It isn't always apparent to consumers and those not directly plugged in, but the heating and air conditioning industry is always changing. Between technology advancements and regulation changes, each year manufacturers are incorporating new features and modifications into their equipment lines. One of the biggest changes in the past 20-30 years is the introduction and rise to prominence of ductless mini-split air conditoners and heat pump systems. Historically, when traditional forced air, ducted systems weren't an option, consumers were stuck with large, noisy, inefficient window air conditioners to keep their homes and businesses comfortable. Mini-split systems now offer consumers an attractive option with efficiencies approaching Geothermal levels, indoor sound levels softer than a whisper and the ability to heat and cool year round in spaces where ductwork is not an option. Some of ACC's most popular applications for mini-split systems are bonus rooms above garages, three-season rooms, lofts, second floor bedrooms, historical preservation and small IT rooms, however these types of systems have been used extensively in education, healthcare and assisted living facilities as well.
When the systems were first introduced, only a few manufacturers had a mini-split offering. Today, many companies, including Lennox, Mitsubishi, Fujitsu, LG and others all offer a mini-split line due to their flexibility, reliability, efficiency and ranges of available capacities.
Mini-split systems consist of at least one (1) indoor evaporator unit and one (1) outdoor condensing unit. Indoor unit capacities typically range from 1/2 to 3-Ton and can be installed as wall-mounted, ceiling-recessed, floor-mounted and horitzonal ducted units. Most manufacturers offer branch connectors allowing up to 4 or 8 indoor units to be connected to a single outdoor unit. and they're available in several different voltages Indoor units are often placed on exterior walls for through-the-wall draining and are controlled using wall mounted thermostats or a remote control with a thermostat.
The image below shows a comparison of several mini-split heat pump manufacturers and their features.
Comfort Control has installed ductless mini-splits made by each of these manufacturers and would love to help you determine whether one of these systems is right for you!
