What Is a Mini-Split AC and Is It Right for Me?

Learn about a mini-split AC system and if it’s the right cooling solution for your space.

February 14, 2024

A mini-split AC system, also known as a ductless mini-split or ductless air conditioning, is an alternative to central air conditioning. While central AC uses a series of ducts and vents built as part of your home’s HVAC system, a mini-split air conditioner cools without using ductwork.

How Does a Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner System Work?

A mini-split air conditioner system distributes air differently than a traditional central air conditioning system. With central AC, you have an outdoor unit that contains a condenser coil and an indoor unit that houses the evaporator coil that is connected via refrigerant lines. The system circulates air inside the home and cools it down using an evaporator coil. The cool air is then distributed throughout your home via ductwork.

With a mini-split air conditioning system, you still have an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units connected via refrigerant lines. But they do not distribute the cool air through ductwork. The indoor unit is wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted and distributes air directly into the space. They can be remotely controlled and can be single or multi-zone.

The ductless air conditioning system is easy to install in any space that lacks existing ductwork. The refrigerant lines require small holes to be drilled in your walls, but installation is much less invasive than installing ductwork.

Types of Mini-Splits

There are several types of ductless systems, including:

Mini-Split AC Unit

A mini-split AC unit is specifically for cooling a space, much like you might add a window air conditioner, but much more efficient. They are sometimes referred to as “Cooling Only” or “Cool Only” to distinguish them from mini-split heat pumps.

Mini-Split Heat Pump

If you want both heating and cooling from your ductless HVAC system, you will want to get a mini-split heat pump system. The heat pump will warm the space(s) in winter and cool them in the summer.

Single-Zone Ductless Systems

A mini-split single-zone ductless system consists of one indoor unit and one outdoor unit. The indoor unit can be mounted on the wall, floor, or ceiling and will comfortably heat and cool one space, such as an insulated garage, office, or home gym.

Multi-Zone Ductless Systems

Multi-split ductless systems function sort of like a zoned central air system. You still have one outdoor unit, but you can have up to five indoor units connected to the outdoor unit. This can make a multi-split ductless system a viable alternative for heating and cooling individual rooms in a home without existing ductwork, such as an older home or vacation cabin.

Which type of ductless system is right for your space will depend on how many rooms you want to cool or heat and cool.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

When it comes to cooling a space without ductwork, the two main choices are window air conditioners and ductless AC systems. Here we discuss energy efficiency and cost savings of one over the other.

Ductless air conditioning systems can help reduce your energy consumption while keeping you cool. They are much more energy-efficient than window air conditioners. In general, a ductless AC system will use 40% less energy than a window unit.

A ductless heat pump system will also last longer than a window unit. The lifespan of a window AC unit can be anywhere from 8-10 years, depending on the quality of the unit and how much you use it. A ductless mini-split system will last about 20 years when properly maintained.

With greater energy efficiency and longevity, you have greater potential cost savings and a return on your investment with a mini-split cooling system vs window AC units. While a mini-split system will cost more than a window unit, the system may eventually pay for itself. In addition, a mini-split system can add value to your home or retreat, should you decide to sell it.

Mini-Splits vs. Central Air Conditioning

Mini-split AC, or ductless air conditioning, is a great alternative to traditional central air conditioning if you’re trying to cool a space that doesn’t already have ductwork. Central air conditioning is nearly always the first choice for cooling in new construction. Both systems can offer energy-efficient cooling if the system is designed and installed properly by a qualified HVAC expert.

A central air conditioning system has the advantage of being able to cool a larger space all at once. And when you add HVAC zoning and humidity control, you may not have to worry about the upstairs being hotter than the downstairs.

What Are the Advantages of a Mini-Split System?

There are several advantages specific to a ductless mini-split system. They include:

The system is more cost-effective than installing ductwork and a traditional system in an existing building such as an older home undergoing renovations.
A mini-split AC system is more energy-efficient than window air conditioners.
A multi-split system allows you to cool up to 5 different rooms, making the system a viable alternative to central air conditioning in some circumstances.
You can precisely control the temperature in each room via remote control.
A mini-split ductless heat pump system may be eligible for up to $2,000 in federal tax credits.
Systems install quickly without the need for major construction and remodeling.

The bottom line: If you need to cool (and heat) one or more rooms in a house or cabin where there isn’t any existing ductwork, a mini-split AC unit or mini-split heat pump system can be an energy-efficient comfort solution. Browse our systems to find one that is right for you:

To ensure your system runs at peak efficiency and lasts as long as possible, you must work with an HVAC company that has experience with these systems. Make finding and buying the right system easy with our Getting Started guide.

Consult with HVAC Experts for Advice

Intrigued by the idea of a mini-split AC system but still not sure if it’s right for you? Find an American Standard dealer near you who can provide product recommendations that will keep you and your family comfortable for years to come. For over 100 years, we’ve designed and manufactured some of the most awarded, well-engineered heating and cooling equipment and earned a reputation for doing things right.

Anne Fonda, Content Writer

A Content Writer with Trane Technologies, Anne Fonda researches topics and writes for Trane® and associated residential HVAC brands. She works in collaboration with Trane Technologies subject matter experts, offering easy-to-understand, informative content on complex topics. Her goal is to help consumers make informed decisions on the products and services they need.

She has written for HVAC and other service provider websites for over 16 years. Before transitioning to web content writing, Anne had a 14-year stint as an award-winning journalist. She graduated cum laude from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism.

When she’s not working, Anne enjoys playing word games, reading, gardening, spending time with family, and visiting gardens and museums.

Expert review by Ryan Goodwin, Senior Product Manager, Ductless Systems