What is a Ductless Mini-Split?

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A relatively newer technology, mini-splits provide a more customizable cooling experience. They’re comprised of an outdoor condenser and indoor fan unit. Typically, the indoor unit mounts to the ceiling or wall and is connected to the condenser via a conduit. In order to cool a room, refrigerant passes through the conduit and into the room. Mini splits are available in single zone units for cooling individual rooms, or multi-zone units that allow for multiple indoor fans to be connected to a single condenser. This individualized performance allows owners to only cool the areas they need cooled.

Advantages of Mini-Splits

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From a quieter performance to a more efficient operation, mini-split cooling systems offer several advantages over central air conditioners.

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• Less Noise: Because the compressor is housed outside, the only noise these units create is from the unit’s fan.

• Zone Cooling: Cool and heat, if using a system with built-in heat, only those rooms that you want to. Unlike traditional air conditioners that waste energy cooling rooms that are never used, you can choose to only cool rooms that you use the most like bedrooms or living spaces.

• No Ductwork: Eliminating the need for duct work, mini-split systems limit the loss of efficiency and performance caused by leaks and cracks commonly associated with central cooling. Allergy and asthma sufferers will find cleaner indoor air since you don’t have to worry about allergens and other particles being distributed by dirty ductwork.

• Easier Installation: Most mini-split air conditioners only require a very small hole through a wall for running the refrigerant line. Since most manufacturers provide a variety of line lengths, home owners are able to place the compressor on one side of the house and run the lines all the way to the other side. It's important to remember that manufacturers require mini-splits to be installed by a licensed HVAC professional in order for warranties to be valid

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Examine All of the Costs

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Many times people are misled by the costs associated with each unit. Those looking to convince you to purchase a central air conditioning unit are going to try to get you to focus on upfront costs. When compared to central units, the upfront costs of a mini-split system may be slightly higher, but that doesn’t tell the whole story. Ductless systems are significantly more efficient than central air conditioners, so you’re going to spend a lot less over time to keep your home more comfortable. With it, you’ll quickly recoup your installation costs in added energy savings.

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Reducing Your Energy Usage

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Energy savings are great but increasingly customers aren’t just concerned about cost but what effects their cooling needs are having on the environment. That’s why mini-splits are such a great option, especially when compared to a central cooling unit. When choosing between the two options, take a look at 2 important measurements, Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER).

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• SEER: Federal requirements mandate that as of 2015 mini-splits must have at least a 14.0 SEER in order to be used in the United States. SEER measure the cooling output during a typical cool season, so the higher the SEER, the more efficient it is.

• EER: This looks at energy usage per square foot of cooling. It’s an important number when considering how well different cooling options are going to perform in your desired space.

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One final item to look for is an Energy Star rating. Products carrying this seal mean that they have been verified to significantly contribute to energy savings without sacrificing the performance customers desire. When you choose a mini-split system over other options, you can reduce your cooling and heating costs by up to 30%.

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Finding the Right Unit for Your Home

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Another commonly used tactic to try to get you to select a central unit is by saying that finding a mini-split to fit your home is too difficult. That couldn’t be farther from the truth. All you need to know is the square footage of the space you’re looking to cool and the BTUs associated with the product. If you’re purchasing a multi-zone system, you’ll want to be sure to check out the the BTU rating for each individual indoor unit. We’ve put together the below chart to help give you an idea of how many BTUs you need to effectively cool different room sizes.