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Are you looking for an efficient way to cool your home without investing in expensive – and invasive– ductwork? If so, a duct-free split system may be right for you.
Let’s explore the advantages and costs of installing a duct-free split system and compare it to a central air conditioning system to decide if this is the right cooling system for you and your home.
What Is A Duct-Free Split System?
A duct-free split system is a good solution for those looking to cool homes that lack existing ductwork, especially the older homes we have here in the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia areas. Generally speaking, these systems consist of two parts: indoor and outdoor units.
The Indoor Unit
The indoor unit is usually mounted on a wall or ceiling and houses the fan and evaporator. The indoor unit eliminates the need for air ducts by drawing in warm air, cooling it over cold evaporator coils, and blowing the cold air back into the room.
The refrigerant in the coils absorbs heat from the warm air and transfers the heat to the outdoor unit, leaving cold air to be pushed back into your home.
The Outdoor Unit
The outdoor unit contains the compressor, which is responsible for circulating refrigerant between both units to transfer heat energy from one place to another effectively. Multiple indoor units can be connected to a single outdoor unit so that you can have air conditioning in every room of your house.
Benefits Of Installing A Duct-Free Split System
Installing a duct-free split system has numerous benefits that traditional central a/c methods don’t offer.
Cost-Effective
Duct-free split systems save you money by eliminating the need for ductwork installation and energy loss through ducts. They tend to be highly energy-efficient, leading to lower utility bills. We’ll discuss more about how cost-effective a duct-free split system is later.
Minimal Installation
As mentioned above, duct-free split system air conditioners don’t require ductwork throughout your home. For those who live in older homes without pre-installed ducts, this means simpler, quicker, and less invasive installation.
Controlled Cooling
With a duct-free split system, you can cool each room individually. Cool your bedrooms at night for better sleep, or leave only the living room unit on while everyone’s awake. And, if one unit fails or requires maintenance work, it won’t affect any others — no need to have the entire system fixed because of one faulty area.
Long-Lasting
Duct-free split systems boast longevity due to fewer mechanical components and wear and tear. The absence of ductwork reduces the risk of leaks and corrosion, further extending their lifespan. Quality manufacturing and advanced technology ensure reliability, while regular upkeep enhances efficiency and durability. A quality split system can last up to 20 years.
Non-Disruptive
Since these systems are nearly silent, they are a great choice for families looking for non-disruptive air conditioning in their homes.
Allergies
The lack of ducts means split systems accumulate less dust, pollen, mold, and other allergens that would then spread throughout your home. Save time, money, and hassle by avoiding the cost of regularly cleaning your central air conditioner’s duct system.
Costs Of Installing A Duct-Free Split System
The cost of the system can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the size and complexity of the system. Split systems are typically more expensive than duct-free single-zone systems.
Your local utility company may offer energy-efficiency incentives that can lower the cost of installation. It’s important also to factor in additional charges such as maintenance, repairs, and energy bills when deciding which system is right for your home.
The type of unit you select will impact the total cost since some units use less electricity than others. Look for Energy Star-rated products with higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings to help reduce energy consumption and save money in the long run. Look for models with inverter technology that can adjust fan speed according to cooling needs for improved efficiency.
It's important to understand that duct-free split systems require professional installation, so be sure to call CroppMetcalfe when you’re ready to invest in a duct-free split system for your home.
Duct-Free Split System VS Central Air Conditioning
If you have a home with an existing duct system, you may wonder whether to install a central air conditioner or a duct-free split system. Let’s look at the benefits and drawbacks of both.
- Because duct-free split systems cool specific zones of your home, you avoid energy waste.
- No ducts mean no air leakage.
- You control each room's temperature individually, preventing overcooling in empty, unused spaces. This targeted approach reduces utility bills.
- Installation costs are lower, as ductwork is unnecessary.
- Duct-free systems require less power to function, leading to more savings over central air conditioning.
Call CroppMetcalfe to Install Your Duct-Free Air Conditioner Today!
For over four decades, CroppMetcalfe has served the Maryland, D.C., and Virginia communities. We’re proud to be the first phone call for our customers when they need expert installation, maintenance, and repair services. At CroppMetcalfe, we believe in creating “customers for life.”
Stay cool all summer long – without spending a fortune on a high-maintenance system! CroppMetcalfe is the #1 duct-free split system installer in the D.C. metro area.
- Fill out our convenient online contact form to speak with one of our knowledgeable technicians and get a free estimate on your duct-free split air conditioning system.