4 Benefits of Installing a Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner In Your Finished Basement

Do you have a finished basement that requires air conditioning? Your central AC may not have the cooling capacity to handle the basement. Therefore, extending it may cause cooling inefficiencies throughout the home. Instead, you should install a separate air conditioner in the space. A ductless mini-split AC is a great choice for a finished basement. This unit doesn't require ductwork; thus, it is easy to install. Below are four reasons why you should install a ductless mini-split in your basement.

Efficient Cooling

The most efficient way to cool your basement is to install a separate air conditioning unit. A ductless mini-split AC allows you to choose the perfect unit size that matches the cooling load. If you have a small basement, you can opt for a single-split unit with one outdoor unit and one indoor air handler. Conversely, if your basement has three rooms, invest in a mini-split with three air handlers. These options allow you to cool the space efficiently and achieve the desired temperatures without overworking your central air conditioner. Consequently, efficient cooling boosts air quality and improves indoor comfort in your finished basement.

Basement Zoning

Does your basement have multiple rooms with varying cooling needs? Extending your zoned ducted AC into the space may not be a good idea. Instead, opt for a multi-zone mini-split air conditioner. A multi-zone unit has multiple air handlers that can be installed in different rooms in the basement. You can control each air handler individually and set different temperatures for each unit. Therefore, if your basement has a living area, a bedroom, an entertainment room, and a storage room, you can cool each space individually. You can even turn off the air in unoccupied rooms to save energy.

Dehumidification Properties

Basements usually have high humidity due to poor insulation and inadequate ventilation. The increased moisture levels in the air can make the space uncomfortable. Furthermore, humidity creates suitable breeding grounds for mold and lowers the air quality in the basement. A mini-split whose air handlers have in-built dehumidifiers is excellent for the space. The dehumidifiers remove excess moisture from the air, making the basement comfortable and mold-free. 

Year-Round Heating and Cooling

Mini-split air conditioners are not just for indoor cooling—they provide heating as well. Most mini-splits use the reverse refrigeration function to draw heat from outside and heat the indoor air. Therefore, with this system, you don't need to worry about extending your furnace ductwork into the basement or investing in a separate heating system. This significantly lowers overall installation costs and system maintenance expenses.

A ductless mini-split allows you to cool your basement without interfering with the functionality and efficiency of your central AC unit. For professional air conditioning installation services, consult an HVAC contractor.