When shopping for a heating and cooling system for your home, it’s critical to choose one that balances efficiency, functionality and budget. That’s why many families use mini-splits for climate control in their home.

Mini-splits—often known as ductless mini-splits—have a variety of advantages that make them an attractive option for both homes and businesses. They're highly energy efficient, lowering energy consumption and saving on utility expenses, because they avoid the energy losses associated with the ductwork found in traditional HVAC systems. They also make it possible for users to tailor the temperature in each room, improving overall comfort while not wasting energy.

If you’re thinking about mini-split installation in Albuquerque, it’s necessary to first research if these devices are recommended for your living situation. Here, we’ll explore how mini-splits compare to other heating and cooling systems.

What a Mini-Split Is and How It Works

A mini-split, or ductless mini-split, is a heating and cooling device that does not use ductwork. It's a good option in homes that don't have any air ducts and for homes with rooms that aren’t served well by an existing HVAC system.

A mini-split system is made of two primary components: an outdoor compressor/condenser and an indoor air-handling component. The two are attached by a conduit carrying the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing and a condensate drain.

Here's how it works: the outdoor compressor circulates the refrigerant necessary for heat exchange within the coils and the air handler. The indoor unit pulls in air from the room, cools or heats it over the coils and pushes the conditioned air back into the room.

Mini-Split vs. Central Air

Mini-splits offer targeted cooling in certain rooms or zones of your home. They are outstanding for energy efficiency because they only heat or cool the areas you desire. However, they might not blend seamlessly into every room due to their wall-mounted indoor units.

Conversely, a central air system uniformly conditions your entire home, producing consistent comfort levels throughout. Its ductwork is hidden away, preserving the appearance of your home. However, it may not be as energy efficient as a mini-split, especially in bigger homes or residences where certain areas may not need nonstop conditioning.

Mini-Split vs. Window AC/Window Unit

Mini-splits are typically more energy efficient and quieter than a window air conditioning unit and are able to cool multiple rooms. This is why mini-splits are a flexible option for many homeowners. They also operate using a form of refrigerant that is more earth-safe, decreasing their environmental impact. These systems can even add value to your home due to their sturdy nature and remarkable cooling capabilities. However, they come with a larger up-front cost.

Having said that, window air conditioning units are less expensive initially. They are often a good fit for homes that are not able to accommodate a central air system or for homeowners with budget constraints. Even with these advantages, window units can utilize up to 40% more energy than ductless mini-split systems and often are louder.

Mini-Split vs. Portable AC

The answer to what is better, a ductless mini-split or a portable air conditioning unit, is dependent on your goals. If your main focus is energy efficiency and cooling capability, a mini-split is heads and shoulders better than a portable AC unit. However, if funding is a major concern, a portable AC has a lower initial investment.

Mini-Split vs. Gas Furnace

Deciding between a mini-split system and a gas furnace depends on an assortment of factors such as the climate in your city, home size, energy efficiency preferences and how much you plan on spending.

A mini-split system typically is more energy efficient than a gas furnace. It can heat and cool distinct areas inside of your home, supplying custom climate control in individual rooms. Mini-splits also are normally quieter and have a higher up-front cost, but their operating costs are usually lower due to their improved energy efficiency.

On the other hand, a gas furnace can be a very effective heating source, particularly in colder climates where mini-split heat pumps may fail to maintain comfort levels in the bitter cold. Even though they are less energy efficient than mini-splits, gas furnaces likely have lower initial costs. However, their operating costs can be higher, especially if natural gas prices increase.

Mini-Split vs. Heat Pump

Mini-splits and heat pumps function with the process of heat transfer. They are both energy efficient, but a heat pump's air ducts can use more power. That said, the choice between a mini-split and a heat pump often relies on individual needs and circumstances.

For instance, if you reside in a warmer climate and primarily need cooling, a mini-split system might be a good choice. However, if you need both heating and cooling and already have ductwork in place, a heat pump could be a more efficient option.

Mini-Split vs. Space Heater

When it comes to heating and cooling a home, mini-splits and space heaters each have advantages. However, for all around efficiency, versatility, comfort and safety, mini-splits come out on top. Mini-splits supply superior energy efficiency simply because they deliver conditioned air directly to different zones and can serve multiple rooms at once.

Space heaters are much less expensive to buy but are typically recommended for heating a confined area or a single room. They also can be less energy efficient. As opposed to mini-splits, space heaters do not supply cooling. The biggest drawback for space heaters is the chance of fire. Authorities say some 1,700 fires per year involve space heaters.