Spotlight on Mini-Split HVAC Systems

October 04, 2023

Efficient and convenient whole-home cooling no longer requires a central forced air system to achieve. In recent decades, mini-split HVAC systems have become increasingly popular in the United States as an alternative to window and room air conditioning for homes without existing ductwork. These systems, originally pioneered by Japanese manufacturers as an alternative to window air conditioners, offer unparalleled convenience and efficiency through zoned space conditioning without associated duct losses.

Parts of a Mini-Split HVAC System

Mini-split HVAC systems incorporate two basic components: an outdoor condenser or heat pump and an indoor air handler. A refrigerant solution travels via cabling between the outdoor and indoor unit, with some of today’s maximum cable lengths reaching up to linear distances of 100-230 feet and height differentials of 65-164 feet. During installation, these cables require only a small access point, typically a few inches in diameter, instead of the large space necessary to accommodate ductwork. The air handler is controlled via either a touch panel or a remote, providing space conditioning for the room in which it is mounted. Today’s mini-split HVAC systems can connect a single outdoor component to several indoor air handlers, allowing homeowners to condition multiple rooms at once, rather than requiring a separate room air conditioner for each space in which you want cooling.

Benefits of a Mini-Split HVAC System

Mini-split HVAC systems are extremely cost-effective, energy-efficient, and versatile. Indoor air handlers can be mounted on ceilings, walls, and even floors, allowing you to accommodate the design of each room in which you want conditioning. Installation of a mini-split system is fast and convenient, and significantly less involved and costly than installing ductwork in a home without existing ducts for a central forced air system. Because mini-split HVAC systems don’t use ducts, they are not subject to the air and energy losses associated with poorly-maintained ductwork. Not only will you save money by ruling out duct repairs by installing a mini-split system for multi-room heating and cooling, you’ll also save money by eliminating duct losses from your heating and cooling equation. Mini-split HVAC systems offer inherent room zoning, which allows you to specifically choose the rooms in which you want heating or cooling at any given time. This feature saves even more money on space conditioning by reducing energy consumption associated with heating or cooling a room you’re not currently occupying, ensuring that all energy input goes directly toward creating a comfortable living space in the rooms you use the most. By contrast, zoning a forced air system can quickly grow into an expensive project, incorporating several additional moving parts and other components that require further maintenance or repairs over time.

Mini-split HVAC systems are available in singleor multi-room models, allowing you to completely customize your space conditioning experience in Jacksonville, FL. With the help of your air conditioning professional, you can choose and install a mini-split system that will deliver the comfort and energy savings you’re after, eliminating the need to purchase another window air conditioner for your home ever again. You can check out the latest cooling news and technology on our blog, or schedule HVAC service, including AC repair, maintenance, and replacement, through our website.