
Can a Ductless Mini-Split System Save Me Money?
Finding an affordable way to stay cool is a true priority among homeowners. For that, the ductless mini-split system has been a wonder. This is a versatile cooling solution that’s been catching eyes for its efficiency and cost-saving potential.
As the Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) puts it, the ductless mini-split system has been called revolutionary for “spot cooling”. It is also easy to maintain and way easier to install.
Let’s look at how the concept of mini-split systems seamlessly integrates with your home to prioritize significant energy savings and maintain your home’s comfort and economic efficiency.
Understanding Ductless Mini-Split Systems
The two main parts of a ductless mini-split system include an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units.
The compressor and condenser are located on the outside, while the evaporator and cooling coil are placed on the inside. The indoor unit consists of a blower and a generally small part that has coils for evaporating and condensing the refrigerant.
Ductless systems work upon a very simple concept: they provide direct cooling or heating to the area where indoor units are installed, avoiding the energy loss associated with traditional ductwork.
Each indoor unit has a single thermostat, so you can accurately control the temperature in every zone or room. This means that you can have different settings of temperature in various parts of your house, making your home more comfortable and efficient at the same time.
So, compared to conventional systems, the huge difference is that theductless system has no ductwork at all. In conventional air conditioning with ductwork, cold air is pushed through some sort of network of ducts to reach several rooms.
The conventional method can pose some inefficiencies as air travels through uninsulated or leaky ductwork, it will cool down and release energy along the way.
This is where ductless systems really come into their own by offering focused cooling or heating without the natural inefficiency of ductwork. This not only saves energy but also offers some sort of flexibility and control to the interior space, which the traditional system is simply not able to do.
Ductless systems also provide zoned temperature control, making it possible to have the system set for a different temperature level in different areas of your home, like your living room and bedroom.
Ductless Mini Split Systems Vs. Traditional Ducted Air Conditioners
Here is a table comparing ductless mini split systems to traditional ducted air conditioning systems:
Ductless Mini-Split System | Traditional Ducted Systems | |
Installation | Typically, easier and less invasive. Ideal for homes without existing ductwork or for room additions. | Requires extensive ductwork, which can be complex and invasive to install in homes without pre-existing ducts. |
Energy Efficiency | Higher efficiency due to the absence of ductwork, minimizing energy loss. | Energy loss through ductwork can reduce overall efficiency, especially if ducts are leaking or not well-insulated. |
Cost of Operation | Lower operating costs due to higher energy efficiency and the ability to control temperatures in individual zones. | Higher operating costs due to energy loss in ductwork and the need to cool or heat unoccupied spaces. |
Temperature Control | Individual zoning capabilities allow for different temperatures in each room or area, enhancing comfort and efficiency. | Single thermostat controls the temperature for the entire home, which can lead to inconsistencies and inefficiencies. |
Installation Cost | Can be higher initially due to the cost of purchasing multiple indoor units but can result in savings over time. | Duct cleaning and maintenance can be challenging and potentially more costly, especially if ducts are difficult to access. |
Maintenance | Easier maintenance on the indoor units, but multiple units may increase the total maintenance effort. | Duct cleaning and maintenance can be challenging and potentially more costly, especially if ducts are difficult to access. |
Air Quality | Better air quality as there are no ducts to collect dust, allergens, or microbial growth. Individual filters in each unit can be easily cleaned or replaced. | Potential for dust, allergens, and microbial growth within the ductwork, requiring regular cleaning to maintain air quality. |
