If we stop to think of a perfect home, it would likely be one that is incredibly efficient by design, saves energy, and positively impacts the planet. For example, imagine a home where the temperature is comfortable and consistent, despite the time of year. Instead of having outrageous cooling and heating bills, the total bill comes to less than $20.00 per month. This dream is not so far-fetched in consideration of how split-ductless systems are transforming passive homes.

How Split-Ductless Systems are Transforming Passive Homes

Understanding Passive Homes

Ironically, passive homes are anything but passive. Instead, they actively work to reduce the use of energy by utilizing cutting-edge design and architectural features. Passive homes are designed to meet the stringent "Passivhaus" Standard, which was developed in 1988 in the country of Germany. In order to meet the "Passivhaus" Standard, a home must cut energy use by approximately 60-70%, as well as surpass traditional homes by reducing heat usage by 90% or more.

Currently, more than 30,000 passive homes exist in Europe, and they are starting to make headway in the United States. One example is a resident of Sonoma, California. Catherine O’Neill pays between $15.00-$20.00 on heating and energy bills. She remains comfortable while residing in California’s first Certified Passive House™ and the United States’ first Certified Passive House™ retrofit.

Passive homes utilize thick insulation, windows and doors that are triple-glazed, as well as passive solar energy. They rely on ductless heating and cooling systems that help them keep a comfortable and consistent temperature. In addition, ductless heating and cooling systems offer the following benefits:

Saves Energy

For example, O’Neill is able to use quite a bit less energy (around 80%) than others with a similar-sized home. This is because ductless systems only use the energy they actually need in order to either heat or cool the home. Instead of starting and stopping, sophisticated models rely on sensors that consistently address changes in temperature.

Increased COP

Sophisticated ductless systems enjoy an increased Coefficient of Performance (the ratio of cooling/heating provided to the amount of energy used) that ranges between 250-300%, which makes them perfect for meeting high energy efficiency standards.

Streamlined Performance

Since passive homes use thick insulation, it not only keeps out the heat and cold but noise as well. However, sounds within may be magnified. In essence, ductless heating and cooling systems are incredibly streamlined and quiet, operating as low as 19 dB(A) (less than a whisper).

Innovative Layout

Passive homes are innovatively designed to make the most of natural, renewable resources, including solar or geothermal energy. In short, ductless systems are simple to integrate.

Seamless Design

Ductless systems offer a seamless design with rather small indoor and outdoor units

Key Takeaway

Passive homes highly benefit from split-ductless systems. They are ideal when it comes to creating an energy-efficient home with extremely affordable heating and cooling bills. While there are already many passive homes in Europe, they are now making headway in the United States as well.