If you’re considering upgrading your home’s cooling system or adding air conditioning to a specific area, you might have come across the term “mini split AC.” Now, really, what does mini split AC mean, and why can it be the best choice for your home?
What is a Mini-Split AC?
A ductless mini-split, often abbreviated as a mini-split AC, is a system that either heats or cools the nearby area of a residential building without ductwork. These systems consist of two main components: an outdoor compressor/condenser and one or more indoor air handling units. The components are connected by a conduit that houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing, and a condensate drain.
Unique Features and Benefits of Ductless Mini Split ACs
- Energy Efficiency
Mini split systems are highly recognized for their energy efficiency. Their setups are duct-free, which simply means that the energy losses that are common in most central forced-air systems, estimated to account of over 30 percent of energy usage, do not exist. Most mini splits have the Energy Star label that attests to the high efficiency of systems, which translates to savings on utility bills. - Zoned Cooling
One of the significant benefits is that it allows you to zone your home. The indoor units can be separately controlled so you can cool only specific areas without any energy wastage in the unoccupied spaces. Zoning capability gives one personalized comfort apart from saving more energy. - Easy to Install
By and large, a mini-split system is like night and day compared to a central air system when it comes to how invasive and simple installation is. The lack of ductwork practically eliminates extreme hassle, making mini-split setups perfect for retrofits on older homes and for adding air conditioning to new additions. - Better Indoor Air Quality
Traditional ducted systems circulate dust, allergens, and other pollutants around the house. On the other hand, mini-split systems have multi-stage filtration that can reduce dust, bacteria, pollen, and other particulates, hence providing cleaner air inside your home. - Flexibility and Aesthetics
Mini split systems are also available in various styles of indoor unit—whether wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, floor-standing, and even concealed units—so that gives you the flexibility to pick and choose which type would best fit inside a room according to layout and aesthetics.
Mini split AC Installation
Mini-split AC installation fundamentally requires the following steps:
Selecting the right System
Select a system that is suitable for the cooling and heating requirement of your house, if you have to cater to a bigger area or different zones, and what is the efficiency rating of the system you have selected.
Preparation of the location
Determine the orientation of the best sites for the indoor and outdoor unit. The indoor unit should be installed on high walls to provide an even distribution of air. The outdoor unit should be sited such that it gets adequate airflow to avoid airflow obstruction.
Indoor Unit Installation
The indoor unit is mounted on a wall bracket. A hole is then drilled through a wall to run the conduit connecting the indoor and outdoor units.
Outdoor Unit Installation
The outdoor unit sits on a solid, level surface, such as a concrete pad. It then is connected to the indoor unit by the conduit which now houses the refrigerant and electrical lines between the units.
Interconnecting and Testing
Once installed and connected, a professional HVAC technician will check the refrigerant levels of the units before testing the operation of the system to make sure all is well.
Maintenance Tips for Mini Split A/C’s
It is important to address the areas of regular maintenance in keeping your mini-split system running at optimal performance and prolonging the life expectancy with tips like the following:
- Clean the Filters Regularly
The filters in the indoor unit should be cleaned every 4-6 weeks to keep airflow and efficiency to the maximum. Some units have filters that can be washed, while others will have to be replaced. - Check the Outdoor Unit
The outdoor unit should be free from debris, leaves, and any other materials that could potentially disrupt airflow. Clean the coils and fins of that unit, if possible. - Professional Maintenance
Professionals working on maintenance checkups for your HVAC system each year: checking out the system, refrigerant levels, cleaning components, and how the system can be easily optimized to make your house comfortable.
Mini split ACs are a very flexible and energy-efficient way of cooling your home. Other characteristics making it a must-have in many homes are easy installation, zoned cooling features, and improved indoor air quality. Understanding the paybacks and mini-split maintenance needs helps you make a wise decision to have a home that is comfortable in all weather.
Contact your local pro HVAC Contractor in Greenbrier for more on mini-split A/Cs or to schedule a consultation.