When many homeowners consider of heating and air conditioning, the first thought is usually a centralized system. This involves air conditioners and forced air furnaces connected to a network of ducts. A centralized HVAC system can be a very costly investment, but fortunately, a ductless mini split system is an effective alternative to cool your home in summer and keep warm in winter. 
What is a Ductless Mini Split System?
A ductless mini split system utilizes self-contained units in multiple zones throughout your property. These units require no ductwork to be installed around the property, making them more suitable for certain types of property. Additionally, since the units are very unobtrusive, they tend not to compromise the aesthetics of your decor. This type of system allows you to independently heat or cool these areas according to your particular preferences. With the mild climate in Santa Monica, this offers an effective and efficient way to keep your home at your preferred comfortable temperature, regardless of the time of year.
Why are They Suited to Santa Monica?
Some models of mini split systems feature a heat pump to allow the effective combination of air conditioning and heating into one unit. The heat pumps are specifically designed to work in temperatures that rarely go above 83˚F. This specification makes this type of system perfect for the coastal climate of Santa Monica.
Even if your chosen system does not feature a heat pump, the zone control technology ensures that the system works very well, especially here on the coast. Zone control allows the flexibility to take advantage of the pleasant ocean breezes and climate by opening windows or doors, without compromising the rest of the home. All you need to do is turn off the unit in one area and open the window to enjoy the sea air while the other areas of the home continue to be comfortably warm or cool. This degree of flexibility is particularly beneficial in a city such as ours and could contribute to a higher resale property value in addition to convenience and comfort for the current occupants.
Another advantage of a ductless mini split system is that they are very energy efficient. As the system has no ducts, they avoid the potential energy losses that are typically associated with the ductwork in a central forced air system. Research indicates that duct losses are responsible for in excess of 30% of energy consumption, especially if the ducts are installed in an unconditioned area such as a garage or attic.
Whether you are looking to reduce the initial installation cost or are simply concerned with installing the most efficient system to suit your property, a ductless mini split system could be the perfect solution. There are many advantages of choosing this type of system. A reputable installer will be able to assist you in determining whether it is the option best suited to the specific requirements of your property. This guidance will help you to proceed forward with confidence and allow you to enjoy comfortably warmed or cooled air without massive energy bills.