Why Are Ductless Heat Pumps So Popular For Apartments And Hotels?

Ductless HVAC systems are a popular alternative to traditional forced-air heating or central cooling systems in various contexts, including residential and commercial properties. Heat pumps, in particular, can be an advantageous option for multi-unit dwellings. If you own an apartment building or hotel and need to install a new HVAC system, these units will be well worth considering.

But what makes heat pumps so ideal for these settings? This article will outline three features that make heat pumps the perfect option for building managers.

1. Self-Contained Design

Ductless HVAC systems require only two large components: an outdoor heat pump and an indoor air-handling unit. Unlike a traditional design, you install the air-handling unit inside the conditioned space. This approach means that you do not need dedicated utility space for a furnace or an evaporator, making ductless systems well-suited for smaller apartments.

Controls for heating and cooling are located right on the air-handler, and most units also include a separate note. Since they don't require a thermostat, there's no need to retrofit control or power wiring when installing a ductless heat pump.

2. Minimally Disruptive Installations

If your building currently uses window units and baseboard heaters, you probably have nightmares about retrofitting duct-based HVAC systems. Older buildings can require a significant amount of demolition for ductwork installation alone. Not only are your residents unlikely to appreciate these disruptions, but the costs can be high.

Ductless designs sidestep these concerns. The interior units can be installed directly onto a wall, with no cutting required. Each unit will require a drilled hole for power and refrigerant, but otherwise, no demolition is needed at all. The lack of significant alterations also means that the units can also be easily removed or upgraded in the future.

3. Highly Energy Efficient

It may seem counterintuitive, but the most efficient way to keep any space comfortable is by moving heat from one location to another. Air conditioners work this way, but traditional heating systems convert various forms of energy into heat. A heat pump works like a reversible air conditioner, allowing the unit to extract heat from even freezing air and move it indoors.

Ultimately, this means that heat pumps are much more energy-efficient heaters than furnaces while still providing the same energy-efficiency level as traditional air conditioners. Lower utility bills can keep your building's fixed costs down, benefit your tenants, and allow you to promote your building's greener, lower-carbon footprint.

While older heat pump designs were only suitable for warmer designs, newer units can operate in temperatures well below the freezing point. These advancements make them a useful option for building managers in nearly any climate. Learn more about ductless heat pump installation from a company like Century Heating & A/C Inc today. 


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