Getting to Know a Mini-split Heat Pump
A ductless mini-split heat pump is used to provide cooling without the need for a ductwork. It belongs to the air-source heat pump family, works a little like a refrigerator reversely, and is a direct competitor of ductless air conditioners. Though used mainly for cooling purposes, they may also be used to provide heating like other available heat pumps and can possibly be more efficient than those conventional air-conditioners.
The ductless mini-split heat pump technology
In a commonly used air-source heat pump, the air is cooled in the evaporator coil placed outdoor and is distributed around the living space through ductwork. The production of the refrigerant is done in the outdoor unit; then, the refrigerant produced is driven through the lines of insulated refrigerant of small diameter and these are directly connected to the different parts of the house; where the fan in the small indoor units blows the air. The unit in each room should use its own thermostat.
Less operational costs and less energy losses
Because a mini-split heat pump does not rely on ductwork, it can boost energy efficiency. The energy losses in duct-based conventional systems are around 30%, especially when the duct is in a non-insulated space like a typical attic. The possibility of limiting the cooling or heating to a certain area in the house means that its operational cost can be significantly reduced with a careful design and proper use. To get this big chunk of savings, the number of air handling units indoor may vary or change with the specific cooling and the heating needs in each room in the house if commanded via different thermostats – a great way of saving money and energy.
Other possible advantages of using a mini-split heat pump
A mini-split heat pump may also provide you with:
. High flexibility in options for interior design – there are ceiling-suspended, floor standing, and wall-hanging models;
. Easy installation – this does not require any large hole in the walls. A 3-inch hole is enough.
Possible disadvantages
Like an air-source heat pump, a mini-split heat pump is not efficient enough when it comes to heating in freezing climates. Aside from that, if there is already an existing ductwork, an installation of a mini-split heat pump usually requires a higher investment compared to the installation of other types of central AC systems.
Costs
The cost ranges from $500 to $1,000 per ton is common. It depends upon the number of zones and configuration of each unit. These costs are actually higher than central AC systems.
Installation
The installation and sizing should be properly done: incorrectly located or oversized air-handlers are usually the cause of inadequate control of humidity, inadequate temperature, and higher operational costs. These installation issues are also similar to ductless air conditioners.
Warranties
Warranties vary with mini-split heat pump manufacturers. 1 year-warranty on indoor units and between 3 and 6 years on compressors are common.