Putting central air in a house without ductwork is possible, but the process can be time-consuming. Installing ductwork in a place without ductwork can require extensive demolition of walls or other structures. Additionally, some homes will require custom-made ductwork, which can take up valuable space. Putting central air in a house without ductwork is not the most cost-effective option.
If you want to install central air in a house without ductwork, you must first determine the best location for the ductwork. A central air system can service most of the home, but if certain rooms are difficult to heat or cool, you’ll need a mini-split unit. Fire & Ice always includes line hide in their installation. You can even choose to paint the line hide to match the color of your home.
You can install a split ducted system if you don’t have ductwork. On the other hand, Split ductless systems allow you to control the air in each room independently. These units are less bulky and visually obstructive and will allow you to cool or heat just one room. If you want to avoid these visual obstacles, split-ductless systems might be the way to go.
The biggest drawback of installing ducts in a house with no ductwork is that it will require extensive remodeling. In addition to tearing down walls, ceilings, and floors, contractors will also have to make changes to the home’s exterior. The added cost and inconvenience of the ductwork installation may not be worth the added expense. If you’re looking to put central air in a house without ductwork, it is wise to consider building a new home instead.
If you don’t have ductwork, you can install a window air conditioner or wall-mounted air conditioning system. However, if you don’t have ductwork, hiring a professional to install the unit is advisable. A professional will evaluate the airflow in the home and recommend how best to use it. Although it’s not recommended for every house, installing central air without ductwork is possible. It’s not cheap, but it can provide adequate cooling.
Another disadvantage of installing ductwork is the cost. It’s ugly, inconvenient, and expensive. You may need to cut down walls and add cubbies to fit the ductwork. In addition to requiring a large amount of money, installing a central air conditioning unit may save energy compared to a wall unit. Window units are also inefficient. Many homeowners are stuck with window units if they don’t have the space to put ductwork. Instead, consider ductless wall air conditioners.
In addition to the inconvenience of unsightly ductwork, putting central air in a house without ductwork may result in higher utility bills. Without ductwork, the system needs to work longer to cool the home. In addition to a higher cost, installing a central air unit without ductwork could take two or three days. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, you can install a ductless mini-split AC system.