Ductless Heating and Cooling Basics for Indianapolis Homes

By: Brian Schutt  |  June 4, 2024

More Indianapolis homeowners choose to install and use ductless heating and cooling systems as they have increasing popularity. An HVAC staple also known as “mini-splits” across Europe and Asia, these systems are convenient and energy efficient.

In a 2018 article, Daikin’s Senior Vice President Doug Widenmann said, “The Daikin mini-split product development team continually looks for ways to adapt the superior technology of mini-splits to the North American ducted market applications.”

“Much advancement has been made in the development of advanced inverter compressors, fan motors, heat exchangers, and refrigerant control technologies that allow heat pump systems to be used in the colder climate conditions of the northern U.S. and Canada.”

Because they’re not as common as the central air systems in most Indianapolis homes, many Hoosiers are unfamiliar with this heating and cooling solution. We’re here to share the basics of ductless heating and air technology for you.

If you think it might be right for your Indianapolis home, schedule a free estimate with a Homesense pro. Our team is happy to review the pros and cons based on your specific property. Read on to learn how ductless units work, the benefits they provide, and general maintenance necessary.

Ductless Heating and Air System Basics

A ductless heating and air system is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a heating and cooling system that doesn’t need ducts for air distribution. How is this possible?

The main HVAC unit is a heat pump or an air conditioner, depending on the model. The main exterior unit is connected to individual air handlers inside which distribute air directly into the area they serve. These air handlers are referred to as “indoor heads.”

A single heat pump or air conditioner unit is installed outdoors. Depending on the model, this unit supports up to six individual indoor air handling units. Technicians install the air handlers within the living areas they serve and connect them to the exterior unit through a line set.

Refrigerant line sets run through a small hole in the exterior wall. Because there’s only a small hole required to connect lines, new ductless units relieve a lot of security concerns of the old window units.

Homeowners control heating and cooling via the system’s air handler. A single home is able to have multiple air handlers connected to one system. This creates zoned heating and cooling, where heating and air conditioning in each area is controlled independently. Does your sunroom need more air conditioning than your den? Easily done with mini-splits.

Benefits of Ductless Heating and Air Systems

Ductless heating and air systems offer unique advantages for Indianapolis homeowners:

They don’t need ducts

In homes without existing ductwork, space or budget to install new ducts, a ductless heating and air system is an excellent option. They provide the same level of comfort as a central heating and cooling system – without the ducts!

Ductless heating and air systems are also a great option for add-on heating and cooling. Add comfort to new additions or newly finished spaces. You can also supplement your central systems in tricky areas. The most common application is a sunroom because the extra windows create a unique need for cooling or heating, depending on the season.

Indoor units are controlled with remote controls. They also don’t take up any floor space or dictate furniture arrangement. Ductless units install on ceilings or walls, up and out of the way.

They offer zoned heating and cooling

Zoned heating and cooling increases comfort while keeping energy costs low. Control temperatures in each area, or zone, separately. Occupants set temperatures according to their preferences.

Conserve energy when a room is not in use and cut off the HVAC. These systems distribute conditioned air more evenly versus central HVAC systems for improved comfort in each zone.

They are highly efficient

Finally, ductless heating and air technology boasts high energy-efficiency levels. Heat pump systems offer heating as well as cooling so your family saves on energy costs throughout the entire year. According to ENERGY STAR, a ductless heating and air system saves up to 30 percent on cooling costs.

They improve air quality

Because they are separate from a ductwork system, there’s no circulation of indoor pollutants from other rooms. Check and change the air filter regularly to keep the air filtered well.

In addition, schedule regular maintenance with an HVAC professional contractor like Homesense Heating and Cooling. The simplest solution is to invest in a preventative maintenance program. It provides regular tune-ups as well as other benefits.

Conclusion: Trust Homesense in Indy to Solve Problems with Ductless Heating and Air

Homesense helps customers all over Indianapolis, including suburbs like Zionsville, Geist, Fishers, Noblesville and Carmel. We’re in the city too, helping homeowners in Butler-Tarkington, Broad Ripple and Meridian-Kessler.

Are you a realtor or developer in Indy? Ductless technology might solve challenges in certain listings. We also provide HVAC inspections to speed up the seller and buyer process. Give us a call at 317-203-8149 – we’re happy to help with any heating and cooling issues.

So, is ductless heating and air conditioning right for your Indianapolis home? Homesense helps you determine the best choice for your comfort with down-to-earth advice. Contact us today to schedule a free estimate and learn more about this helpful technology.