As a homeowner, part of making upgrades is determining whether they’re upgrades that can (or will) also add value to your home. The investment in a ductless mini-split air con could be an upgrade that your home can benefit from in several ways. Of course, it’s important to take the time to get to know your options and ensure that you are prepared to make the best decision. In this process, one of the most important questions that people ask is whether mini-split systems offer a good return on their investment (ROI).
The short answer is yes, usually. However, there are a lot of factors at play here. You have to consider your existing system, the size of your home, and the size and type of ductless system that you install. If you do it right, you can install a ductless AC system that offers an impressive return on its investment over time, not just for resale value but for your pockets when it comes to cooling expenses, as well.
What’s a Ductless Mini-Split?
Central air units are more familiar to most people in the U.S. than the ductless system. However, countries like Australia have been utilizing these systems for decades, getting great results with zoned cooling that installs much quicker and easier than a central air unit. Not only that, but they’re about 30% more energy efficient off the bat because that’s how much energy is lost in traditional ductwork.
A ductless mini-split air conditioner consists of an outside unit that’s connected to indoor air handlers to help deliver cool air to each room or zone. The condenser is connected by one simple conduit that only requires a small hole drilled for the hookups to pass through. You can also install this system as much as 50 feet from the indoor unit, allowing you to cool all the rooms in your home, no matter where the unit is located.
Beyond Energy Savings
Aside from the 30% energy loss that ductless systems will recover by eliminating the ducts, there are several other savings and benefits to installing this system. They are more expensive up front, in most cases, but they offer a better investment over time, through both energy and cost savings, as well as ease of use. Mini-split systems may also have a longer lifespan than traditional central air, saving you money on the replacement of a system over time. While the flexibility of these systems is their biggest selling point, they do offer cost savings, as well.
What’s the Verdict?
Ultimately, you’ll need to talk to your installer to see if a ductless mini-split system is right for your needs. If you want zoned cooling with better control than central air, you’ll love this type of system. And even though it costs about 30% more than central air to install, it’s also going to save a small fortune in energy, provide more flexibility, and deliver a total cooling solution that works better than you could have imagined.
The mini-split experts will help you decide what’s best with this installation, including determining the most cost-effective and value-added way to go for your home’s cooling.