System Longevity | Long lifespan with proper maintenance. The risk of significant leaks or damage is minimized without ductwork. | Lifespan can be affected by the condition of the ductwork. Leaky or damaged ducts can lead to inefficiencies and increased wear on the system. |
Flexibility | High flexibility in terms of installation locations and scalability. Easy to add more units as needed. | Less flexible, as the system is dependent on the layout and condition of the ductwork. Expanding or modifying ductwork can be costly. |
Heating Capability | Many ductless systems use heat pump technology, allowing them to provide both cooling and heating efficiently. | Heating usually requires a separate system or a central system with a built-in heat pump, which may not be as efficient in cold climates. |
More Savings: How Ductless Systems Cut Costs
One of the most direct ways in which the ductless mini-split can save you money is its energy efficiency. Traditional central air systems expel exorbitant losses of energy as air is exchanged into and out of the ductwork.
These losses are common and contribute to over 30% of your energy use, especially if your ducts are in unconditioned areas such as attics or crawl spaces. Ductless systems completely bypass this issue, supplying cooled or heated air directly to the point of demand without detouring and being lost.
Zoned Comfort, Zoned Savings
One of the things that make the ductless system the most attractive is its capability of creating zones in your home: this space has an individual inside unit, which may be temperature-controlled, independent of other units in the house. This control is zonal, meaning you are not wasting energy cooling empty rooms or wrestling with other family members over the thermostat setting.
Everyone can enjoy their personalized comfort bubble without compromising on efficiency.
Say Goodbye to Ductwork Issues
Ditching ductwork with mini-split systems, you avoid a lot of energy loss. You’re also saying farewell to the costs associated with duct maintenance, repair, and cleaning.
Traditional duct systems are prone to leaks and can accumulate dust, even supporting microbial growth in the folds—all these lead to a drop in air quality and system efficiency. The ductless approach removes all these problems, which means reduced maintenance costs and an extended lifespan for your system.
Double Duty: Heating and Cooling
Another plus, because a mini-split system has no ductwork, it works with heat-pump technology to cool and heat homes at superior efficiency levels. They can provide warmth during colder seasons by utilizing existing heat from outdoor air, all without the high operational costs associated with conventional heaters.
In turn, this dual function simplifies the HVAC needs of your house, removing the need for a separate investment in heating equipment.
Making the Most of Your Ductless System with Goettl
Ready to make the right choice on a ductless mini-split system and proper installation? That’s where Goettl Air Conditioning & Plumbing comes in; with our friendly and professional technicians who are experts in the art of ductless system installation and maintenance.
We are proud that we can help you select the right system for your home and lifestyle, properly tuned for efficiency and comfort. We do this through:
- Regular Maintenance: Just like any HVAC system, keeping your ductless mini-split in top shape through regular maintenance is key to maximizing its lifespan and efficiency.
- Proper Sizing: Ensuring your system is correctly sized for your space avoids unnecessary strain and inefficiency, saving you money in the long run.
- Right Placement: The location of indoor units can impact performance. Our experts can advise on the best placement for optimal comfort and energy savings.
Splitting Energy Consumption Down to Save Money
In that line of thought, theoretically, the transition to a ductless mini-split system could be a game-changer for a homeowner who wants to increase the comfort in his living space while decreasing the energy bill. But, with Goettl Air Conditioning & Plumbing on your side, you can confidently step into the world of ductless HVAC, knowing that you are set up for both success and savings.
Ready to learn more about how a ductless mini-split system can work for you? Reach out to Goettl Air Conditioning & Plumbing today to work with experts who can customize your home into a model of efficiency and comfort.
Testimonials
What Our Customers Say About Us

