What is a Ductless Mini-Split Anyway?

Q: I saw a ductless mini-split the other day that must have been 4 feet long — that’s not small at all!

A: Being in the ductless mini-split business, we find ourselves regularly explaining that many of these types of systems are neither ductless nor mini. In the beginning, the systems were “mini” as they had limited capacity and thus smaller equipment both inside and outside was the rule. As the technology advanced, especially after the introduction of variable capacity compressors, popularity soared, and bigger and better was on the menu. As you can imagine “mini” is a relative term but we prefer ours like Goldilocks, not too big, or too small, but just ductless. Even the term “ductless” is falling by the wayside, not from lack of popularity mind you, but many of these smaller systems are now capable of being ducted.

Why duct a ductless heat pump the duck inquired? The major reason is enhanced adaptability to solve more heating and cooling problems, silly. Some folks just don’t like to see a standard wall “head” as they are known and some folks just don’t have any room for one. Either of those situations are much easier to find a solution for these days. As an experienced installer of these systems, it’s really comforting knowing there are endless solutions at hand.

On our visits to the homes of the Flathead, it’s readily apparent they vary considerably in construction and design. Despite that we find the nooks and crannies and solve that comfort puzzle. Once we consider what a little ducting can do for a ductless unit, you can then combine that with our multiple head systems.

Doing ducted and ductless on the same system? You must be mad! That used to be crazy talk but no more. Consider the following (my old buddy Bill Nye the Science Guy used to say): The upper level of your home is a typical loft style design which is a pretty popular design around here and it’s bloody hot up there in the summer. The lower level is chilly much of the year being below grade. The main level has the thermostat and it seems just right (back to the Goldilocks paradox). With one small outdoor unit we can connect to a small ducted system in the knee wall of the loft and a standard wall head or two on the lower level — sweet. Heat when you need it and adequately cooling the upper level will make the main level cool as well (cold air falls, like warm air rises).

Don’t just take it from us, your local co-op is ready to point you in the right direction with good advice, incentives and low interest loans. They have been playing this game for long enough to know; ductless heat pumps save energy. You can hop on the internet if you are brave enough and check out the “The North West Ductless Heat Pump Project.” It’s at goingductless.com and is a great neutral party that helps you make an educated decision without bias a salesperson may have (say it isn’t so). They have historical data and believe it or not there are actual humans you can talk to that work right out of Portland. It was set up with big assistance by NEEA (Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance). They are another regional resource when it comes to energy efficiency promotion and consumer education.

Before, during, or after chatting with those fine folks give AirWorks a call at  (406) 630-4170 for an estimate and an excellent installation.

Are you wondering if a ductless mini-split system is the right choice for you?  We have the answers you’re looking for right here!