With so many benefits of a ductless mini-split system – including the ability to save money on energy costs – it’s easy to see why so many Boston area homeowners are looking into this option.
Even though you’re excited about the advantages of a ductless mini-split system, there may be one common concern holding you back: the appearance in your house.
With a ductless mini-split system, there’s an outdoor unit and indoor air handlers. The outdoor unit is similar to what you get with central air conditioning.
However, on the inside, air handlers are mounted throughout the home to ensure proper and consistent heating and cooling. This is in contrast to central heating and cooling, with which air is moved through ductwork and dispensed through vents.
But don’t let that deter you. Even though you’ll have multiple indoor units, there are ways to conceal them.
Before we go any further, remember this: today’s ductless mini-split systems are more advanced than ever before. They’re smaller, better looking, and quieter. This makes them less invasive in any room of your home.
How to Hide a Ductless Mini Split
Let’s start with the outdoor unit. If possible, choose a location that’s not easy to see.
For example, it makes more sense to install the outdoor unit on the side or rear of your home, as opposed to the front.
Of course, there may be special considerations, so consult with an HVAC contractor to determine what will work best for your home.
Note: some outdoor units are designed to mount directly to the home, which helps keep it out of view.
Now for your main concern: hiding ductless mini-split air handlers inside your home.
Here are some creative ideas to consider:
- Wall shelves: Install shelves on the wall where your indoor unit will be installed. This gives the appearance that your unit is sitting on the shelf. And of course, it provides the opportunity to surround it with books, pictures, knickknacks, and other objects.
- Paint your walls: This is one of the easiest ways to make your indoor units blend in. Once you choose a color for your units – typically white or gray – head to your local hardware store to find paint that matches. By doing this, the unit blends in with the wall, as opposed to sticking out.
- Create a custom cover: You can’t cover the unit entirely, as doing so renders it useless. There’s no way for the air to reach your room. However, you can create a custom cover, such as with wood slats, that matches your decor. This looks good and allows for functional performance.
Before you decide in favor of a ductless mini-split system, consider how it will look in your house. Take the time to visualize the indoor units in different parts of your home.
When you plan in advance, it’s much easier to install a ductless mini-split system in a manner that doesn’t interfere with your interior design and furniture.
A ductless mini-split system may be just what you need to efficiently heat and cool your home. If you’re ready to get started, contact us to learn more about the process and talk about installation options.