preparing your air conditioning unit for summer use

Are you considering installing a mini-split system in your house or condo? These air conditioners offer many benefits, and they're often an excellent choice for retrofitting older homes without existing ductwork. While many other countries use split systems, window units are still more common for homes without central AC in the US.

Because they're less common, you may not know how many advantages these systems can offer to your home. Keep reading to learn three facts about mini-split air conditioning systems that may surprise you.

1. They're Highly Efficient

You probably know that central air conditioning systems offer superior efficiency to window units, but mini-split ACs can take this efficiency to a whole new level. Central air conditioners improve their efficiency by keeping their condenser units entirely outside, a feature they share with mini-split air conditioners. However, they also typically suffer from losses through leaky ductwork.

Since mini-splits integrate their evaporator coil, air handler, and vent into a single unit, there's no leaky ductwork to steal conditioned air. Instead, cold air blows directly into the space you're trying to cool, allowing you to gain the maximum amount of efficiency possible from your AC system.

2. You Can Install More Than One

Think you need to install ductwork throughout your home to enjoy the benefits of a zoned air conditioning system? Zones allow you to save on your utility bills by cooling only occupied portions of your home. They can also accommodate everyone's individual preferences by enabling people in different parts of your home to enjoy temperatures that are comfortable for them.

While central air systems use complex duct networks to provide separate zone controls, you only need to install additional "heads" to gain the benefits of zones with a mini-split. Each head is a self-contained unit with an evaporator coil, blower, and thermostat, allowing you to create multiple zones throughout your home. Most mini-split condensers can support two or more indoor units.

3. Heat Pumps Provide Even Greater Efficiency

Air conditioners are surprisingly efficient machines since they work by transporting heat rather than creating it. Heat pumps (sometimes known as reversible air conditioners) extend these benefits to heating. With a heat pump mini-split system, you can use a single unit to provide cold air in the summer and warm air in the winter.

Installing a heat pump mini-split system can save you money on your HVAC replacement costs and provide long-term cost savings on your utility bills. If you're looking to maximize your home's energy efficiency and you live in a climate without frigid winters, a heat pump mini-split might offer the best of all worlds.

Contact a local AC service to learn more.