According to the U.S. Department of Energy, nearly half of the energy used in a typical home goes toward heating and cooling it.
Many factors play a role in this statistic, including your geographic location and climate, type of home and characteristics, number of household members, and use of energy-consuming devices1.
It’s important to understand what air conditioning (AC) system is right for your Pinellas, Pasco or Hillsborough county home, room or renovation – especially if you want to save energy costs now and in the future.
What’s an alternative to central AC?
New ductwork can be costly. So if you’re considering whether to add ducts to your space or purchase a ductless system, it’s key to understand how each option stacks up.
The most common alternatives to a central AC unit is a window or ductless, mini-split system.
Ductless, mini-split AC systems are a smart alternative to central HVAC systems and an excellent option for home remodels, room additions or Florida sunrooms2.
Ductless systems consist of:
- An indoor air handler/evaporator,
- An outdoor compressor/condensing unit, and
- A 3-4” diameter conduit housing a power cable, refrigerant tubing and a condensation drain.
While the compressor lives outside your structure, the power source runs to whatever room your cooling: a remodeled room, a space with extra windows or a converted patio or garage.
How does it compare to a window unit or central AC system?
Compared to a window unit, a ductless system takes up less space and is more energy efficient. It has advanced filtration and purification capabilities and special technology that’s designed to reduce allergens, dust and mold from your air, very common in Florida residencies.
Ductless systems also give you the flexibility of controlling the temperature in each individual living space, rather than altogether with a central AC unit. And while the cost of a mini-split system is greater than a window unit, it’s still more cost-effective than adding new ductwork as part of an existing AC system.
A window unit sits on a sill, where there’s a chance air and humidity will leak into your room. These units are often noisy as the air circulates through the handler and compressor.
On the flip side, mini-split systems only require a small hole to be drilled into your wall or ceiling, providing more protection against outside air, while giving you versatility of where to install it. The compressor also lives outside and can be installed up to 100 feet away, where you will barely hear the system working to cool or heat your home.
Which ductless system is right for me?
There are several leaders in ductless, mini-split systems, but our top choice is Gree – the world’s largest specialized AC company.
In fact, one in three air conditioners across the globe is developed by Gree. For more than 20 years, Gree has designed the latest innovative, energy-efficient ductless AC systems across the globe, with more than 1,000 research and development technicians working to develop products that help people live well and stay comfortable in all environments2.
Gree’s big selling point is how it stacks up to other recognized ductless systems, like the Mitsubishi MUZ-FH or LG Art Cool Premier, but at a lower cost.
All three brands hold high SEER ratings, which showcase energy efficiency in certain air conditions. Yet the ENERGY STAR® rated Gree system can reach up to 27 SEER, while the Mitsubishi model averages 25 SEER and LG averages 21.5. Other central AC units range from 13 to 21 SEER ratings4.
In addition to its impressive technology and ratings, Gree also offers a large product line with warranties on service and repair: CROWN+, CROWN, TERRA VIREO+, VIREO, NEO, EVO, EVO+, NEO, LIVO+, LIVO, RIO, U-MATCH, MULTI21+, MULTI21, +MULTI, EVO+ MULTI, & SUPER +MULTI Series.
Click here to learn more about Gree products.
Why use a professional AC company to install?
Our Air Care technicians have the experience, tools and training needed to select and install the right Gree ductless, mini-split system model for your space, giving you peace of mind on your purchase, installation and service.
A common mistake that homeowners make is on mini-split installation, often purchasing an oversized system on their own and installing it in the wrong location. This can unfortunately cause your air handler to “short-cycle,” which leads to improper air flow and temperatures in your space, leading to higher energy costs down the road3.
As a result, we always recommend you use a qualified HVAC professional, like Air Care, to install a ductless, mini-split system for your home.
Need advice from a professional HVAC company?
If you need advice on choosing and installing a ductless system, turn to your Clearwater air and heating experts at Air Care. We’re here to guide you through the process and help you decide if a mini-split system is right for your space.
“Are there some companies that you will use for life? Air Care is that business for me. Air Care has serviced my HVAC system for almost 20 years with absolutely no complaints. I have been more than happy with their service, courtesy and prompt response when I have had a problem. I do not hesitate to recommend Air Care to my friends.” – Rosemarie B.
