What Is A Ductless Air Conditioner?
A ductless air conditioner, also known as a mini split air conditioner, is an efficient and flexible cooling solution that doesn't require ductwork. In this article, we'll explore what a ductless air conditioner is, how ductless air conditioners work, ductless AC benefits, and how to pick the right ductless air conditioning system for your home. Let’s dive in!

What Is A Ductless Air Conditioner?
A ductless air conditioner, also known as a mini split air conditioning, is a type of air conditioning system that provides cooling without the need for ductwork. It consists of two main components: an indoor unit and an outdoor compressor. The indoor unit is typically mounted on the wall or ceiling of a room, and it cools the air directly in that space. The outdoor compressor is responsible for releasing the heat from inside the home and circulating refrigerant to the indoor unit.
Unlike traditional air conditioning systems, which rely on ductwork to distribute cool air, a ductless system delivers cooled air directly into individual rooms, making it a great option for homes without existing ducts.
How Does A Ductless Air Conditioner Work?
A ductless air conditioner works by providing direct cooling to individual rooms or zones without the need for ductwork. It operates through a simple yet efficient system that includes two main components: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit (compressor).
The indoor unit is typically mounted on a wall or ceiling and is responsible for cooling the air in the room. It contains an evaporator coil that absorbs heat from the indoor air. When the system is turned on, the indoor unit pulls in warm air from the room. The refrigerant inside the evaporator coil absorbs the heat from the air and evaporates, turning into a gas. The now-cooled air is then blown back into the room, lowering the temperature.
The outdoor unit houses the compressor and condenser. The refrigerant, now in gas form after absorbing heat from the room, is pumped to the outdoor unit through a small, insulated refrigerant line. The compressor pressurizes the refrigerant, and the heat that was absorbed from the room is released outdoors through the condenser coil. The refrigerant then cools down and returns to liquid form, ready to flow back to the indoor unit to repeat the cycle.
The cycle of refrigerant flowing between the indoor and outdoor units is what allows the ductless system to continuously cool the air in your home. As the refrigerant absorbs heat from the air inside the room and releases it outside, the room temperature drops, providing consistent cooling.
Ductless Air Conditioner Benefits
A ductless air conditioner, also known as a mini-split system, offers several benefits over traditional HVAC systems that rely on ductwork. Here are some key advantages:
Energy Efficiency
Ductless air conditioners are typically more energy-efficient than traditional central air systems because they avoid the energy losses associated with ductwork. Central systems can lose a significant amount of energy through leaks or poor insulation in the ducts, but ductless units deliver cool air directly to the rooms without these losses
Zoning and Custom Control
Ductless air conditioning offers the ability to create individual cooling zones within your home. Each indoor unit can be controlled independently, allowing for customized temperature settings in different rooms. This is particularly useful for homes with varying needs across multiple rooms.
Ease of Installation
Ductless AC units are easier and less invasive to install than traditional central AC systems. Since they don’t require ducts, installation typically involves a small hole in the wall for the refrigerant line and wires, making them a great option for homes without existing ductwork or for renovations. Learn more about mini split installation.
Quiet Operation
Ductless AC systems are known for their quiet operation. The compressor is located outside the home, while the indoor units operate very quietly, providing cooling without the noise often associated with traditional central air systems
Flexible Design and Space Saving
The sleek, compact design of ductless units allows them to be installed in various locations, such as walls, ceilings, or floors. This flexibility makes them ideal for homes with limited space or unique design needs, as well as in rooms that may not have the room for bulky ductwork or window units.
Choosing The Right Ductless Air Conditioner
Determine The Number of Zones You Need
Ductless systems are ideal for zoning, which means you can install multiple indoor units to cool different rooms independently. If you only need to cool one or two rooms, a single-zone system may be sufficient. For larger spaces or homes with multiple rooms that need cooling, a multi-zone system would be more appropriate, allowing you to control each room’s temperature separately.
Energy Efficiency
Look for units with high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER2) and Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER2) ratings to ensure energy efficiency. A higher rating means the system uses less energy to cool the same space, which can lower your cooling bill.
Many ductless air conditioners feature inverter technology, which allows the compressor to adjust its speed based on the cooling needs of the space. This leads to more consistent temperature control and better energy efficiency.

System Size
Your local Bryant dealer can help you choose a system that matches the size of the space you're cooling. A unit that’s too small won’t effectively cool the room, while a unit that’s too large may cycle on and off too often, leading to inefficient operation.
Noise Levels
Many ductless units are known for their quiet operation. However, noise levels can vary between models. Look for units that are rated for low noise if you plan to install them in a bedroom or living area. Check the unit’s decibel rating (dB) for a better idea of how quiet it will be during operation.
Smart Features
Some ductless systems offer smart controls, allowing you to adjust the temperature remotely via a smartphone app like the Bryant SmartHome App or voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
Heating Capabilities
Many ductless units are heat pumps, which means they can provide both cooling and heating. If you're looking for year-round comfort, consider a system that can efficiently handle both temperature extremes.
Budget
Compare models to find a ductless air conditioner that fits your budget while still meeting your needs. Ductless systems can cost anywhere between $2,500, and $11,000. To get an accurate quote for your home, work with your local Bryant dealer. They may offer financing options to allow you to use monthly payments to pay for your system.
Incentives
Many ductless air conditioners qualify for tax credits or rebates due to their efficiency. Explore what rebates and tax credits are available in your area to help offset the cost of your ductless system.
Connect With A Bryant Dealer For A Ductless Air Conditioner
Connecting with a Bryant dealer for a ductless air conditioner ensures you get expert guidance, a high-quality ductless air conditioner and professional installation tailored to your home’s needs. Bryant dealers are trained professionals who can help you select the right system based on room size, energy efficiency preferences, and zoning requirements, ensuring optimal performance and comfort.
With access to Bryant’s trusted, energy-efficient ductless air conditioners, you'll receive a solution that not only cools your space effectively but also can provide long-lasting reliability and energy savings. Schedule an appointment with a local Bryant dealer today for a seamless, worry-free ductless air conditioner experience.
Learn More About Ductless Mini Splits
- Explore Bryant ductless mini split systems
- Discover what is a mini split heat pump
- Learn all about what is a mini split
- Explore mini split installation
- Understand what is a ducted mini split
- Read our guide to mini split cost
- Learn about the value of a multi zone mini split
- Find the best mini split for your home
Explore Bryant Ductless Mini Splits
Choose a Bryant ductless mini split for efficient, customizable comfort without the need for ductwork. Ideal for specific rooms or multi-zone cooling and heating, these systems offer precise temperature control and quiet operation. With energy-efficient technology, they help reduce utility costs while providing year-round comfort. The sleek design makes Bryant mini splits a perfect choice for homes, additions, or spaces where traditional ductwork is impractical, delivering reliable performance and convenience.