Guidebook to Mini-Split Air Conditioners: What They Are and How They Cool

August 18, 2017

Many homeowners are acquainted with central air conditioners.

Mini-split systems are a type of ductless heating and cooling. Instead of delivering conditioned air to the total residence through a network of air ducts, they heat and cool one room at a time. This provides more direct temperature control, increasing comfort and energy efficiency.

How Do Mini-Split Air Conditioners Work?

Mini-splits most closely resemble heat pumps in the way they cool. Both types of equipment provide electric cooling, the same as an air conditioner. This requires using refrigerant to draw out heat from in a building and exhausting that warm air outside. Then, a reversing valve allows the system to work backward, adding warmth to your house in the winter by removing heat from outdoor air and bringing it inside.

The main contrast between mini-splits and heat pumps is that mini-split systems don’t need ductwork. Instead, the indoor unit has a built-in air handler, which fits directly on the wall or ceiling in the area you are looking to heat and cool. Copper tubes, wiring and a condensate drain line connect to an outdoor condensing unit through a little conduit in the wall. This exterior component looks similar to an air conditioner or heat pump condenser.

Several indoor units can connect to a single outdoor condenser, permitting you to heat and cool your complete home with this system if wanted. This configuration also makes zoning feasible, a highly popular feature that lets you determine when, where and how much you heat and cool individual rooms.

Mini-split basics infographic Fort Worth 

Is a Ductless Mini-Split the Best Choice for My Residence?

Mini-splits are a fantastic option for the majority of households. Consider these reasons why installing a ductless mini-split may be a good choice for your home:

  • You can heat and cool an entire home that has no existing ductwork.
  • You can switch off the heat and air conditioning in empty areas to save on your energy bills.
  • Mini-splits give supplementary heating and cooling for areas that are difficult to keep cozy.
  • Use a ductless system to heat and cool a residence addition or enclosed porch without the hassle of putting in ductwork or the annoyance of using window AC units.
  • Mini-splits are the perfect choice for spaces where overhead ductwork is impractical. A few examples are period houses, tiny homes, temperature controlled sheds or workshops, or garage conversions.
  • What are the Benefits of a Mini-Split System?

    Ductless mini-splits are very capable systems, but you might still be thinking why you would want to choose it over a traditional furnace and air conditioner. Here’s why a large number of Fort Worth homeowners are using ductless mini-splits:

    • Avoid the pitfalls of ductwork: By delivering heated and cooled air directly, air doesn’t pass through holey air ducts on its way to every room. This can save you as much as 30 percent on your heating and cooling expenses. Also, if your residence doesn’t already use ducts, you avoid the inconvenience and cost that comes with adding them.
    • Choose the right temperature for every room: With zoned heating and cooling from a ductless mini-split, you can keep an office refreshing while maintaining a cozy nursery—all while making the most of energy efficiency.
    • Use less money and energy by not heating and cooling unused areas: Closing supply registers in a central HVAC system can disturb it, straining the equipment and negating any potential savings. But with independent air handlers in all rooms, you can heat and cool specific rooms only when you need them.

    Rely on Calverley Service Experts to Put in Your Mini-Split Air Conditioner

    As with traditional HVAC systems, ductless mini-splits need accurate sizing and Expert installation to ensure the most efficient performance. Our experienced mini split installers in Fort Worth can help you determine if a mini-split system will fit your needs. We can then assist with figuring out the exact equipment size and model to make your residence as comfortable and energy-efficient as possible.

    For extra details, or to request an appointment, contact Calverley Service Experts at 817-380-5647. You can also schedule an appointment online.


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