How Does a Mini Split Work?

Are you thinking about installing a mini ductless AC, but are unsure about how it works? This quick overview shows you how mini splits work, what a ductless mini split is, and why you should consider one for your home. Let’s get into it. 

What Is a Mini Ductless AC and How Does It Work?

• Doesn’t require ductwork
• It can heat and cool your home
• It’s a more efficient heating and cooling option than HVAC units
• It looks a bit different from traditional HVAC units

A mini ductless AC is similar to a standard air-source heat pump, but it has two components: An outdoor compressor/condenser and an indoor air-handling unit. A power cable, suction tubing, condensate drain, and refrigerant tubing link together all aspects of the mini split.

As the name implies, no ductwork is required to use the unit to heat or cool the inside of the property. 

How Does a Mini Split Work? 

Yes, mini splits work to heat and cool individual rooms or an entire house. They are a highly efficient alternative to traditional HVAC systems because of their ductless design. More precise temperature control can be achieved as a result. 

Another cool thing about a mini ductless AC is that it works in both directions. How? It can bring heat energy inside your home from the outdoors and spit hot air outdoors when the temperature rises. 

During the winter months, a mini split uses less energy to transport heat, rather than producing it, making it a clear energy efficiency winner when put up against HVAC units. 

Do Mini Splits Heat?

Yes, as we mentioned, mini splits not only cool your home, but they also heat it. They reduce your energy spending with year-round savings.  Keeping your home comfortable regardless of the season is important to you and the makers of mini-splits. 

Do Ductless Air Conditioners Need to Be Vented 

No, ductless air conditioners don’t require ventilation. The compressor is installed outdoors, allowing it to expel and suck in air as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About How Does a Mini Split Work:

What are the disadvantages of a mini-split?

The top cited disadvantages of mini splits include the installation cost per zone (essentially per room), which is about $2,000. They are also slightly aesthetically unattractive indoors, and the upfront costs scare many homeowners off.

Do mini splits use a lot of electricity?

No, mini-splits are considered energy efficient thanks to their ductless design. Their inverter technology and zone-cooling options, create more affordable energy bills overall.

Does a mini split have to be on an outside wall?

No, mini splits don’t have to be on an exterior wall. They can be installed on an interior wall as well. But, keep in mind, that will create a more expensive installation bill. 

Is it expensive to run a mini split?

Energy costs are unique state-to-state. A few factors go into the cost of heating and cooling your property such as energy costs in your area, your family’s temperature preferences, and the efficiency of your system. In general, it is less expensive to run a mini split than a traditional HVAC unit. 

Why are mini splits not popular?

The upfront costs of mini splits, and the general lack of knowledge about their efficiency, keep many people from installing them. They are relatively expensive compared to AC systems. 

Is it OK to run mini-split AC all the time?

Yes, you can leave your mini-split AC running throughout the day with no issues.

Where should you not install a mini-split?

Any area where there is obstructed airflow should not be used for your mini split installation. Also avoid direct sunlight, heat sources, and even behind furniture as all of these locations can impact your airflow capacity.

How hard is it to hook up a mini-split?

A mini ductless AC is considered easier to install than an HVAC unit because there is no ductwork to install, it still requires technical know-how to properly install one. Hire a professional to install your ductless AC for the best results.