Types of Ductless Conditioning

Fitting

• Ductless systems use an outdoor unit containing a compressor and condenser, that is fitted on an external wall. Air is drawn into this unit through a three-inch conduit drilled through the wall, where it is cooled and then distributed to the indoor unit that pumps the cold air out into the room. The min-split system typically has one internal fitting that cools a single space. The multi-split systems usually have between two and four indoor fixtures all connected to one external unit. Each multi-split system fitting operates independently of the others, so it is not necessary to have all the air conditioning outlets on at the same time.

Features

• Ductless systems have much the same features as central systems. Most operate by remote control and have a programmable timer. Other features are auto-restart and removable filters that owners can clean. These systems also have twin rotary fans that reduce noise. Energy saving features include power saver controls, a high energy efficiency ratio and a fan-only facility that circulates air without using electricity. Also, in some models, the eco-friendly refrigerant R410A is used instead of freon. Ductless systems do more than simply cool the air. Many models contain a dehumidifier, an air purifier and a deodorizer. Some systems also double as heaters.

Advantages

• Size and flexibility are the main advantages of ductless air conditioning. It saves energy because each room is controlled separately. Manufacturers can supply different lengths of conduit from the external unit so that owners can locate it up to 50 feet from the internal units. Therefore it is possible to locate the external unit at the back of a property where it won´t affect the appearance of the building while still cooling rooms at the front.

Disadvantages

• One of the main disadvantages is cost. According to HeatAndCool.com, units cost anything from $900 to $5,000 plus to buy. Also, the U.S. Department of Energy states that these systems cost $1,500 to $2,000 per ton of cooling capacity. This is 30 percent more than a central system. It should be installed professionally because inaccurately locating the indoor units can result in short cycling and energy wastage.