# Mini-Split Systems: Perfect for Bay Area Homes Without Ductwork
Many Bay Area homes, especially older Victorian, Craftsman, and mid-century homes, lack ductwork for central HVAC. Mini-splits offer an elegant solution.
What is a Mini-Split?
A mini-split (or ductless) system consists of: - Outdoor unit: Contains compressor and condenser - Indoor unit(s): Wall or ceiling-mounted air handlers - Refrigerant lines: Connect outdoor and indoor units - No ductwork required
Why Mini-Splits Suit Bay Area Homes
Perfect for Older Homes Many Bay Area neighborhoods feature: - Pre-war homes without duct infrastructure - Historic homes where ductwork would damage character - Homes with radiant heat but no AC - Room additions without HVAC
Ideal for Additions Common Bay Area scenarios: - Converted garages - ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) - Basement conversions - Attic rooms - Sunrooms
Room Temperature Variations Bay Area homes often have: - Hot upstairs bedrooms - Cold rooms over garages - Sunny vs. shaded rooms - Individual comfort preferences
Types of Mini-Split Systems
Single-Zone - One outdoor unit, one indoor unit - Perfect for single room addition - Simplest installation - Cost: $3,000-$6,000 installed
Multi-Zone - One outdoor unit, multiple indoor units - 2-5 zones typical - Independent temperature control per room - Cost: $8,000-$20,000+ installed
Indoor Unit Styles - **Wall-mounted:** Most common, easy installation - **Ceiling cassette:** Recessed, requires ceiling space - **Floor-mounted:** Good for rooms with limited wall space - **Ducted:** Hidden in ceiling, for multiple rooms
Top Mini-Split Brands
Mitsubishi Electric - Industry leader in ductless - Hyper-Heating technology - Excellent efficiency ratings - Wide product range
Daikin - Global HVAC leader - Innovative technology - Good warranty coverage - Variety of options
Fujitsu - Reliable performance - Competitive pricing - Halcyon line popular - Good efficiency ratings
LG - Art Cool design options - Smart home integration - Competitive pricing - Growing market share
Installation Considerations
What's Involved - Mounting indoor unit on wall - Installing outdoor unit (ground pad or brackets) - Running refrigerant lines (through small wall hole) - Electrical connections - Vacuum and refrigerant charging
Professional vs. DIY Always use a professional installer: - Proper refrigerant handling requires EPA certification - Incorrect installation voids warranty - Poor installation leads to problems - Permits may be required
Where to Place Indoor Units - High on walls for best air distribution - Away from direct sunlight - Central to the room when possible - Consider furniture and décor
Bay Area Mini-Split Benefits
Energy Efficiency - Up to 30% more efficient than central systems - No duct losses (ducts can lose 20-30%) - Inverter technology adjusts to load - Zone control eliminates waste
Quiet Operation - Indoor units very quiet (as low as 19 dB) - Outdoor units can be placed away from living areas - Great for bedrooms
Year-Round Comfort - Both heating and cooling - Works efficiently in Bay Area climate - Quick temperature adjustment
Costs and Payback
Installation Costs | Configuration | Cost Range | |---------------|------------| | Single zone | $3,000-$6,000 | | Two zones | $6,000-$10,000 | | Three zones | $9,000-$14,000 | | Four+ zones | $12,000-$20,000+ |
Operating Costs - Generally lower than central systems - Zone control reduces waste - High SEER ratings mean efficiency
Available Rebates - PG&E heat pump rebates - BayREN incentives - Federal tax credits - Manufacturer rebates
Maintenance Requirements
Regular Tasks - Clean filters monthly - Keep outdoor unit clear - Annual professional cleaning recommended
Professional Maintenance - Coil cleaning - Refrigerant check - Electrical inspection - Deep cleaning
Is a Mini-Split Right for You?
Perfect For: - Homes without ductwork - Room additions - Garage conversions - ADUs - Hot or cold problem rooms - Individual room control desire
Consider Alternatives If: - Whole-house solution needed with existing ducts - Multiple rooms with ducted system would be cheaper - Budget is very limited
Our Recommendations
For Single Rooms Mitsubishi M-Series or Fujitsu 9RLS3 - efficient, quiet, reliable
For Multi-Zone Whole House Mitsubishi MXZ Multi-Zone or Daikin Multi-Split - flexibility and efficiency
For Budget-Conscious Gree or LG units offer good value with solid performance
Next Steps
- Assess your heating/cooling needs
- Determine number of zones required
- Get professional load calculations
- Obtain quotes from qualified installers
- Check available rebates
Contact us for a free mini-split consultation. We'll help you determine the best configuration for your Bay Area home.