Mini Splits Explainer: How They Work and Why They Are Growing in Popularity

An Affordable, Flexible and Ductless Heating/Cooling Solution

If you've been searching for a new heating or cooling system, you might have heard about mini splits. Mini splits are rapidly gaining popularity thanks to their affordability, flexibility and ductless design. Curious to find out more about how they work and the advantages they offer? Then read on to learn more.  

How Do Mini Splits Work?

Mini splits consist of an outdoor condenser that heats or cools the refrigerant and an indoor air handler that distributes the conditioned air.

A cable or "line set" connects the condenser unit outside to an air handler inside the room. The air handler is essentially a fan that blows air into the room. The refrigerant cools or heats the air before it blows into the room. Because they are ductless (also called recirculating), you don't need ductwork in your home. This means you can add the benefits of climate control to any room without the need for expensive ductwork construction that requires ripping into walls or building out into a space.

Advantages of Mini Splits

One of the primary advantages of mini splits is that they offer you the comfort of climate control without having to add ductwork to your home. This makes them a more affordable and easier to install option than traditional central heating and cooling systems. Additionally, mini splits are more flexible than central systems because you can have multiple air handlers connected to one condenser unit. Letting you adjust the temperature in each room independently.

Other advantages of mini splits include:

  • Energy efficiency: Mini splits are highly energy-efficient because they don't have the energy losses associated with ductwork. You can save up to 30% on your energy bill by using a mini split.
  • Easy installation: Installing a mini split is relatively easy, especially if you opt for a DIY unit. Professional installation is also available, and it will ensure that your mini split is operating at peak efficiency.
  • Zoning: With mini splits, you can create zones in your home to control the temperature in each room independently. This means you don't have to heat or cool an entire home if you're only using one room.

Single and Multi-Zone Mini Splits

A zone is essentially a room that the air handler is in. Single-zone mini splits have one indoor air handler and one outdoor condenser unit. Multi-zone mini splits have one outdoor condenser unit connected to multiple indoor air handlers in different rooms. This means you can control the temperature in each room independently, making them ideal for large homes or commercial buildings.

Types of Mini Splits

There are two types of mini splits available: Do-It-Yourself (DIY) and professional. 

DIY mini splits come with a sealed line set that are “pre-charged” with the refrigerant. You can install them yourself, and they're more budget-friendly than professional models. However, they may have a slightly lower energy efficiency rating than professionally installed mini splits.

Professional mini splits, on the other hand, require a certified HVAC technician to add refrigerant to the unit during installation. They have a higher energy efficiency rating. Professional installation also ensures that your mini split is operating at peak efficiency after they calibrate the necessary amount of refrigerant inside the units. 

Shop for Mini Splits and Easily Enjoy Comfort Year Round

Mini splits are an affordable, flexible, and energy-efficient heating and cooling solution that doesn't require ductwork. They are available in single and multi-zone models and can be installed as a DIY project or by a professional HVAC technician. Whatever your heating and cooling needs may be, mini splits are an excellent option to consider. Shop for DIY mini splits or professionally-installed mini splits and find one that fits your home’s needs.

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