When any type of home improvement project is done on a home or any new appliance is installed, resale value of the real estate is commonly considered. This goes for major things, like bathroom and kitchen remodels, to appliances, like an HVAC system. And while mini split AC systems are trending upward in popularity, many property owners still wonder if it's a wise investment from a resale perspective.
Mini splits are indeed a wise investment - and for a variety of reasons. In this post, we'll explain how ductless mini split systems can add resale value to a home. Read on to learn more:
Are Mini Splits A Good Investment?
The answer is "yes." Mini splits offer a variety of benefits to homeowners when it comes to both heat and air conditioning.
- They're easier to install than a conventional ac unit.
- They have higher energy efficiency than central air. Mini splits use less energy to operate and don't have to combat losses through ductwork. Current mini split systems are up to 30 percent more efficient than ducted central air systems.
- They're flexible. Up to four indoor air handlers can be connected to one outdoor compressor. Mini splits are ideal for homes without ductwork or for heating and cooling property additions.
- They permit custom heating and cooling based on their zoned climate control layout. For example, you can keep the master bedroom at one temperature and the guest bedroom at a different temperature.
- They're quiet. Indoor air handlers operate at sounds below 20 decibels. That's about the equivalent of a whisper from 5 feet away.
Do Mini Splits Increase Home Value?
It's easy to see how mini splits increase home value based on the benefits listed above. The reasons are largely two-fold:
- Mini splits are incredibly energy efficient
- They offer a more flexible, customizable cooling option.
Another key advantage in the mini split vs central air comparison is the amount of energy each appliance uses.
The typical residential central air system is a 3.5-ton unit that uses 3,500 watts of energy per hour. That translates to 3.5 kilowatt hours (kWh).
Conversely, mini splits use anywhere from 500 to 700 watts per hour per each individual indoor air handler. If four air handlers are connected to the outdoor condenser and all running at once, that's anywhere from 2,000 to 2,800 watts of energy per hour. This translates to anywhere from 2 kWh to 2.8 kWh - usage well below what a conventional air conditioner would use.
Property owners like new, efficient technologies, and this includes advanced HVAC equipment. When it comes to comfort, customization, cost savings and flexibility, ductless AC mini splits hold the advantage.
Do Mini Splits Decrease Home Value?
Prospective buyers are likely to see the advantages of mini split systems. This is especially true when it comes to energy efficiency and cost savings.
While it's difficult to determine just how much a mini split system will increase home value, it certainly won’t decrease it. Mini split vs. central air home value may vary based on a number of factors. These include the age of the system and how many zones are installed.
Are Mini Splits Good for Old Houses?
Many older homes have-but weren't necessarily built to support-central air. Rather than spend money installing ductwork and a conventional system to your old home, mini splits are a simpler option.
As noted earlier, mini splits are easy for professionals to install. A condenser is installed outdoors, and air handlers are installed within certain areas, or zones, of the home. A small hole in the wall connects refrigerant lines and electrical wires from the air handlers to the condenser. Air handlers can be connected up to 50 feet away from the condenser, allowing for widespread coverage.
For the right type of older or historic home, mini splits make sense.
What is the Lifespan of a Mini Split System?
When cared for and maintained properly, a mini split system can last for up to 30 years. For reference, the average central air conditioning system tends to last 15 to 20 years.
It's also no more difficult to maintain a ductless mini split system than it is a central air system. Routine maintenance includes cleaning air filters, clearing debris away from the outdoor compressor, and checking the coils. Occasionally, a professional HVAC technician may be required to perform more thorough maintenance.
For more information on mini split systems and how they add value to a property, contact us today.
