Mini-split Systems
Mini-splits will run as single-zone systems or multi-zone systems. Single-zone systems are the perfect solution if you require heating and cooling in a single space. The setup consists of one outdoor compressor and one indoor unit. The single-zone setup is frequently used in bedrooms and other rooms that do not have central air conditioning ducts. Multi-zone systems are designed for heating and cooling several places in the home. The system comprises a single outdoor compressor and houses up to 8 indoor units. Each multi-zone unit in the home or business represents a zone, which connects to a single unit outside through refrigerant lines.
Mini-Split Indoor Units
Wall-Mount Units
Wall-mount mini-split systems are the most common and most popular type of indoor mini-split. The units are positioned high up on walls and pump out air into a specific room or area. Wall mount units are efficient in all room types, and are heralded as the most cost-effective option on the market today.
One way Ceiling Cassette
The one-way ceiling cassette will disperse air in one direction. The goal of this indoor unit is to significantly cut down costs for the user. The unit is mounted on the ceiling and also comes equipped with its own filtration system.
Ceiling Cassette
The ceiling cassette mini split system is installed directly on the ceiling. Because of where they are located, users can expect a wider range of air flow compared to other systems. The system could be ideal for homeowners who do not want their heating and cooling systems to take up an excessive amount of wall space.
Floor-Mounted Units
The slim, floor-mounted units are mounted and partially recessed into the wall. The units are a viable choice for anyone who is replacing their radiators or if they want a unit to heat or cool a designated space like a sunroom or an attic. Available in single or multi-zone models, the units come integrated with H2i Hyper-Heating technology, rapid heating capabilities, and a multi-flow vane that manages airflow in a space.
Horizontal Ducted Units
Horizontal ducted units are flexible in their design, and very easy to hide in the ceiling or beneath your floors. Available in a single or multi-zone unit, the low-static systems will heat and cool one or two rooms, through a short duct run.
How It Works
The compressor/condenser is located outside the home. Its purpose is to emit heat from the refrigerant. The compressor will pressurize refrigerant gas, converting it from a hot gas to a liquid. It will also pump the liquid through refrigerant lines that connect to every indoor unit in the home. Then, the condenser coils will wind through several loops that permit outside air time to absorb heat from the refrigerant. Upon exiting the condenser, the refrigerant will become a cool liquid. The outdoor fan will blow air over the condenser coils, ensuring optimal cool down. Additionally, the expansion valve allows the high-pressure liquid refrigerant to expand rapidly before entering into the evaporator unit, cooling the system down even more.
Homeowners, if they wish to do so, can also have mini-split systems with heat pumps installed on their property. A heat pump functions the same way as a conventional AC unit, except it can reverse the process in cold weather. This type of ductless system is capable of absorbing warmth from outside air and uses it to heat rooms during the cold, winter months.
Ductless AC systems have at least one outside compressor that connects to at least one indoor evaporator. Depending on the unit, the compressors can support up to 8 evaporators in different locations, creating a network that cools the entire home.
The process works like this: Cold refrigerant lines will flow into the evaporator coils, absorbing heat from the surrounding air. The refrigerant will then evaporate into a gas and carry room heat outside. Once this occurs, the circular blower will draw in warm air and blow cool air back into the room. Cool air then proceeds to pass through the air filter before entering the room, capturing various elements like dirt particles, mold spores, pet dander, and other types of allergens. A good filter will enhance the indoor air quality and keep your home cool.
Evaporators are typically mounted on the walls, but you don’t have to choose this type of unit (unless you have an older home). Floor-mounted evaporators, concealed ceiling units, suspended ceiling units, and even evaporators that work with partial ducts can also work. Users can have the option of mixing and matching different styles for the various rooms in their home.
The line set is responsible for transferring the hot gas from the inside to the outside compressor. The line set is referring to the refrigerant tubing, but can be used to refer to the whole bundle which includes refrigerant lines, drain lines, electrical lines, and communication lines.
Refrigerant lines carry refrigerant through the system. Drain lines will prevent moisture from leaking inside the home. The electrical lines provide all the electricity that indoor evaporators need to function, so there is no need to rewire your home for the units to operate correctly. Lastly, communication lines send signals between the inside and outside parts, guaranteeing that all operations run smoothly. The outdoor compressor only runs when it needs to, and it will always keep your home at a temperature that is most comfortable for you and yours.
