Is a Ductless System Right For You?

Ductless heating and cooling systems distribute warm air more evenly and efficiently than traditional electric heaters. They reduce electric heating costs by 25%–50% while also providing efficient air conditioning. The chart below compares electric heating options for an average single-story 1,500-square-foot home in the Northwest.

All numbers are based on adding a single ductless system with a single indoor unit. Results vary based on location, home size, layout, electricity costs and other variables.

Features

Ductless Heat Pump Electric Resistance Heating Electric Forced-Air Furnace Ducted Central Air-Source Heat Pump
Comfort
Consistent comfort Best Poor Good Best
Air conditioning included βœ… ❌ Some products βœ…
Noise level (indoor) Low – Medium Low – Medium Medium Medium
Noise level (outdoor) Medium β€” β€” High
Cost
Utility rebates available
(contact your utility for more information)
Up to $1,500 ❌ ❌ Maybe
Annual heating costs $ $$$ $$$$ $$
State and federal tax credits (visit dsireusa.org for more information) $300–$1,600 ❌ ❌ $300–$1,425
Typical installation cost $$$ $$ $$$$* $$$$$*
Estimated upgrade cost from electric baseboard, wall or ceiling heat** $$ β€” $$* $$$$*
Estimated upgrade cost from electric forced-air furnace** $$ $ β€” $$$$$
Energy efficient in open living spaces Best Poor Good Good
Convenience
Flexible, space-saving installation (allows for flexible placement of furniture in home) βœ… ❌ ❌ ❌
Handheld remote control included βœ… ❌ ❌ ❌
No ducting required βœ… βœ… ❌ ❌
Zonal control
(heat or cool only the spaces you want to)
βœ… βœ… ❌ ❌

*Includes cost to install ductwork in the home. If your home already has ducts installed, installation costs would be significantly reduced.

**Estimated upgrade costs are based on data from utility rebates, our HVAC partners, and state and federal taxes.

To see if you qualify for a ductless heat pump rebate go to www.goingductless.com and choose any of the installers on the website. Offer expires Sept 30 2018 Offer subject to change without notice.

Visit GoingDuctless.com to learn more.

The NW Ductless Heat Pump Project is an initiative of the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA), an alliance of more than 140 Northwest utilities and energy efficiency organizations working to accelerate the innovation and adoption of energy-efficient products, services and practices in the Northwest.