Mini split systems are compact heating and cooling units that can effectively boost the comfort of your home. Because each mini split unit is independent, you can set different temperatures in different rooms. This sets them apart from ducted HVAC systems, where air is circulated through vents and ductwork for the whole house.
So can you add mini split systems to support cooling in homes that already have ducted HVAC?
Why Add a Mini Split to a Ducted System?
Mini splits can greatly enhance your family’s comfort when installed alongside a traditional central AC. In fact, homeowners often consider mini splits to supplement an existing central AC when they need extra cooling or flexibility.
For example, if some rooms stay too warm in summer or too cool in winter, a mini split in that room can solve the problem. You can program that specific room’s unit to your desired temperature and let it run until the space is comfortable, eliminating the problem spots.
Mini splits also let family members set different temperatures. With a mini split in your bedroom or office, you can keep the rest of the house at one setting while your room is a bit cooler or warmer.
This independent control also saves energy. For instance, you could lower your central AC at night and just run the ductless mini split in the bedroom, cutting overall cooling costs.
Because you’re only cooling rooms in use, mini split systems can reduce utility bills as well. Each zone can be turned off when empty, unlike a central AC that must work harder to cool the whole house. Advanced inverter technology in mini splits adjusts compressor speed to match demand, further saving energy.
Also, note that if you add an extension to your home like a sunroom or attic, extending existing ducts can be expensive or impractical. Installing a ductless mini split in the new space is often cheaper than upsizing your whole HVAC or ductwork.
Considerations Before Adding a Mini Split
Installing even a single mini split unit costs more than a standard window AC. Multi-zone systems with several indoor units can run several thousand dollars, depending on size. This means they often have a higher upfront cost than extending existing HVAC ductwork. However, that cost can be offset over time by energy savings and rebates.
Each indoor unit has a washable filter behind the front panel. You’ll need to clean or replace these periodically. Additionally, outdoor units need enough clearance — usually a couple of feet — around them and should be placed on a level surface to run quietly.
A mini split is meant to cool or heat a single room or area. If you need whole-house coverage, you may need multiple units. A large multi-zone system is possible, but each unit must be properly sized for its space.
Mini Split Service Done Right
At Complete Climate Services, our experienced technicians handle every part of the installation process, from helping you select the best mini split for your space to making sure it runs the way it should. If you’re ready for a reliable system that fits your home in Baltimore, we’re the HVAC company to help. Contact us to get started today.
