How A Ductless Mini Split Lowers Your Electric Bill
Ductless mini split systems are becoming increasingly popular in households looking to reduce their electric bill while maintaining comfort and efficiency. These systems offer a range of benefits over traditional HVAC systems, particularly when it comes to energy consumption and cost savings. A mini split’s electric bill is going to be a welcome sight after years of using window units, or even some traditional central air systems.
I’ve been working with ductless mini splits for a few years now, and I have to say they are some of my favorite systems for homes and businesses. I’ve installed hundreds of ductless mini splits, and for good reason.
This article explores how mini splits save energy, keep your home comfortable, and provide a few other great benefits. If you have questions about a mini split for your home, give us a call or contact us online. One of our experts will be able to take a look at your home, and make a recommendation to keep your home comfortable and cozy all year long!
How Mini Splits Save Energy
Zoned Heating and Cooling
One of the primary ways a mini split system saves energy is through zoned heating and cooling. Unlike traditional systems that heat or cool an entire house uniformly, mini splits allow you to control the temperature in individual rooms or zones independently.
One room can be 73 degrees, while another is at 68, and the rooms that aren’t in use are turned off. This is going to save energy, and also help accommodate everyone in the house! Instead of fighting over the thermostat, you can adjust the temperatures around the house to make everyone happy.
So not only does zoning help improve comfort, but it will also save you energy by not treating the entire home when it’s not needed.
Heat Transfer
Mini splits work on the principle of heat transfer, like heat pumps, rather than traditional heating methods like combustion of fuel. This process is inherently more efficient, as it simply moves heat rather than generating it.
In the summer, the system extracts heat from inside your home and transfers it outside, and in the winter, it works in reverse. This efficiency in operation means that a mini split doesn’t use a lot of electricity compared to conventional heating and cooling systems.
Now, in the winter, your electric bill MAY go up, but you are no longer paying for oil or gas to heat your home. Your energy bills as a whole should go down!
Sophisticated Circulation Patterns
The advanced circulation patterns of mini split systems ensure that air is distributed more evenly and efficiently throughout the room. Instead of pumping air through ducts and out of a vent, it uses a ductless head to distribute air a bit more evenly around the space.
This leads to less energy being required to maintain a comfortable temperature, further reducing the energy consumption and the associated electric bill.
Inverter Technology
Modern mini splits are equipped with inverter technology, which allows the system to adjust its power output to meet the exact requirement of the room. Unlike traditional systems that turn on and off, creating energy spikes, inverters run continuously but at varying speeds, significantly reducing energy consumption.
This technology is one of the reasons that the answer to the question, “Do mini splits save energy?” is a resounding yes. Inverter technology keeps the energy bills down, and also makes the space more comfortable!
More Mini Split Benefits
Quiet Operation
One of the notable benefits of mini splits is their quiet operation. Traditional HVAC systems often create a noticeable background noise, but mini splits, with their advanced technology, operate almost silently, contributing to a more peaceful home environment. Window AC units are a nightmare when it comes to noise as well. Mini splits are your whisper quiet HVAC solution!
Enhanced Indoor Air Quality
Mini split systems are equipped with multi-stage filtration that reduces dust, bacteria, pollen, allergens, and other particulates from the air. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals with allergies or respiratory issues, ensuring a healthier indoor air quality. The filters are also easily replaceable and cleanable in a DIY capacity!
Better Comfort
The precise temperature control offered by mini splits is usually noticeable right away. With the ability to target specific zones, you can create a comfortable environment tailored to your personal preference without the inefficiencies and uneven temperatures common with traditional systems.
Traditional systems usually leave spaces in the home either too hot or too cold. Not the case here. Not only do mini splits save energy, but they also improve the comfort in your home!
Mini Split Electric Bill Savings FAQ
Are mini splits tax-deductible?
In some regions, installing a mini split system can be tax-deductible as they are often considered energy-efficient upgrades. It’s advisable to consult with a tax professional or look into local energy-saving incentives to see if you qualify for any deductions.
How many mini splits does it take to heat a house?
The number of mini splits required to heat a house depends on various factors, including the size of the home, climate, and insulation quality. Some mini splits can be used as supplement to a current system or you can install a multi-zone mini split design that will keep the entire space comfortable! For a whole home it’s usually 3-5 zones, but a professional assessment should be able to give you an exact number.
Should I turn off my mini split at night?
Turning off your mini split at night is not necessary and can sometimes be less efficient. These systems are designed to maintain a consistent temperature efficiently. Setting a lower temperature at night instead of turning the system off entirely can result in more energy savings.