If you’re upgrading your home’s HVAC system or installing a central AC unit for the first time, you’ve likely come across the terms ductless heat pump and mini split system. But do these terms refer to the same thing, or is there a difference? Read on to learn the key differences between these popular systems and help you decide which type best suits your heating and cooling needs in Portland, Oregon.

The Heat Pump Store is a leading and trusted company helping residents in the Pacific Northwest states get the best ductless heating and cooling solutions. Contact us today to learn more.

What is a Ductless Heat Pump?

A ductless heat pump is a heating and cooling system that differs from a traditional central heat pump or furnace. Mini-splits and heat pumps can be used interchangeably, as they serve essentially the same purpose. Distributing heated or cooled air throughout a home does not require ductwork with a mini-split or heat pump, as these units consist of outdoor compressor units connected to one or more indoor head units with fans to move air.
The outdoor unit extracts heat from the outdoor air in winter and transfers it to the indoor head units to provide heating for spaces. In summer, it reverses operations to pull heat from indoor air and release it outside, providing efficient cooling. Because ductwork is not required, ductless heat pumps can be installed quickly and discreetly, with the wall-mounted indoor units blending into a room’s design.

Ductless heat pumps and mini-splits offer several advantages over forced air systems.

  • They are highly efficient both in heating and cooling modes.
  • Individual zones allow controlling the temperature in different parts of a home.
  • Maintenance tends to be simpler since there are no ducts to service or insulate.

For homes that don’t have existing ductwork or need supplemental heating and cooling, ductless heat pumps deliver comfortable climate control.

Should I Get a Mini-Split for My Home?

If you want to add efficient climate control to either specific rooms or to your entire home, then a ductless heat pump or mini-split may be the solution. A single-zone ductless heat pump or mini-split can work well for heating and cooling in single or multiple areas throughout your home. A multi-zone mini-split system may be a better fit for larger homes that need to heat and cool multiple rooms. It connects one outdoor compressor to multiple interior wall units, allowing you to temperature regulate different areas independently. Installation may require more technical expertise but provides the benefits of zoned comfort control. Multi-zone systems are ideal if you want year-round comfort throughout most of your home without the cost of a full ducted central air system.

The Heat Pump Store Has What Your Home Needs

Ductless heat pumps are one of the most versatile and efficient solutions for all-year-round comfort in your home. Their energy-saving capabilities and precise temperature control make them a smart choice for any living space.

The Heat Pump Store is committed to providing heating and cooling solutions through the innovative and groundbreaking technology of inverter-driven heat pumps to residents of Portland, Oregon. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

 

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