Split System Heat Pump vs Self Contained System: Pros and Cons

You’ve made the decision to go with air source heat pumps. The next question is: are you getting a split system heat pump or a self contained heat pump? There are a few things that you have to consider before you pick one system. Some of the things that will influence your decision are your household’s heating needs, your location and the lay-out of your home. Because heat pumps are the most used appliance in your home, you may want to argue both sides of the cases to find out which of the two is best for your household.

Structural Flexibility

One key feature that makes it distinct from self contained heat pumps is that the handling unit and heat exchange is separated from the compressor and the outdoor exchanger. This gives you the flexibility to install the system wherever you want to. The ductwork takes care of the heating and cooling mechanism of split system heat pumps.

Added Features

Triple-function heat pumps, a type of split system heat pump, are probably the most efficient among the air-source heating systems. Other than the basic cooling and heating mechanisms found in any kind of heat pump, triple-function heat pumps provide the added benefit of providing your home with hot water. The system harnesses the heat left in your system’s refrigerant and uses that to heat your water. You get an efficient heating system that you don’t even have to pay for.

Compartmentalized Cooling and Heating

Free-Delivery Split-Systems, another type of split system heat pump, are great for families that have different cooling and heating preferences. Let’s say A likes her room really chilly while B likes to keep things a bit toasty. To prevent the bickering, you should consider getting a free-delivery split-system. This system has one outdoor unit and two or more indoor units. This system provides specific heating and cooling for each room. Each room will have its own thermostat and you can do away with the standard ductwork system.

Heating and cooling is circulated via your ductworks, which can be inconvenient for houses constructed without any ducts.

Self Contained Heat Pumps

Self contained heat pumps, or otherwise known as packaged heat pumps, allows both your compressor and heat exchangers to be located inside your home. Heating and cooling is done through ductwork.

No Ducts

Heat pump types such as packaged terminal, self-contained through-the-wall and window heat pumps have cooling and heating capacities without having to use ductworks, which can contribute to the aesthetics of your house. No more ugly ducting.

Easy Installation

Self contained heat pumps were meant for manufactured homes, which means that their installation is usually a breeze. You can even have the factory set up your heat pump so that you do not have to do spend much on the installation anymore. When it comes to the costs, self contained heat pumps aren’t as pricey as the other systems mentioned. However, the condensing unit usually isn’t included when you purchase a self contained heat pump. That can lead to added expenses.