Mini Splits 101: What They Are and When They’re the Right Choice for Your Space
When it comes to cooling specific areas of your home, a mini-split system can be a game changer. While they may not be ideal for heating and cooling an entire house, they are real winners in spaces like garages, home gyms, or rooms with inconsistent temperature control. With a mini split, you get that added bit of customization. (And who doesn’t love having a little extra control over their comfort?)
How Mini Split Systems Work as a Ductless System
Mini split systems provide heating and cooling without the need for ductwork. That’s why they’re known for being both flexible and highly efficient. At their core, mini splits consist of two main components: an outdoor compressor and one or more indoor air handlers. The outdoor unit houses the compressor, which circulates refrigerant to the indoor air handler. From there, the cool or warm air can get distributed into your space. It’s relatively simple but makes a big impact.
Because they operate without ducts, mini splits avoid the energy losses commonly associated with traditional HVAC systems. Since you aren’t dealing with ductwork layouts, you retain more of the conditioned air. So you get better energy efficiency, along with better overall comfort with more customized control.
The standout feature of mini-split systems is their ability to target specific zones. Unlike central systems, which condition the entire home based on a single thermostat setting, mini splits allow you to control the temperature in each room individually. This feature is particularly useful for homes with rooms that are notoriously difficult to keep at a comfortable temperature. It’s also why attics, basements, and sunrooms are perfect candidates for mini-split systems. This type of HVAC equipment lets you set different temperatures for different rooms, so you’re not only maximizing comfort, but you’re also reducing energy waste because you’re only heating or cooling the areas you’re using.
As an added bonus, mini splits can increase your energy efficiency with inverter technology. This works to adjust the compressor speed based on the cooling or heating demands of the room. Basically, the power modulation lets you avoid the constant on-off cycling of traditional HVAC systems. That way, you get lower energy use and quieter operation. Some mini-split systems even include energy-efficient features like programmable timers and motion sensors. Both are great ways to ensure your equipment only runs when it’s needed.
When to Use (or Not Use) a Mini Split System
Are Mini Splits More Efficient than Central HVAC Systems? Mini-splits are incredibly versatile. They can be an ideal solution for lots of situations, yet it’s important to note that they may not always be the best option for larger, multi-room spaces. For example, if you have a room or area that struggles to stay comfortable with your central HVAC system—like a garage, sunroom, or basement—a mini-split can be a highly efficient and practical solution to use in combo with your main equipment. They are also great for smaller, hard-to-cool or heat spaces, especially when extending the ductwork from a central system would be impractical or too expensive.
One growing trend is using mini splits in home additions or even tiny homes. You’ll
see them a lot in converted shipping containers and other unconventional living spaces. Then again, you can also find mini splits used effectively in basements, attics, home offices, or guest houses. Basically, in any place where maintaining ductwork would be cumbersome, a new mini-split system might be a fantastic solution!
In many cases, a mini-split system can be easily installed to provide year-round comfort. You can avoid excessive installation and maintenance costs because these systems often require only a small hole in the wall to connect the indoor and outdoor units. That’s a huge bonus for anyone working on a smaller-scale project. Mini split systems give you the benefit of both fast turn-around times and lower costs.
However, if you’re trying to heat or cool an entire house or large space with multiple rooms, mini splits will probably not be the most effective option. Central HVAC systems can distribute air more evenly across larger spaces. They’re just better suited for whole-house comfort. Of course, it’s important to consider the cost of multiple mini-split units. If you need to install one in each room so each space can have its own temperature control—for, say, an apartment complex or a shared co-working space—then maybe the investment for multiple units makes sense! It’s all about how you intend to use your equipment. And if you have questions along the
way, our team can help!
Shop Smarter for Mini Splits at Surplus City
Whether you’re a contractor looking to purchase units in bulk or a homeowner seeking to upgrade your space, our extensive inventory of quality HVAC equipment has what you need. From energy-efficient mini-split systems to HVAC repair parts from all of today’s leading manufacturers, we’ve got you covered.
Our constantly updated inventory ensures that you can find exactly what you need right here! And with fast shipping, you can complete your project on time without delays. Explore our selection today, and let Surplus City help you find the perfect mini-split system at a price that works for you!