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

When looking for a heating and cooling system for your home, it’s critical to choose one that balances efficiency, functionality and the impact on your wallet. That’s why many families use mini-splits for climate control in their home.

Mini-splits—often called ductless mini-splits—have several advantages that make them a popular choice for both homes and businesses. They're very energy efficient, reducing energy consumption and saving on utility expenses, because they don't have the energy losses that can come with the ductwork found in traditional HVAC systems. They also allow users to tailor the temperature in each room, improving overall comfort while not wasting energy.

If you’re contemplating mini-split installation in Portland, it’s necessary to first determine if these devices are the best fit for your living situation. Here, we’ll examine how mini-splits measure up to other heating and cooling devices and appliances.

What a Mini-Split Is and How It Works

A mini-split, or ductless mini-split, is a heating and cooling mechanism that does not use ductwork. It's a good option 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 has two primary components: an outdoor compressor/condenser and an indoor air-handling device. These are connected by a conduit housing the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing and a condensate drain.

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

Mini-Split vs. Central Air

Mini-splits provide targeted cooling in certain rooms or zones of your residence. They are outstanding for energy efficiency because they only condition the areas you want. However, they may not blend seamlessly into every area due to their wall-mounted indoor units.

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

Mini-Split vs. Window AC/Window Unit

Mini-splits are often more energy efficient and quieter than a window air conditioning unit and are capable of cooling multiple rooms. This is why mini-splits are a flexible alternative for many homeowners. They also use a type of refrigerant that is more eco-friendly, reducing their environmental impact. These devices can even add value to your home due to their sturdy nature and exceptional cooling capabilities. However, they come with a greater up-front cost.

On the other hand, window AC units are less expensive to purchase. They might be a good fit for homes that cannot accommodate a central air system or for homeowners with budget constraints. In spite of these advantages, window units can utilize up to 40% more energy than ductless mini-split systems and are often noisier.

Mini-Split vs. Portable AC

The answer to what is better, a ductless mini-split or a portable air conditioning unit, depends on your main concerns. If your main considerations are energy efficiency and performance, a mini-split is heads and shoulders better than a portable AC unit. However, if budget is a major 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 a variety of factors such as the climate in your city, home size, energy efficiency preferences and budget.

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

Alternatively, a gas furnace can be a very 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 ordinarily cost less. However, their operating costs can be higher, especially if natural gas prices increase.

Mini-Split vs. Heat Pump

Mini-splits and heat pumps use the process of heat transfer. They are both energy efficient, but a heat pump's ductwork can use more power. That said, the choice between a mini-split and a heat pump often depends on individual needs and circumstances.

For example, if you are living in a warmer climate and primarily need cooling, a mini-split system might be a better choice. However, if you want both heating and cooling and already have ductwork in your home, a heat pump might be a more efficient option.

Mini-Split vs. Space Heater

With regards to heating and cooling a home, mini-splits and space heaters each have merits. However, for all around efficiency, versatility, comfort and safety, mini-splits come out on top. Mini-splits provide superior energy efficiency simply because they deliver conditioned air directly to different zones and can serve several rooms at once.

Space heaters are much less expensive to buy but are typically used only for heating a limited area or a single room. They also are often less energy efficient. Unlike mini-splits, space heaters do not supply cooling. The biggest drawback for space heaters is the chance of fire. Authorities say some 1,700 fires per year involve space heaters.