Regards & Thanks again
James & Debbie Terrazas
7003 Mill Wheel





He explained, while he saw no immediate problems. what we might expect going forward, given the furnace's age and condition. After I asked about major component vs. whole-unit replacement, he provided a thorough explanation, and pricing, of options for us to consider.
Very good experience with Jef! Highly recommend!



Also, thanks to the other team members involved such as the appointment scheduler and Justin. Both were very professional & efficient with my slightly demanding request.

My issue is that service was for the morning and ended up at 3pm. This has been a problem for multiple service/maintenance appointments to include two cancelations. As a working professional, timing is very critical in my daily scheduling.

He took the time to walk me through everything about our unit and answered all my questions clearly. I was very impressed with his professionalism, knowledge, and attention to detail.
Thank you, Jeremy, for your excellent service!







His experience led us to a solution for our pipes, which saved us thousands and thousands of dollars.
He’s a good man to have on your side



Edit: I was contacted by the branch manager and she accepted full responsibility and was very upfront. They made up for it in kind and I appreciate them being upfront and willing to make the situation right. Their customer service is top notch!


The service was perfect. The technician Julian Bray was pleasant, knowledgeable and completed the install quickly. The area was left cleaner than when he arrived.


The leads Nick & Brian were knowledgeable and covered our floors to protect them. Their crew included Kevin & Ricky who were also kind and respectful.

As always they came thru and did an excellent job Damian Palazeulos was very meticulous and skilled.






Installer Tech Ardian and his assistant arrived on schedule this morning and have completed the job that needed to be done orderly and neatly. Thanks everyone.


Junior Gonzalez (Goettl) came the next evening, replaced my wall inlet valve and began the reinstallation. He found that the flange did indeed need to be replaced, but that required soldering due to my older house’s lead pipes.
Richard Wenzlaff (also with Goettl) came the next day and finished the installation (including soldering pipe repair and flange installation).
Great people. Very courteous and patient. Very thorough: they checked water pressure and dbl checked their jobs. Would recommend and call again.

Jesus was are tec came in check everything let me know what would need to be done or taken care of came in respectfully with a great attitude
Highly exceptional service we definitely will be requesting him if possible great experience today









Would use Goetll (and Andrew) again!



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Recommended!

We appreciate the information and expertise, and we're looking forward to getting excellent service.





Sally


Thank you David for a job well done.

Johnthan, Thank you so very much for conducting the plumbing assessment of my home this morning. Your professionalism, expertise and personal demeanor were outstanding. Your patience, knowledge and customer educational skills were greatly appreciated, and I am a much better informed customer when it comes to the status, potential issues and how to resolve any water/ plumbing related issues that may arise in the future.
Again, thank you.
Abdiel Chavez, technician came out today to perform my heating system check. He was very professional and thorough in his assessment. It was a pleasure seeing him again as he was the initial technician to come to my home when I first moved here, so it was like having a visit from an old friend. Thank you Abdiel.











Damian was wonderful. He is a great asset to the Goettl team. Thank you for quick, reliable service.




...... we had an AC problem a few days later. Peter Medelez from Goettl came out and fixed it expertly and made some recommendations to ensure it won't happen again. Some things hadn't been done correctly when it was installed several years ago (by someone else), and he will be back next week to fix them. I highly recommend Goettl.
... 10/15/25 ... we had a leak in the main water line which was running into the neighbors' yard. In less than two hours of calling Goettl, Clayton Purvis arrived to fix the leak. He repaired the leak and fixed connections, and repaired something previously done incorrectly in the unknown past. He was done before we had to leave for a prior equipment. I feel confident in the quality of work, as I always am when I have to call Goettl for something.




Had Andrew come out to remove garbage disposal and repipe sink. He also swapped out 13 emergency water shut off valves in 3 bathrooms.
Andrew was professional, courteous and expedient. He did have to run out to get some supplies. He stayed until 7pm to complete the job on one trip.
May 2023 update. Technician Steve came today to do the summer rejuvenation. Friendly and professional tech. Explained the process and findings. Both systems are new, so everything checked out good. Did a god cleaning of coils and now all set for the summer season. Had them out for fall prevention service and to review the systems that are here. I just bought the house and needed to understand what was in place.
The service tech, Kevin was very knowledgeable, friendly and professional. He explained and provided photos and video of all components. He ensured keeping house clean and wore booties.
My second unit is not in the best shape, and Kevin explained each of the issues. I will follow up with service managér to determine next steps (repair or replacement).
I signed up for there service plan and am very pleased with the service and communication to date
12/21 Luis C came today to do routine maintenance on hot water heater. Professional and courteous. He did a through job and explained everything.
10/15. Juan came today and did a great job. He was professional, courteous and friendly. Was here for exterior water bid but also did a hot water heater. Took his time and explained everything.









