Kara Zorn on May 12, 2014 6 Comments Mini-split air conditioners are great alternatives to installing a central air system in your home. These units are more efficient than window or portable air conditioners, more aesthetically pleasing, and because they’re ductless, installation is simpler and less invasive than a central air unit. They’re good cooling options for spaces that use space heaters or radiators in the colder months or for room additions where running additional duct work could be costly. There are also many models that feature heat pumps, making mini-split air conditioning systems ideal for year-round use. Although more costly than a window air unit, mini-split units are much more energy efficient which will save money over the life of the unit. What is a Mini-Split? Mini-split air conditioners are unique units in the AC world. They are kings of efficiency, simplicity and convenience in regards to supplemental cooling. The air controller and thermostat are located inside the room to be cooled while the cooling and fan functions are located on the exterior. This is the reason for the term “mini-split”. The separation of these two functions leads to several advantages and a few disadvantages: Advantages More energy efficient than other cooling options leading to increased savings over time. Offer higher level of functionality like timers and sleep functions to allow you to customize your desired temperature settings. The loudest parts of the unit are located outside making mini splits quieter and perfect for bedroom applications. Less expensive to install than a central air conditioning system. Increased placement options as it does not have to be mounted to a wall that separates the interior space from outside. More secure than window air conditioners not only regarding intruders but also dust and pests. Many units are designed to both heat and cool allowing for year-round comfort. Mini split air systems offer a sleek design that is far less obtrusive than a window air conditioner. Disadvantages Higher initial cost than window or portable air conditioners. Higher installation cost by a certified HVAC professional. Must have a place to drain condensate water near the outdoor unit. Mini-Split Installation Installation of a mini split air conditioner should be done by a certified HVAC professional. The process of installing this system requires mounting of the indoor unit, called an “air handler”, as well as the outdoor unit, called the “condenser”. The indoor and outdoor units are connected together through refrigerant piping, drainage, as well as electrical wiring through the wall. Mini splits are not usually sold charged with refrigerant and an HVAC professional will need to charge them after the installation.
Tim grimes says May 30, 2017 at 10:11 pm I am building 1500 sq ft metal building as a home to retire to I want mini splits but am concerned about reliability can you weigh in on price vs central unit? Reply
jim says May 11, 2019 at 6:45 pm Window unit is easy peasy, buy it at store, bring it home, plug it in. Most people in the Caribbean use window units. Mini-split requires a skilled HVAC tech to install, flare copper refrigerant lines, vacuum system and charge with refrigerant. Not free! Oh, and I have seen 20 year old window units still in service Reply
George Tatakis says November 20, 2017 at 4:39 pm I am looking into a heat pump my house is 30 x 40 ft cement walls 8 inches and 4 inches of blue styrafoam 10 inches of batton in ceilling what do you have aircondition isnt a must Reply
Jdavid says September 12, 2018 at 10:55 pm Tim im gonna say all you will need for 1500sq would be a 12000w mini split. I have a 34×21×58 metal building home which i did spend the extra in foam insulation with open floor plan with 2 bedrooms 11ft ceiling sheetrock and i keep the temp set on 65° and it keeps entire building at a cool 70° and im so pleased my energy bill avg is $67 -$70 past months. Hope this helps and i wish you a happy fun filled retirement. Reply
Jdavid says September 12, 2018 at 11:03 pm Oh and Tim sorry i forgot to weigh in a price for ya and best i remember central heat/air was gonn cost me around 3k and mini split cost me $1200. So far no complaints and it will run consistently for 12hrs a day or until the outside air becomes cooler then inside shuts off dor prob 5 to 6 hrs before kicking back on best to set your desired temp and leave it alone. Reply
Brenda Gaffney says November 27, 2018 at 10:22 am We are removing sliders from a great room which opens up to an approx. 100 square ft. lanai which is glassed in. What would you suggest for this space which faces the west and can possibly get very hot on the late afternoon. Reply
