A Mini-Split system is also called a ductless air conditioner. It is a great alternative to traditional A/C units, although the two operate similarly. Mini-splits, however, do not have ducts or an outside condenser. Instead, mini-splits use individual units in specific rooms. Ductless systems circulate air directly into the room at a cost-efficient rate.
Mini-Split System Components
Mini-split systems have four main components:
- Indoor Unit
- Condensing Unit
- Refrigerant Lines
- Remote Control
The indoor unit is either wall-mounted or mounted to the ceiling. The unit is responsible for releasing cool air into the home.
The condensing unit is located outside the home. It pumps air through the refrigerant lines to the indoor unit.
The refrigerant lines connect units to the indoor units. They consist of tiny tubes of refrigerant connected through a small ohle in the wall.
The remote control, of course, allows you to control the temperature of the mini-split system.
Types of Mini-Splits
Single-zone and multi-zone mini-split systems provide ductless cooling to homes. What’s the difference between the two systems?
A single-zone mini-split system consists of a single condenser and an air handler, as well as one outdoor unit for each indoor unit. This system is less expensive than a multi-zone system and requires less equipment and offers easier installation.
The multi-zone mini-split system consists of two or more mini-split units connected to a single outdoor unit. One multi-zone mini-split can connect up to eight indoor units. You control the cooling and heating of the entire home when using a multi-zone system. Plus, it is less expensive to operate than a single-zone system after installation.
How Mini-Splits Work
A mini-split system is an easy-to-use system that operates in four steps:
- Hot Air Sucked In: Hot air is sucked in through the air handling unit, then travels to the outside condenser through pipes in the home.
- Energy Transforms: Once the hot air reaches the outside condenser, hot, humid air and its energy are transferred to the coils. It then transfers energy to the coils through the coolant that turns into gas.
- Gas is Converted to Liquid: Gas is then sent to the condenser compressor unit where it is recycled and turned back into liquid through an electrical process.
- Cool Air Pumped Out: Air is then fed through the air handler and ejected back into a room which decreases the temperature.
Benefits of Mini-Split Systems
Mini-split systems work great in homes without space to accommodate a new HVAC system. They’re also suitable for families looking for savings over the cost of a central heating and air unit. Not only do mini-splits cost less to install, but they also offer significant energy savings and costs each month. Mini-split systems are easy-to-maintain and provide better air quality than traditional air conditioning systems.
Rice Heating and Air are a full-service HVAC Contractor headquartered in Alma, AR. The company specializes in air conditioning repair, AC installations, indoor air quality systems, heating repair, and furnace installations. Rice Heating and Air are focused on helping homeowners and businesses stay comfortable year-round. We are your comfort experts.
Call us today for any of your heating and cooling needs.
