As mini-splits become more popular and homeowners are beginning to adopt them, we’re seeing an increase in questions about this air conditioning system. One of the biggest questions we are getting is whether a mini-split system is more efficient than a central air system.
TS Heat & Air has proudly served the Oklahoma City metropolitan area since 1983. As a family-owned and -operated business, we understand that the customer comes first. Our service technicians strive to provide exceptional service during each visit we make to a home. One of our goals as a business is to keep our customers informed, so when it comes to your questions about mini-split systems, we’ve got you covered. Read on for more information about the efficiency of mini-splits in comparison to central air units.
What Exactly Is a Mini-Split System?
A mini-split system, referred to as a ductless mini-split or a ductless air conditioner, is an air conditioning system that doesn’t require any ductwork. Mini-splits have two basic but essential parts: an outdoor compressor and an air-handling unit used indoors. The outdoor unit is responsible for releasing the heat that has been collected from your home, and the indoor part is what is needed for drawing in air, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home.
How Does a Ductless Mini-Split System Work?
Ductless mini-split systems work by using a refrigerant to cool and heat your home. The refrigerant is in the outdoor unit and works to move heat from the inside of your home to the outside. As the refrigerant moves, it goes through a process called phase change, which allows it to change from a liquid to a gas and back to a liquid again. This process helps to cool the air in your home before it is distributed throughout by the indoor air handler.
Benefits of Using a Mini-Split System Over a Central Air System
There are several benefits that a mini-split system has over a central air system. First, mini-splits offer individualized temperature control. With a central air system, you are only able to cool or heat your entire home to one temperature. However, with a mini-split system, you can cool or heat different areas of your home to different temperatures. This can be beneficial if you have a large home or if you have rooms that are difficult to cool or heat.
Another benefit of using a mini-split system is that it is more energy efficient than a central air system. Because mini-splits don’t need any ductwork, there is no potential for energy loss through leaky ducts. Mini-split systems also allow you to cool or heat only the areas of your home that you are currently using, which can lead to significant energy savings.
Potential Drawbacks of Mini-Split Systems
While mini-splits are great systems, there are also some drawbacks. One potential drawback is that mini-splits can be more expensive to install than central air systems. This is because mini-split systems require the installation of both an indoor and outdoor unit, and central air systems only require an outdoor unit.
Another drawback of mini-splits is that they may not be as effective in heating or cooling very large homes. If you have a home that is more than 2,000 square feet, a mini-split system may not be able to sufficiently cool or heat your entire home. In this case, a central air system may be a better option.
What Is the Cost of a Mini-Split System?
The cost of a mini-split system varies depending on the size of your home and the type of system you choose. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 for a complete mini-split system. For personalized service and to request a quote, get in touch with one of our specialists. We’ll take a look at your home size, room layout, and existing cooling system to see what will best fit your location.
Request a Quote or Schedule Service From TS Heat & Air Today
If you’re interested in learning more about installing a mini-split system in your home, our experts at TS Heat & Air are here to help. We offer a wide range of mini-split systems and can help you choose the perfect one for your home. In addition to AC and heating repair, installation, and maintenance service, we also offer work with indoor air quality, furnaces, and more. Contact us for more information, to request a quote, or to schedule service today.
