Mini Split Air Conditioner

What is a mini split air conditioner? 

This is a type of air conditioning unit that works much like a portable air conditioning unit, the major difference being that these units are actually installed into the walls of your home.

A mini split system, sometimes called "ductless air conditioning" is a sort of hybrid between central air conditioning and a portable window unit. It is called "split" because it contains two units - the compressor that is installed outside of the building and the air handler that is built into a wall inside the building. Some models will have more than air handler that is serviced by one compressor.

They are the perfect choice for someone who is living in a house that does not have the necessary duct work or electric to install central air but who do not want to try to rely solely upon a window or portable air conditioning unit.

The air conditioning unit is usually installed above an existing window, which allows the proper piping and wiring to be installed. Homeowners love these units because they give them some control over the temperature of their homes without paying a ton of money in cooling costs.

A mini split system is more expensive than a window unit, because it does require professional installation. But because the compressor is outside the home, the system is more efficient and usually is quieter than a window unit.

You can install a separate air handler in different rooms or areas of the house. Ideally, you would use a separate air handler for each room you want to cool. If you have a lot of open space that allows the air to circulate, you may be able to get away with using just one air handler. It's important to have your HVAC professional calculate the size of the system you will need, based on the number of BTU's necessary to cool the square footage and room layout.

The Pros and Cons of a Mini Split Air Conditioner

Advantages are their size and flexibility. They are categorized as small units. They are flexible for zoning or warming and cooling down individual rooms. Many models of mini splits have at most four indoor air-handling units that are connected to only one outdoor unit. The four indoor air-handling units can heat up and cool down four zones or rooms.

Installation of mini splits is a meticulous job. It should be correctly measured and it should be placed in the best possible location. Oversized and/or incorrect location may result to short cycling that can waste more energy and can provide improper temperature or humidity control. Also, qualified installers for mini splits are difficult to find. Furthermore, larger units of mini split air conditioner are more expensive in terms of price costs and operation.   

5 Tips to Reduce Mini Split Air Conditioning Running Costs

1) Set A Comfortable Temperature - Don't set the temperature to the extremes or the air conditioner will never cycle off and this will cost you money. Try selecting a comfortable room temperature to save on running costs.

2) Have Refrigerant Levels Tested - A refrigeration mechanic or contractor can test your system to determine if you have a refrigerant leak. If your system appears to be either cooling or heating less than normal, it is a good sign that you may have a gas leak.

3) Seal Off Any Droughts - Droughts and gusts of wind can really cool down your home when your trying to warm it up in winter. Drought stoppers and sealing cracks can reduce these droughts which will keep the warmth in and reduce your heating bills substantially.

4) Learn How To Use Your System - If you are not entirely sure how to use your mini split air conditioner, you are probably using it wrong. Speak with an air conditioning contractor for some good advice on how to run your air conditioner.

5) Clean Filters & Ducts - Finally, give your ducts and filters a quick clean. It is the simplest thing to do to get your mini split air conditioner to run better again.