By Anne Fonda
A mini-split, also known as a ductless mini-split or ductless mini-split system, is a ductless heating and cooling (or cooling only) system. Instead of pushing heated or cooled air through ductwork, the system sends heated or cooled air into a space through one or more indoor units.
These systems are ideal for older homes with no existing ductwork, new construction, home additions, enclosed patios/porches, garages, and other areas.
A ductless system consists of an outdoor ductless mini-split heat pump and one or more indoor mini-splits, depending on the type of system. The outdoor and indoor units are connected by refrigerant lines.
The ductless heat pump works using the same technology as a split-system ducted heat pump. Using heat energy and through heat exchange, it transfers heat to a cooler or warmer environment.
In cooling mode, the refrigerant absorbs heat inside the home and transfers the heated refrigerant to the outdoor unit where the heat is released. In heating mode, the process is reversed.
Our ductless systems use advanced technology to cool your home on the hottest days and heat your home even in frigid weather. You control the temperature with a remote control. Simply aim it at the unit and adjust it to your comfort level.
The two types of systems are single-zone and multi-zone.
Single-zone mini-split systems have one outdoor unit and one indoor unit. They provide heating and cooling for an individual room or zone. Work with an HVAC professional to choose the right unit for your needs.
While most ductless HVAC offer both heating and cooling, we do offer a ductless mini-split air conditioner option that offers cooling only. A mini-split AC unit might be a good option for a garage in a moderate climate or to cool an upstairs room that needs a boost, such as an exercise room.
Multi-zone systems consist of one outdoor ductless heat pump and up to 8 indoor units (with our systems). These multi-zone ductless heating and cooling systems are suitable for:
There are many mini-split heating and AC configurations. Some of the most popular include:
The layout of your home will help determine how many zones you need. Work with an HVAC professional with specialized training in designing and installing ductless systems for the best results.
There are three types of styles and mounting locations when it comes to indoor ductless units. Which type(s) you choose will be based on your space and your aesthetic. Work with an HVAC professional to understand the benefits of each mounting location.
Your choices include:
All three types are available with both single-zone ductless systems and multi-zone ductless systems.
Accurate sizing is essential to get the optimal heating and cooling efficiency from a ductless system. Again, work with an experienced HVAC professional for optimal results.
Factors to consider in the proper sizing of a system include:
Your ductless system cost will vary depending on several factors, including:
The best way to calculate your estimated cost is to work with HVAC professionals experienced with ductless systems.
American Standard has partnered with Mitsubishi Electric to offer Mitsubishi mini-splits to homeowners like you. Mitsubishi systems are routinely ranked as one of the best mini-split brands worldwide.
In 1959, Mitsubishi introduced ductless heating and cooling in Japan, and ductless systems are now the norm in the Asia-Pacific region. Ductless systems are also gaining popularity in Europe.
We have partnered with Mitsubishi to bring superior technology to the residential mainstream in the United States. With these highly energy-efficient systems, you may be able to save energy and reduce your energy consumption by up to 40% over conventional systems.
If you’re considering heating and cooling (or just cooling) your home with a ductless system, make sure you work with HVAC professionals who have designed and installed ductless mini-split systems before. Contact your local American Standard dealer today for a consultation.
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
HVAC system that consists of multiple indoor units, usually mounted high on a wall, but not always, and one outdoor unit.
Ductless systems condition your home without the presence of ducts. Instead, the indoor unit is inserted directly into the room or space it’s intended to heat or cool.
A ductless heat pump is a heat pump that matches with indoor ductless mini-split units to heat and cool one room or a whole house.
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