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

August 18, 2017

Most homeowners are most familiar with central air conditioners.

Mini-split systems are a type of ductless heating and cooling. Instead of delivering conditioned air to the complete home via a network of air ducts, they heat and cool a single room at a time. This allows more targeted temperature control, improving comfort and energy efficiency.

How Do Mini-Split Air Conditioners Work?

Mini-splits are most like heat pumps in the way they run. Both types of equipment deliver electric cooling, just like an air conditioner. This uses refrigerant to extract heat from within a building and issuing that heat outside. Then, a reversing valve permits the system to operate backward, heating your house in the winter by removing heat from outdoor air and depositing it inside.

The main difference between mini-splits and heat pumps is that mini-split systems don’t need ductwork. Alternatively, the indoor unit has a built-in air handler, which mounts directly to the wall or ceiling in the space you want to heat and cool. Copper tubes, wiring and a condensate drain line connect to an outdoor condensing unit through a little conduit in the wall. This exterior component looks like an air conditioner or heat pump condenser.

Multiple indoor units can work off of one outdoor condenser, enabling you to heat and cool your full house with this system if wanted. This set-up also makes zoning practical, an extremely desirable feature that permits you to choose when, where and how much you heat and cool distinct rooms.

Informational Graph 

Is a Ductless Mini-Split the Best Option for My Home?

Mini-splits are an excellent option for the majority of households. Think over these reasons why using a ductless mini-split might be right for you:

  • You can heat and cool an entire home that lacks existing ductwork.
  • You can turn off the heat and air conditioning in unoccupied areas to save on your heating and cooling bills.
  • Mini-splits provide extra heating and cooling for rooms that are hard to keep comfortable.
  • Use a ductless system to heat and cool a residence addition or sunroom without the hassle of installing ductwork or the annoyance of using window AC units.
  • Mini splits are the ideal choice for spaces where overhead ductwork is impractical. A few examples might be period homes, tiny homes, temperature controlled sheds or workshops, or garage conversions.
  • What are the Advantages of a Mini-Split System?

    Ductless mini-splits are highly effective systems, but you may still be wondering why you would want to select it over a regular furnace and air conditioner. Here’s why more Dayton homeowners are installing ductless mini-splits:

    • Avoid the hidden issues of ductwork: By giving heated and cooled air directly, air doesn’t go through holey air ducts on its way to all rooms. This can save you as much as 30 percent on your heating and cooling expenses. Plus, if your residence doesn’t already include ducts, you avoid the inconvenience and price associated with adding them.
    • Select the best setting for every room: With zoned heating and cooling from a ductless mini-split, you can keep an office refreshing while maintaining a warm nursery—all while maximizing energy efficiency.
    • Save money and energy by not heating and cooling vacant areas: Shutting supply registers in a central HVAC system can disturb it, putting strain on the equipment and canceling any likely savings. But with independent air handlers in each room, you can heat and cool specific spaces only when you need them.

    Depend on Stevenson Service Experts to Add Your Mini-Split Air Conditioner

    As with regular HVAC systems, ductless mini-splits call for meticulous sizing and Expert installation to ensure the most efficient performance. Our knowledgeable mini split installers in Dayton can help you decide if a mini-split system will match your needs. We can then help you with figuring out the exact equipment size and model to make your house as comfortable and energy-efficient as possible.

    For more details, or to book an appointment, get in touch with Stevenson Service Experts at 937-503-7896. You can also schedule an appointment online.

    chat now widget box