If you are in the market for a new air conditioning system, you may have encountered “Mini Split Systems.” In this article, we are going to explain the advantages and disadvantages of Mini Split Systems to give you an idea of how they function and whether one is right for you. In particular, we will be examining cost, size, aesthetic, and considerations regarding installation.
Mini Split Systems—What Are They?
Ductless Mini Split Systems have been around for a long time. However, if this is your first time buying an air conditioning unit, you may be wondering: What is a Mini Split System? In short, a Mini Split System allows you to control the temperature in different areas of your home independently of one another. To put it another way, a Mini Split System would enable you to set your kitchen to one temperature, your living room to another, your bedroom to yet another, and so forth. Mini Split Systems are often contrasted with central AC systems, which only allow one temperature for the entire household.
Mini Split Systems contain two primary components: an outdoor compressor and an indoor evaporator(s). They are relatively simple to install and only require a three-inch hole in your wall to connect the outdoor and indoor units. Mini Split Systems are beneficial for houses that need an air conditioning unit and have non-ducted heating systems. They also work well for homes with a ducted heating system, where the ducts do not extend to every room.
Pros of Mini Split Systems
Flexibility and Efficiency
One of the primary advantages of Mini Split Systems is that they allow you to adjust the temperature based on an individual room rather than your entire home. There are endless reasons why this is useful, including comfort and energy efficiency. By and large, Mini Split Systems will save you money, especially compared to an air conditioning system that utilizes ducts. Duct losses can account for over 30% of total energy consumption for air conditioning, a huge waste. Meanwhile, Mini Split Systems are cheaper and better for the environment.
Size and Aesthetic
Additionally, Mini Split Systems are relatively small and easy to install. Manufacturers of Mini Split Systems usually make various sizes of connecting conduits, allowing you to install the exterior part of the system almost anywhere you want. That way, you don’t have to worry about your air conditioning system being an eyesore. The interior portion of the system also has a lot of flexibility and is made to look sleek and stylish. In fact, many people choose to put the interior part of the system up high and operate it using a remote control.
If you have to sum up the advantages of Mini Split Systems in one word, that word is flexibility. Mini Split Systems are designed to make you as comfortable as possible, with as little hassle as possible. They are an excellent choice for an air conditioning system and one you should strongly consider. However, there are disadvantages to Mini Split Systems as well, which is what we will talk about next.
Cons of Mini Split Systems
So, now let’s talk about the disadvantages of Mini Split Systems. No matter what air conditioning system you choose, there will be some disadvantages compared to other systems, and the Mini Split System is no exception.
Cost
The most significant disadvantage of a Mini Split System is its upfront cost. Typically, you should expect to pay between $1,500 and $2,000 per ton of cooling capacity. For reference, it is recommended that you have one ton of cooling capacity for every 600 square feet of your home. Obviously, this can get expensive, and, on average, mini splits cost roughly 30% more than a central air conditioning system and double the price of a window unit with the same capacity. That said, it is essential to remember that you will be saving on your energy bill in the long run, which is something to consider when calculating costs.
Aesthetic
Another potential disadvantage of Mini Split Systems is their aesthetic. Although manufacturers design them to look sleek, they may not be everyone’s cup of tea and could clash with your home’s aesthetic. Mini Split Systems are generally considered less of an eye sore than a window unit. However, they are also more conspicuous than a central air conditioning system.
Placement
One final disadvantage of Mini Split Systems is that the exterior part of the system must be placed in a spot where it can drain water. Typically, this is not a big deal, and most homes should be fine accommodating this requirement. Still, it is something to think about, nonetheless.
Ultimately, you will have to determine which of these are significant disadvantages. For example, some people may love the look of the Mini Split System, while others may hate it. Meanwhile, some may be okay with the upfront cost, and it may be a deal breaker for others. Purchasing a new air conditioning unit is a big choice, and we know that different people have different needs.
Should I Buy One?
Now that you have learned more about Mini Split Systems, you may be wondering whether you should buy one. Our recommendation will depend on who you are and what you value most. At Live Free, we think Mini Split Systems are an excellent technology that can transform your home. However, we also recognize that they are not for everyone, especially given their price tag.
If you want to learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of Mini Split Systems, please contact Live Free today. Live Free is staffed with HVAC professionals who would be happy to talk to you about Mini Split Systems. We can give you a sense of whether a Mini Split System is right for you and quote you a price. Of course, if you decide that a Mini Split System is not for you, we can also discuss other options. Regardless, be sure to get in touch with Live Free Heating and Cooling today!
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