Energy efficiency seems to be a popular buzzword these days.
More and more homeowners are looking for ways to live greener lives as well as cut down on expensive energy bills.
Before anything else, they consider the efficiency of their home’s heating and cooling system.
What if you could combine these two functions in such an efficient way that you can cut down your monthly bill significantly?
That’s what the mini-split system can do!
How Does a Mini-Split System Work?
Mini-splits are both cooling and heating systems that allow you to control the temperatures around your home.
There are two main components to a mini-split system:
- Outdoor Compressor/Condenser
- Indoor Air-Handling Unit/Evaporator
Mini-split units are easy to install and typically require only a 3 inch hold through the wall for the conduit.
The conduit contains the power cables, copper tubing and a condensation drain line. It links the indoor unit to the outdoor unit.
Because mini-splits are easy to install, they can be retro-fitted into older homes – especially those that run on non-ducted systems such as hot water heat, radiant panels and space heaters.
However, they are perfect for new builds or if you are looking to extend your home with an add-on. Instead of worrying about running ductwork into the new space, you can install a mini-split system.
What is the Difference Between a Mini-Split System and a Traditional AC System?
The main difference between a mini-split system and a traditional AC system is that AC systems use a central air conditioning unit connected to ductwork throughout your home.
Mini-split systems, on the other hand, are ductless heat pump systems that provide both cooling and heating to your home. One or more mini-split units are installed throughout your home and provide focused cooling to particular areas or rooms.
This provides the obvious benefit of controlling which rooms are cooled or heated – whereas a traditional AC unit cools the entire home to the set temperature.
For example, you may find that one side of your home gets more sun throughout the day and is noticeably warmer than the other areas of your house.
A traditional AC would cool down the entire home but a mini-split system would only need to be installed in that one room.
However, you also have the option of installing multiple mini-split units. It all depends on the temperature of your home and your comfort level.
Overall, this means you can lower your electric bills by being strategic about where you focus the cool air in your home.
Plus, you can use these mini-split units to heat your home in the winter!
How Much Does it Cost to Install a Mini-Split System?
Like any product you buy for your home, the cost will vary depending on the model you choose. The important thing to consider is your home’s needs.
For instance, with the mini-split system, you have the option to zone your home into multiple areas. This allows you to condition only the spaces you need by controlling each system separately.
If you are looking to install a mini-split into a single zone, you’ll only require one outdoor unit and indoor unit.
Likewise, a multi-zone system consists of a single outdoor unit with up to 8 indoor units for multiple areas in your home.
This is an important distinction, since you cannot convert a single zone system into a multi-zone system.
When it comes to installation, there are various price factors such as the location of the unit (upstairs versus downstairs), accessibility and permitting.
If you’re ready to upgrade your home’s HVAC system to the mini-split, don’t hesitate to give our expert technicians a call!
We are more than happy to help you install your brand new unit.