Guide to Mini-Split Air Conditioners: What They Are and How They Work

Most homeowners are informed about central air conditioners.

Mini-split systems are a kind of ductless heating and cooling. In place of giving conditioned air to the entire house through a network of air ducts, they heat and cool a lone room at a time. This delivers more direct temperature control, increasing comfort and energy efficiency.

How Do Mini-Split Air Conditioners Work?

Mini-splits are most similar to heat pumps in the way they run. Both kinds of equipment provide electric cooling, the same as an air conditioner. This involves using refrigerant to draw out heat from within a building and discharging that heat outside. Then, a reversing valve allows the system to run backward, heating your house in the winter by pulling heat from outdoor air and depositing it inside.

The largest difference between mini-splits and heat pumps is that mini-split systems don’t have to have ductwork. Instead, the indoor unit has a built-in air handler, which mounts directly to the wall or ceiling in the area you are looking to heat and cool. Copper tubes, wiring and a condensate drain line connect to an outdoor condensing unit through a narrow conduit in the wall. This exterior component looks similar to an air conditioner or heat pump condenser.

More than one indoor unit can link to a single outdoor condenser, permitting you to heat and cool your entire residence with this system if wanted. This configuration also makes zoning practical, a very attractive feature that lets you determine when, where and how much you heat and cool distinct rooms.

Is a Ductless Mini-Split the Best Choice for My Residence?

Mini-splits are a good solution for most households. Think about these reasons why getting a ductless mini-split might be right for you:

• • You can heat and cool a total house that has no existing ductwork.

• • It’s possible to switch off the heat and air conditioning in unused areas to save on your heating and cooling expenses.

• • Mini-splits deliver additional heating and cooling for spaces that are tricky to keep comfortable.

• • Use a ductless system to heat and cool a house addition or enclosed porch without the cost of installing ductwork or the inconvenience of relying on window AC units.

• • Mini split systems are the ideal choice for spaces where overhead ductwork is impractical. A few examples might be historic houses, tiny homes, temperature controlled sheds or workshops, or garage conversions.

What are the Advantages of a Mini-Split System?

Ductless mini-splits are extremely capable systems, but you could still be thinking why you would want to choose it over a traditional furnace and air conditioner. Here’s why more the U.S. homeowners are using ductless mini-splits:

• • Avoid the pitfalls of ductwork: By delivering heated and cooled air directly, air doesn’t pass through leaky air ducts on its way to all rooms. This can save you nearly 30 percent on your heating and cooling bills. Plus, if your house doesn’t already have ducts, you avoid the inconvenience and expense associated with installing them.

• • Select the best temp for all rooms: With zoned heating and cooling from a ductless mini-split, you can keep an office chilly while maintaining a comfortable nursery—all while making the most of energy efficiency.

• • Save money and energy by not heating and cooling vacant areas: Closing supply registers in a central HVAC system can throw it off balance, putting stress on the equipment and negating any potential savings. But with detached air handlers in each room, you can heat and cool specific rooms only when you need them.

Rely on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to Add Your Mini-Split Air Conditioner

As with standard HVAC systems, ductless mini-splits call for meticulous sizing and Expert installation to ensure the most efficient performance. Our skilled mini split installers in the U.S. can help you determine if a mini-split system will match your needs. We can then help you with determining the correct equipment size and model to make your home as comfortable and energy-efficient as possible.

For extra info, or to schedule an appointment, contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing at . You can also schedule an appointment online.