Window AC Units Vs. Ductless Mini Splits
There are several different options to choose from when cooling your home. In lots of cases, people go with a central air conditioning system. In this article we will be talking about window AC units vs ductless mini splits. Both options can cool your space off, but there are pros and cons for each system.
I’ve been installing air conditioning systems in the Marion, VA area, and the surrounding towns for years now, and have seen quite a few spaces that use both window AC units, or ductless mini splits. I certainly know what I prefer, but I want to walk you through a little more about each system before I dive into that.
This article dives into the specifics of ductless mini splits compared to window AC units, focusing on various factors including energy efficiency, comfort, versatility, noisiness, space consumption, and the cost of each. If you have any questions or would like to talk to someone about air conditioning for your home or business now, give us a call at (276) 690-9222.
What Is A Ductless Mini Split?
A ductless mini split system comprises two main components: an outdoor compressor/condenser and one or more indoor air-handling units. These parts are connected by a conduit, which houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing, and a condensate drain. As you can probably gather from the name, this system requires no ductwork, which makes it flexible in the spaces it can be used. This is great for homes without room for ductwork, additions, and spaces that only need some supplemental cooling.
Mini Splits Vs. Window AC Units
Energy Efficiency
Ductless mini splits are generally more energy-efficient than window AC units. They tend to have a higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating, which measures air conditioning and heat pump cooling efficiency. Many mini splits have SEER ratings of 20 or higher, indicating that they use less energy to cool a space compared to window units, which typically have SEER ratings ranging from 8 to 12. This efficiency usually leads to significant savings on energy bills over time.
Superior Comfort
Mini splits offer superior comfort through more consistent and adjustable cooling. Unlike window units that often result in cold spots or uneven cooling, mini splits can distribute air more evenly across a room. They utilize inverter technology that allows the compressor to adjust its speed to maintain desired temperature levels without the on-and-off cycling of other air conditioning solutions. This is better for the comfort of your home, as well as your energy bills.
Versatility
Ductless mini splits have the ability to cool the home off, but unlike window AC units, they can also be used to provide heating. In the summer ductless AC is wonderful, but it’s so nice to be able to use these same units to heat in the winter. Ductless mini splits are heat pumps, and just like heat pumps can keep you comfortable all year round, ductless mini splits do the same. Instead of using different HVAC solutions for heating and cooling, a ductless mini split is versatile enough to do both!
Noisiness
In terms of operation noise, mini splits are FAR quieter than window AC units. Ductless mini splits run at about half the amount of decibels that a window AC unit runs at. You know if you’ve ever used window AC units, as soon as you turn it on, you need to turn the TV up, or the music up, whatever you may be listening to. If you are on the phone, you have to go to a different room. This is a huge problem in living rooms, bedrooms, and home offices.
Space Consumed
Window AC units can be obtrusive, taking up window space and partially blocking natural light. Mini splits, on the other hand, have a less intrusive footprint. The indoor units can be mounted high on a wall, suspended from a ceiling, or even mounted flush into a drop ceiling, preserving window space and the aesthetic of the room.
This is also important when it comes to home security. A window unit if not properly secured, can be pushed into the house and used as a way for people to break in. Ductless units allow you to use that window regularly, with no security concern at all!
Cost Of Installation
Ductless mini splits are more expensive than window AC units, and with good reason. As you can see from all the points listed above, ductless mini splits offer a significant number of advantages over window AC units. It makes sense that these systems are going to cost more to install. Window AC units are usually in the couple hundred dollar range, whereas mini splits are in the couple thousand dollar range.
There are a few ways to offset the cost of mini splits though. First of all, they have a longer lifespan, which elongates their value over a window unit. They also typically qualify for rebates or tax credits. Because these systems are so energy efficient, utility companies and government programs often offer incentives to install this equipment that consumes less energy.
You will also start to see more savings on your monthly energy bills. Even though the installation cost of a ductless mini split may be higher, over the lifespan of the system, the mini split unit is going to cost far less to run than the window air conditioner. You also don’t have to worry about installing a heating system, being that the mini split can provide heating as well.
Ductless Mini Split Installation In Marion, VA
If you are considering a new AC system for your home or business in Marion, VA, we can help you out! Complete Comfort is located just a few miles away in Chilhowie, VA, and we have helped heat and cool many homes in the area. We can assess your current HVAC situation, and make the proper recommendations that will ensure your home is cool in the summer, and warm in the winter. Just give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online to speak to an expert!
One of the most energy efficient and best ways to keep your home or business comfortable is with a heat pump. Not only do they heat your home in the winter, but they also have the ability to cool your home in the summer. In Bristol, VA and the surrounding areas, heat pumps are one of the most popular ways to keep a home or business comfortable all year long. 
Absolutely, heat pumps are designed for year-round use. In the winter, they provide efficient heating by extracting heat from the outside air—even in cold temperatures—and transferring it indoors. During the summer months, the process is reversed to cool your home by removing indoor heat and releasing it outside. 
