ductless air conditioning

Split-ductless air conditioning systems are gaining popularity in Canadian homes. Home-owners with hot water, electric baseboard or other radiant heating systems not employing air ducts, can enjoy summertime climate control as well. Ductless systems are also ideally suited to additions, where extension of existing ducts may be difficult or impractical.

Split-system air conditioners for homes without air ducts

Ductless split-systems combine the zone control of window or through-the-wall units, with the whole-house cooling capabilities of a central system. Like central systems, they have two main components, a compressor-condenser unit (outdoors) and an air-handler containing an evaporator coil and a fan (indoors.) The two halves are linked only by the coolant tubing.

Ductless heat pumps provide heating as well as cooling.  Watch video: Mitsubishi Electric Mr. Slim: How It Works

Advantages

• Easier installation than central systems
• Air ducts not required
• Zone control provides balanced comfort and energy savings
• Quieter than window or thru-wall units
• More secure than window air conditioners
• Eliminates losses common in air ducts

Disadvantages

• Split-systems cost about $1,500-$2,000 per ton (12,000 Btu/h) of cooling capacity. This is about 30% more than central systems, and may cost twice as much as window units of similar capacity.
• Qualified contractors may be difficult to locate in many smaller centres, until these systems are in wider usage.

​Note: The term, "split-system," can also be used to describe conventional central air-conditioners and heat pumps. If you’re shopping for “ductless” systems, make sure the dealer understands which system you are looking for. Ductless split-systems are sometimes referred to as “mini-splits."