A mini-split heat pump has many benefits. Unlike a traditional central HVAC system, it absorbs and transfers heat rather than creates it. Refrigerant is circulated to extract ambient heat from the air, ground, or water (or release it into the environment). The mini-split then uses a blower or fan to deliver cooled or heated air to individual parts of your home.
Mini-split heat pump technology can offer these advantages:
Zoned Heating or Cooling
Up to four indoor air handlers connect to a single outdoor unit. Each indoor unit is controlled by a different thermostat, allowing the temperature of different rooms, areas, or floors to be managed separately. Zoning is most effective when the building is well-insulated and sealed against air leakage.
It can also:
- Enable you to condition only occupied spaces to avoid wasting energy
- Allow different occupants to choose their temperature preferences
- Let you heat one room or cool another
- Ease adjustments as seasons change or temperatures fluctuate throughout the day
Energy Efficiency
Over 30% of the energy consumed by air conditioning can be accounted for by ductwork air or thermal leakage.¹ But mini-split heat pumps have no ducts. Therefore, energy losses associated with ductwork leaks are eliminated. The system’s refrigerant is the primary mode of transferring heat, so nearly all of what you spend on climate control pays for home comfort.
High efficiency is also seen in the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) of mini-splits. A mini-split heat pump can reach nearly 30 SEER, far above traditional split systems and the latest requirements.
Reduced Energy Consumption
Mini-splits use 600 watts of electricity on average.² By comparison, a central AC system uses 3,000 to 4,000 watts.³ Less energy is consumed to control the temperature in a house, office, or workspace. However, the exact amount used depends on system size, capacity, and the load requirements of the space.
Reduced Carbon Footprint
Aside from using less energy, ductless mini-splits can last a long time. Regular service can increase their life expectancy. That means fewer resources need to go into producing and shipping new equipment and discarding old systems in landfills.
Ease of Installation
Eliminating ductwork makes the planning and installation process much easier. Mini-split heat pumps require minimal modifications to your home. Only a 3-inch hole through an exterior wall is required to run the tubes and wiring between the outdoor and indoor units. Rather than tearing down walls to run ductwork, a trained technician drills the hole and is ready to set up the system.
Flexibility in Placement
There are a few limitations as to where you can place air handlers. They can be installed some distance from the outdoor unit (up to 50 feet in some cases). Plus, you’ve got a few options to choose from. Wall-mounted units are available if you have the space. But if they interfere with you’re home’s interior design, floor units or ceiling-mounted models can be installed.
Improved Indoor Air Quality
Many mini-split systems use high-efficiency filters that are easily removed and cleaned with water. We recommend cleaning the filters monthly. And since no ductwork can trap dust, allergens, and other contaminants, these are less likely to get into the system and circulate in the air. Mini-splits are also effective at removing humidity, which further reduces air quality concerns.
Quiet Performance
Central HVAC systems produce some noise, and window air conditioners can be even louder. However, a mini-split heat pump is one of the quietest AC systems. While most HVAC systems have a noise level of 50 to 72 decibels, a mini-split produces just 32 decibels on average.
Schedule Mini-Split Heat Pump Installation
Consider a mini-split heat pump if you’re ready for an efficient, easy-to-use, and quiet HVAC system replacement. Monarch Home Services has trained technicians who can install the latest equipment in your San Joaquin Valley home. We also provide heat pump repair, maintenance, and inspection services and install Wi-Fi thermostats to increase control over your heating and cooling system. For more information, call 661-215-6737 today.
Source:
- https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/ductless-mini-split-heat-pumps
- https://ductlesscarrier.com/do-mini-splits-use-a-lot-of-electricity/
- https://news.energysage.com/how-many-watts-does-an-air-conditioner-use/