If there was a 6th star, he’d be getting it!










Thank you Preston








Professional, knowledgeable and efficient. Very polite and courteous
Also installed surge protectors on the the condensers






We’ve been Goettl customers for years and have always appreciated their service, but Kevin Edwards truly raised the bar. During his visit yesterday, Kevin showed outstanding attention to detail and technical expertise. He thoroughly inspected every part of our HVAC system, documenting his findings with photos and clearly explaining issues that had gone unnoticed through several previous service visits.
Kevin discovered that our HVAC system had been improperly installed when the home was built—something no other technician had identified. He explained how that flaw had created a chain of problems affecting the furnace, cooling system, and overall efficiency. Because the system uses an outdated refrigerant, repairs weren’t a viable long-term solution, and Kevin guided us toward a responsible upgrade plan.
While no homeowner wants to replace a system after only seven years, we’re grateful Kevin uncovered these hidden issues before they caused a catastrophic failure. His thoroughness, honesty, and professionalism turned a potential headache into peace of mind. Kevin is an exceptional representative of Goettl, and we recommend him without hesitation.









Great service great company. Will definitely be using for future HVAC needs.

Great communication.
Explained everything in detail.
Took before and after pictures.









I called Goettl and set up an appointment.
Mike H arrived on time and with his extreme knowledge and experience, he was able to replace the tank and give my system a much needed flush. Mike was so courteous and polite and answered all my questions and gave me advice on the how and why this happened and how to avoid this in the future.
Thank you Goettl and thank you Mike!




This past week our service technician was Andrew Morgan and he is such a friendly, knowledgeable, and skilled technician. He spent time making sure the job was done correctly and he explained it in terms that I could understand. Not only is our unit functioning even better than before, I also gained knowledge of how the system works.













I highly recommend Goettl as this is the second time l've used them in less than a year. (2 seperate issues)... and I highly recommend them..anytime and anyday.
They have exceeded to top any expectations I could have ever had with any company.


Jerry also noticed our water pressure was low after flushing toilet then trying to wash hands in bathroom sink which were so he suggested a new pressure regulator as we have had a new better water conditioning system installed. We now have the best water pressure even when using a shower and kitchen sink faucet at the same time. Also Jerry is a master plumber and we appreciate his knowledge and experience. Will definitely call Goettl again when a plumber is needed.
Ralph & Kathy Lesmeister



Darean Guerra today. He arrived on time and took the time to explain what he was going to do. He was very knowledgeable which helped me trust what he was doing. He left his work area clean. I am very pleased with his work.




Now we have a new flange, installed correctly, and ready for the new toilet!








The company is installing a tankless heater and the customer service is outstanding.
I recommend Geottl to all!

I definitely recommend Goettl for all your needs.

Nick was helpful, friendly and professional in scheduling the appointment around my commitments.
I have used Goettl for nearly 20 years for my plumbing and HVAC needs. I recommend them as reliable, professional and easy to work with.


They made sure my carpet was covered and when they were all through they cleaned up perfectly
I would recommend your company to anyone looking to put in a new air conditioner.
Thank you so much for all you did for me.
Sincerely, June Jones

And I would highly recommend the company and the quality technicians like Jarod.
Jarod is the go to if you want excellent
Customer service and communication for any AC related issues. He is very knowledgeable, personable and trustworthy. I am grateful and satisfied.







They listened to my issue, were very through, checked for leaks, etc. I’ve lived in Lakeway for 30 years, used MANY local plumbers - but Goettl will definitely get all my business moving forward. HIGHLY recommend!
Ty, Wil & Adrian!

Everyone from the Goettl sales representative Christian, Tech / Advisor Josias recommended a HVAC A/C and Heating system replacement. Technicians team Veronica and her partner.


Jeremy Canchola serviced our mini-split today with the usual Goettl efficiency and professionalism.
Highly recommended!


Hopefully, we will get Jack for our next service call.







Robert, Tyler, Adrian & Luis, Thank you all so much.
