What Is a Mini Split Inverter?

on


 

While traditional home heating systems require intrusive ductwork to deliver warm air throughout a home, mini-split heat pumps provide an efficient alternative. Mini-split inverter heat pumps are a type of temperature-control system that are installed directly in the room they are heating so the warm air doesn’t have to be transported around the home. These systems offer several benefits such as increased energy efficiency, the ability to adjust the temperature of rooms individually, and simple installation.

One of the features that really sets mini-split systems apart from other temperature control options is their use of inverter technology. Before we go into what inverter technology is, it is important to first understand the main components of a mini-split system.

Ductless mini-splits consist of two main components, the indoor handling unit and the outdoor compressor. Mini-split systems are easily installed by making a small, three-inch hole in a wall to connect the units together. The indoor unit blows cold air over heating coils to increase its temperature. The outdoor compressor is what is responsible for dispensing heat into the home.

In a temperature control system, there are essentially two types of compressors: a rotary compressor and an inverter. Traditional rotary compressors turn on with full power and then shut off completely when the desired temperature is reached. This all-or-nothing operation reduces both efficiency and comfort.

Mini-split heat pumps, however, consist of compressors with inverter technology. Such technology allows the heat pump to intelligently adjust heating output based on the temperature and conditions of the room it is located in. To do so, the unit samples the air and alters the compressor speed accordingly. By adjusting the speed to supply just enough heat to maintain your ideal temperature, less energy is wasted and comfort is enhanced.

A traditional rotary compressor might be rated for 9,000 BTUs of cooling. That means whenever cooling is called for the unit ramps up to full speed and outputs 9,000 BTUs of cooling. An inverter compressor rated for 9,000 BTUs of cooling might have a BTU output range of 1,000 BTUs to 12,000 BTUs. That means when cooling is needed, the unit will start out by providing 12,000 BTUs to quickly cool the space, but will then throttle down to just enough BTUs to maintain the temperature. This speed adjustment results in lower power consumption, less noise, and more even cooling of the space.

Perhaps the biggest advantage of the mini split inverter as compared to the rotary compressor is its efficiency. Since it operates with a higher level of precision, it doesn’t waste nearly as much energy as the alternative. Plus, since the sharp fluctuations of the load are eliminated in mini split inverter systems, the parts last much longer and don’t run the risk of needing replacement nearly as quickly. And don’t forget about the noise — mini split units in general are much quieter than more traditional systems, too. Even if you need to heat more than one room, multi split units can still do the trick with their multi zone options.

Comments

Post a Comment