What Is a Concealed Duct Mini-Split AC?

Do you love the idea of mini-split air conditioners but are put off by the bulky, noisy wall and ceiling units of traditional ductless models? If so, you need to learn what a concealed-duct mini-split unit is and how this hidden air conditioner can make your living space more attractive.

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Discover how these streamlined systems work and the ways they differ from traditional split-system air conditioners and ductless mini-split units.

What Is a Concealed-Duct Mini-Split?

With a concealed-duct mini-split, the air handler is hidden away in a wall or ceiling. The compact air handler has a large discharge opening and a filtered air inlet and is well-suited for cooling open-concept living areas. During installation, insulated ductwork is attached to the discharge outlet and run to vents in the ceiling. Discrete ceiling or wall grilles hide other ducts to return air to the hidden air handler unit.

How Does a Concealed-Duct Mini-Split Work?

Concealed-duct mini-splits feature an external compressor connected to an indoor air handler via insulated refrigerant lines. Conditioned air is distributed via ductwork, then drawn back to the air handler for reconditioning through return ducting.

Where Is the Ductwork Located With a Hidden Ducted Air Conditioner?

The air handler and ducts are placed in a ceiling or wall cavity, although they can also be installed in an attic or crawl space. Concealed split air conditioners have the same zoning capability as ductless mini-split ACs and feature a remote that communicates with the air handler to control the temperature in one or more rooms.

What Is the Difference Between Concealed-Duct Mini-Splits and Traditional Split AC Systems?

In terms of system components and setup, concealed-duct mini-splits and traditional split-system air conditioners are similar. Both feature outdoor compressors connected to indoor air handlers, and both use ducting for air distribution.

However, there are some key differences in performance with concealed-duct mini-splits. These systems offer:

• Better energy efficiency. A ducted mini-split is more energy-efficient than a traditional split-system AC. The ducts are shorter and smaller in diameter, so heat gains and losses are minimized.

• Easier installation. A concealed AC's air handler and ducts can be installed in existing wall, ceiling or attic cavities, which makes installation easier compared to a split AC system.

• Built-in zoning. Zoning capabilities are built in with a ducted mini-split system, whereas conventional AC systems require adjustable dampers installed in the ductwork and linked to zoned thermostats to achieve the same result.

Compared to ductless mini-split units, in-wall mini-splits offer big improvements in terms of aesthetics and noise. The air handler is completely concealed, with only the vents indicating there's air conditioning in a room. A hidden air conditioner is also quieter because the fan is located in a separate space behind a wall or ceiling. Plus, the ductwork helps dampen fan noise, even when it's running on high.

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How Much Do Concealed-Duct Mini-Splits Cost?

A single-zone concealed-duct mini-split costs between $2,125 and $9,650 (CAD 2,985 and CAD 13,595), including installation. The reason for such a large price range comes down to a wide variability in cooling capacity. On the low end of the price range, you can expect a 9,000 BTU-per-hour unit. A midsize, 18,000 BTU-per-hour unit would cost between $2,600 and $8,225 (CAD 3,653 and CAD 11,555) installed. The largest, 36,000+ BTU-per-hour machines are going to fall toward the upper end of that range, pricewise.

Are Ducted Mini-Split Systems Worth It?

Now that you understand what a concealed-duct mini-split is, you can make a more informed decision on whether it's worth the investment. Here's a recap of the pros and cons to help you decide:

Pros

• Even heating and cooling. Conditioned air enters the room from multiple points rather than from a single air handler vent situated on the ceiling or an exterior wall.

• Quiet operation. Because the air handler fan is located behind a wall or ceiling, a ducted mini-split is very quiet while operating compared to a ductless model.

• Unobtrusive appearance. The air handler is hidden so it doesn't detract from the decor of the room it serves.

Cons

• More expensive. Equipment and installation costs are usually higher than with a comparably sized ductless mini-split.

• Not DIY friendly. Because the air handler and ducts must be placed inside a wall or ceiling and properly connected, an experienced HVAC professional should handle the installation.