What's Better? Mini-Splits vs. Other HVAC Systems

When shopping for a heating and cooling system for your residence, it’s critical to choose one that balances efficiency, functionality and budget. That’s why many families look to mini-splits to heat and cool their home.

Mini-splits—often known as ductless mini-splits—offer many advantages that make them an attractive solution for both homes and businesses. They're extremely energy efficient, decreasing energy consumption and saving on utility costs, because they eliminate the energy losses associated with the ductwork found in traditional HVAC systems. They also permit users to customize the temperature in each room, boosting overall comfort while not wasting energy.

If you’re interested in mini-split installation in Lansing, it’s necessary to first research if these devices are the best fit for your living situation. Here, we’ll explore how mini-splits stack up against other heating and cooling systems.

What a Mini-Split Is and How It Works

A mini-split, or ductless mini-split, is a heating and cooling device that doesn't need ductwork to function. It's often used in homes that don't have pre-existing air ducts and for homes with rooms that aren’t served well by an existing HVAC system.

A mini-split system is made of two primary components: an outdoor compressor/condenser and an indoor air-handling device. The two are connected by a conduit carrying the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing and a condensate drain.

Here's how it works: the outdoor compressor distributes the refrigerant necessary for heat exchange within the coils and the air handler. The indoor device pulls in air from the room, cools or heats it over the coils and sends the conditioned air back into the room.

Mini-Split vs. Central Air

Mini-splits provide targeted cooling in certain rooms or zones of your home. They are known for energy efficiency because they only heat or cool the areas you desire. However, they might not blend seamlessly into every decor because of their wall-mounted indoor units.

On the other hand, a central air system uniformly conditions your entire home, producing consistent comfort levels throughout. Its ductwork is hidden away, preserving the appearance of your home. But it will likely not be as energy efficient as a mini-split, especially in quite sizeable homes or residences where certain rooms may not need nonstop conditioning.

Mini-Split vs. Window AC/Window Unit

Mini-splits are typically more energy efficient and not as loud as a window air conditioning unit and are able to cool multiple rooms. This is why mini-splits are a versatile option for many homeowners. They also use a type of refrigerant that is more environmentally safe, limiting their environmental impact. These devices can even add value to your home due to their long-lasting nature and superior cooling capabilities. However, they come with a higher purchase price.

On the other hand, window air conditioning units are less expensive initially. They might be a good fit for homes that cannot accommodate a central AC system or for people with budget constraints. Even with these advantages, window units can consume up to 40% more energy than ductless mini-split systems and typically make more noise.

Mini-Split vs. Portable AC

The answer to what is better, a ductless mini-split or a portable air conditioning unit, will depend on on your main concerns. If your main focus is energy efficiency and ability to quickly cool a room, a mini-split is considered far superior to a portable AC unit. However, if budget is a key concern, a portable AC has a lower initial investment.

Mini-Split vs. Gas Furnace

Deciding between a mini-split system and a gas furnace depends on an assortment of factors which can include the climate in your city, home size, energy efficiency desires and budget.

A mini-split system usually is more energy efficient than a gas furnace. It can heat and cool defined areas in your home, providing custom climate control in targeted rooms. Mini-splits also are generally quieter and have a larger up-front cost, but their operating costs are usually smaller due to their superior energy efficiency.

On the other hand, a gas furnace can be an extremely effective heating remedy, particularly in colder climates where mini-split heat pumps may struggle to maintain comfort levels in the bitter cold. Even though they are less energy efficient than mini-splits, gas furnaces typically are not as expensive. Having said that, their operating costs can be more costly, especially if natural gas prices increase.

Mini-Split vs. Heat Pump

Mini-splits and heat pumps operate using the process of heat transfer. They are both energy efficient, but a heat pump's air ducts can be less efficient. That said, the choice between a mini-split and a heat pump often depends on individual needs and circumstances.

For example, if you live in a warmer climate and mainly need cooling, a mini-split system might be a good choice. But then again, if you want both heating and cooling and already have ductwork installed in your residence, a heat pump could be a more efficient option.

Mini-Split vs. Space Heater

When it comes to heating and cooling a household, mini-splits and space heaters each have advantages. However, for overall efficiency, versatility, comfort and safety, mini-splits stand out. Mini-splits supply superior energy efficiency due to the fact they deliver conditioned air directly to different zones and can serve several rooms at once.

Space heaters are a great deal less expensive to buy but are typically recommended for heating a confined area or an individual room. They also are usually less energy efficient. As opposed to mini-splits, space heaters do not provide cooling. The greatest drawback for space heaters is the risk of fire. Authorities say some 1,700 fires annually involve space heaters.