Guidebook to Mini-Split Air Conditioners: What They Are and How They Operate

August 18, 2017

The majority of homeowners are informed about central air conditioners.

Mini-split systems are a kind of ductless heating and cooling. Instead of delivering conditioned air to the entire residence with a network of air ducts, they heat and cool one room at a time. This provides more targeted temperature control, increasing comfort and energy efficiency.

How Do Mini-Split Air Conditioners Work?

Mini-splits most closely resemble heat pumps in the way they operate. Both models of equipment deliver electric cooling, similar to an air conditioner. This requires using refrigerant to draw out heat from in a building and discharging that warm air outside. Then, a reversing valve allows the system to work backward, warming your residence in the winter by removing heat from outdoor air and adding it inside.

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

Multiple indoor units can work off of one outdoor condenser, allowing you to heat and cool your complete home with this system if wanted. This set-up also makes zoning possible, a highly popular feature that permits you to customize when, where and how much you heat and cool individual rooms.

Mini-split basics infographic Boise 

Is a Ductless Mini-Split the Best Choice for My House?

Mini-splits are a fantastic solution for the majority of households. Think over these reasons why installing a ductless mini-split could be a wise choise for your home:

  • You can heat and cool a complete residence that doesn’t have existing ductwork.
  • You can switch off the heat and air conditioning in empty spaces to save on your utility costs.
  • Mini-splits give additional heating and cooling for spaces that are difficult to keep comfortable.
  • Use a ductless system to heat and cool a house addition or enclosed patio without the hassle of installing ductwork or the hassle of relying on window AC units.
  • Mini splits are the perfect choice for spaces where ductwork is impractical. A few examples are historic houses, tiny homes, temperature controlled sheds or workshops, or garage conversions.
  • What are the Perks of a Mini-Split System?

    Ductless mini-splits are extremely capable 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 large number of Boise homeowners are installing ductless mini-splits:

    • Avoid the pitfalls of ductwork: By delivering heated and cooled air directly, air doesn’t go through cracked air ducts on its way to each room. This can save you nearly 30 percent on your heating and cooling expenses. Plus, if your residence doesn’t already have ducts, you avoid the inconvenience and expense associated with adding them.
    • Choose the best temperature for each room: With zoned heating and cooling from a ductless mini-split, you can keep an office refreshing while maintaining a warm nursery—all while maximizing energy efficiency.
    • Use less money and energy by not heating and cooling vacant areas: Closing supply registers in a central HVAC system can throw it off balance, putting strain on the equipment and negating any possible savings. But with individual air handlers in all rooms, you can heat and cool certain areas only when you need them.

    Trust TML Service Experts to Put in Your Mini-Split Air Conditioner

    As with common HVAC systems, ductless mini-splits call for accurate sizing and Expert installation to ensure the best performance. Our knowledgeable mini split installers in Boise can help you figure out if a mini-split system will meet your needs. We can then support you with determining the exact equipment size and model to make your residence as comfortable and energy-efficient as possible.

    For added details, or to book an appointment, contact TML Service Experts at 208-488-4892. You can also schedule an appointment online.


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