As Canadian homeowners look for more efficient ways to stay comfortable year-round, heat pumps have become one of the most popular home heating and cooling options.
Deciding between ducted and ductless heat pumps is an important step, as the right system can significantly impact the comfort and efficiency of your home. Both systems are capable of efficiently heating and cooling your home. Ductless systems, in particular, are known for their efficiency.
According to Natural Resources Canada, with ENERGY STAR-certified ductless heat pumps, including top-rated, most efficient models, homeowners can reduce heating costs by as much as 60% and cooling costs by 30%.
Whether you prioritize uniform airflow throughout your home or precise temperature control in individual rooms, understanding the differences between both systems will help you make a confident, well-informed choice. Let us dive into the blog to know more.
What are Ducted Heat Pumps?
Ducted heat pumps are centralized heating and cooling systems that use a network of ducts installed within the home’s walls, floors, or ceilings to distribute conditioned air to every room.
In winter, they extract heat from the outdoor air and transfer it indoors, while in summer the system reverses, removing heat from inside your home and releasing it outdoors. Because of this design, ducted heat pumps work especially well in larger homes or in houses that already have existing ductwork, providing stable and consistent temperatures throughout every room.
What are Ductless Heat Pumps?
Ductless heat pumps are heating and cooling units that don’t require traditional ducts. A ductless (mini-split) system consists of one or more indoor air-handling units connected to a single outdoor compressor/condenser via refrigerant lines and electrical wiring. Each indoor unit allows individual temperature control, so you can set different temperatures for different rooms or zones.
Ductless systems are excellent options for homes without existing ductwork or newly finished rooms, offering high energy efficiency, low operating noise, and year-round heating and cooling. Installation is generally less invasive than adding ductwork, but it requires a certified professional because it involves refrigerant handling, electrical connections, and a small wall penetration. Compared with electric baseboard or older heating systems, ductless heat pumps can reduce energy use and provide flexible, targeted comfort, though actual savings depend on your home, climate, and usage.
Ducted vs Ductless Heat Pumps: Key Differences
Ducted and ductless heat pumps differ in several key ways. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right system for your home.
Installation Process and Requirements
Ducted heat pumps rely on an extensive duct network, making installation more complex, time-consuming, and generally suitable only for homes with existing ductwork. In contrast, ductless systems require only a small wall opening for refrigerant lines, making installation quicker and less invasive. They are ideal for older homes, room additions, or spaces without ductwork.
Energy Efficiency and System Performance
Ductless heat pumps can be more efficient in homes without ducts, as they avoid energy losses associated with ductwork. Ducted systems provide more uniform temperature throughout the home, but energy efficiency can be reduced if ducts are poorly insulated or have leaks. Ductless units excel at targeted heating and cooling and can help reduce energy costs, though actual savings depend on your home layout, insulation, and climate.
Comfort, Airflow, and Zoning Capabilities
Ducted heat pumps disperse air evenly to multiple rooms. They are ideal for maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the home. In contrast, ductless systems provide individual zoning so that each room can be controlled separately. This allows for greater comfort and can reduce energy waste by conditioning only the rooms in use.
Aesthetic Impact and Space Usage
Ducted vs ductless heat pumps differ in appearance and how they use space. Ducted systems are mostly hidden within walls and ceilings, providing a clean, unobtrusive look. Ductless units are usually wall-mounted, which saves floor space but makes them more visible indoors.
Cost Differences and Long-Term Maintenance
Ducted heat pumps usually involve higher installation costs due to the need for ductwork. They can provide heating for the entire house. Ductless systems generally cost less to install, are easier to maintain, and have lower repair costs. Over time, ducted systems require periodic duct cleaning, while ductless systems mainly need regular filter replacement.
Factors That Influence the Right Choice for Your Home
Several key factors can help you decide whether a ducted or ductless heat pump is best for your home. Understanding these considerations ensures you select a system that meets your comfort, budget, and lifestyle needs.
Existing Ductwork or Home Layout
If your home already has functional ductwork, a ducted heat pump can be easily integrated. For homes without ducts, such as older buildings, flats, or newly added rooms, a ductless system is typically more affordable, quicker to install, and easier to implement.
Budget Range and Installation Timeline
Ducted systems often require a higher upfront investment, especially if new ductwork installation or repairs are needed, and installation can take several days. In contrast, ductless systems are usually less expensive to install and can often be set up in a single day, making them a practical choice for homeowners seeking a faster upgrade.
Personal Comfort Preferences and Lifestyle
If you prefer consistent temperatures throughout the home without visible indoor units, a ducted system is the most suitable option. Conversely, if you want to save energy, have individual control over each room, and heat or cool only the spaces you use, ductless heat pumps offer a flexible and efficient solution.
Final Words
The choice between a ductless or ducted heat pump depends on your home layout, comfort preferences, and energy efficiency goals. A ducted system provides consistent heating and cooling throughout the entire home, while a ductless system allows for flexible, zone-specific control and energy-efficient operation.
To determine which system is best for your home, it is recommended to consult with experienced professionals. Infiniti Home Comfort provides expert heat pump installation, ensuring your system is properly installed for optimal performance, energy efficiency, and long-term reliability.
