Ductless Mini-Split A/C vs. Electric Heat Pump: What’s the Difference?
Homeowners and business owners in the South Hadley, MA area use all sorts of equipment and technology to keep cool during the hot summers we experience here in the Northeast. If you’ve been hearing people talk about ductless mini-splits and electric heat pumps and want to know more about the differences and similarities, you’re in the right place. This blog post will delve into the distinguishing factors between the two, helping you decide which type of HVAC installation will be the right fit for your Massachusetts property.
Related Post: Top Considerations When Installing a Ductless Mini-Split A/C or Electric Heat Pump
What is a ductless mini-split A/C system?
The perfect alternative to springing for central air or replacing several window A/C units, energy-efficient mini-splits are composed of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units. These units work together to cool your entire home or selected rooms efficiently. Mini-splits are small, sleek systems that are affixed to any wall you choose. This technology allows you to forget the hassle of your old units and avoid renovation costs associated with adding ducted central air. Many models have a heating attachment that provides supplementary heating, but this is not a defining factor of all mini-splits.
What is an electric heat pump?
Heat pumps move warm air from one location to another—usually by extracting air from outside and compressing it to raise or lower the temperature to a satisfactory level. Heat pumps can be used for heating or cooling and are flexible in the fact that they can be attached to either a central or ductless HVAC system. In other words, they can be used with vents in your home, or partnered with a mini-split air conditioner to get your property to the precise temperature you want.
Can the two systems be combined?
Yes! As we mentioned, heat pumps can be attached to ductless mini-split systems to provide efficient and powerful heating and cooling capabilities to Massachusetts homes and businesses. This is called a mini-split heat pump. Homeowners love the versatile and effective temperature control these units offer.
Benefits of combined mini-split heat pumps include:
- Low-cost heating and cooling
- Zoned temperature control
- Remote-controlled operation
- Whisper-quiet sound and sleek design
- Increased home comfort and resale value
Which type of HVAC equipment should I choose?
All in all, both our mini-splits and heat pumps include both heating and cooling functionalities. The difference is just in the way they operate, and that heat pumps can be connected to existing ductwork if you use a furnace to heat your property in the winter. We recommend a combined unit so you get the best of both worlds—but if you would like to talk to a professional for a free personalized recommendation, get in touch! We’d love to speak with you about your installation preferences and help you select a unit that will keep your property comfortable for years to come.