Mini-Splits: Can You (Should You) Leave It On All The Time?


Mini splits keep running all the time without shutting off. Should you be worry about it? Many people are asking whether their mini splits should be running all the time. Most mini splits are designed to run all the time. Mini splits have inverter technology that keep them running at a certain percentage of their capacity based on the cooling load requirement. Mini splits that run constantly are more efficient.

Unlike traditional, ducted systems, you should keep your mini split system running all the time to optimize its energy efficiency and lifespan. Allowing it to cycle on and off can be costly due to the long start-up times of these systems. Turning them on and off requires more energy than letting them run. Keeping the system off for heat pump mini splits will make it more prone to freezing. That’s because the indoor unit will be unable to draw heat from the outdoor unit, causing it to become too cold. If a mini-split stops working or cycles on and off due to frost buildup, it can cause severe damage to both the indoor and outdoor units and reduce efficiency.

Why Do Mini Splits Run All the Time?

mini split that runs all the time is not broken but it’s supposed to do so because it is more energy-efficient. Traditionally, air conditioners shut off when they reach the set temperature. Then, they start to run again when the temperature drop. On the other hand, most mini splits never shut off because they are equipped with inverter technology. Mini splits with inverter technology never stop operate until you turn them off. They always run at a percentage of their capacity based on how much cooling is needed for your house or room. These mini splits are often called inverter mini splits.

More Comfortable

Because mini splits that run constantly are able to regulate their capacity, they are capable of maintaining a steady room temperature which creates a more comfortable environment for your house or room. Conventional start/stop air conditioners often cool a room too much before they stop running. Afterward, the room may get too warm before they start running again. Such a cooling cycle often makes us feel an obvious temperature fluctuation which is not very comfortable especially when we sleep. We may be woke by the significant temperature rise.

Save Energy

Mini splits that never shut off always run at optimal capacity according to the cooling load requirement. Their inverter drive provides a soft start that doesn’t cause a power surge like start/stop mini splits do. Thus, they save energy. Imagine you are riding a bike or running a marathon. It’s more tiring when you frequently stop and go. In addition, it puts more pressure on your leg muscles and joints. It’s the same for start/stop mini splits. It’s estimated that a start/stop mini split draws 3–4 times as much power on start-up compared to a constantly running mini split.

Do Constantly-Running Mini Splits Consume More Electricity?

Mini splits that run constantly do not consume more electricity. In fact, they save 58% energy compared to mini splits that do start and stop. The energy efficiency of a start/stop mini split usually is 10 SEER while a mini split that runs constantly is mostly above 20 SEER. The higher the SEER, the better the energy efficiency of the mini split.

 

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