Mini-Split Air Conditioners and Why You Should Buy One

Indoor temperatures affect our comfort, health, and productivity. Choosing the right cooling system makes a difference in the quality of life and overall productivity. Consider the ductless mini-split system over central air to regulate your home or office temperature. This post explains what a mini-split system is, how it works, and its advantages over the central air cooling system.

What is a Ductless Mini Split System?  

A mini-split system is a decentralized heating/cooling system that controls the temperatures in individual rooms or spaces.

The ductless mini-split system features an outdoor compressor or condenser and one or more indoor air-handling units (evaporator). The air-handling units go to the individual rooms requiring cooling and come with remote control, so you can use it to regulate temperatures.

You may mount the indoor air-handling units to a wall or suspend them from the ceiling. The outdoor unit connects to the indoor unit via a refrigerant line, so there is no ductwork when installing the mini-split systems.

How Do Mini-Split Systems Work? 

Mini-split systems are available in two options: the mini-split air conditioner and the mini-split heat pump.

The mini-split air conditioners provide cooling only, but the mini-split heat pumps cool and heat spaces.

Therefore, if you opt for the mini-split heat pump, you can switch between cooling and heating modes. For that reason, mini-split heat pumps are a popular option today.

While the mini-split heat pump costs slightly more than the mini-split air conditioner, the two feature similar functionality. The condenser and evaporator units connect using copper refrigerant lines/copper tubes.

The mini-split air conditioner and the mini-split heat pump feature a drainpipe and come with a remote controller.

Mini Split System vs. Central Air

While both the mini-split systems and the central air effectively regulate temperature, they feature some significant differences:

• Mini-split systems are ductless, while the central units feature a duct system.
• The ductless mini-splits use a remote to control temperatures, while the ducted central air units feature a central thermostat.
• Central units keep the house evenly cooled to a consistent temperature, while mini-splits allow room-by-room temperature settings.
• Central air units feature a lower upfront cost, while the operational cost is higher than the mini-splits.

What Are the Benefits of Mini-Split Systems? 

Mini-split systems make an ideal cooling and heating appliance for your home or office. They are not only efficient HVAC systems, but they also allow great flexibility and ease of installation. Here are additional benefits of mini splits over the central air units.

• Avoids Duct Work, Hence Easy to Install 

Instead of difficult-to-install, leaky, and bulky ductwork, the ductless mini-split heat pumps connect to outdoor units via the refrigerant line. Therefore, the installer needs to make a three-inch hole through the wall during installation.

• Allows Room-by-Room Temperature Control

Each indoor unit comes with separate remote control and phone apps, providing the room occupants with the option to customize their heating or cooling requirements. Unlike the central air unit, which has a centralized thermostat and keeps the entire space evenly cooled or heated.

• Energy Efficient and Cuts Operational Costs

ENERGY STAR certified ductless mini-split systems deliver up to 60% cooling/heating cost-cutting compared to the conventional central air units. The energy efficiency is because these units feature sophisticated compressors and fans that adjust the speed and save energy. Besides, mini-splits allow users to switch off cooling or heating in different rooms when they do not need it.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Are Mini-Splits Good for Heating and Cooling?

The mini-split systems are ideal cooling and heating solutions for commercial and residential spaces. First, the mini-split systems are easy to install, provide zone cooling/heating, and use less energy, making them an excellent solution for HVAC needs. Besides, the mini-split units come with interior design flexibility as you can opt to mount, hand on the ceiling or go for the floor-standing options.

• How Long Will Mini-Splits Last? 

With professional installation, proper handling, and regular maintenance, the mini-split air conditioner or mini-split heat pump can last two to three decades. Just clean the unit regularly, replace the filters when needed, and engage a professional HVAC contractor to correct maintenance procedures.

• Do I Need a Professional to Install a Mini-Split Air Conditioner? 

Consider hiring a professional HVAC contractor during the mini-split AC installation process to avoid making errors, which could void the warranty. A professional will follow manufacturer-recommended procedures during the HVAC installation process and use the right tools.

Conclusion 

Most of us cannot survive indoors during summer without an efficient air cooling system. Likewise, we need an efficient heating system to keep us comfortable during the winter months. Mini-split systems make a great HVAC choice. Contact the professionals to ensure you are buying the right mini-split for your home or office. An experienced HVAC expert will guide you and offer ongoing maintenance to keep your investment functioning at optimal levels.