Mini-Split AC Systems: Everything You Need to Know

 

Out of all of the home comfort technologies available today, ductless mini split heat pumps are easily among the most intriguing.

What are Ductless Mini Split Heat Pumps?

It’s a long title to be sure, but if you break it down the picture becomes clear soon enough. Ductless heat pumps are a type of split HVAC system. This simply means that there is an indoor unit (or units — more on that later) and an outdoor unit, just as there is with a central forced-air AC or standard heat pump.

But, the major difference lies in the ductless aspect. The indoor unit of a mini-split system is a small, wall-mounted fixture that houses its own blower assembly. This means that air intake or output can be achieved right in the room. This is as opposed to needing to rely on ducts and a larger assembly located in a more traditional cabinet. The indoor unit is connected to the outdoor unit via electrical connections and a refrigerant line. Thus, completely eliminating the need for ducts.

When installing a ductless split system, a homeowner can choose to install a single indoor unit as needed. Or, you can choose to install multiple indoor units all connected to the same outdoor unit. This is referred to as a multi-split ductless heat pump.

Who is a Ductless Mini-Split Heating System Good For?

Ductless mini- and multi-split systems can be used to meet a home’s complete comfort needs just the same as a central system. Or, single units can provide an ideal solution for small area heating and cooling, such as in an office. It is also a great option for a room where duct installation is impractical.

Experts often recommend ductless mini-split heat pumps for:

- Apartments and condos

- Offices

- utbuildings

- Homeowners interested in the benefits of zoning

- Homeowners looking for higher energy-efficiency

- Areas where ducts present too much of a challenge

The Biggest Benefits of Ductless Mini Split Heat Pumps

If you’re considering installing a ductless split system, you’ll want to know what advantages the system actually provides! Luckily, there are many:

Zoning and energy-efficiency.

In a multi-split ductless system a thermostat can be connected to every indoor unit, and each can be controlled separately. As a result, this means you have excellent precision in determining your comfort. You only use energy in the areas where you need it.

Year-round comfort.

As is the case with any heat pump system, ductless mini-splits can provide excellent cooling and supplementary heating as needed.

Excellent system longevity.

Ductless heat pumps boast a longer average lifespan when compared to other HVAC options. This makes the overall value of a ductless mini split heating unit an excellent long-term investment.

Improved indoor air quality.

Ductless systems utilize cutting-edge filtration systems. This benefits the unit itself and protects it against wear. And, it also provides you with healthier, cleaner home air.

Whisper quiet operation.

If you’re concerned that your new wall-mounted units will be noisy, you needn’t be concerned. Ductless mini split heat pump systems are exceptionally quiet. So, they produce sound at barely audible decibel levels.

Rebates.

Rebates are often available for ductless mini split heat pump systems in the range of $250 to $6,400 per system. In order to discuss these rebates, it is important to understand the ins and outs of these programs. This is where you can turn to an HVAC company that is very familiar with them.