Homeowners in Ottawa searching for efficient, no-duct cooling often run into a maze of HVAC lingo. From “mini split” to “ductless AC,” the names can get confusing fast — and not all of them mean exactly the same thing.
At AirZone HVAC Services, we install and service a wide range of ductless heat pump systems across the Greater Ottawa Area. In this article, we’re breaking down the 10 most common names used to describe ductless systems — and helping you tell which ones are true alternatives and which are completely different products.
10 Common Terms for Ductless Heat Pumps
Each of the terms below is either a direct synonym for “ductless heat pump,” a partial match, or a related system. Here’s how they stack up:
| Term | Same Product? | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Ductless Heat Pump | ✅ Yes | The official name for systems providing heating & cooling without ductwork |
| Mini Split | ✅ Yes | Most common nickname; refers to the compact size of indoor/outdoor units |
| Ductless Mini Split | ✅ Yes | Combines both terms — very common in marketing and search |
| Ductless AC | ⚠️ Sometimes | May only cool (no heating); often used as shorthand for mini splits |
| Split Air Conditioner | ⚠️ Sometimes | Can refer to both ducted and ductless systems — context matters |
| Wall-Mounted Heat Pump | ✅ Yes | Describes the mounting style for many indoor heads |
| Multi-Zone Mini Split | ✅ Yes | A mini split with multiple indoor units tied to one outdoor compressor |
| Single-Zone Heat Pump | ✅ Yes | One indoor head per outdoor unit — ideal for one room or zone |
| Central Heat Pump | ❌ No | Uses ductwork throughout the home — not a ductless system |
| Portable AC | ❌ No | Temporary, plug-in unit — does not connect to any outdoor component |
What’s the Best Name to Search For?
If you’re looking to install an energy-efficient cooling and heating system in your home without needing ducts, here’s our quick tip: stick to these terms in your research and quote requests:
- Ductless Heat Pump (most accurate)
- Mini Split (most popular)
- Ductless Mini Split (widely used, especially in North America)
These are all interchangeable in the context of what we offer at AirZone HVAC Services.
What to Avoid: Misleading or Vague Terms
Be cautious with generic terms like “split system” or “ductless AC.” While they’re sometimes used correctly, they can also describe other types of HVAC systems — like traditional ducted air conditioners or single-purpose cooling units.
When in doubt, check the specs or contact a professional. Our team is always happy to help you figure out what system is best for your space.
Why Ottawa Homeowners Love Ductless Mini Splits
Whether you call them ductless heat pumps or mini splits, these systems are becoming a go-to solution for Ottawa homeowners because:
- They offer zoned control with customizable comfort room by room
- Installation is quick and non-invasive
- They work well in homes without existing ductwork (think: older downtown homes or modern additions)
And yes — they provide both heating and cooling all year long.
Request a Quote for a Ductless System in Ottawa
At AirZone HVAC Services, we specialize in high-performance ductless heat pumps tailored to your home. Our expert installers will help you find the right brand, model, and zoning setup — all backed by our no subcontractors guarantee and local expertise.
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