Warmer weather is on the way again and many homeowners and new construction builders will be faced with the replacement of antiquated air conditioning units. One option that is rapidly being embraced allows for cooling of individual rooms in a large building. Known as mini-split, multi-split, split-zone and ductless, the system is being introduced to new construction as well as renovations, where existing technology has been refined for specific applications within homes.

There are multiple benefits to choosing a ductless mini-split, mainly greater efficiency, because the system allows for individual room control. Because 70 percent of all indoor air quality issues come from ductwork, this ductless system increases the efficiency by a significant amount.

Ductless systems also use far less raw material and occupy fewer cubic feet of space in the building. Infrequently-used rooms such as guest bedrooms, storage rooms and closets are cooled or heated on an as-needed basis, providing a cost savings by not conditioning “dead” areas.

Split zoning systems can achieve up to 26 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating), a ratio of how much energy, measured (in BTUs) is pumped outside in cooling mode, divided by the electricity used (in watts) for cooling. This is twice the federal minimum and provides much higher efficiency and additional cost savings.

This environmentally friendly system uses R410A refrigerant, and inverter compressors run only as fast as necessary to further reduce energy usage. Two small refrigerant lines, plus power and control wiring, are used to connect an outdoor unit to each individual air handler. This allows for easy installation in new construction and causes minimal disruption in renovating or retrofitting a home.

Ductless mini-splits connect an outdoor air-source unit to multiple indoor units, which connect to individual air handlers, mounted on the walls or ceiling. The installation requires only a three-inch conduit to come unobtrusively through the wall.

The options can be overwhelming. That’s why a call to an indoor air quality specialist can help you decide the best solution for your cooling and heating needs. Armed with a little knowledge and a trusted, reliable professional to guide your decisions, you can save money, be environmentally prudent and stay comfortable year-round in your home or business.

One such specialist in the local area is Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing and Electrical, in Fort Walton Beach, (with service to other areas). They have seen an increase in local installation due to cost savings and environmental concerns. They note there is an ever-growing, environmentally friendly customer base.

“It’s great that it saves us all money, but especially after what happened with the oil spill, I think we all want to better protect our beautiful Emerald Coast environment,” explains Peaden Branch Manager Jonathan Green.

For more information on the system, visit AcMiniSplitBlog.com. Peaden is located at 420 Greenacres Rd., Ste 1, in Fort Walton Beach, and can be reached at 850-362-6646.