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

August 18, 2017

Many homeowners are informed about central air conditioners.

Mini-split systems are a type of ductless heating and cooling. Instead of giving conditioned air to the total residence via a network of air ducts, they heat and cool a lone room at a time. This delivers more advanced temperature control, increasing comfort and energy efficiency.

How Do Mini-Split Air Conditioners Work?

Mini-splits are most similar to heat pumps in the way they cool. Both models of equipment provide electric cooling, the same as an air conditioner. This involves using refrigerant to remove heat from within a building and issuing that warm air outside. Then, a reversing valve allows the system to operate backward, heating your residence in the winter by removing heat from outdoor air and bringing it inside.

The main difference between mini-splits and heat pumps is that mini-split systems don’t require ductwork. Alternatively, the indoor unit has a built-in air handler, which mounts directly to the wall or ceiling in the area you wish to heat and cool. Copper tubes, wiring and a condensate drain line connect to an outdoor condensing unit through a narrow conduit in the wall. This exterior component looks like an air conditioner or heat pump condenser.

More than one indoor unit can connect to an individual outdoor condenser, enabling you to heat and cool your entire home with this system if desired. This set-up also makes zoning possible, an extremely desirable feature that allows you to choose when, where and how much you heat and cool individual rooms.

Mini-split basics infographic Fort Worth 

Is a Ductless Mini-Split Right for My Residence?

Mini-splits are a fantastic choice for most households. Think about these reasons why installing a ductless mini-split could be a good choice for your needs:

  • You can heat and cool a complete home that lacks existing ductwork.
  • You’ll be able to switch off the heat and air conditioning in unoccupied areas to save on your heating and cooling expenses.
  • Mini-splits provide added heating and cooling for spaces that are difficult to keep cozy.
  • Use a ductless system to heat and cool a house addition or enclosed porch without the hassle of installing ductwork or the annoyance of having window AC units.
  • Mini splits are the natural choice for spaces where traditional ducts is impractical. A few examples might be historic houses, tiny homes, temperature controlled sheds or workshops, or garage conversions.
  • What are the Perks of a Mini-Split System?

    Ductless mini-splits are very effective systems, but you could still be considering why you would want to install it over a regular furnace and air conditioner. Here’s why more Fort Worth homeowners are installing ductless mini-splits:

    • Avoid the drawbacks of ductwork: By providing heated and cooled air directly, air doesn’t go through holey air ducts on its way to all rooms. This can save you nearly 30 percent on your heating and cooling bills. Also, if your home doesn’t already include ducts, you avoid the annoyance and price connected to putting them in.
    • Choose the ideal temperature for each room: With zoned heating and cooling from a ductless mini-split, you can keep an office cool while maintaining a cozy nursery—all while making the most of energy efficiency.
    • Conserve money and energy by not heating and cooling unused rooms: Securing supply registers in a central HVAC system can throw it off balance, putting strain on the equipment and canceling any likely savings. But with individual air handlers in each room, you can heat and cool certain rooms only when you need them.

    Trust Stark Services to Put in Your Mini-Split Air Conditioner

    Much like traditional HVAC systems, ductless mini-splits call for accurate sizing and Expert installation to ensure the greatest performance. Our skilled mini split installers in Fort Worth can help you determine if a mini-split system will fit your needs. We can then help you with finding the correct equipment size and model to make your home as comfortable and energy-efficient as possible.

    For added information, or to book an appointment, get in touch with Stark Services at 817-668-6689. You can also schedule an appointment online.