Ductless Mini-Split Vs. Window AC Unit: Which Is Best?

It’s not hard to tell when summertime rolls around each year because you can feel the spike in temperatures across the Greater Lehigh Valley. During this time, it’s imperative that you have the right air conditioner for your home and that it’s working to keep your family comfortable. For example, if your home doesn’t have existing ductwork and has insufficient space to install any, or you’re a renter without the freedom to schedule your own air conditioner installation service, you’re left with two options: ductless mini-split or window AC unit. We know this can be a tough choice at Jack Lehr Heating, Cooling & Electric. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of pros and cons for you to consider before making any major decisions.

Benefits Of Ductless Mini-Splits

First things first, what is a ductless mini-split? As the name suggests, it is a home cooling system that doesn’t use ducts and is split into two pieces: an inside unit and an outdoor condenser. These pieces are connected with a pair of refrigerant pipes that run through a small hole in the exterior wall of your Pennsylvania home. If you have a home with an enclosed patio, room additions or renovations, or rooms that always seem to be too hot or too cold, this system is ideal for you. With the ability to control the temperature for different spaces throughout your home, you also don’t have to waste as much money and energy trying to heat or cool a room that is usually unoccupied. A ductless mini-split is also advantageous because it:

• Allows for custom temperature control
• Saves energy
• Operates quietly
• Functions without ductwork

You can also choose to have your ductless system installed in a ceiling cassette, mounted on the wall, mounted on the ceiling, or even installed in a concealed unit. This provides additional convenience as you and your family cool off during the Allentown summer. 

What Are the Disadvantages of a Mini-Split?

Contrary to the many perks, there are only a few reasons why you might not be interested in this system. When it comes to a ductless AC system:

• Professional installation is required
• It’s more expensive than a window AC unit

But while the price tag might not be as attractive, these systems will last much longer than a temporary solution and are much more energy efficient. Also, compared to a central air conditioner installation, a ductless mini-split installation is quick and simple.

Benefits Of Window AC Units

When the summer heat settles in, we will do almost anything to find relief. This is where a window air conditioning unit could come into play. Just like the ductless mini-split’s name, a window AC unit is accurately named as an air conditioner in your home’s window. Some advantages of a window AC unit include:

• Immediate relief
• Simple and quick installation
• Inexpensive up-front cost

What Are the Disadvantages of a Window AC Unit?

While these units can be set up rather quickly, they usually only provide temporary home cooling and just in the room or immediate area where they’re located. Plus, window AC units almost always cycle on and off, blowing air into your home that is too cold or too hot. A window AC unit also:

• Operates loudly
• Blocks natural light
• Lacks custom temperature control
• Creates a safety risk

Since these air conditioners are placed under an open window space in your home, and sometimes precariously so, they can be dangerous for children and an invitation for crime. It wouldn’t take much for someone to push or pull the unit from the window to gain entry into your home, which is a position we wouldn’t want any of our customers to be in!

Is It Cheaper to Run a Mini-Split or a Window Unit?

When it comes to efficiently cooling your space, it’s essential to understand the cost implications of running a ductless mini-split or a window AC unit. Here are the factors that contribute to the overall cost and efficiency of each system: 

• Energy Efficiency: Ductless mini-split systems are renowned for their energy efficiency. The ductless AC system typically has a higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) than a window unit. The SEER rating reflects how efficiently the system uses electricity to cool your space. A higher SEER rating often translates to lower energy bills.
• Zone Cooling: One of the standout features of a ductless mini-split is its ability to provide zoned cooling. This means you can cool specific areas of your home, reducing the need to cool the entire space. Window AC units, on the other hand, cool a single room and may struggle to maintain consistent temperatures throughout larger areas. 
• Installation Costs: Installation of a window unit is simple and inexpensive as it only needs to be placed in an open window space of the room you choose. The initial cost of installing a ductless mini-split system can be higher than that of a window unit, but the long-term savings on energy bills may outweigh the upfront investment. Additionally, the ease of installation and versatility of ductless systems can contribute to cost-effectiveness in the long run. 
• Overall Cost Considerations: To determine which system is cheaper to run, it’s essential to factor in your specific cooling needs, the size of the space, and your local climate. Consulting with HVAC professionals can provide insights tailored to your circumstances, helping you make an informed decision based on long-term cost savings. 

In short, while ductless mini-splits may have a higher initial cost, their energy efficiency and zoned cooling capabilities often result in lower long-term operational expenses compared to window AC units. 

Which is Better: Split-System or Window AC?

Comparing a ductless mini-split vs. a window unit involves considering various factors to ensure the optimal cooling solution for your home. Here are the key aspects differentiating these systems to help you make an informed decision: 

• Cooling Capacity: Ductless mini-split systems are designed to cool larger areas efficiently. Their capacity to cool multiple rooms makes them ideal for whole-home comfort. Window AC units are effective at cooling individual rooms but may struggle to provide consistent cooling in larger spaces. 
• Aesthetics and Installation: Ductless mini-slits offer a sleek, modern look, with the indoor unit typically mounted high on the wall or ceiling. This not only enhances aesthetics, but also allows for flexible installation options. Window AC units are visible from both the inside and outside of your home, potentially impacting your home’s aesthetics. 
• Customized Cooling: The zoned cooling capability of ductless mini-splits allows you to customize temperatures in different areas of your home, offering valuable flexibility in homes with varying cooling needs. Window AC units are limited to cooling a single room, making them suitable for targeted comfort, but less versatile in larger spaces. 
• Energy Efficiency: As mentioned earlier, ductless mini-splits generally have a higher SEER rating, indicating superior energy efficiency. This can result in lower energy bills over time compared to window AC units. 
• Noise Level: Ductless mini-splits are known for their quiet operation as the noisy compressor is located outside. Window AC units can be louder due to their location within the room. If noise is a concern, the quieter operation of mini-splits may be a deciding factor. 

The choice between a ductless mini-split system and a window AC unit depends on factors such as your cooling needs, budget, aesthetics preferences, and long-term energy efficiency goals. Consulting with HVAC professionals can provide personalized insights to guide your decision-making process. 

Choose Jack Lehr For Ductless Mini-Split Installation In Allentown, PA

Your comfort is our priority. At Jack Lehr Heating, Cooling & Electric, we want your family to relax in a cool environment when the temperatures are soaring in Allentown and the Greater Lehigh Valley. Trust us to handle any ductless mini-split installation, repair, replacement, or maintenance services you require because we have NATE-certified technicians with years of experience and training. We know how to assess your home’s needs to ensure you choose the right system for you and your family. Customer satisfaction is very important to us, and we take every service visit seriously.

Are you interested in a ductless mini-split system for your Pennsylvania home? Call us at 610-596-9967 or contact us online to start feeling the difference in your PA home!