for them. It doesn’t matter what kind of AC you have; maintenance is required. And it’s not true that wall air conditioners require more maintenance than a traditional HVAC system.
It is more precise to state that an HVAC system requires more maintenance and work because parts of the unit are not as accessible as the ones of a mini-split.
It Can’t Provide Enough Comfort as Other Models
Some would say that a small wall air conditioner can’t provide enough comfort for you in your home as other units that are available on the market. That statement can be accurate, but it depends on the context. Everything always depends on your needs and the size of your space.
The primary purpose of an AC unit is to make you feel comfortable in your home when the weather is not so lovely outside. It doesn’t matter if the outside is scorching hot or it’s a bit chilly; your AC needs to provide you with a pleasant environment inside your home. And if it doesn’t do that, it’s not fulfilling its purpose.
So, does it provide enough comfort as other models for ductless mini-split? In some situations, it can provide, while in others, it can’t. Again, if you are trying to cool off a small space, a studio apartment, your room, or small office space, a mini-split can be a great option, and it can provide you with enough comfort. It can do a great job and keep you comfortable in your space. If you are trying to use it in a bigger space or area, in that case, it can fail you.
But you still can’t claim that a mini-split can’t provide enough comfort in every possible situation. So, again this is another common misconception.
It’s Not Energy Efficient
There is a common misconception that a mini-split system is not energy efficient, mainly when used in houses with a unit in every room. Some say that a ductless mini-split will waste a lot of energy, but that’s not true. A question that’s often asked in this context is should I leave my mini-split on all the time. And the answer is you should, even if that sounds a bit strange. It is the most efficient way to run a mini-split because it was built to use less energy when it runs continuously. It’s easy to set it to auto mode, and you don’t need to think about it, even if you are away. A significant advantage of a ductless AC unit is that you don’t need to use every single unit in every single room all of the time, as you need to do with a central system. And like that you also save energy.
Now you know that a mini-split wastes less energy than a traditional central AC system and is considered the most efficient way to run a mini-split. You also know the answer to a commonly asked question, should I leave my mini-split on all the time.
It’s Only Good as an Add-on
The last myth that we wanted to address is that mini-splits are only good as add-ons. Yes, they are great as add-ons because they don’t require complicated installation or ductwork. But they are also great as your only choice of an AC. They’re easy to install, affordable, don’t require ductwork, and are energy efficient.
AZ Air Control at Your Service
Before deciding on an air conditioning type, you should always do your research and think twice before making a decision. If you have difficulties deciding, we will help you and give you advice. We’ve been serving Tempe residents for years and have only satisfied customers to testify to that. Our team of licensed professionals will gladly give you advice on anything concerning AC systems. Call us today and book an appointment.
