Ducts are no longer needed for solid cooling in the home. And no, we're not talking about those clumsy window air conditioning units. So, if you're wondering how to get ductless air conditioning, the answer is with a ductless minisplit system. Keep reading to learn more about ductless minisplit air conditioning systems and its advantages.
Cooling pipes require little space compared to traditional ducts, and can be easily installed without the need for major renovations. In addition to that, VRF systems can also heat and cool different areas simultaneously. You can also create temperature zones with VRF systems that you can control individually. VRF systems are a perfect option if you want to enjoy all the benefits of central air conditioning, but you don't like to tear down the existing structure of your home to make room for large ducts.
With high-speed systems, you can enjoy all the benefits of central air conditioning without worrying about leaving space for large ducts. Ductless minisplits have two components: the indoor air controller and the outdoor condensing unit. The two units connect through a small hole in the wall, approximately 3 inches wide, through which power and coolant lines pass. Thanks to their high efficiency, easy installation and elegant design, minisplits are perfect air conditioning options for older homes without ducts.
Installing a ducted air conditioning system requires some major renovations to existing walls, floors and ceilings to make room for ducts. Nowadays, with so many other alternatives available, you don't want to go to the trouble of installing ductwork. For example, a minisplit only requires a 3-inch hole in the wall. You can also install it yourself in a mini split to save even more more.
In the same way, window units also fit into a window frame without requiring extensive work. While the cooling pipes of VRF systems and the ducts used in high-speed systems are much smaller than traditional ducts, they still require some space. If you don't think you can afford to give up space or don't want to modify the existing structure, you should consider using ductless systems. If you prefer a centralized system, a high speed system is your best option.
On the other hand, if you want to manage the temperature of each room separately, the ideal is a mini split, a window or a portable system. VRF systems are an intermediate point between the two for those who want the best of both worlds. Ductless minisplits and VRF systems are better, among other options, in terms of energy efficiency. They can only condition one room at a time, allowing you to save a lot of money.
Do you want to supply air conditioning to your entire house or do you only want to supply air conditioning to specific rooms? If that's the former, VRF systems and high-speed systems are better suited to your needs. When it comes to the latter, ductless units are the best suited to specific rooms without having to modernize the entire house. Unique Indoor Comfort offers two main solutions that will meet the needs of most homeowners looking to install central air conditioning in a house without ducts, mini-split systems without ducts and high speed systems. While they use ducts such as central air conditioners, the ducts are only 2 inches in diameter and are very flexible.
Many new owners of portable air conditioners are surprised to see the large exhaust vent hose included in the box, as they often don't appear in the photos of the air conditioning unit in advertisements. That water vapor will keep the heat trapped until it condenses into liquid again, so the air leaving the cooler will only be colder than the air in the room until you turn the room into a humid swamp. It's best to operate these systems with some cool, dry air coming in through a window or door and humid air escaping from the other side of the room. An alternative to a portable air conditioner that doesn't require giant air hoses is the “ventless” portable evaporative cooler, better known as a portable swamp cooler.
If you're considering adding air conditioning options for older homes without ductwork, you may also need to upgrade the electrical system. Because traditional ducts can be 6 to 12 inches wide, installing central air can involve size complications. Large homes (over 2000 square feet) and homes with some ductwork may have better central air conditioning service, but those seeking greater energy efficiency without dividing their interiors will usually benefit from ductless air. Ductless mini-split systems are smaller than traditional central air systems and do not require extensive ductwork to distribute cold air.
Read on to better understand the issues related to installing modern air conditioning options in old houses without ducts. Ductless air conditioners also have much lower operating costs than ducted air conditioners, making them an excellent air conditioning option for older homes without ducts.
