Do Mini Splits Heat & Cool?

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Ductless mini split systems are heating and cooling systems that offer a more efficient and convenient approach to regulating the air quality and temperature than traditional units. Unlike HVAC systems that operate using duct piping, a mini split appliance uses an outdoor compressor unit combined with one or more indoor air handlers to circulate air. There is no need for ductwork.

A significant benefit of mini splits is that they heat and cool. The best ductless mini split systems are highly efficient, reducing your carbon footprint and saving on your utility costs. Mini splits are versatile and suitable for all home types. They are an excellent option for efficiency-focused people building a new home, and they work well as a retrofit to existing residences. Single-zone units are often the best solution to a property that needs temperature regulation in a specific area.

How Do Mini Split Systems Work?

A mini split system consists of two main units: the outdoor condenser compressor unit and the indoor air handler unit. These units are connected through small pipes. The system is also connected to the refrigerant lines, which play a vital role in how a mini split functions.

The indoor air handling unit, which is generally fitted to the wall or ceiling, sucks in air from the room. This air is then transported to the outdoor condenser unit, where it comes into contact with coils that contain refrigerant coolant fed from the home refrigerant lines. This contact creates an energy transfer, changing the air temperature before sending it back into the room. The thermostat’s outside compressor unit draws in outdoor air to heat a room and uses a heat pump to draw the air across the refrigerant coils, which capture that heat and transfer it indoors.

A ductless mini split system can effectively maintain the thermostat’s desired temperature through continuous cycles of this process. As the coils play such an integral role in the exchange, they must be maintained carefully. During extreme weather, the outdoor units have to work a little harder, reducing their efficiency.

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Types of Mini Split Systems

There are two main types of mini split systems: single-zone and multi-zone. A single-zone system consists of one outdoor condenser unit and one indoor air handler unit. A multi-zone system uses one outdoor condenser unit and up to eight indoor air handler units.

Each indoor unit is designed to heat or cool a specific zone. This zone can be a single room of a house or an entire story of a building. Depending on the size of the area you want to service, you require a certain capacity system. The output of a system is classified by its British Thermal Unit (BTU) rating. The bigger your space, the higher the rating you require. The Department of Energy suggests that, to heat and cool your home efficiently, you need 20 BTUs per square foot of space.

Mini split systems are generally controlled using a remote control. However, many of the modern appliances are now smart technology-enabled. Using your phone or a smart device, you can access, monitor and control your system. This allows you to maximize efficiency, as temperature regulation is available at the touch of a button, no matter where you are.

Single Zone Mini Split Systems

Single zone mini splits are most effective in controlling the air in one specific area. They are best suited to rooms being built as part of an extension, apartment buildings, add-ons to an existing system or replacing an old HVAC system.

Multi Zone Mini Split Systems

Multi zone systems allow you to divide your space into separate zones. They are extremely effective in combating temperature inconsistencies and energy inefficiencies in larger areas. Each internal air handler can be set to specific temperatures and airflow settings.

These systems are useful in multi-story buildings because each floor can have its own setting. Upper floors are frequently warmer than lower ones, so the independent controls make for a perfectly comfortable home environment.

Benefits of Mini Split Systems

There are several key benefits of installing a mini split system in your home, such as:

• Their energy efficiency reduces your carbon footprint and increases your cost savings.
• A compact design means they are easy to install.
• Individual zoning allows you to control the temperature all over your house.
• Quiet operating volume makes them suitable for virtually all rooms.
• Cost-effectiveness leads to lower utility bills.

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Where to Buy Your Mini Split System

If you want to optimize heating and cooling in your home, a mini split system is a worthwhile investment. This option gives you control over the air temperature and quality in every room in your home.

ComfortUp sells quality mini split systems and accessories from the leading brands, including GREE, Mitsubishi, and Boreal. Call us today at 1-855-337-0001 for advice or information regarding the installation of your mini split system.