If you’re not in the HVAC industry, you might not know that there are many different kinds of air conditioning systems. Ducted, ductless, chilled water, packaged units, and the list goes on.

One newer kind of air conditioning technology is the ductless mini split system. These air conditioners are different from their predecessors in several ways. Let’s break down the positive and negative parts of installing one in your home.

The Pros of Mini Split Air Conditioners

  • There are no ducts! Forget worrying about duct cleaning and other issues. This system is simple and completely ductless – and that also makes installation easier.
  • Mini split systems take up less space, so you can easily fit them in any kind of home.
  • You’ll probably experience better indoor air quality.
  • Maintenance is fairly easy, so whether you do it yourself or hire a company to take care of it, you can keep things simpler.
  • Most systems come with area zoning, which allows you to more effectively target specific areas of your home when blasting the AC.
  • They’re quiet, so you can stay cool without worrying about annoying loud noises.

The Cons of Mini Split Air Conditioners

  • They’re more expensive to install. The initial costs per zone can be higher than the original whole-house, ducted units you originally used.
  • They might be considered unsightly. Yes, they’re small and compact, but they’re not hidden like ducts in another AC system would be.
  • Because you cool by zones, it’s more challenging to cool the entire house. You’re limited to cooling areas room by room, instead of adjusting one thermostat for the entire building.

Not sure if a mini split air conditioning system is right for your home? Contact Northern's One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® to learn more about them. Their trained experts will steer you towards the best air conditioning system – one that’s right for your budget and your needs. Call today at (763) 284-8639 to learn more or schedule an installation.