Tips on Choosing the Best Ductless Mini Split for Open Floor Spaces

Ductless mini splits are a highly efficient way to create a comfortable and healthy indoor environment at home, especially in rooms with open floor plans. Read below to learn more, and then order your system today!

Square Footage

Ductless mini split systems are designed for use in rooms of specific sizes. The size of a mini split refers to the ability to heat or cool a specific area, which in this case would be your open floor space. Size is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) and expressed in tons. A BTU is a measurement of the amount of energy required to increase the temperature of water by one degree Fahrenheit, and one ton is equal to 12,000 BTUs. A one-ton air conditioner can remove from the room an amount of heat equivalent to 12,000 BTUs over the course of one hour, and so on.

Therefore, the larger the open space, the more powerful a mini split will need to be to properly heat and cool the area. A properly sized mini split allows the air to move freely throughout the open space and eliminates any potential temperature or airflow imbalances. An improperly sized mini split operates inefficiently, which leads to an uncomfortable environment and increased energy costs and consumption. It can also cause your system to short cycle, which is when it repeatedly turns on and off after a short period of time. Before purchasing a mini split, be sure to know the square footage of the room or area where you plan to install it.

Mini Split Type and Style

Ductless mini split systems consist of one outdoor condenser or compressor unit connected with copper wires and pipes to one or more indoor air conditioners. A single-zone system features one outdoor unit connected to only one indoor unit, while a multi-zone system features one outdoor unit connected to multiple indoor units. A single-zone system allows you to control the indoor climate in only the room where the air conditioner is physically located and is, therefore, the ideal option to heat one room or area with open floor space. However, a multi-zone system will work if you require a whole house air conditioner system for multiple different open areas.

Indoor mini split units are also available in many different styles to meet the different aesthetic and performance needs of customers. Wall mounted units are traditionally the most common and will work in an open area. Cassette and concealed mount mini splits can be installed in ceilings and are also excellent options. You could also choose a universal floor or ceiling mount. 

Mini Split Installation and Location

Since they do not require extensive ductwork, mini splits have a simplified and straightforward installation process. One important part of the installation process is picking the unit’s location in the area, and this is dependent on the unit type or style.

For ceiling and floor units, a central installation point ensures air is dispersed equally throughout the room, which eliminates any temperature or air flow imbalances. Wall units can still disperse air equally from one end of the room to the other, but may require raising settings and adjusting air flow. Install wall units on walls as close to the outdoor unit as possible to limit the amount of required wiring. The unit should also not be obstructed by any items such as furniture, as this prevents air from flowing freely throughout the room.

System Capabilities

Mini splits provide heightened indoor climate control. Not only can you control temperature, but you can also adjust airflow, humidity, and other advanced settings through the remote and smartphone applications. Many mini split systems can also perform self-diagnostics and correct any problems such as temperature or air flow imbalance automatically. This can be helpful for systems in open floor spaces, as the mini split will be able to create the ideal indoor environment itself!

For example, GREE mini split systems use their patented I-FEEL technology to locate the unit remote control within the room and adjust airflow accordingly. Be sure to research specific models and see which systems offer the best capabilities for your situation. 

Many systems are designed to be energy efficient, which may qualify many of them for rebates in your area. Our easy Rebate Finder will help you find rebates in your area and which products specifically qualify for those rebates.  

Learn More About Ductless Mini Splits!

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