A mini split ductless air conditioning unit is a cooling system that allows you to control the temperatures in individual rooms without the need for ductwork. Unlike central AC units, mini splits don’t require any complex installation of air ducts throughout your home.
How Mini Split AC Systems Work
Mini split air conditioners consist of an outdoor compressor and at least one indoor air handling unit connected by pipes containing refrigerant. The outdoor unit takes in outdoor air and removes heat from the refrigerant. The indoor unit gets cooled refrigerant from the outdoor unit and uses a fan to blow air across the cooled coils, lowering the room temperature.
Some key advantages of mini split air conditioners over other types include:
- Adjustable Temperature Control: With mini splits, you can customize temperatures for different zones in your home based on use and occupancy patterns. Other cooling systems only allow you to set one temperature for an entire house.
- High Energy Efficiency: Today’s mini split AC systems are extremely efficient, especially inverter-driven models. This saves significantly on electricity costs compared to window units or central air conditioners.
- Quiet Operation: Reputable mini split brands use the latest compressor technologies to minimize noise from outdoor units. Indoor units use quiet fans that won’t disturb you.
- Flexible Installation: Unlike bulky centralized ductwork running through walls, mini splits only require a 3-inch hole to connect indoor and outdoor units. This enables flexible placement.
Types of Mini Split Air Conditioners
When exploring the basics of ductless air conditioning, there are a few types of ductless mini-splits to be aware of:
Single-Zone Systems
Single-zone systems are the simplest and most affordable type of mini split. A basic single-zone system consists of one compact indoor unit mounted high on a wall or ceiling connected by refrigerant lines to an outdoor compressor. The indoor unit includes a fan to circulate cool air. This setup allows temperature control for one room only. Single-zone works well for additions like a garage conversion where you only need to cool that specific space. They can also supplement central air conditioning in rooms like bedrooms for customized home cooling.
Multi-Zone Mini Split Systems
For whole-home heating and cooling, a multi-zone mini split system is the top choice. Multi-zone systems allow tailored temperature control in up to 8 rooms with a single outdoor unit. Each room gets its own compact indoor unit to mount on the wall or ceiling. The various air handlers connect via lines to one central outdoor compressor and condenser. This gives you superior zoning flexibility compared to single-room units. It also saves installation costs by requiring only one exterior unit. Choose the number of indoor air handler units based on how many areas you want independent climate control over.
Inverter Ductless Mini Splits
Look for systems labeled as inverter or variable-speed mini splits. These feature advanced components that allow the outdoor compressor and indoor blower fan speeds to adjust continuously in response to changing cooling demands. Traditional systems switch the compressor fully on or off, resulting in temperature fluctuations. Inverter-based systems maintain precise comfort while using less electricity. Because they avoid surges when restarting from idle, inverter systems also operate more quietly and have a longer lifespan. Buy an inverter mini split for ultimate home comfort and efficiency.
Important Considerations for Purchasing Mini Splits
If you’re looking to buy a mini split AC system, keep these key factors in mind:
Sizing – BTU Requirements
Choosing the proper BTU rating ensures your unit can handle the size of the space. An AC that’s too small won’t provide sufficient cooling. An oversized AC wastes energy cycling on and off. Work with an HVAC pro to size systems correctly.
Energy Efficiency Ratings
Look for a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and Heating Season Performance Factor (HSPF) as markers of an energy-efficient mini split. Models above 18 SEER save significantly on operating costs.
Number of Zones
A key consideration when purchasing a ductless mini split is determining the number of zones (rooms) you want independent temperature control in. This dictates whether you should get a single-zone or multi-zone system.
Carefully evaluate which rooms you occupy the most or feel are a priority for refined cooling and heating. For many homes, having one indoor mini split head unit in the primary living areas, like the living room or open floor plan kitchen, is sufficient as a single zone. If you also want to control temperatures in up to 3 bedrooms, a multi-zone system with four total air handler units makes more sense.
When planning a multi-zone system, map out where you will locate each compact indoor unit for optimal room coverage. Wall-mounted units work best centered on exterior walls, while ceiling cassettes should be midway within ceiling joists. Each head unit will need to route conduit through walls and ceilings back to the outdoor compressor, so consider structural obstacles ahead when placing units.
Routine Mini Split Maintenance Tips
- Clean air filters monthly by vacuuming gently or washing them if reusable. Clogged air filters reduce efficiency.
- Clear debris and vegetation near the outdoor unit intake. Allow ample airflow.
- Check refrigerant levels. Call an HVAC pro to top off any refrigerant gas if it is low.
- Clean dirt from coils and drain pans to maintain airflow.
- Inspect mounting brackets and connections for stability. Tighten as needed.
- Have a professional deep clean the system periodically for maximum benefits.
Top Mini Split Brands
The most reliable mini split air conditioner brands known for quality and advanced technology include:
Mitsubishi – Industry leader in ductless systems. Higher initial investment offset by superior longevity, performance, and energy savings. Popular M-Series and Hyper Heat lines integrate heating.
Trane – Trusted HVAC brand known for reliability and performance. Trane ductless systems offer high SEER ratings for energy savings plus integration with other smart home systems.
Daikin – Known for innovation. Excellent warranty programs. Broad selection includes energy-efficient systems with streamlined, stylish designs.
Be sure to get a comprehensive cost breakdown when looking into affordable cooling solutions.
The Logan Difference
Family-owned since 1969, Logan A/C & Heat takes pride in providing exceptional service and quality installations. Our experienced, extensively trained installers arrive prepared to avoid delays and maintain communication throughout the process.
We walk each customer through their new HVAC system to ensure confidence in operation and maintenance. Logan handles all warranty registrations as well.
With deep community roots, we actively support local programs and neighbors in need. Contact Logan A/C & Heat to experience the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are mini splits cheaper to run than window air conditioners?
Yes, ductless mini splits are significantly more energy-efficient than window units. High-performance inverter models can cut cooling costs by 50% or more over outdated window units.
Is it cheaper to add a mini-split system or central air?
In existing homes without ductwork, installing a new ductless mini split system is almost always cheaper than taking on major renovations to add new ductwork and central AC. Mini splits provide zoning flexibility that central air cannot match as well.
Do mini-split air conditioners heat, too?
Yes, most ductless mini splits on the market now provide both air conditioning and heating in one system. This is more energy efficient than having separate cooling and heating units. Heat pump mini splits work efficiently even in frigid climates.
