A mini-split is a ductless HVAC system that’s suitable for practically any home due to the low installation requirements. Mini-splits are also among the most efficient HVAC systems available. That efficiency results in reduced operating costs. Let’s explore the key points a homeowner should know before choosing a mini-split for their home.
Cooling and Heating Capabilities
There are two core types of mini-splits: air conditioners and heat pumps. You may see mini-split ACs referred to as cooling-only mini-splits as well. Mini-split heat pumps have a reversing valve that lets them provide heating, too. Often, they’ll also have electric resistive heating strips. Those strips provide auxiliary heating during temperatures below the system’s cold-weather threshold.
Flexible Installation
Mini-splits are highly customizable, which makes them ideal for a wide range of cooling and heating scenarios. These systems have an outdoor condenser unit and one or more indoor units. The indoor units house the blower, filtration, evaporator coil, and condensate drainage.
Single-zone systems support only one indoor unit and can save money if that’s all you need. Multizone systems support one or more, and you can scale them up later. There’s typically a soft cap of around eight zones, which is usually enough for most homes. For larger homes, there are solutions to increase the capacity, such as installing multiple condenser units in a series.
A ductless mini-split installation can meet the cooling and heating needs of an entire home. You can add a mini-split to complement a central HVAC system. That lets you, for instance, enjoy cool bedroom temperatures at night with more efficient settings elsewhere throughout the home. These systems are also ideal for extending HVAC to hard-to-reach areas, such as:
- Finished attics
- Satellite buildings
- Garage apartments
- Finished basements
- Unfinished and detached garages
You also have many mounting options, and you can mix and match them as needed or preferred. Wall models are generally the cheapest form factor. Modern wall units are compact, and you can install them near the ceiling to avoid using valuable wall space.
There are floor models for areas with limited wall and ceiling space, such as attics and basements. For ceiling models, there is a range of options as well. Suspended units allow you to overcome many ceiling-related installation challenges. Cassettes are popular because they install flush and have a sleek, discreet aesthetic. Dropdown cassettes are ideal in large, wide-open living areas where wall units aren’t practical.
Zoned Comfort
Mini-splits are zoned HVAC systems by nature. With a traditional central system, you determine one temperature for the entire house. That isn’t the case with a mini-split. You can enjoy the temperature that’s ideal for your home office, bedroom, kitchen, and so forth.
Energy Efficiency
Zone control also results in much higher efficiency. It’s more efficient because of the individual zones, but also the lack of ductwork and related issues like air leakage. The seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) measures the cooling performance of a mini-split over a summer. The heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF) measures the heating performance of a heat pump mini-split over a winter. The higher those values, the lower your operating costs and carbon footprint.
Manufacturers can opt to have their mini-splits assessed through independent lab testing. Those that meet the U.S. EPA’s higher energy efficiency standard earn ENERGY STAR certification. That label gives you confidence in a mini-split’s performance. It may also make you eligible for rebates, tax credits, and other energy incentives.
Other Considerations
Most manufacturers include a remote control for each indoor unit. Systems that support Wi-Fi will often have an app to control your mini-split from your phone. You can also connect your mini-split system to one or more programmable or smart thermostats.
The minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) measures filter effectiveness. Mini-splits that support high-MERV filters promote better air quality. Many systems have a dry mode that can improve relative humidity during the summer. Automatic airflow adjustment ensures that conditioned air never blows directly on you. You can also set it to do the opposite, which can be nice during workout sessions.
Ductless Mini-Split Installation in the Greater Memphis Area
Infinity Heating and Air Conditioning is a heating and air conditioning company based in Atoka, TN. We have over a decade of experience serving both residential and commercial customers. Our team is proud to partner with leading manufacturers like Trane, but we install all mini-split brands. We offer free installation quotes, often have special offers available, and provide flexible financing options to credit-approved, qualified customers. Call today or contact us online to learn more about installing a mini-split.
