The air conditioner market has seen a lot many changes in the past few years. Earlier your only option was the window AC, then came the split air conditioners with an indoor and outdoor unit, and then the central heating and cooling systems or the HVAC systems. Even by a long shot, we have still not covered all the possibilities. The market is ripe for more innovations and technological changes. However, the one air conditioner making waves right now is the mini-split system.
What Is A Mini-Split System?
When you need more concentrated cooling in individual rooms or spaces, mini-split systems are your answer. Mini-split systems are primarily made up of two main components. These are:
1. A compressor or condenser that is positioned outside of the house
2. An air-handler unit that is installed indoors.
Both these components are connected to each other through a conduit or a pipe. This conduit consists of the following:
1. Power cable,
2. Condensate drain,
3. Refrigerant or coolant,
4. Suction tubing.
If the number of air-handling units is more, each of them will have a coupled thermostat. Individual thermostats help maintain distinct and desired temperatures in each individual room where the unit is positioned.
Difference Between A traditional Split System And A Mini-Split System
At Aztil AC, we have received many queries regarding mini-split systems from the residents of West Palm Beach, wanting to know how they are different from the traditional split systems.
The traditional split systems used in homes also have an indoor and outdoor unit. But the key differences lie in these two facts:
1. Where the traditional or conventional system occupies a lot of space, the mini-split system being small and more compact does not.
2. The traditional split system relies on ducts to deliver the warm and cool air while the mini-split systems are ductless and throw the air into the room directly.
Advantages Of Mini-Split System
Here are the main advantages of the mini-split system:
1. Improved Heating And Cooling – When each air handler is placed in specific rooms or zones, it makes for improved heating and cooling of those areas. Add to that the fact that you control the temperature of these zones separately, and you have the perfect living environment for the kids, adults, and the elderly. Each can adjust the temperature of their area as per wish and enjoy the comforts of home. You can also switch off the air handler units of those rooms which are not in use. Ultimately, with mini-split systems, you heat or cool only the desired zones and that too at different temperatures ass per the liking of the residents.
2. Flexibility In Placement – Mini-split systems give the flexibility of placement, which is not the case with most add-ons. You can install the air handler in the false ceiling, suspend it from the actual ceiling or affix it on the sidewall depending on the aesthetics of the room.
3. No Need Of Ducts – Mini-split systems are ductless, so they are a perfect fit for heritage homes and buildings. You don’t have to install expensive ductwork, which happens to be difficult for old homes, for being able to live in a temperature-controlled environment.
4. Easy To Install – Since no ductwork is needed, the installation of mini-split systems is hassle-free. It also happens to be less invasive as only an approximately three-inch hole is needed to join the two units via a conduit.
5. Better Energy Efficiency – Mini-split systems give more flexibility to the homeowners in terms of energy efficiency. Since they are ductless, there is no scope of losing warm or cool air through cracks and leaks in the ducts. Similarly, the complete system does not have to run continuously to maintain the temperature. Instead, just turn on the air handlers of those rooms that are in use and reduce your carbon footprint. With limited use of power, even your savings will be more significant.
Disadvantages Of Mini-Split Systems
The typical downsides of a mini-split system are:
1. Costly Installation – Installing a mini-split system is costly. It is more expensive than installing the traditional split system. Many homeowners are put-off by this expense.
2. Improper Placement Can Cause Short Cycling – Though there is flexibility in installing the air handler, yet it needs to be installed in the correct place to prevent short cycling. You need the help of a trained technician to work out the most appropriate location.
3. Aesthetically Unappealing – The presence of the air handler unit cannot be ignored. Even though small, it is still substantive in size and cannot be concealed and may spoil the aesthetics of the room.
Cost Of Installing Mini-Split System In West Palm Beach
A regular HVAC installation by a professional technician costs anywhere between $300 to $1,500. As against this, the mini-split system has multiple air handler units in addition to the outdoor condenser unit. As a result, its cost of installation exceeds $2,000. Add to that the fact that you may need an electrician and a carpenter who will charge $50 to $100 per hour, each.
Life Expectancy Of A Mini-Split System In West Palm Beach
If you take good care of your ductless mini-split system and see to its periodic maintenance, it will last for around 20 years. A conventional heating and cooling system will last for only a period of 10 to 15 years. So, it’s safe to concur that a mini-split system gives a better value for money deal.
Will A Mini-Split System Heat And Cool The Whole House?
Yes, using multiple air handler units, you can effectively maintain the desired temperature in your entire house. On top of that, you also get the flexibility to maintain distinctive temperatures in different rooms.
Aztil AC Your Partner For Mini-Split System In West Palm Beach
Aztil AC is an HVAC company that is a forerunner in all things related to heating and cooling systems. Our technicians are not only well trained but also have extensive knowledge and experience to help you. For any queries and concerns, contact us at 888-729-8452.
