What Determines the Cost of Ductless HVAC?
There are several factors that affect the price of ductless air conditioning. You could qualify for rebates or financing depending on the model, efficiency and cost.
Look for a unit that has a the highest Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating. In time, this will lower your energy bills.
Cost of Installation
The cost of installing ductless air conditioners is determined by a variety factors. The quality, brand and hourly rate of the contractor are all factors that affect the price. The cost of the system itself may vary greatly based on your choice of model and the size of your home. You should also take into consideration any incentives or rebates for energy available in your area. These incentives and rebates could assist in reducing some of the initial costs making the system more affordable.
Ductless systems don’t need ductwork to distribute air throughout your home, so they can be put in homes that don’t have ducts or as part of an upgrade to existing ductwork. Ductless systems can also be used for zoned heating and cooling which allows you to regulate the temperature of each area. This makes them an excellent option for home additions or remodels as well as instances where space heaters were employed to heat certain areas of the home.
The first thing that impacts the price of a ductless system is number of indoor units needed. A single-zone system consists of one outdoor unit and one indoor unit. Multi-zone systems can have as many as eight indoor units. The cost of the system can increase if you add more indoor units, but the improved comfort and lower cost of energy are worth it.
Another crucial aspect is the type of refrigerant the ductless system uses. It is a liquid chemical that transfers heat between indoor and outdoor units. In a traditional central HVAC system the refrigerant is housed in a large air conditioning unit, but in a ductless system, it runs through flexible tubing. This is more cost-effective than a compressor-based system and does not produce the same amount of greenhouse gases.
Once the HVAC technician has identified the amount of refrigerant and equipment needed for your home, they’ll prepare for the installation of the ductless system. The HVAC technician will clear any furniture that may be in the way and then make small holes in the wall where the indoor units are to be placed. Once the units are installed, they will be connected to the outdoor unit via pipes. If you plan to install a multi-zone system, the technician will also need to install thermostats in each area for a simple temperature control.
Cost of Equipment
Mini-splits that don’t have ductwork are designed to provide heating and air conditioning to rooms that do not have ductwork, or aren’t served by a duplex system. The system is made up of three major components: an outdoor unit for condensing indoor units, as well as refrigerant cooling lines. The cost of the equipment can vary in relation to its size and power requirement. Larger systems might require more copper tubing, or a greater number of refrigerant lines. This can result in higher installation costs.
The type of installation you select for your ductless unit is also crucial. Some contractors charge more for wall units that are mounted on the inside of your home than a cassette-style system that is installed on the ceiling, which requires that the contractor to cut a hole in the ceiling. The total cost can also be dependent on the amount of indoor units you need. A single-zone system consists of one outdoor unit and an indoor unit. Multi-zone systems may include multiple indoor units for cooling different areas of your home.
In addition to the cost of the equipment, you’ll need to consider any additional accessories you may require to complete your ductless system. For example, some homeowners will want to install a remote control to simplify the operation of their ductless system. Others might want to add a dehumidifier to aid in moisture control. The type and the quality of any additional accessories you choose can affect the overall ductless system price.
The best way to determine the total cost of a air-conditioning system is to obtain a a personalized quote from an HVAC professional. Modernize makes comparing the top local contractors easy. You can review homeowner reviews, look over their credentials, and look through promotions. Once you’ve identified a contractor you trust, contact them to learn more about how a ductless system will save you money on your monthly energy bill.
While ductless systems do have some pros and con that you will need to consider, it is a great choice for homes with no traditional ductwork. They are also more energy efficient than other types of cooling and heating systems. HVAC experts can help you understand the pros and cons for every type of system depending on your home, climate and budget.
Cost of Accessories
Many people install ductless AC in additions to their homes, like basements, sunrooms, or sunrooms. They are also popular in homes with no ductwork or homeowners who wish to increase their heating capabilities. Comparing the cost to install and maintain a new furnace with ductless air conditioners can be less costly. The total price tag of a system also depends on the amount of zones that require cooling and heating.
The price of ductless equipment includes an outdoor unit and an indoor unit, along with refrigerant coolant hoses. You can purchase accessories like wireless controllers that allow remote control using an application for smartphones. This is particularly beneficial if you live far from your home and need to set the temperature prior to arriving.
Another important aspect in the cost of ductless systems is their tonnage, which measures how much heat it can provide. A HVAC professional will assess the home and determine your requirements for tonnage during the initial visit. This is crucial as a system that is too small will not be able to provide the required cooling and could damage the equipment over time.
You can save money on your energy bills with ductless systems. They offer efficient, personalized cooling and heating. They are also quieter than traditional air cooling units. For this reason, they are an excellent choice for rooms that are difficult to heat or cool with window units.
While it is possible to buy a ductless system online and install it yourself, you’ll probably require the assistance of an experienced HVAC contractor to avoid expensive errors. A reputable company will offer warranties and other protections so that you are happy with the results.
You can utilize an online service, such as Modernize to compare the top local HVAC pros in your area. You can read homeowner reviews, look at qualifications and view special offers. With these tools, you can find the perfect HVAC professional to satisfy your ductless system’s requirements. Look into local rebates that can aid in the financing of a new HVAC system.
Cost of Maintenance
Apart from the installation and equipment costs, you’ll also have to consider the cost of maintaining your air conditioning system that is ductless. Maintenance costs include labor, replacement parts and repairs. A reputable HVAC contractor can give you an accurate estimate of total cost of operating your new HVAC. You can save money by obtaining multiple estimates, taking advantage of rebates on energy, and buying an efficient ductless system.
Additionally, the cost of installing a ductless system depends on the type of wall you have in your home. It is easier for professionals to create holes in walls if it is made of wood framing, vinyl, plywood or siding. However, if the walls are comprised of logs or stucco the task is more difficult and costly.
The cost of a air-conditioning AC system is also dependent on whether it’s a single zone or multi-zone system. A single-zone AC system has one heatpump as well as one air handler, while a multizone system includes one heatpump and one or more handlers. The price of a ductless system depends on the brand, size and efficiency rating. A higher efficiency rating usually means a higher initial investment however, you’ll save money in the long run on your electricity bills.
Installation kits are another consideration. They include drain tubes, control wiring and refrigerant hoses. The installation kit may vary in price, but a basic kit typically costs about $500. A ductless system may require a conduit to allow the refrigerant to be moved between the outdoor and indoor units. This conduit can be concealed behind a ceiling, or in the basement.
The cost to repair an HVAC system that is ductless can vary according to the type and amount of repairs needed and the hourly cost that your HVAC technician will charge you. It is important to use genuine replacement parts in order to avoid voiding your warranty. Using non-OEM parts can also result in issues with the performance of your system. In general, OEM parts are designed and developed to work with specific brands of ductless systems, so they tend to be more reliable.
