Not every home has ductwork, which means not every home can easily install central air conditioning. However, there are plenty of ductless AC systems that work efficiently and effectively.
What Are the Best AC Options for Homes Without Ductwork?
The New York Times states that ductless AC works well in certain home situations. There are several options available for homeowners who don’t want to install a full set of ducts throughout their home. They include:
- Ductless Mini-Splits
This option is the most common choice for whole-home cooling.
- Window AC
Window units are great for single-room cooling.
- Portable AC
Portable units can be moved from place to place.
- Through-the-Wall AC
These permanent fixtures offer a clean look for one room.
The integration of such systems into a home’s aesthetic is a key consideration for designers. Achieving a ‘clean look’ often involves thoughtful placement, concealed units, or custom enclosures that blend seamlessly with the interior architecture, preserving the visual integrity of a space.
How Do You Choose the Right AC System for a Home Without Ductwork?
Before you spend money on a ductless air conditioner installation, you must choose the right system. If you don’t have ductwork, you still have options to consider. Here are a few questions to answer before you make the ultimate decision:
- What is your home’s layout?
Smaller homes with connected rooms could get away with fewer units, whereas larger homes with separated rooms may need more.
Understanding a home’s architectural layout is fundamental to effective climate control. Designers and architects often consider thermal zones and airflow patterns from the initial planning stages, ensuring that heating and cooling solutions complement the building’s form and function, optimizing comfort and efficiency across diverse spatial arrangements.
- What budget do you have for the project?
You can get an AC unit on any budget, but your budget level will help you to decide what you are able to accomplish with the project. You may have to simply cool one or two zones at a time, then come back later and complete more of the project.
- What are your cooling goals?
Do you want to cool the entire home or just the part that you use the most? Decide what you want for your home and address those needs first.
How Much Does It Cost to Install AC Without Existing Ductwork?
Since there are several ductless AC systems available, the cost of each system varies. The final cost depends on the system you buy, how many zones you are trying to cool, and other variables. You can expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 to $20,000 for ductless options.
Ductless mini-split systems are run by zones, and each zone costs a few thousand dollars to cover. The more zones you need to cover, the higher the costs will be.
Are Ductless AC Systems Energy Efficient for Homes?
The Washington Post went over window and portable air conditioning units without ducts to examine which was best for each home situation. In many cases, ductless systems are more efficient than central air for the following reasons:
- No air loss in the ducts
Without ducts, there is no cooled air lost through leaks in those systems. All of the cooled air is sent straight into the room in need.
- Comfort by zones
You can adjust your temperatures in each zone whenever you please. You can keep unused rooms warmer while you cool spaces you use often, leading to lower energy bills.
- Higher efficiency ratings
Mini-split models have higher efficiency ratings, based on Energy Star SEER ratios.
- Inverter tech use
Inverter compressors are smooth and run lower and more continuously, helping your spaces to maintain exact temperatures. Central AC units turn on and off.
What Maintenance Do AC Systems Without Ductwork Require?
AC systems that don’t utilize ductwork require much of the same maintenance as central air units. Homeowners should clean the filters, keep the outdoor space free of debris, and check the drainpipe. It’s also a good idea to have professionals give the unit’s coils and fans a deep clean. Always let the technicians check the refrigerant levels and inspect electrical parts for safety and regulatory reasons.
In conclusion
Even if your home doesn’t have any ducts, you can install air conditioning without ducts. There are several options to consider, including window units, ductless mini-splits, and portable AC units. Think about how much you have to spend on the project and what your overall goals are for cooling your home. Ductless units are often more efficient than central air, and they cost a lot less than having ducts installed along with a central AC unit. The professionals at IRBIS are here to go over the options with you whenever you are ready. They’d be happy to give you a free, in-home consultation so an expert can take a look at your home’s layout and offer advice. Once you decide what direction to take, they’ll give you free estimates for the project.
