Mini splits: you’ve seen them in hotels, schools, garages, server rooms and sunrooms. These self-contained units make zoned heating and cooling a breeze, and are a popular choice for home renovations/retrofits, in spaces without existing ductwork, or in spaces that are separated from the main area of your home.
So how do they work? Mini splits are highly efficient ductless HVAC systems that feature a small indoor unit connected to an outdoor compressor via refrigeration lines. Mini splits can both heat and cool – basically, they pump hot air outside to cool your room, and inside to warm it.
However, while a mini split can be a great choice, they’re not always the right choice. If you’re considering installing a mini split, here are the pros and cons to consider.
Pro: Air Quality
Unlike traditional units that require regular filter changes and duct cleaning, mini splits have their own in-built air filters that help keep air quality high. In addition, many have a setting that helps dehumidify your home – even if the heating or cooling function is off.
Con: Expensive
Mini splits are expensive to install initially as they involve putting in a whole new system – you’re not just mounting something on the wall. However, there are many manufacturers entering the mini split market, putting downward pressure on prices. Mini splits are also efficient, meaning you’ll recapture that purchase price over time.
Pro: Efficient
Mini splits are more efficient to run than traditional systems. They make zoned air conditioning easy, and instead of heating and cooling your whole property, you can run just the units in the area you’re using – and adjust their temperatures as needed.
Con: Bulky
Mini splits don’t require ducts, which is a big plus. However, instead of the small floor register associated with ducted systems, they do require you to make room for a wall-mounted unit – often multiple ones, depending on your setup. This can be a hard no for certain homes where interior design or heritage status is an important consideration.
Pro: Convenient
Mini splits are designed for retrofits and are great for adding air conditioning to extra rooms where ducts might not exist. If you have a room or area that gets too hot or cold compared with the rest of your property, a mini split can be an effective solution – now everyone can be comfortable!
Con: Repairs
Mini splits are more complicated than regular HVAC systems machines and typically need a specialist tech to troubleshoot them. Because many feature complex proprietary controls, it’s also hard to get replacement parts – often we’ll need to place a factory order.
Pro: Quiet
If noise is a consideration – for example in a baby’s room or an office – a mini split is a great choice. Mini splits are some of the quietest air conditioning options on the market and are much quieter than ducted or window units.
Thinking about installing a mini split system? Talk to the team at Shaw! We can help you design an HVAC solution that works for your home or business – and your budget.