Guide to Mini-Split Air Conditioners: What They Are and How They Cool

August 18, 2017

The majority of homeowners are acquainted with central air conditioners.

Mini-split systems are a kind of ductless heating and cooling. Instead of providing conditioned air to the complete residence through a network of air ducts, they heat and cool a lone room at a time. This allows more targeted temperature control, increasing comfort and energy efficiency.

How Do Mini-Split Air Conditioners Work?

Mini-splits are most similar to heat pumps in the way they cool. Both models of equipment provide electric cooling, the same as an air conditioner. This uses refrigerant to remove heat from within a building and issuing that warmth outside. Then, a reversing valve enables the system to operate backward, warming your home in the winter by extracting heat from outdoor air and bringing it inside.

The largest distinction between mini-splits and heat pumps is that mini-split systems don’t have to have ductwork. Instead, the indoor unit has a built-in air handler, which fits directly on the wall or ceiling in the area you want to heat and cool. Copper tubes, wiring and a condensate drain line connect to an outdoor condensing unit through a small conduit in the wall. This exterior component looks much like an air conditioner or heat pump condenser.

Several indoor units can work off of one outdoor condenser, enabling you to heat and cool your complete home with this system if desired. This configuration also makes zoning possible, a highly popular feature that lets you determine when, where and how much you heat and cool individual rooms.

Mini-split basics infographic Voorhees 

Is a Ductless Mini-Split the Best Option for My Residence?

Mini-splits are a great choice for many households. Think about these reasons why using a ductless mini-split may be a smart choice for you:

  • You can heat and cool a complete home that lacks existing ductwork.
  • You can turn off the heat and air conditioning in unoccupied spaces to save on your heating and cooling bills.
  • Mini-splits provide extra heating and cooling for spaces that are tricky to keep cozy.
  • Use a ductless system to heat and cool a residence addition or enclosed patio without the cost of putting in ductwork or the hassle of relying on window AC units.
  • Mini split systems are the ideal choice for spaces where overhead ductwork is impractical. A few examples might be historic homes, tiny homes, temperature controlled sheds or workshops, or garage conversions.
  • What are the Benefits of a Mini-Split System?

    Ductless mini-splits are extremely effective systems, but you may still be considering why you would want to install it over a traditional furnace and air conditioner. Here’s why a growing number of Voorhees homeowners are installing ductless mini-splits:

    • Avoid the pitfalls of ductwork: By providing heated and cooled air directly, air doesn’t move through cracked air ducts on its way to every room. This can save you as much as 30 percent on your heating and cooling expenses. Along with that, if your residence doesn’t already include ducts, you avoid the annoyance and price that comes with putting them in.
    • Select the best setting for all rooms: With zoned heating and cooling from a ductless mini-split, you can keep an office cool while maintaining a warm nursery—all while optimizing energy efficiency.
    • Use less money and energy by not heating and cooling unused areas: Securing supply registers in a central HVAC system can disturb it, putting strain on the equipment and canceling any potential savings. But with independent air handlers in every room, you can heat and cool certain spaces only when you need them.

    Rely on Atmostemp Service Experts to Put in Your Mini-Split Air Conditioner

    Much like regular HVAC systems, ductless mini-splits need accurate sizing and Expert installation to ensure the best performance. Our experienced mini split installers in Voorhees can help you decide if a mini-split system will meet your needs. We can then assist with figuring out the exact equipment size and model to make your residence as comfortable and energy-efficient as possible.

    For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call Atmostemp Service Experts at 856-310-4824. You can also schedule an appointment online.


    chat now widget box