If you’ve been looking for and researching about air conditioners, you probably have come across mini split ACs. Mini split air conditioning systems, or also known as ductless mini splits, are a great solution for cooling your home without the need for extensive ductwork.
The popularity of mini split AC systems has increased in recent years, which is driven by their increased efficiency and flexibility. In traditional HVAC systems, there is a need for additional work and planning with ductwork. Mini splits can be installed in multiple settings, which includes apartments and homes without existing ductwork, which means it could be more practical and less costly in some cases.
Another reason behind mini split AC’s popularity is its capability to function as a heater during the winter and dehumidify your home in the summer. This makes it one of the most efficient, flexible, and practical AC systems in many use cases.
How Do Ductless Mini Split Systems Work?
When it comes to its operation, mini split ACs operate the same basic principles as traditional air conditioning systems, but with some distinct differences that allow a them to be more efficient and versatile.
Like traditional air conditioners, mini splits use refrigerant to transfer heat. When cooling your home, the AC unit absorbs heat from the indoor air and transfers it to the outdoor unit, where the hot air is then expelled outside. This process is facilitated by refrigerant cycling between the indoor and outdoor units.
Ductless Mini Split AC Doesn’t Require Ductwork
Like its name suggests, one of the main advantages of going with a ductless mini split AC is not having to do any ductwork. It’s more of a plug-and-play unit with very little fixture work.
Key Functionalities of a Ductless Mini Split AC System
Ductless system: Mini splits do not require a network of ducts to distribute air. Therefore, there is no loss of energy through the duct systems.
Multi-zone operation: Each mini split unit operates independently. You can set different temperatures for different rooms, and you can turn off just one when you don’t need cooling in the room it is in. This makes it more energy efficient.
Inverter technology: This modulates the energy used rather than having the AC compressor turn on and off, which is more efficient and this provides more consistent indoor temperatures.
Reversing valve: It uses a reversing valve that changes direction of the refrigerant flow. Absorbing heat from outside to indoors.
The indoor mini split units are connected to the outdoor compressor with a pipe or conduit. There is not ductwork for air to flow through, it only flows through between the indoor unit & outdoor compressor. All in all, mini split design is a system for you to multi-zone throughout your home.
Ductless Mini Split AC System Comes With Built-In Filtration
Ductless mini split systems comes equipped with built-in filtration features, which enhances indoor air quality. Each indoor unit comes with filters that trap dust, allergens, and other airborne particles. This built-in filtration system helps with individuals who has allergies or respiratory issues, and helps maintain a cleaner living environment by continuously purifying the air.
Why a Mini Split AC is Suitable for You?
Here’s the question you’ve been waiting for to be answered, choosing the right air conditioning system for your home involves considering many factors. This includes cost, installation, and overall comfort. A mini split system offers unique benefits that make it suitable for many homeowners. So here’s why you might want a mini split AC for your cooling needs:
Uncomfortable Indoor Climate: When your home have areas or spaces where its too hot or too cold, a mini split system can directly fix that issue and making a particular space consistent with temperatures.
Home layout and existing HVAC issues: If your home have old ductwork, or if an extra space in your home needs more cooling or heating, a ductless mini split system can create a more comfortable space for one area without having to add or change your existing ducts.
Noise Sensitivity: Mini splits are generally quieter than your traditional HVAC system, making them the suitable choice for environments where noise is a concern.
Energy & Cost Considerations: Mini split systems are generally more efficient, because it cools a certain space rather than your whole home. Therefore it reduces your carbon footprint, making it a more sustainable option.
Thermostat Wars: If you have different family members who prefer different temperatures, a mini split system would allow you to control the temperature is separate zones.
Ductless Mini Split Sizes and Zoning Guide
Here’s a table to help you choose the right mini split system size by the size of the room that needs heating or cooling. The following table shows the approximate BTUs (British Thermal Units) required for various room sizes.
Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner vs Other Air Conditioners
To help you understand the difference between portable air conditioner and other types of air conditioners, I’ve created comparison below.
These cost of different AC systems provide a overview of what you might expect to spend initially on an AC unit. However, it’s also smart to consider AC maintenance, operation, potential repair costs over time.
Benefits of Ductless Mini Split Systems
Energy Efficient: Mini splits are more energy-efficient due to less energy loss in the absence of ducts and the use of inverter technology.
Installation Flexibility: The smaller size of mini split systems and not having to worry about ductwork makes the installation super simple and less invasive.
Quiet Operation: Mini splits are known for their quite operation.
Individual Zoning: When planning out a mini split system installation, you can easily plan it out room by room.
Cheaper for smaller spaces: For smaller space, fewer units are needed which reduces the installation costs significantly.
Disadvantages of Ductless Mini Split Systems
Higher initial cost for bigger spaces: The upfront cost of ductless mini split systems could be higher, when considering multiple units required to cover home cooling needs.
Aesthetic Impact: Indoor units are visible in your living spaces, which may not blend in with your wall colors & decors.
Limited Heating Capacity: While ductless mini split systems can provide heating, it does so in very limited capability, requiring additional heating sources for proper comfort.
FAQ On Ductless Mini Split Systems
What's the best mini split system?
The best mini split AC totally depends on your specific needs, this includes home size, climate, and energy efficiency preferences. Brands that are popular with mini split systems like Mitsubishi, Daikin, Fujitsu, Carrier, and Bosch offer a wide range of models that are well-regarded for their reliability and performance. Consulting with a HVAC professional should help you choose a model that best fits your needs.
What mini split size do I need?
To help determine the right size for your mini split system, you need to consider the square footage of the space you want to heat or cool. As a general rule, you’ll require approximately 20 BTUs per square foot. Here’s a quick guide:
100-150 sq ft room: 5,000 BTUs
150-250 sq ft room: 6,000 BTUs
250-350 sq ft room: 8,000 BTUs
350-450 sq ft room: 10,000 BTUs
450-550 sq ft room: 12,000 BTUs
550-700 sq ft room: 14,000 BTUs
700-1000 sq ft room: 18,000 BTUs
Do ductless mini split systems have heating?
Yes it does have heating, and this is how it works. The outdoor mini split compressor expands refrigerant to absorb heat from outside and release it inside during cold winters, and this process reverses when its required to cool your home.
Are mini splits good for a whole house?
Yes, you need to properly size it. Mini splits can efficiently heat and cool and entire house. You may need multiple units to do so, mini split units are particularly suitable for houses with non-uniform heating and cooling needs or houses without ductwork.
How many mini split units do I need for my house?
The number of mini split units mainly depends on your home’s layout and the amount square footage you want to heat or cool. Typically, one unit per room or zone is the best for precise climate control. Large or multi-story spaces may require additional units to cool a specific space.
