Houses over 150 years old do not have central air conditioning and may require duct insulation. However, if you don’t want to install an air duct, you can install a mini-split or high-velocity air conditioner. But what’s the difference between the two? And what are their similarities? We investigated both types of units. In this post, we will compare them.
Also check: Do Central Air Conditioners Use Freon?
High-velocity air conditioning provides air conditioning for buildings without ducts. Instead of forcing cold air into the ducts, we use flexible, easy-to-install pipes placed on the walls and ceiling of the house. The mini-split air conditioner is equipped with an outdoor compressor and an indoor unit that sends air directly to each room. These wall-mounted systems do not require ducts and are relatively easy to install and operate.
Neither system is necessarily worse or better than the other. However, there are apparent differences that need to be considered before installation. And having an initial idea of your installation budget will help narrow down your decision. Keep reading to learn about which unit may be best given certain factors.
Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioners
Ductless or “mini-split” systems do not require ducts. The outdoor units of their system connect through a small hole outside the house, allowing the indoor unit to air-condition the house or apartment. The outdoor unit takes in outside air, cools it, and discharges it directly into the room.
Advantages
They Are Efficient
The mini-split system is equipped with highly efficient advanced technology. High voltage electricity can be converted quickly and easily with very little energy. The compressor can also operate at different velocities. If you find a mini-split system with a SEER rating of over 25, rest assured that it will help you save on your electricity bill.
Varied Zoning
With the mini-split system, you can create zones in your house to make your room more comfortable based on occupancy. For example, suppose your home has an empty bedroom. In that case, you can set it to a different temperature than the bedroom that is always occupied. You can move multiple indoor units simultaneously in your home with varying temperature settings, which is one of the most valuable advantages of the mini-split.
They Are Very Quiet
These systems do not generate much noise during operation. It is one of the best features of the system. Unlike window systems and central air conditioners, ductless systems operate much quieter than high-velocity systems. Suppose you prefer an air conditioner that doesn’t sound like a truck running around your home. In that case, the mini-split unit is worth considering.
No Duct Installation
As already mentioned, the mini-split system does not require plumbing. It means saving hundreds of dollars for the contractor to install the unit. The installation required is an indoor unit only, which is relatively quick and easy. The outdoor unit requires less work than other HVAC systems.
Disadvantages
Filtration capacity
The mini-split system has an air filter, but it is not the most powerful filtration system available. Users often add carbon inserts to the mini-split unit to improve filtration to mitigate this issue. The filtering ability also depends on the make and model of the ductless system.
Cost
Mini-split systems usually cost more than high-velocity systems. However, because it consumes less energy, you can save on electricity bills.
Requires multiple units
Having multiple mini splits in your house can be distracting from an aesthetic point of view. Keep in mind that you usually need a unit for each room to cool the room efficiently. It also increases the initial cost of the mini-split system, especially if you have a house with three or more rooms.
High-Velocity Air Conditioners
High-velocity systems are excellent heating and cooling options. Not only can you remove up to 30% of the humidity from your house, but you can even out the temperature in different rooms of your house. Let’s take a closer look at those benefits.
Advantages
They are not so distracting.
These units are usually placed in the basement. Unlike mini-split units, the vents are placed in a discreet location. Keep in mind that the vents are small and unobtrusive in walls and closets.
Only One Unit Is Needed
With high-velocity air conditioning, you only need one for the entire house, not one for each room. These air conditioners can send cold air to multiple rooms or areas in the house without additional equipment. In other words, the installation cost is low.
They Cool Relatively Fast
High-velocity units are also known for quickly blowing air into multiple rooms at relatively high velocity. You don’t have to wait hours for the whole house to cool down like in the Central Air Unit.
Disadvantages
Units Can Be Noisy
On the other hand, high-velocity devices force air through small vents around the house, which can be noisy. However, some brands are developing models with soundproofing technology to reduce noise levels.
Physical Discomfort
High-velocity systems pump air into the ports at a relatively high velocity. Sitting near the draft can be physically uncomfortable, especially if the room is small. Contractors are usually advised to place vents away from rooms or bedrooms to resolve this issue.
Also check: Does Carpet Make a Room Hotter or Cooler?
Choose the air conditioner that suits you the best!
Before deciding whether to use a high-velocity air conditioner or a mini-split system, it is advisable to consider all options. The important things to consider are the current insulation, the square foot of your home, the overall layout, and the number of people occupying your home. It is also essential to know what your budget is and which system is best suited for the structure of your home. A licensed HVAC expert can help you narrow down your options and plan your installation process.
